North Salem’s only weekly newspaper mailed to every home and business. Vol. 9 No. 19 Thursday, July 13, 2023 BALANCED ROCK 2 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 23 CLASSIFIEDS 22 LEGAL NOTICES 22 LEISURE 21 OBITUARIES 7 OPINION 8 Profile of a 5th Grader pg 12 STUDENTS Visit TapIntoNorthSalem.net for the latest news. North Salem High School alumna Julianna Austin (‘19) will be taking an original stage show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival this August. She recently graduated with honors from the Carnegie Melon University School of Drama. “I owe so much to my teachers and mentors in the Fine Arts department at North Salem,” said Austin. “They taught me not only to hone my artistic skills, but also to nurture my creative spirit and not hold back. I am so thankful for the educators who made me who I am.” Austin is working with the Clownz with Apple theatre company to bring “Purgatorio,” a show based on Dante’s “Divine Comedy,” to the renowned Edinburgh Fringe Festival. She was a member of the show’s premiere iteration at the Accademia dell Arte in Tuscany, and she will continue to work as a choreographer, writer, and performer on the show. Austin’s other work can be viewed online, at the Gural Theatre in NYC, at Shakespeare and Co in Lennox, MA, and at the Fringe Festival this summer. Article provided by North Salem Central School District. From North Salem’s stage to Scotland’s Fringe Julianna Austin is a member of the NSHS Class of 2019. BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Local leaders are pushing back on a recently passed election law bill that would move most town and county elections to even-numbered years. Warren Lucas of North Salem, Robert Scorrano of Somers, Ellen Calves of Bedford, Tom Diana of Yorktown, Tony Gonçalves of Lewisboro, Kevin Hansan of Pound Ridge, Michael Cazzari of Carmel, and Gina Picinich (supervisor/ mayor) of Mount Kisco were among 20 members of the Westchester Putnam Association of Supervisors (WPATS) who signed a letter urging Gov. Kathy Hochul to veto the legislation. She has until Dec. 31 to make a decision. If it gets the governor’s final stamp of approval, the law would go into effect in January 2025. Elected officials who are in office in January will be allowed to finish out their time in office. However, elections held after 2026 will be cut short by one or two years so that they can be moved to even-numbered years. The change includes certain town positions, county legislators, and county executives but does not impact city elections. According to the bills (A4282B/S3505B), exempt are district attorneys, sheriffs, county clerks, family court, county court, and surrogate court judges, or any county offices with a three-year term prior to Jan. 1, 2025. That’s because changes in those specific elected offices are protected by the state Constitution. According to spectrumlocalnews.com, lawmakers are weighing adding city elections to the list in their next session. That would require that a constitutional amendment be passed by two consecutive legislatures before voters get ahold of it, the media outlet said. Any town that’s “completely coterminous” with a village will continue to elect its officers, including town justices, in odd-numbered years if both the village and town held such elections in an odd-numbered year prior to that date. The bill’s sponsors, state Sen. James Skoufis (D-Cornwall, 42nd District) and state Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-Scarsdale, 88th District), say that the move will increase turnout by aligning those elections with state and national ones, such as those for governor or president, which normally bring far more voters to the polls than local elections do in odd-numbered years. The two lawmakers also argue that holding local elections at the same time as state and national ones “will make the process less confusing for voters” and save money. Assemblyman Chris Burdick (D-Bedford), a former Bedford town supervisor, voted against the bill. “I voted against the bill as I am very concerned that national issues will drown out local ones. My vote was also based on feedback from chief elected officials in my district, who expressed strong opposition,” he explained Thursday, June 29. State Sen. Pete Harckham (D-Lewisboro) voted for it, citing its potential for increasing voter participation. “To me it’s clear in that, in a representative democracy, participation matters. And this will Local officials push back against election law changes SEE ELECTION LAW PAGE 16 Art & Poery Classes! Workshops Classes Gifts & More 621 Route 22, Croton Falls, NY (914) - 617 - 8541
Page 2 – North Salem News Thursday, July 13, 2023 North Salem News USPS #22110 Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 Halston Media, LLC The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Tom Walogorsky Editor: 914-302-5830 [email protected] Emile Menasche Sports Editor [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky (845) 661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director/Photographer [email protected] Noah Elder Designer Bri Agosta Designer Haven Elder Designer EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines North Salem News Deadline The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for North Salem News is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected] Online Follow Us Periodicals Postage Paid at Somers, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Salem News at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP? Heat pumps will help you find the perfect balance of comfort and savings all year round, while reducing your carbon footprint. These all-in-one heating and air conditioning systems optimize the temperature throughout your home to use less energy, and can save you up to 30% on your cooling and heating costs. DON’T MISS YOUR CHANCE to lock-in these incentive savings! FEDERAL INCENTIVE: 30% of the total cost STATE INCENTIVE: $5,000 UTILITY COMPANY INCENTIVE: Up to $20,000 HYBRID HOT WATER HEATER: $1000 Rebate SUPER SAVINGS on your Heat Pump project while program funding lasts... CALL NOW TO SEE IF YOU QUALIFY! EXCLUDES SERVICE CONTRACT EXP 8/31/23 Coupon must present at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $ 50 OFF ANY OF OUR RELAX! SERVICES we’ve got you covered with our $ummer $AVINGS! Light for Lyme Sunday, July 16, from 12 to 3 p.m. Take family portraits to raise money and awareness for tick borne diseases. Stop by for photos, kids’ crafts, and a mini art shop with all proceeds benefiting The Lyme Treatment Foundation. $20 per family. To be held at Railyard Arts Studio, 621 NY-22 in Croton Falls. Westchester Community Outreach Mobile Office Monday, July 24, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. To be held at North Salem Town Hall Campus at 266 Titicus Road. Apply for a Passport Do not wait until the last minute: The US Department of State estimates 10 to 13 weeks to process passport applications and an up to 7 to 9 weeks processing time for applications that are expedited at an additional charge. If you need your passport in less time, you must make an appointment to take your paperwork directly to a Regional Passport Office. Please visit the U.S. Department of State website at www.travel.state.gov for details. Be sure to bring the proper documentation You will need proof that you are a US citizen such as an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad or a naturalization certificate. You will also need proof of your identity such as a current valid driver’s license or a government issued identification card. If your Adult passport is expired OVER 5 years, you can apply with us by bringing your old passport. If your passport expired UNDER 5 years, you must renew by mail with a DS-82 application. For minors under the age of 16, both parents should appear together and sign the application of the child. If only one parent appears and signs, that parent must submit the other parent’s notarized Statement of Consent form (DS-3053) and a photocopy of his/her identification. The Statement of Consent form can be found at www. WestchesterClerk.com. Fees Adult passport fee is $130.00; Minor under the age of 16 fee is $100.00. Fees can be paid only by money order or check made out to the US Department of State. There is an additional $35.00 service fee that can be paid by credit card, money order or check payable to the Westchester County Clerk. You can get a 2x2 photo taken at the Mobile Office for $10 ($7 for seniors). If you have questions about whether you have what you need to apply, do not hesitate to call the office at 995-3082 weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. or visit the website at www.WestchesterClerk.com. Complete your Passport Renewal Application Due to the US Department of State requirements, our office can no longer accept renewal applications (DS-82 Renewal by Mail). The DS-82 must be mailed to the US Department of State by the applicant. Although you cannot leave your DS-82 with us to mail, our staff is available to assist in completing the form and you can get your photo taken. Obtain Notary Services In-person notary services will be available free of charge. Bring photo ID. Preserve Your Military Discharge Papers The County Clerk serves as a safe and local depository for your DD-214. Your DD-214 will be copied (you keep the original) and kept on file. File Your Business Certificate If you are conducting any business in Westchester County under a name other than your own, and are not a corporation, limited partnership or limited liability company, you must file a Business Certificate in our office. Filing fee of $35 can be paid by credit card, money order or check payable to the Westchester County Clerk. Bring photo ID. SEE ROCK PAGE 7 BALANCED ROCK
Thursday, July 13, 2023 North Salem News – Page 3 The North Salem Lions Club is pleased to announce that seven North Salem graduates are receiving Community Service Awards in 2023. The Lions are very proud of these young people for their accomplishments, and we wish them a happy future. Learning through volunteering is an important part of a young person’s education. Our community certainly appreciates the efforts of our young people on our behalf. These monetary awards (totaling $6,000) were allocated and presented at their 2023 respective graduations. All seven recipients are residents of North Salem, although they attend different high schools. This year’s recipients were Amanda Costas (NSHS), Rosie Binette (NSHS), Melanie Cotrone (NSHS), Cecilia DeLarco (Kennedy Catholic), Gavin Smith (Archbishop Stepinac), Julia Russo (NSHS), and Samantha Vilkelis (NSHS). An important fund-raising event to support Lions community service is the North Salem Lions Golf Outing at Salem Golf Club, on Monday, August 21. We encourage your support and players. To register or donate please visit www.NorthSalemLionsGolfOuting.com The North Salem Lions will continue to find ways to serve our community. That is what Lions do. If you can think of a project for the Lions to take on, participate in the Golf Outing or if you would like to become a member, please contact President Bob Loeb at 914-760- 5675. Article provided by North Salem Lions Club. Gavin Smith Cecelia DeLarco Julia Russo Melanie Cotrone Samantha Vilkelis Rosie Binette Amanda Costas Several North Salem students have been recognized for their academic achievements at colleges across the country! GRADUATIONS UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA Rachel Freeman DEAN’S LIST SUNY ONEONTA Julia Corradi Aarianna Stickney UNIVERSITY OF TAMPA Rachel Freeman Celebrating our scholars! PHOTO COURTESY OF CARLY DADAY North Salem Lions Club announces Community Service Award winners Celebrating in Vail’s Grove! It was a beautiful day and the crowd was all smiles at Vail’s Grove’s annual 4th of July parade!
Page 4 – North Salem News Thursday, July 13, 2023 New York State Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Chris Burdick announced last week that their bill designating a section of Route 121 in the Town of Lewisboro as the “John Jay High School Veterans Memorial Highway” has passed in the State Legislature. The bill also calls for the state Department of Transportation to install and maintain adequate signage regarding the designation. The bill (S.4085 / A.5814), which was passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, renames the highway in front of John Jay High School in honor and memory of six veterans who were alumni and died in service. The Route 121 designation follows the efforts of Grant Vivaldi, a recent John Jay graduate, and the Lewisboro Veterans Advisory Committee to erect a monument at the high school commemorating the six fallen veterans. “This community-wide effort to ensure that these six individuals will always be remembered is a profound and touching reminder of the sacrifices that members of our armed services and their families and loved ones make,” said Harckham. “I am grateful for all the support this legislation received, and see it as an acknowledgement of the persistence and work necessary among the local residents to see projects like this through. We are always better when we commemorate the valor and heroism of our veterans, knowing that their courage and deeds stand as an abiding example for us all.” “We can never fully express our gratitude to the John Jay High School alumni who died in service to our country, but with the renaming of this road, we will ensure their memories are never forgotten,” said Burdick. “My thanks to Grant Vialardi and the Lewisboro Veterans Advisory Committee for their inspiration and assistance in getting this legislation passed.” In November 2022, the Katonah-Lewisboro School District approved a project to install a veterans memorial at John Jay High School in Cross River, NY, to honor and commemorate respective alumni who had died during their armed forces service. Grant Vivaldi, then a senior at John Jay (and an intern in Assemblymember Burdick’s office), first proposed the memorial in conjunction with the Lewisboro Veterans Advisory Committee. The intention was to install the memorial at the high school, but a major capital improvement project prevented this, and on Memorial Day in 2022, it was unveiled at the base of the flagpole outside Lewisboro Town House. Along with the memorial project was Vialardi’s request to rename the portion of Route 121. The section of the road to be renamed begins at the intersection of Route 35 Old Post Road and ends at the intersection of Gideon Reynolds Road. Four of the John Jay High School alumni died in service during the Vietnam War—Pfc. Kenneth Richard Jaconetti, Lt. Cmdr. George Russell Matthews, Pfc. Philip Grant Chipchase and Lance Cpl Howard J. Alaimo. The other two died in the 1983 Beirut barracks bombing—Cpl. James J. Jackwoski and Cpl. Bert D. Corcoran. “I am very happy to see these soldiers recognized for their service with such a permanent monument,” said Vialardi, a volunteer EMT with the Vista Fire Department who will be heading to Fordham University next month to start his first year of college. “It goes to show the important and respected role that veterans continue to play in our communities. I would like to thank our elected leaders who have helped to make this project become a reality, and encourage everyone to take a more active part in improving their community.” Arthur Hanley, Deputy Director of the Putnam County Veterans Services Agency, said, “It is remarkable and moving to see the commitment made to honor these six soldiers, including my classmate and friend Howie Alaimo, who gave their all in service to our country. Renaming the roadway in front of the high school is a welcome tribute and a poignant reminder that brave and selfless service men and women are protecting us day and night.” Lewisboro Town Supervisor Tony Gonçalves said, “We are extremely thankful to our two state legislators for their efforts in pursuing this designation of Route 121 as the John Jay High School Veterans Memorial Highway. It is important that we remember and honor all our veterans, especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. I also want to thank John Lemke and the Lewisboro Veterans Advisory Committee for their support of this initiative.” Article provided by the Office of State Sen. Pete Harckham. Harckham, Burdick pass JJHS Veterans Memorial Highway bill Sen. Pete Harckham REGIONAL BOX UP YOUR GOODIES. We are accepting auction quality items, small furniture, collectibles, garden & hand tools, jewelry, and white elephant treasures. DROP OFFS AT ST. JAMES: 296 Titicus Road, North Salem. Wednesdays: 7-9pm and Saturdays: 9am-noon FOR MORE DETAILS: 914-669-5563 / [email protected] PLEASE ONLY DONATE ITEMS IN GOOD CONDITION. No large furniture, couches, electronics or appliances. SATURDAY / JULY 29TH / 10AM–3PM DONATE YOUR TREASURES! SAVE THE DATE WITH OUR: BOUTIQUE, SILENT AUCTION, QUILT RAFFLE, WHITE ELEPHANT, COUNTRY KITCHEN & BBQ GRILL LIVE AUCTION ST. JAMES 64TH AUCTION VIEWING: 10-11AM LIVE AUCTION UNDER THE TENT: 11AM-1PM ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH 296 Titicus Road, North Salem, NY 10560 914-669-5563 • www.stjamesns.com SUNDAY SERVICE 10 AM & Community Fest Nestled in a lush green hideaway of Yorktown Heights amidst tall evergreens and nature’s beauty, sits The Country House, recently named a Best Assisted Living community by U.S. News & World Report. We invite you to tour and learn more about how our services can benefit you or your loved one. Call (914) 249-9144 to schedule. 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Thursday, July 13, 2023 North Salem News – Page 5 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 When did you last update your last will and testament and power of attorney? CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Gina Arena is climbing back into the political ring. The Somers mom of eight and advocate for veterans’ and seniors’ rights, mental health awareness, and other causes last week stood before an enthusiastic crowd of fellow Republicans at Town Hall to announce that she’s running for state Senate in the 2024 elections. Among those cheering her on at The Elephant Hotel on Friday, June 30, were Somers Supervisor Robert Scorrano, town Councilman Anthony Cirieco, Congressman Mike Lawler, state Assemblyman and former Yorktown Supervisor Matt Slater, and Douglas Colety, chairman of the Westchester County Republican Committee. Introducing the speakers was Tanner McCracken, the youngest person ever to serve on the Mahopac Board of Education. It will be Arena’s second attempt to unseat the Democratic incumbent, Sen. Peter Harckham of Lewisboro, who represents District 40. In the 2022 contest, she wound up with 57,597 votes, or 46.6 percent. Harckham won with 65,936 votes, or 53.49 percent. Proud of the showing, Arena noted Friday that “with an incredible grassroots campaign last year in a district that (President Joe) Biden won by 16 points, we took the fight to Peter Harckham and we came up just short of victory and certainly put a scare into the Democrats.” “I didn’t just run to run; I ran to win! And that’s because the Hudson Valley deserves better than what Albany is giving us right now,” she said. In 2019, Arena took on incumbent county Legislator Kitley Covill, hoping to represent District 2, which includes Somers, North Salem, Bedford, Lewisboro, Pound Ridge, and Mount Kisco. She didn’t prevail but was game for giving it another shot in 2021 after Covill announced she wouldn’t seek a third term. That time, Arena challenged Covill’s former legislative aide, Erika Pierce. Although she lost, Arena managed to best her previous tally by 10 percent. ROUND TWO When asked why she’s running again, Arena said: “So the biggest thing for me right now is making sure that people get what they need and they’re not getting it. Nothing’s changed since the last time I ran; the same issues are still going on.” “I just feel like people want more and I want to help get that for them,” she added. In listing those lingering problems, Arena pointed to “rising crime, record high inflation, gas prices that won’t come down, parental rights being ignored, freedom in New York becoming a fading dream, and rising taxes.” Distressed by the number of residents fleeing the area because they can no longer afford to live there, the candidate blamed “unaffordable and over-reaching policies” coming out of Albany. “I always dreamed that my children would be able to live in their hometown area like Jim and I did and that I would be able to spend my time helping with grandchildren and enjoying retirement. Isn’t that part of the American dream that we all deserve? It’s clear that one-party control of our state is not working.” Arena called out Sen. Harckham in particular, claiming that he and “the radical left Senate” have “done nothing to address these issues.” She said constituents “deserve” to be represented by someone who prefers to cut taxes over voting themselves a “pay raise,” doesn’t “put criminals over victims,” or want to “force unrealistic, heavy-handed housing mandates on local municipalities,” “cancel local elections and silence local voices,” or “ban our gas stoves.” (Arena was referring to bail reform, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s controversial Housing Compact, and recent legislation that would move town and certain county elections to even-numbered years. Supporters say the last item would increase voter participation. Opponents say local issues would be overshadowed by state and national ones, things over which municipal officials have no control. The state just approved a ban on gas stoves that only applies to newly constructed commercial and residential buildings.) Harckham spokesman Tom Staudter issued the following statement after watching a live stream of the event on Arena’s Facebook page. “Pete Harckham works for everybody and gets things done. His many accomplishments include ensuring record increases in state education aid to lift students up and reduce the burden on local taxpayers. Additionally, the unanimous passage of Pete’s bill in the Senate to protect the Hudson River reflects his ability to bring people together and make a difference for all residents. Right now, Pete will continue to focus on the important challenges our communities are facing.” Arena launches Senate bid PHOTO: CAROL REIF Gina Arena announced her candidacy for a seat in New York’s 40th senate district on June 30. SEE ARENA PAGE 18
Page 6 – North Salem News Thursday, July 13, 2023 (mis)Understanding Mammy The Hattie McDaniel Story July 14 -30 By Joan Ross Sorkin Directed by Seret Scott Starring Multi Award Winning TINA FABRIQUE Tickets at: theSchoolhouseTheater.org A Westchester Premiere! A One Woman Play with Music “...a heart-breaking story of stardom and struggle in America” TICKS ARE HERE. MOSQUITOS CAN BE DEADLY! CALL TODAY! ANTS • TERMITES • TICKS • MOSQUITOES SQUIRRELS • RACCOONS • BATS • MICE RATS • WASPS • BEES SPIDERS • MOLES • SKUNKS • BEDBUGS NEW SERVICE ONLY - ALL PEST AND WILDLIFE DON’T LIVE WITH ANY CRAWLING PESTS THIS SPRING & SUMMER. WE “ELIMINATE ‘EM! SpCB23 TERMITE ELIMINATION OR RODENT/BAT EXCLUSION BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Two county officials announced last week that they are seeking the ouster of Somers resident Richard Leaf from the Westchester Sports Hall of Fame. Leaf, once beloved as “The Voice of the County Center,” pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in White Plains before Judge Philip Halpern last month to one federal count of receiving and possessing child pornography. He faces between five and 20 years in prison when sentenced in January. As the announcer of the Section 1 basketball championships, the now 75-yearold was a fixture in the high school sports world. After the retired Harrison middle school teacher was inducted in the Hall of Fame, Somers declared Nov. 10, 2017 as Richard Leaf Day. He was arrested in 2021 and charged by the FBI with having multiple pornographic images of children on his computer. At the time, he claimed his computer had been “hacked,” according to one media report. County Executive George Latimer opened his weekly press briefing on Wednesday, July 5, by somberly announcing that he and Vedat Gashi of Yorktown, chairman of the Westchester County Board of Legislators, had to “mention something that’s rather serious.” He opened his remarks on a positive note. Established in 1968, the Hall of Fame “has been dedicated to celebrating over 200 remarkable individuals who have achieved greatness in their respective fields and made significant contributions to sports here in Westchester County,” Latimer said, emphasizing that it “not only acknowledges their athletic accomplishments, but also values their positive impact on society, considering them influential role models, particularly to young people.” “However, recent events have cast a shadow over the reputation of one inductee, Rich Leaf, following his recent guilty plea to a federal pornography charge,” he added. Gashi then stepped to the podium to announce that “in light of that, we have respectfully requested that the Hall of Fame Committee take immediate action to remove Rich Leaf from the Sports Hall of Fame.” “By doing so, I believe that we send a clear message that our organization is committed to the safety and well-being of the community and that we won’t tolerate any actions that compromise the trust and respect that we’ve earned over the years,” the District 4 legislator said. “We believe in the importance of accountability and believe that in taking swift and decisive action in this matter the Hall of Fame will uphold its mission of honoring both the sports community and our wider community.” Gashi thanked Latimer “for his initiative on this important matter.” Latimer pointed out Wednesday that asking for someone’s removal is “an unusual step for us to take,” but one that he and Gashi feel “is the right thing to do.” “It’s important to note that Mr. Leaf has not just been accused of an action, but he has pled guilty to that action, that of child pornography. A crime is a crime of various sorts, but some are particularly heinous, and whenever we’re dealing with an individual in a position of trust and faith that has committed a crime in that general direction, we feel the need to act quickly,” he explained. A letter reiterating that stand was signed by Latimer and Gashi, dated Wednesday, July 5, and sent to the Sports Hall of Fame Committee, which makes the ultimate decision. Leaf is in the hands of the criminal justice system and he will have to make whatever restitution the system determines is appropriate, Latimer said at the briefing. “We here in Westchester County want everyone to understand that we’re not going to uphold individuals who’ve committed, and admitted to, certain types of crimes,” he added, calling it “a clear statement of public policy.” FALL FROM GRACE In a 2021 announcement released by the Department of Justice and made by the U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, Audrey Strauss, Leaf was alleged to “have engaged in deeply disturbing sexual communications in minors and being in possession of child pornography.” According to the federal complaint, he had posed as a teenager called “Alex Bronson” between March 2019 and April 2020 in order to communicate via Skype with a minor. “Alex Bronson” was depicted as a teenage boy with “mid-length surfer-style blonde and brown hair with what appears to be the ocean and beach in the background,” it said, adding that Leaf believed that the person he was communicating with was 15. He told other recipients of his Skype messages that he was either 18 or 23 years old, the DOJ said. The DOJ listed the various usernames Leaf is alleged to have used “to engage with under-aged victims.” The complaint alleges that Leaf created fictitious accounts on Chat Avenue, an online chatroom, as well as Skype. The usernames of some of Leaf ’s fictitious accounts include: Alex Bronson, sportsboi.15, alex15, 15brandon, zach.914, runnerboi.14, austinf19. sportsgirl.914, brandon.williams.23, dan.dan77771, beachsand.7, and Austin A. Those who believe they’d been in contact with Leaf were asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI, or reach authorities online at tips.fbi.gov Westchester sports fixture pleads guilty to child pornography charges SEE LEAF PAGE 20
Thursday, July 13, 2023 North Salem News – Page 7 FUNERAL PREARRANGEMENT Both pre-payment and no-payment options Serving all Faiths since 1858 Cremations and Burials DANIEL B. McMANUS ~ Proprietor BRUCE E. REISDORF ~ Licensed Manager JOSEPH M. McMANUS ~ Director RONALD P. CERASO ~ Director www.clarkassociatesfuneralhome.com 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah • (914) 232-3033 • Only 1/4 mile from 684 exit 6. • Only 1 block from the Katonah Railroad station. • Less than 60 minutes from N.Y. City. • Parking facilities for over 100 cars • Monuments & inscriptions available. 845-279-9555 • TankRemovalServices.com Before you place your home on the market, contact ENVIROSTAR about replacing your aging underground storage tank (UST). It is required by most insurance companies prior to insuring property. We replace above ground tanks as well! Call us today for a free estimate and evaluation of your current above ground tank. SUMMER SPECIAL! $100 OFF IN-GROUND TANK REMOVAL With this coupon only. Coupon must be presented at the time of the estimate. Not to be combined with any other offers. Expires 8/30/23 FREE ESTIMATES WE WILL MATCH OUR COMPETITOR’S ADVERTISED OFFER! We are the name you trust for environmental needs Since 1998 DON’T GET CAUGHT WITH AN AGING OIL TANK! Kenneth E. Becker Kenneth E. Becker of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, previously of North Salem, passed away on Friday, June 30, 2023, in Lake Worth, FL, at the age of 80. Kenneth was born September 19, 1942, in Bergenfield, NJ. He graduated from high school in 1960, then attended college. On October 9, 1965, he married Ann Mahon at the Visitation Church in Bronx, NY. They lived in Riverdale before moving to North Salem in 1970. Ann predeceased Kenneth on April 6, 2000. Kenneth retired from the New York City Police Department in 2002 after a thirty-eight-year carrier. He was a Lieutenant Commander of detectives and worked out of One Police Plaza. Kenneth had also served in the Army Reserve and loved to play golf. In 2011, he moved to Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Kenneth is survived by his son Kenneth Becker Jr. and his wife Darling of Boynton Beach, FL; daughter Barbara Centofanti and her husband Joseph of North Salem, NY; brother Ronald Becker of Haverstraw, NY and grandchildren Joseph, Anna and Hannah. A mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Friday, July 7, at St. Joseph’s Church in Somers, followed by the burial in St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Calling hours took place on Thursday, July 6, at the Beecher Funeral Home in Brewster. Contributions in Lieu of flowers may be made to the Alzheimer’s Assoc., 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60661. Russell Patrick Goff Russell Patrick Goff, 66, passed away July 2, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was born November 13, 1956, to the late June (Carey) and Patrick Goff in Harrison, NY. The family moved to North Salem in 1960, and Russ graduated NSHS in 1974. In 1983 Russ married Jane (Polly) Butler, and together they built their house in Patterson, NY. Russel was in the carpenters union for 9 years before forming and operating Brimstone Foundations for 13 years. He joined the Patterson Highway Department in 2001 and was elected Highway Superintendent, and held that position until June 2023. Russell’s favorite pastimes included riding his Indian motorcycle, watching Yankees and Giants games, and practical jokes. He especially enjoyed fishing, listening to live music, antiquing, and visiting his Montana property. Along with his wife, he is survived by his three daughters; Samantha ( Jason Cable) of New Fairfield, CT, Kayla (Dan Gera) of New Fairfield, CT, Lindsay (Alex Barreral) of Kyle TX, and a grandson Liam Russel Gera. His brothers Jesse (Sandy) of Ames, IA, Gilbert of Amenia, NY, Shawn (Eliza) of Amenia, NY, Patrick (Carolyn) of Venice FL, one sister Collen of Simsbury, CT and many nieces and nephews, Russ will be remembered as a loving, husband, father and brother, a mentor and a kind friend. A Mass of Christian burial was held on Thursday, July 6, at St. Edward the Confessor Church in New Fairfield, CT. Interment was private. Calling hours took place on Wednesday, July 5, at Beecher Funeral Home in Brewster. OBITURIES The Schoolhouse Theater (MIS)UNDERSTANDING MAMMY: THE HATTIE MCDANIEL STORY July 14 through 30 “A heartbreaking story of stardom and struggle in America.” Starring multi-award winner Tina Fabrique in a one woman play with music. To purchase tickets, visit www.theschoolhouse theater.org St. James Episcopal Church 296 Titicus Rd in North Salem, wwwstjamesns.com 64TH LIVE AUCTION & COMMUNITY FEST Saturday, July 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Featuring a Silent Auction from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bid on your favorite restaurants, salons, golf outings, wine, jewelry, art, and more! Shop the church’s treasured boutique, a perennial favorite, and shop for priceless and unique treasures. Find what you have always been looking for. Also featuring a St. James favorite - their handmade quilt. Buy a raffle ticket or two! There will also be a Country Kitchen with coffee, fresh local produce, pies, cookies, muffins and more. The St. James Grill will be smokin’ hot and the drinks will be icy cold! NOW ACCEPTING AUCTION DONATIONS Donate your treasures. Accepting auction quality items, small furniture, collectibles, china, garden tools, jewelry, and white elephant treasures. Drop offs at St. James: 296 Titicus Road, North Salem. Wednesdays: 7 - 9 p.m. and Saturdays: 9 a.m. - noon. Please no large furniture, couches, electronics or appliances. ROCK FROM PAGE 4 SEE ROCK PAGE 20
118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Brett Freeman, Publisher Tom Walogorsky, Editor Tabitha Pearson Marshall, Creative Director Editorial Office: 914-302-5830 [email protected] Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of North Salem 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 to [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5830. Opinion Page 8 – North Salem News Thursday, July 13, 2023 Happily Ever After This July 4th marked the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. The anniversary was part of the draw for me to participate as a delegate in a convention of Braver Angels, which was held at Gettysburg College over four days following the holiday. Braver Angels is an organization formed in 2016 in response to the rising political polarization across the country. The first meeting took place in Ohio shortly after the presidential election. Attending were 11 Clinton supporters and 11 Trump supporters dedicated to the mission of bridging the partisan divide and helping depolarize the country. The symbolism of holding the event on the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War where over 50,000 Americans perished, as well as the site of Lincoln’s iconic Gettysburg address, was not lost on the organizers. Last week’s convention was triple the size of the previous gathering, drawing over 750 delegates who were equally divided between “reds” and “blues,” so their message must be catching on. All delegates were required to pick a side in order to participate. It is not your party registration that determines your side, but rather your “tendency” to vote for Democrats or Republicans. One of the group’s founders, David Blankenhorn, referred to the gathering as the largest gathering of reds and blues in equal numbers and on equal footing in this century, which I guess would be hard to disprove. Adding to the experience was holding the event at Gettysburg College. We were housed in dorms and ate our meals in the dining hall together. The food and facilities have come a long way since I attended college. The Gettysburg campus is beautiful, and it made me nostalgic for my college days, which I did not fully appreciate at the time. Mealtime between sessions gave opportunities to interact with the other delegates. Everyone wore their name tag with a red or blue lanyard and the state they were representing, which provided a conversational icebreaker when you sought out someone to sit with. I, like most people, sought out an opposite color to sit with. I met a teacher, a priest, a therapist, a retired scientist and a journalist, among others. I also met a couple who were celebrating their anniversary. I’m not sure that would be my wife’s idea of a romantic getaway, but different strokes for different folks. In addition to plenary sessions with the entire convention in attendance — with speeches, presentations and musical entertainment — there were dozens of small-group breakout sessions and workshops with a wide range of topics from a debate about DEI to Christian A ‘Braver Angels’ visit to Gettysburg DON SCOTT IN CASE YOU MISSED IT SEE SCOTT PAGE 10 Every so often I eavesdrop on a couple of locals whom I call Mom and Pop Culture. They could be your next door neighbor. Or you. Or almost anybody else. They’re aware of what’s happening and quite outspoken (though aren’t we all). Let’s dial in to them now as they drive to wherever… POP: I guess you’ll take the Tappan Zee? MOM: No, sir. Not happening. POP: Why not? MOM: There is none. POP: None what? MOM: Tappan Zee Bridge. It came down in 2017. Replaced by the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. Full stop. POP: Oh, lordy, here we go again. MOM: Just sayin’. POP: Just agitatin’ more like it. MOM: Me agitatin’? You’re the one who’s down with this whole “The bridge that dare not speak its name” hue and cry. POP: Nobody’s crying, Mom. We simply want justice! MOM: I get it, Pop. Social Justice. Environmental Justice. Now add “Public Works Identity Crisis Justice.” POP: There’s a petition signed by 300,000 people who want their good name back. MOM: Their good name? You mean they want the bridge to be called The Luddites? “Can’t change the name! It’s sacreligious!” POP: Then color me Luddite. The bridge’s native name honors native Americans. MOM: I know that. I respect that. What I didn’t know is that overnight you’ve become a fervent advocate for the rights of indigenous peoples. How convenient when it suddenly suits your agenda. Isn’t that called cultural appropriation? POP: If you say so. But I’ll tell you what it’s not. MOM: What? POP: It’s not political. MOM (after a roar of laughter): Come again? POP: Restoring the Tappan Zee name is not simply the sentiment of Republicans who want to reverse what former Gov. Andrew Cuomo ramrodded through his heavily Democratic legislature. MOM: It’s not? POP: A Democratic state senator from Orange County has made it his cause celebre to un-name the Cuomo Bridge and rename it the Tappan Zee. MOM: Impressive. His district must Now you Zee it, now you don’t The bridge that dare not speak its name BRUCE APAR BRUCE THE BLOG SEE APARPAGE 9
Thursday, July 13, 2023 OPINION North Salem News – Page 9 914.455.2158 SpirelliElectric.com • [email protected] Specializing in residential & commercial services. Licenses in Westchester, Putnam CREATING CUSTOMERS FOR LIFE Family Owned—Over 40 Years Experience! 10% OFF Service Calls When You Present this Ad First Time Customers Only Light up your summer • Outdoor Lighting • Smart Home Setup • Electric Car Chargers • GENERATORS AND ALL OF YOUR ELECTRIC NEEDS! Brewster Brewster, , NY an NY and d Bethel, C Bethel, CT T Design Centers Design Centers On your project everyday until completion... GUARANTEED! On your project everyday until completion... GUARANTEED! 845-278-0070 845-278-0070 Southeastkitchenan Southeastkitchenandbdbath.com ath.com Celebrating 50 years be a problem-free paradise for him to prioritize a bridge name as an urgent matter. POP: That’s not how it works, Mom. He can be paying attention to multiple matters simultaneously. Making that bridge’s sacred heritage whole again happens to be one of them. MOM: Whatever. I’m fully aware that Andrew Cuomo resigned as governor under duress for his problematic personal behavior, which I do not condone one bit, but here’s the rub, Pop: The bridge ain’t named for him. It’s named for his father. POP: Who said the world’s fair, Mom? Sometimes the sins of the son are visited on the father. MOM: Yeah, Pop, seems there’s a lot of that going around these days. But, as you said, it has nothing to do with politics. Bruce Apar is a writer, community volunteer and actor. He can be seen on stage Saturday, July 22 (at 8 p.m.) and Sunday, July 23 (at 4 p.m.), as Morrie in “Tuesdays with Morrie,” at Whippoorwill Hall in Armonk. Admission is free. For more information, contact him at 914-275-6887 (text or voice) or [email protected]. APAR FROM PAGE 8 Dear Dr. Linda, Our daughter is entering fourth grade and the last thing her teacher said to me at our spring conference was, “Emma is still struggling in math, so be sure to do math with her over the summer so she won’t struggle in fourth grade.” Did she ruin our summer with that advice? Yes. As a student, I hated math. I didn’t understand what the teacher was saying and when my parents tried to help me, it made everything worse. My husband and I don’t know what to do—and my daughter ends up crying if I mention the word “math.” Any advice? -Vicky Dear Vicky, Unfortunately, many people hate math. And it’s not because math is so hard to understand—it’s that math is personal. Some children understand numbers and enjoy playing with numbers. They’re our future mathematicians. However, even these children sometimes struggle in school with math because the teacher is told to follow a particular program and some children simply don’t do well with that program. For example, Andrew loved basketball and was able to figure out scores and make predictions by doing math in his head. Yet, he was unable to succeed following the school program because it had multiple steps and he struggled with anything in which he had to follow multiple steps. Because of this, he was failing math and had to go to school at 7:30 a.m., an hour and a half before everyone else, for math help. Obviously, it didn’t help him because he was still following the same program, a program that didn’t account for Andrew’s needs. Additionally, many children need to count on their fingers when they first learn how to add and subtract. Yet, as I mentioned in a previous column, many program-following teachers don’t allow these children to use their fingers. (As a result, the only thing they learn is how to hide their fingers.) One more example is the child who loves math, but is told (because of the program the school is using) that he needs to write and explain what he’s doing. For some children this is fine, but for one fifth-grader I worked with, this was a disaster because he had trouble with writing. He started failing math. If not for his parents and teacher who decided together to let him do the math his way, he’d still be failing math. Instead, he’s now entering eighth grade with an A+ average in accelerated math. The point is, teachers need to find the method that fits each child, not find a method and then try to make each child fit the method. When this happens, the child usually becomes frustrated and anxious and math becomes a negative thing. To prevent math from becoming even more negative for your daughter (and you), play age-appropriate math games that require the learning of addition or subtraction or the times tables, etc., to win. This will help your daughter and you change the way you both think and feel about math. Here’s one you might start with: First make a tic-tac-toe design. Instead of putting in X’s and O’s, put the numbers 4,9, and 2 across the top row. Then put 3,5, and 7 across the center row. Now put 8,1, and 6 across the bottom row. (If you add any three numbers across, down or diagonally, it always adds up to the same thing—15. Here’s to having fun with math, -Dr. Linda Dr. Linda, along with her husband, Dr. Al, own Strong Learning Tutoring and Test Prep, serving Westchester and Putnam counties for over 40 years. Strong Learning tutors students K-12 in any subject, in person or remotely. Drs. Linda and Al are also the originators of Phonics, Fluency and Math SuperDeck Learning Games, which make learning a whole lot more fun. For more information, visit stronglearning.com. Teachers must find the method that fits the child Prevent math from becoming negative DR. LINDA SILBERT STRONG LEARNING
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Please include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: The Somers Record Mahopac News Yorktown News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times Nationalism to Toxic Media. I took part in a workshop on writing opeds taught by the editor of Newsweek and another on improving your family political conversations taught by a family therapist. I learned that family estrangement, when a family member has cut off communication with the rest of the family, is an epidemic. Those break-ups are often driven by political differences. Braver Angels has trained hundreds of volunteer moderators and facilitators who have conducted thousands of workshops and debates at state and local legislatures, high schools, colleges, senior centers, and libraries centered on providing opportunities to engage in political discourse with honesty, dignity and respect. The organization seeks to foster a social movement and they seem to be well on their way. Their platform, which was developed at the convention, is titled, “First Principles of the Civic Renewal Movement.” One of the musical groups performing at the event may provide the perfect metaphor of the movement. The group “Gangstagrass” combines rap music with bluegrass. Like peanut butter and banana sandwiches, it sounds like a terrible idea, but it tastes pretty good. They made great music together. If rap and bluegrass can come together, maybe there’s hope for the Braver Angels mission of bringing America together. To learn more, visit braverangels.org. SCOTT FROM PAGE 8 “My love life is like a piece of Swiss cheese; most of it’s missing, and what’s there stinks.” -Joan Rivers I recently wrote a column about the perils of growing old. It’s true... it’s not all that much fun. But the one thing I do not envy young people today is the perils of dating. I can’t remember the last time I was out on a proper “date.” Anyone interested in a diabetic semiambulatory senior citizen who gets winded peeling an orange? I didn’t think so. But that’s OK. Dating is hard. I have talked to newly married couples and asked them how married life was treating them. They usually say it’s fine but are simply relieved they no longer have to navigate the precarious minefield that is the dating scene. They’ve stumbled across the finish line a bit bruised and battered but still reasonably intact. Look at their wedding photos. Those aren’t smiles; they are expressions of utter relief. Today, thanks to a myriad of apps, you can order up a date like a pizza. Of course, you run the risk of some psycho showing up and slicing and dicing you like items on a charcuterie board and then using what’s left as fertilizer for their oleander plants. In olden times, we actually had to meet the person in the flesh first. This could happen in a variety of ways— maybe at work, at a party, a club, or a bar. Maybe your mom would set you up with her friend’s second cousin. It was a lot of work, and you needed a lot of luck. You know... right place, right time, and all that. Maybe you would have what kids today call a “meet cute.” That’s the cute story you can tell your grandkids about how you met their grandmother. Something like, you were in the grocery store dairy section when you dropped your carton of almond milk. As you bent over to pick it up, you clunked heads with a stranger who was bending to help you. You locked eyes and smiled. Magic is happening. You are both lactose-intolerant. Of course, the odds of that happening are greater than winning the lottery and then being struck by lightning on the same day while doing your celebration dance on the front lawn. I suppose “meet cutes” still happen from time to time, but why bother with all that when you can just get out your phone and log onto Tinder and start swiping right? Tinder is probably the most infamous of the dating apps for reasons I can’t explore here in a family newspaper. But I can say that the profiles of its members usually include a photo (probably one that’s 10 years old), and some biographical information. If a user tells you that they read the biographical information, they’re probably lying. They might look at it to see how close the person lives to them, but mostly they are looking at the pictures. If they like what they see, they swipe the photo to the right and connect with their fellow Tinder mate. If they don’t like it, they swipe left and move on to the next one. I have a female millennial friend who uses Tinder a lot. A lot. Not so much anymore because she actually met a nice guy on it, and they just marked their one-year anniversary. I used to tease her a lot about it before that though. She’d get mad at me Carbon dating BOB DUMAS OUT OF MY HEAD SEE DUMAS PAGE 11
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Some kind of folder you put papers in?” Today, there is a dating app for just about every demographic. Stir is for single parents. Elite Singles is for rich snobs (85% of our members are university graduates!). Silver Singles is for folks over 50. (They should have one for people my age called Carbon Dating.) Be Naughty is for “flirtatious, casual dating.” (Ahem.) JDate is for Jewish singles. Black People Meet is pretty selfexplanatory. Farmers Only is for, yep... farmers. In fact, there are several apps for farmers. Who knew there was a need? I couldn’t find one for journalists. I’ve never tried to use any of these apps. I come from an era when singles would reply to classified ads in the back of sketchy publications. (“Do you like pina coladas and getting caught in the rain?”) All this ruminating about dating got me thinking about some of my most disastrous dates. There are many from which to choose, but let me share some of the highlights. For my junior prom, I was set up with my best friend’s girlfriend’s best friend. (Follow that?) Her name was Lana, and I was excited because she was really cute. I’d met her several times but didn’t really know her all that well. What I didn’t realize at the time was that she had a crush on another boy, but this guy already had a girlfriend, and he was taking her to the prom. Lana just wanted to go so she could keep an eye on him. She had zero interest in me, which explains our stilted conversations throughout the evening and the fact that she wouldn’t dance with me unless this other dude was out on the dance floor with his date. I was oblivious to this at the time but learned about it in the following weeks. All these years later, it still rankles me. One time, I got a job at a car dealership (that is going to be a whole other column.) This dealership had gone into arrears and GM seized its inventory. They sent a team to the store to keep track of the cars, and if we wanted to go on a test drive with a customer, we had to get the key from one of them and sign it out. One of those “key monitors” was a pretty girl who was funny and flirtatious. I took her to lunch at the place next door and we got along famously. I asked her out on a proper date, dinner and all that, and she said yes. I took her to one of my favorite restaurants at the time, Rosy Tomorrow’s in Brewster. At the restaurant, she began acting strange. Her eyes were glassy, and she was speaking low and slow... if she spoke at all. After the meal came, we were eating in silence when suddenly she murmured, “You don’t like me, you just wanna [expletive deleted].” She then jabbed her fork into her salad and tossed some at me. “What the hell?!” I cried. She did it again. I got up and found our waitress. “My date is not feeling well. We are going to have to leave,” I told her, handing her some cash. We drove home in silence, and I was glad to be done with it. But strangely enough, she kept calling me and saying what a great time she had. “But you threw food at me.” “Oh, I was just having fun.” “You thought that was fun?” Fortunately, not too long after that, GM transferred her to another location, and I didn’t have to deal with her anymore. I don’t know. Maybe I just wasn’t cut out for the dating scene. I am not particularly fond of pina coladas and definitely don’t like getting caught in the rain. I prefer cheap tequila and violent hailstorms. Which would probably explain a lot. DUMAS FROM PAGE 10 The great philosopher Mary Midgley insisted that philosophy and plumbing have a lot in common. I agree wholeheartedly. Both activities arise because something has gone terribly wrong, with us or our water flow systems. As she astutely points out, both structures supply the needs of those who live above them. Each is hard to repair when things go wrong. There are, of course, differences between the two. When you have a plumbing problem, you, without a doubt, accept the need to call in a specialist with technical knowledge to instantly address the issue. You may, however, doubt the need for a “philosophical adjustment” should the values and principles that underpin your life no longer work. When the structure of our thoughts proves faulty, it doesn’t draw our attention like a leaky pipe. We often don’t notice the obscure discomfort and malfunction, any more than you might detect a minor bad smell in your kitchen that creeps into the air gradually. More likely, we tend to complain if our life is going badly, if our actions The need for philosophical plumbing JAMES MARTORANO MY PERSPECTIVE SEE MARTORANOPAGE 14
In Jayne Silverblade’s art class, fourthgraders Shayna, Leah, Molly, and Olivia proudly present their artwork. Instead of their usual landscapes, cartoons, or por - traits, they created illustrations that de - pict the school district’s guiding vision for Pequenakonck Elementary, titled “Profile of a North Salem Fifth Grader.” Their colorful pencil drawings brought different skills and attributes to life, including criti - cal and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, citizenship, and continu - ously improving learning. “Citizenship is important because if ev - eryone was a good citizen, then the world would be a better place,” said Olivia show - ing the drawing of two children holding the Earth. “They are helping each other lift the world up,” added Molly. Then she showed a drawing of two kids in a big field. “And this person is helping the other girl stand up. We collaborate when we play,” she said. Leah created her continuously improv - ing learner depiction using inspiration from her former teacher, Cynthia Fox, who would encourage her students to add “yet” to their “I don’t know” statements as a reminder that they are always learning. In Leah’s illustration, students take a spelling quiz and say, “We don’t know this...yet!” “I thought about how people might look when communicating,” said Shayna, who drew two students working on a project together. “Communication is important so you can ask for help and help others.” “Critical and creative thinking is im - portant because you need to think before you do something,” said Molly showing a drawing of a student thinking about math problems. “It’s okay to get things wrong, but if you think before you act, you’ll do better.” The interpretive art project was a collab - oration between Dr. Julio Vazquez, Direc - tor of Instruction and Human Resources, and Silverblade. Vazquez is impressed with the students’ artwork and plans to add their drawings to the official profile. He emphasized how the five components of the elementary school profile provide the necessary skills for students and opera - tionalize the district’s mission. The upper school’s “Profile of a North Salem Gradu - ate” builds on this foundation. “Our mission is that our students are continuously improving learners who question, define and solve problems through critical and creative thinking,” said Vazquez. “The Profile of a North Salem Fifth Grader is of utmost impor - tance because it ar - ticulates and defines our expected out - comes for every one of our students.” Article provided by North Salem Central School District. Profile of a North Salem Fifth Grader Principal Roy Martin and Assistant Principal Dawn Snowdon with Shayna, Olivia, Leah, and Molly Fourth Graders’ artwork embodies district’s mission Page 12 North Salem News – T
Thursday, July 13, 2023 Page 13
Page 14 – North Salem News OPINION Thursday, July 13, 2023 Add Value to Your Home We specialize in targeted home improvements — both big and small — to maximize your home’s value, comfort and beauty. • Bathroom Remodeling • Kitchen Remodeling • Durable Vinyl Siding • Room Additions • Add-a-Levels • • Replacement Windows • General Carpentry • Basement Finishing • Painting • Interior Trim • Handy Man • Sero’s Contracting When we’re done, there is nothing left to do. Licensed & Insured • Local References • Brewster, NY • 845-216-1955 • 845-279-6977 • [email protected] and relationships are not turning out the way we would like. It is hard for us to step back and see why this is happening. To the contrary, our focus naturally flows outward to what is wrong with the world around us, rather than to look critically at our own thought process. Hence, philosophical inquiry and adjustment on a personal level is challenging and relatively rare. Even so, I have always believed that many psychological issues that plague us both on a collective and private level are the result of flawed thinking that through philosophical exploration, like good plumbing, could be remedied easily. I don’t suggest that you run to the library (like my college roommate did) and read every book in the philosophy section. I am not even recommending that you acquaint yourself with any of the multitude of great philosophers. My advice is simple: philosophy’s worth is not as a noun but rather as a verb. Just like an annual physical, I am advocating that you occasionally re-assess the values and philosophical underpinnings that are part and parcel of your life, especially if they are not working for you. So, assuming you’re still with me, you may ask yourself: how do I begin? Let me first ask a question: do you remember the Live Aid concert in 1985? The concert, featuring more than famous 75 acts, raised funds to relieve famine in Africa. At the commencement of the show, the famous participants were instructed to leave their “egos at the door.” In a way, philosophizing demands a similar commitment. For it to be useful, you must be willing to leave prejudices and long-held assumptions behind. That sounds easy but, trust me, it’s not. What I am talking about is a do-it-yourself enterprise. You won’t need to read philosophical treatises or take a college course. Philosophy is a skill, a method, an action. It is, at its heart, a system of learning how to ask and re-ask questions. It is understanding where to go to find the most reliable up-todate information that might shed light on the problem at hand. It is discovering how to check and double check fact claims to verify or falsify them. It is a willingness to reject fallacious fact claims, no matter how prestigious the authority who holds them or how deeply one personally would like to believe them. Why do we need to bother to acquaint ourselves with the methodology of philosophical inquiry? I refer you to our old friend Socrates, who spent many of his final years in the marketplace engaging ordinary people in thoughtful conversations. His interactions made it clear that everyday thinking is inadequate for solving the important problems of life. We need to step back and proceed methodically. If we are serious about finding solutions, like a good plumber, we must first isolate the trouble spot we are examining and then carefully, astutely, and thoughtfully discover a solution by visualizing the big picture. As James Christian points out in his wonderful book, “Philosophy,” we should not expect ourselves, in our philosophical endeavor, to duplicate the great ones: “the noisy dialectics of Socrates asking questions of everyone; the calm logical apologetics of Aquinas; the mystical philosophies of Plotinus and Chuang-tzu; the mathematical and symbolic philosophy of Russell or Wittgenstein; the full-blooded everyday practical philosophy of Diogenes and Epicurus; the grand abstract logic of Hegel; the experiencecentered individualism of Sartre and Camus.” On the contrary, ours is a uniquely personal exercise, designed to help us cope with our life’s challenges. As stated above, like the plumber, we begin our philosophical exercise by isolating the problem “leak.” What does that mean in practical terms? When we are offered a statement which is presented as a fact, we must first honestly weigh if the assertion is true. We accomplish this by slowly and carefully taking apart the idea with which we are presented. Being old school, I like to write down the premise on paper. Is the idea based on a true or false claim? Often you will see that it deviates from the truth by subtly or overtly appealing to our emotions, prejudices or previously adopted beliefs. Only solid old-fashioned objective research can solve this preliminary question. If you study the speeches of any popular tyrant, you will see strong appeals to emotions, prejudice and preconceived falsehoods, which instantly fall apart once you examine them closely. Given the polarized nature of today’s society, our job here is no small task. Step two: if we agree that, based on our research, the proposed assertion is true, we must, like the plumber who attempts to see how everything works together, synthesize our knowledge to attain a larger and better understanding of life. This forms the very basis of our value system. The second part of our philosophical exercise has been the goal of philosophers throughout the ages. Their central aim has always been to construct a picture of the whole of reality, in which every element of our knowledge and every aspect of our experience will fit into a cohesive whole. For humankind, this effort has posed a perpetual challenge to create concepts in which the universe can be viewed comprehensively. Before you throw up your hands, I must tell you that we don’t need to solve all the problems that have plagued thinkers for all human history. Our mission here is much more limited and substantially personal. We seek to determine and then align ourselves with the truth and, based on what we discover, to then embrace a set of beliefs and values we can live by. We are not trying to write the final treatise about the workings of the world. Or as Saint Thomas Aquinas once suggested, the goals of philosophical inquiry are: “to know what we ought to believe; to know what we ought to desire; and to know what we ought to do.” I heartily agree. Happy plumbing dear friends. MARTORANO FROM PAGE 11
Thursday, July 13, 2023 OPINION North Salem News – Page 15 Securities offered through Cantella & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Cantella and Co., Inc. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. 845-628-5400 SFGtaxes.com | [email protected] 824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 from other accountants and tax preparers is our ability to work with you not just on taxes, but on financials, college planning, divorce, retirement planning, changes in life planning... We don’t just process tax forms, we advise on how to handle your income and expenses in the future with personalized recommendations. We help you navigate the tax code, and in the end, help you set sound financial goals. What separates us Like some folks, I spent July 4th celebrating my independence from some of the junk that’s in our garage, and endeavoring to replace it with more stuff that will one day itself be junk. I needed some big boxes to throw the stuff out, and where better to get them than a big box store? The Home Improvement Store (not its real name) is the biggest big box store I can think of, and when I got there I was surprised to find that the plum parking spaces were reserved for “Pro Shoppers.” I researched this further and apparently it’s a rewards program for frequent customers, and as they buy more home improvement stuff, they get a free drink or snack credited to their account. The more they spend, the more free snacks they get, and they start to drool like Pavlov’s dog as they loiter around the gardening section. I found a guy wearing an orange apron and I asked, “Hi- I recently received an SOS message from something stranded on my kitchen island. Where would I find materials to rescue it?” “You might try the Isle Aisle, Number 122,” he said. “Oh, OK, Aisle do that. I mean I’LL do that,” I responded. I found a huge dolly the size of a cabin cruiser, big enough to hold all my purchases until my credit card company calls to have an intervention. They’re the only people who ever say that I don’t give myself enough credit. Once I got to Aisle Number 122, they had everything there but the kitchen sink, which was unfortunate, since I needed a new kitchen sink. “Oh- Kitchen sinks are in Aisle number 3. It’s about half a mile west of here, then you turn right at this thing that looks like a roll of insulation. That’s actually my manager.” No sooner did I manage to get my cart moving again when a guy coming out of Aisle 121 with an even bigger cart almost hit me. “Dude I have the right of way, since I’m going straight and you’re making a turn,” I said. “Plus once I get going I can’t stop this thing without casting anchor.” He said, “My apologies, I didn’t realize you were going straight since two of your three wheels are going in opposite directions.” He was a little drooly and had a glazed-over look; I pegged him as a “Pro Shopper.” As I walked through the walls of hardware, I couldn’t help feeling sorry for Henry F. Phillips. Imagine going through life with a head so oddly shaped that they named the Phillips-head screwdriver after you? I asked a sales representative, “Do you have any spot remover?” “Hmmm.... It used to be in that spot right over there.” We need new trash cans, but I have no idea how to throw out the old ones. If I put the old bin inside the new bin, will the trash collector know that the old bin is a has-been? I stalked the power tool section, because not needing something is a poor excuse not to buy it. If you were fighting a war, I bet you could defend your territory one Home Improvement Store (not its real name) at a time. Just in this aisle alone, with pneumatic nail guns, impact wrenches and a Milwaukee Sawzall, I like your chances. You’d have to lure the enemy to the store using, say, the promise of an air conditioner sale. In the lawn section, there was a 23-horsepower fabricateddeck V-twin engine with a hydro-static transmission gang mower that I had my eye on. Loaded up with a sunroof and custom wheel covers, I bet it would be a pretty sweet ride. I imagined people racing these things at Watkins Glen, and meanwhile they get their grass cut for free. But I’m saving my money for a grain harvester. I strike up a little small talk on the checkout line with a guy sporting quite a few prison tattoos. “Wow that’s an interesting array you’ve got there, duct tape, zip ties, rubber gloves, bleach and a shovel! You must have quite a problem with rats! HA HA HA HA!” I got the hell out of there. I ended up behind a guy with a 30-foot beam in his cart, and I could barely make out the cashier in the distance. A new checkout line opened and when he turned his cart around to make a scramble for it, about 15 of us had to double-Dutch over his beam. In the parking lot I couldn’t fit some of my purchases in the car, and I thought about buying the lawn mower just to get the stuff home. In the end, I was able to get home with everything except for quite a bit of my money. Say hello at [email protected]. Thinking outside the big box RICK MELÉN MAN OVERBOARD Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for North Salem News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a cameraready 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.
Page 16 – North Salem News Thursday, July 13, 2023 increase turnout, which is essential for democracy,” he said Thursday. Any changes made to the election schedules for judges and the other exempted posts mentioned above have to be made constitutionally, Harckham added. Asked to comment on reports that some Republican lawmakers are questioning Democrats’ political motives for supporting the change, Harckham said: “This is not a partisan thing. There are areas where Republicans will do better with a bigger turnout.” “The only people complaining are the political class, the people who have benefited from low voter turnout for decades,” he claimed, adding: “We just have to work hard to get our message out there.” Assemblyman Matt Slater (R, C-Yorktown) issued the following statement last week. “As a former town supervisor I know firsthand that local elections are about local issues. The proposed change will silence important debates that are at the core of these elections for local offices. This is why every single town supervisor, Democrat and Republican, in Putnam and Westchester Counties have signed a letter calling on Governor Hochul to veto this bad piece of legislation. I am joining my colleagues to call on Governor Hochul to veto this horrible measure and leave our local elections alone.” In its letter, WPATS members agreed while increased voter turnout could result from the alignment of local elections with national cycles, “it is essential to carefully consider the potential negative impacts on local representation, voter engagement, and the democratic process.” They argued that local elections are often driven by local concerns and those would be “overshadowed” by state and national issues such as inflation, health care, and migration over which local officials have no direct control. The signers also pointed out that the legislation changes the terms of those who would normally be elected to two-year terms in 2025 town and county elections to oneyear terms and would require “an additional election one year later.” They especially objected to the process by which the legislation was enacted. “Local officials were never consulted and our state representatives only learned about it days before the vote. It was brought to rules, through committee, and to a vote in only a few days,” they wrote, claiming that “the lack of transparency of the legislative process and discourse among the public and local elected leaders disregarded basic tenets of good government.” The supervisors questioned the stated goal of increased voter turnout, noting that elections involving judicial positions as well as those in contiguous town/villages, cities, and school, fire, and library districts were “exempted.” “Why? Because it would be more difficult politically to alter the election cycles of these entities? Good government should be about doing the right thing, not necessarily the easy thing,” they wrote. They also didn’t buy the costsaving argument. “If saving money through fewer elections and increasing voter turnout were truly the goals, why still allow judicial elections in odd years when Town judges will be running on the ballot by themselves? Why allow village elections in March and school district elections in May in odd numbered years? Because turnout in those elections is so high? We think not. Why leave cities out altogether? Why not have all elections in November in odd numbered years?” the supervisors asked. “Good government is listening to people, their concerns and needs and making the best decisions. This legislation did not do that.” The state shouldn’t mandate changes without giving local municipalities the right to opt in or out, just like it did for marijuana legalization, they asserted. Claiming that many townships are “still unaware that this legislation has been enacted,” the supervisors noted that “a discussion about altering election terms is better done when discussed by everyone in the open.” They called on Hochul to veto the legislation, a move they said “would preserve the ability of the residents all across the state to have a meaningful voice in local issues and government accountability.” Lucas, who is WPATS president, shared with Halston Media that the group, after discussing the legislation with elected officials all over the state, found that more than “95 percent” of them agree with its position. “However, many knew little about the legislation,” he noted in a letter sent out on June 26. Among concerns brought to WPATS attention was that it’s going to make it tougher for candidates to raise campaign funds if they have to run for a one-year term in 2025 and then again the following year. Lucas also said he’d been told by a judge that the law is “poorly written” when it comes to defining when judges are supposed to run for office. “‘It simply provides that such elections are not to be held ‘on the Tuesday next succeeding the first Monday in November of every even-numbered year.’ The phrase ‘odd-numbered year’ no longer will appear in the statute. Therefore, it cannot be said that the statute continues odd-numbered year elections for town justices.’ In their words “the statute, having been rushed through, is incomplete,’” he wrote. Scorrano was also outraged that town officials weren’t notified about the legislation until a day before the vote. This left many of them “disheartened that their voice was silenced,” he said, calling it “embarrassing” that state lawmakers appear to “have little to no respect for their local elected officials.” “It’s a perfect example of what is wrong with the current system of government and the lack of transparency and communication. This type of gamesmanship and subjected leadership is terrible for democracy,” Scorrano declared. “Local elections are about local matters, and national politics should have no weight or bearing on those elections,” he said, explaining that local officials like himself are “only concerned with the day-to-day operations of a town as we are only trying to do what’s in the best interest of the community we serve.” ELECTION LAW FROM PAGE 1 1 DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 10/31/2023. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. 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Thursday, July 13, 2023 North Salem News – Page 17 Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in the North Salem News Bulletin Board and reach over 3,500 USPS delivered mailing addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! My Community Bulletin Board Service: 914-669-9679 Auto Sales: 914-485-1195 Fax: 914-669-9685 6 Dingle Ridge Road - North Salem, NY 10560 meccanicshop.com © 2023 Consumer Cellular Inc. Terms and Conditions subject to change. New service activation on approved credit. Cellular service is not available in all areas and is subject to system limitations. Savings calculation is based on a comparison of Consumer Cellular’s average customer invoice to the average cost of single-line entry-level plans o ered by the major U.S. wireless carriers as of May 2022. CALL CONSUMER CELLULAR 844-919-1682 Switch & Save Up to $250/Year On Your Talk, Text and Data Plan! NOTHING YOU NEED. YOU DON’T. EVERYTHING BUYING ONLY 845-628-0362 WE WILL COME TO YOU! 52 YEARS! WE BUY: GOLD • STERLING SILVER • JEWELRY • COINS • PAINTINGS • BRONZES • CLOCKS • COLLECTIBLES • ANTIQUES • ETC. Items for sale? Call us! Honest and Reliable, 30+ years experience. Local Collector/Seller (Westchester/Putnam) Call or text: 917-699-2496 • email: [email protected] Hope to hear from you! Thanks! BUYING COMIC BOOK COLLECTIONS! TOP PRICES PAID! AFFORDABLE Dumpster Rentals! CIRONE CARTING 845-533-5262 EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER! Promo Code: 285 FINANCING THAT FITS YOUR BUDGET!1 1 Subject to credit approval. Call for details. FREE GUTTER ALIGNMENT + FREE GUTTER CLEANING* SENIORS & MILITARY! YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE* 20 + % % OFF 10 OFF *For those who qualify. One coupon per household. No obligation estimate valid for 1 year. **Offer valid at time of estimate only. 2The leading consumer reporting agency conducted a 16 month outdoor test of gutter guards in 2010 and recognized LeafFilter as the “#1 rated professionally installed gutter guard system in America.” Manufactured in Plainwell, Michigan and processed at LMT Mercer Group in Ohio. See Representative for full warranty details. Registration# 0366920922 CSLB# 1035795 Registration# HIC.0649905 License# CBC056678 License# RCE-51604 Registration# C127230 License# 559544 Suffolk HIC License# 52229-H License# 2102212986 License# 262000022 License# 262000403 License# 2106212946 License# MHIC111225 Registration# 176447 License# 423330 Registration# IR731804 License# 50145 License# 408693 Registration# 13VH09953900 Registration# H-19114 License# 218294 Registration# PA069383 License# 41354 License# 7656 DOPL #10783658-5501 License# 423330 License# 2705169445 License# LEAFFNW822JZ License# WV056912 CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE BACKED BY A YEAR-ROUND CLOG-FREE GUARANTEE 1-855-478-9473 Mon-Thurs: 8am-11pm, Fri-Sat: 8am-5pm, Sun: 2pm-8pm EST 855.281.6439 I Free Quotes UP TO Could your kitchen use a little magic? ON YOUR FULL KITCHEN REMODEL* SAVE 10% *Discount applies to purchase of new cabinets or cabinet refacing with a countertop. Does not apply to countertop only projects. May not combine with other offers or prior purchases. Exp.3/31/23. NP-263. NY: Nassau: H1759490000 Suffolk: 16183-H NY/Rockland: 5642 Visit Our Display Center at 747 Pierce Road, Clifton Park, NY, 12065 • Sales • Rentals • Service • Buybacks Same Day Installation New and Reconditioned Lifts Locally Owned & Operated Regain Your Independence! $ 200 OFF the purchase of any stairlift 845-278-7312 ALL FUEL CO. The Shelley Family Home Heating Fuel 1606 Rte 22, Brewster • Burner Sales, Service & Installation • Tank Removal & Installation • Propane Available for Cooking & Heating VIKING LYNX MONOGRAM SUBZERO SCOTSMAN BERTAZZONI BOSCH BEST DCS GE MARVEL MIELE MAYTAG ELECTROLUX WHIPSPERKOOL FRIDGIDAIRE Trusted Repair That Will Stand the Test of Time Grills | Washers | Dryers | Refrigerators | Ovens | Ranges | Wine Coolers Serving Westchester County PH: 914.864.1252 6 Mark Mead Road • Cross River, NY 10518 Email: [email protected] www.appliancegenie.com AUTHORIZED SERVICE FOR VIKING, LYNX, FRIGIDAIRE BOGO 40% OFF OFFER ENDS 10/31 888-448-0421
Page 18 – North Salem News Thursday, July 13, 2023 National Recovery Month Saturday, September 30th | 9AM | FDR Park Lot 1 , Yorktown, NY www.bit.ly/RunforRecovery Text: RUN4RECOVERY to 71777 REGISTER - SPONSOR - DONATE THANK YOU TO OUR MEDIA SPONSOR This ad was generously donated by Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP Attorneys at Law – 914-948-1500 (The bill to which he was referring was recently passed by state lawmakers. If signed into law, it would prohibit nuclear power plants such as the now defunct Indian Point facility from dumping radioactive wastewater into the Hudson River or other waterways. Violators would face hefty fines. Somers and North Salem officials supported the measure.) Arena also cited numerous goals, including putting an end to the opioid and mental health crises, pushing federal leaders to close borders “and stop the dangerous drugs from overflowing into our county,” providing home care for the elderly so they “can age in peace,” expanding economic opportunities, repairing “crumbling” infrastructure, providing “high-quality” education for children while upholding “parental rights,” and mitigating New York’s “tax burden.” And the timing of her announcement? Arena explained that she and her team are “getting an early start because we want to help the other candidates who are running and also to keep the momentum going.” “People want to hear from everybody now on what the issues are, so I’m out there. I want to start getting started,” she added. Besides Lawler and Slater, there were other GOP hopefuls among Arena supporters Friday. One was Dan Branda of Somers who said Friday that he was running this November for a seat on the county Board of Legislators in District 4 (Somers, Yorktown, New Castle, and Ossining) against Yorktown’s Vedat Gashi, a Democrat who was recently elected the board’s chairman. (Branda, who owns his own digital marketing company, ran for county executive in 2021 but was unable to oust the incumbent, Democrat George Latimer.) The other was Republican Mary Ann Loustaunau, a retired business executive who is running this November for the town supervisor’s spot in Lewisboro, currently held by Democrat Tony Gonçalves. PRAISE FOR ARENA While the day’s focus was on Arena, who he called “genuine” and “sincere,” McCracken noted that folks were also there to support Slater’s and Lawler’s campaigns. “We’ve got a tough election coming up in 2024. We have candidates here who are going to be running as a team. This region is producing fresh leadership. That’s what this is all about, electing a team to represent the Hudson Valley to fight for our families,” he said. First up at the podium, Scorrano didn’t mince words. Claiming that Albany “has gone rogue,” he said state lawmakers need to “listen” to the people they serve and to also have their “best interests” to heart. Praising Assemblyman Slater as a “great leader,” Scorrano added: “Now is the time to elect another leader to the state Senate that we all believe has the right approach to bringing people together. That someone is Gina Arena.” Scorrano, who’s known her for 40 years, called Arena “the glue that binds her family together.” “Her passion and dedication to serving others, especially our veterans, are beautiful to watch. She will bring that same passion for helping others to Albany. She is ready for the fight,” he said. Arena, the quest of honor, apparently agrees. Thanking her husband, Jim, for his “support, love, and time,” she said he’s always been her “biggest fan.” She also credited her eight children for preparing her for “all of life’s challenges that have brought me to this point.” “I’ve lived through many trials and tribulations as a mom and these are the biggest reasons I’m ready to commit myself to serve,” Arena said. Those included “having a child with autism, a child who suffered and overcame opioid addiction, losing a son to brain cancer, and supporting a daughter in the U.S. Army” she explained, adding that her advocacy for her children eventually morphed into her fighting “for all those in need.” Slater followed Scorrano. Pointing to a looming $9 billion state budget deficit that threatens to grow to $13 billion over the next two or three years, he slammed his “colleagues on the other side of the aisle” for what he saw as unapologetic tax-and-spend policies. “They want to come after every single business and every single family and make you pay for their mistakes,” the Republican asserted, noting that all his 94th District constituents seem to want to talk about nowadays is “affordability.” “If we want to get serious about addressing the affordability crisis, if we want to get serious about putting New York back on a path toward prosperity, we need commonsense leaders like Gina Arena who’s going to fight like hell for us in the New York state Senate,” Slater said. Arena’s “going to be a fantastic senator,” he said, adding that he couldn’t wait “to work with her.” Colety said Arena’s “working very hard, not only on her own campaign, but putting a lot of time into all the local campaigns this year.” He thanked the candidate, saying that he was happy that she’s put her “name in the ring” and promising that she will have his and others’ support “every step of the way.” Last to speak before the candidate herself was Lawler. Referring to the 2022 elections, he claimed Republicans had enjoyed “tremendous victories here in the Hudson Valley.” Lawler was a Republican member of the state Assembly from the 97th District in Rockland County from 2021 to 2022. He is now the U.S. representative from the state’s 17th congressional district. “Albany is broken. It is fundamentally broken at every level. One party rule has failed. Pete Harckham has been a rubber stamp for every bad policy coming out of Albany and New York City,” Lawler claimed. “We need to restore commonsense and balance at every level of government and that means electing Gina Arena to the state Senate,” he said, calling her “honest, sincere, and compassionate” and someone whose “life experiences, family experiences” helped shape her. “She wears that on her sleeve,” Lawler said. ARENA FROM PAGE 5
Thursday, July 13, 2023 North Salem News – Page 19 Work with the local team you trust! We make it easy, affordable and effective TAPINTOMAHOPAC.NET 2 TRACKS TAPINTOKLT.NET TAPINTOYORKTOWN.NET TAPINTONORTHSALEM.NET TAPINTOSOMERS.NET HALSTONMEDIA.COM • Advertise all over the Internet, on sites like Yahoo, ESPN, CBS Sports, Weather.com, CNN, FOX, Zillow, USA Today, and the list goes on and on. • Place your video on YouTube, Hulu and other streaming TV platforms, and place your audio on Spotify, IHeartRadio, Apple Music and other streaming audio platforms. • We build and host your website. • Search Engine Optimize (SEO) your website with regular posts and with Search Engine Marketing (SEM) ads on Google. • Protect your reputation and ensure your business shows up on 35 directories across the web, including Google, Bing, Apple Maps and Siri • Increase your presence on Facebook & Instagram with both organic posts and paid advertising. • Reach thousands of prospective clients and customers with email marketing campaigns. 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD | SUITE 100 | MT. KISCO, NY 10549 • PH: 914.202.0575
Page 20 – North Salem News Thursday, July 13, 2023 As the case was unfolding, FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney urged parents to look at the fake accounts and talk to their kids to see if they’ve been in contact with Leaf. Law enforcement officers reported finding “almost a dozen images and videos containing child pornography on Leaf ’s home computer,” Strauss said. Interviewed for a lohud.com video in 2017, Leaf was asked to comment on the emotions he felt upon receiving the Hall of Fame honor. He called it “very special and humbling … especially on the 50th anniversary of this institution and with some of the great, great people that proceeded me.” Leaf ’s 2017 bio described him as a Scarsdale High School graduate who had announced the Section 1 boys and girls basketball tournaments for 36 years. He also had announced games for Iona College men’s and women’s basketball, Scarsdale and Mamaroneck basketball, and numerous tournaments. He had been officiating soccer for more than 20 years at that point and was also president of the Westchester-Putnam Approved Soccer Officials Association. According to the Sports Hall of Fame’s website, nominations are made by the public and reviewed by its committee. A prospective candidate has to be at least 25 years old and “should be a person of integrity and good character” who is wellknown in either professional or amateur sports as a player, coach, manager, official, owner, or member of the sports media. Inductees are revealed in the fall and each gets a trophy and their name inscribed on a plaque at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. LEAF FROM PAGE 6 Ruth Keeler Memorial Library The library is open for browsing, computer use, and reading! Please visit www.ruthkeelermemorial library.org for more information. Most programs are in person or on ZOOM. Send an email if you want to participate to keeler [email protected]. When you email, a link will be sent to click on, including a password to enter. MINDFUL MEDITATION WITH COLLEEN CASALE Monday, July 17, from 12 to 12:30 p.m. These sessions are held by Zoom on the second Monday of the month. Contact the library to get a Zoom link. You do not need to attend all the sessions. Meditation can help with focus and concentration. Relaxing the body and mind can strengthen the immune system, reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and help with sleep and mood. Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden 28 Deveau Road www.hammondmuseum.org SARAH CORBIN PHOTOGRAPHER: BENEFIT AUCTION Through July 19 In connection with the current exhibition Sarah Corbin Photographer: A Tribute at the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden, now on view through July 15, all photographs by Sarah Corbin in the exhibition, as well as additional works, will be sold in an online sale at iGavel Auctions. Bidding will open on July 5 and continue until July 19. Professor George Corbin, Sarah’s husband, has generously agreed to donate all proceeds from the sale to Pegasus Therapeutic Riding and the Hammond Museum. The auction can be found at: www.igavelauctions.com/auctions/ sarah-corbin-photographerbenefit-auction Chronic Pain Support Group Research tells us that 50 million Americans live with chronic pain, or pain that lasts most days or every day for three months or more. Of this group, 20 million experience high-impact chronic pain, or pain that interferes with basic functioning and activities of daily living. Pain is the number one reason that Americans access the health care system, and costs the ROCK FROM PAGE 7 WHY DO WE ADVERTISE IN HALSTON MEDIA’S LOCAL NEWSPAPERS? To AdverTise wiTh Us, CAll BreTT FreemAn AT (845) 208-8151 ON YOUR INSTALLATION 60% OFF Limited Time Offer! SAVE! TAKE AN ADDITIONAL Additional savings for military, health workers and fi rst responders 10% OFF New orders only. Does not include material costs. 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Thursday, July 13, 2023 LEISURE North Salem News – Page 21 To celebrate America’s founding this month, the NSRTC will have a contest with a question a day for 30 days. For the next two weeks, there will be 10 questions in each issue of the paper. The contest is open to all North Salem residents, and prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Please email answers to [email protected]. This week’s questions are: 11. What battle was considered the turning point of the Revolutionary War, which helped convinced France to support the United States? a) Battle of Yorktown b) Battle of Saratoga c) Battle of Trenton d) None of the above 12. Which document served as the first constitution of the United States? a) Bill of Rights b) Articles of Confederation c) Magna Carta d) Emancipation Proclamation 13. Who was the primary author of the Declaration of Independence? a) James Madison b) Thomas Jefferson c) Benjamin Franklin d) John Adams 14. Who famously said, “Give me liberty or give me death?” a) George Washington b) John Adams c) Patrick Henry d) Thomas Paine 15. Which of the following Founding Fathers was an author of the Federalist Papers? a) Thomas Jefferson b) Benjamin Franklin c) James Madison d) John Hancock 16. Which state was the first to ratify the United States Constitution? a) Massachusetts b) Virginia c) Pennsylvania d) Delaware 17. Which document established the principle of “no taxation without representation?” a) Mayflower Compact b) Declaration of Independence c) Stamp Act d) Boston Tea Party 18. During political movements people have always found ways to communicate. Today we have bloggers, Podcasts, E-mail blasts and other forms of communication through the internet. In colonial times, pamphleteers lead the charge. Their narratives, printed on paper, were distributed far and wide throughout the colonies. One of the following was a famous pamphleteer in his time: a) Thomas Payne b) John Quincy Adams c) John Hancock d) William Penn 19. To pay off the debt from the French and Indian War, the British Parliament chose to tax the colonists claiming they had been protecting them from the French. First came the Sugar Act, followed by the Stamp Act. The Parliament was taxing almost everything in a colonist’s life. An angry group of colonists formed a secret organization called the Sons of Liberty. Their goal was to disrupt and resist these taxing policies. One of the most famous members of this group was: a) Aaron Burr b) Samual Adams c) John Adams d) Ethan Allen 20. Where was George Washington sworn in as President of the United States? a) New York City b) Philadelphia c) Washington, D.C. d) None of the Above Nation’s Founding Trivia Contest NORTH SALEM REPUBLICAN TOWN COMMITTEE nation up to $635 billion each year in medical treatments, disability payments, and lost productivity. Support groups provide a forum for those with pain to gain support and learn about ways to manage pain and progress from patient to person. This group takes place over Zoom every other week. For more information, please call Ted Bloch at 914-552-6281 or email him at [email protected]. All conversations are kept strictly confidential. Race Amity of Northern Westchester & Putnam MONTHLY MEETING Join in for the monthly discussion, workin to advance cross-racial and cross-cultural amity to impact the public discourse on race. Meetings feature speakers, screenings, and presentations where discussions are aimed at educating one another on who we really are. Visit https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/138495877899 to register for this online event. RideConnect Rideconnect has volunteers ready to help drive seniors to their medical appointments and assist with shopping. Services are free to seniors residing in Westchester and southern Putnam Counties. To request assistance call (914) 242-7433. Anyone wishing to volunteer for Rideconnect may do so by emailing Marietta Manoni at [email protected] ROCK FROM PAGE 20 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. Database management system 5. Medical procedures 11. __ Clapton, musician 12. Defender 16. Exert oneself 17. Indicates position 18. Prevents river overflow 19. Atrocities 24. Mister 25. Ends 26. Slope or tilt 27. Taxi 28. The very ends 29. Actor Sean 30. Japanese persimmon 31. Sours 33. Beneficiary 34. Baseball official 38. Muddy, boggy ground 39. Not worldly 40. Actress Lathan 43. Soil 44. __-Cola 45. Asleep 49. __ Angeles 50. Give birth to a child 51. Beach shelter 53. Commercial 54. Taste property 56. Local jurisdictions 58. It cools your home 59. Dismounted from a horse 60. Charge with a crime 63. Close in 64. Spoke 65. Famed garden CLUES DOWN 1. Draw a scene 2. Its sultan is famous 3. Unlucky accident 4. A way to ski 5. Abba __, Israeli politician 6. Saw 7. “Westworld” actor Harris 8. Belonging to me 9. Shoelace tube 10. Takes to court 13. Early multimedia 14. In a way, produces 15. Bowlers 20. Of I 21. Equally 22. Gets some sun 23. A place to stay 27. Town in Galilee 29. Aronofsky film 30. Klingon character, “Star Trek” 31. Equal to 100 square meters 32. Atomic #58 33. Arrived extinct 34. Loosen grip 35. A distinctive odor that is unpleasant 36. Membranes 37. Some is poisonous 38. Partner to Pa 40. Small brown gray rail 41. A salt or ester of acetic acid 42. Sodium 44. Military official (abbr.) 45. Lighted 46. Took off 47. All 48. Ohio city 50. More abject 51. A radio band 52. Controversial tech product (abbr.) 54. Monetary unit 55. Passed with flying colors 57. A way to win a boxing match 61. The Golden State 62. Home of the Longhorns
Page 22 – North Salem News CLASSIFIEDS Thursday, July 13, 2023 Drive Out Breast Cancer: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup - 24hr Response Tax Deduction - Easy To Do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755 COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 844-947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required. TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 855- 543-6440. (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required. ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888- 869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am5pm PST) VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574 BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636 Do you need a Roof or Energy Efficient Windows & Help paying for it? YOU MAY QUALIFY THROUGH NEW RELIEF PROGRAMS (800) 944-9393 or visit NYProgramFunding.org to qualify. Approved applications will have the work completed by a repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs. Use ItchNoMore® shampoo on dogs & cats to relieve secondary dermatits, treat yeast infections, & eliminate doggy odor. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com) BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months freepremium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313 DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-595-6967 DIRECTV. New 2-Year Price Guarantee. The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918 AUTO DONATIONS EDUCATION/CAREER TRAINING HEALTH HOME IMPROVEMENT TV INTERNET PHONE MISCELLANEOUS FINANCE PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF 7/06/23 Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for North Salem 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. NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed proposals for performing the work herein described will be received by the Town Board of North Salem, NY, at the Office of the Town Clerk, Town Hall, 266 Titicus Road, North Salem, NY 10560, until July 20, 2023 at 10:00am and immediately thereafter the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud in said office. Bid ‐ Providing labor and materials to clean and repaint the exterior of the North Salem Town Hall. Contract documents may be obtained at the above office of the Town Clerk on June 30, 2023 upon payment of a cash deposit of $15.00 for each set, which will be refunded upon return of said Contract Documents in good condition within 10 days after receipt of Bids. The documents are also available from the Town website at no cost, www.northsalemny.org/bids The Town Hall was built circa 1760 and was last painted in 2007. The bid shall be made on the separate Bid Proposal Form and must be accompanied by a Bid Bond acceptable to the Town or a certified cashier's check drawn on a solvent bank in the amount of not less than 5% of the total amount of the bid. Checks shall be made payable to the Town of North Salem, and are to be held by the Town as a guarantee for the proper execution and delivery of the Contract and bonds to secure the faithful performance thereof. In default of such execution and delivery of Contract and Bonds, the amount of the deposit represented by the check shall be forfeited to and retained by the Town of North Salem as liquidated damages. An onsite review of the building can be made by any company bidding on this project at any time. A meeting will be held on July 11, 2023 at 10am at the Town Hall site at 266 Titicus Road, North Salem, NY to review the proposal and answer any questions. Proposals shall be enclosed in a sealed envelope bearing the name and address of the Bidder, addressed to the Town of North Salem, Town Hall, 266 Titicus Road, North Salem, New York 10560 and endorsed “Proposed Painting of North Salem Town Hall”, Town of North Salem, New York. The Town of North Salem reserves the right to reject any and all Bids, to waive any informality in any Bid, and to award the Contract to other than the lowest Bidder if deemed in the best interest of the Town to do so. By Order of the Town Board By Maria Hlushko, Town Clerk One touch of a button sends help fast, 24/7. alone I’m never Life Alert® is always here for me. I’ve fallen and I can’t get up! ® Help at Home with GPS! Help On-the-Go For a FREE brochure call: 1-800-404-9776 Saving a Life EVERY 11 MINUTES Batteries Never Need Charging. NEW YORK HOMEOWNERS: HELP IS AVAILABLE EVEN IF YOU COULD PAY CASH ROOFING | SIDING | WINDOWS | DOORS & MORE! 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Unfortunately, it has become more common for a child, grandchild or other loved ones to be diagnosed with autism, ADHD, bi-polar, schizophrenia, or for them to suffer from a variety of other diagnosed physical and/or mental disabilities that are severe and chronic. Because of this, the use of a Special Needs Trust (SNT) as a planning tool has become increasingly important and often necessary. When a parent, grandparent or other family member or friend wishes to provide for the needs of a disabled person in either his or her Last Will and Testament or in a Trust within a Last Will, or as a separate document, the vehicle that is most often prepared is a third party SNT. Use of the third party SNT allows the disabled person to continue to receive any federal or state aid and government benefits without the aid or benefits being impacted by the assets and/or income generated by the SNT. Additionally, because a third party SNT (unlike a self-settled SNT) is not funded with the assets of the disabled person (savings/recovery from a suit), but with the assets of a third party (parents/grandparents or others), the Estates Powers & Trusts Law provides that upon the death of the trust beneficiary, the trust assets can be distributed to anyone without the necessity of the trust assets being utilized to pay back the state or federal government for the dollar value of benefits provided to the disabled person. This rule does not apply to a trust funded with the assets of a disabled person (a first party SNT), which must provide for the payback of the benefits paid to the government entity. The assets of, or received by, a disabled person should never be used to fund a third party SNT. Additionally, the spouse of a disabled beneficiary or the parent of a minor disabled beneficiary cannot create and fund an intervivos SNT trust (one created during their lifetime) and get the protections provided by the Estates Powers & Trusts Law. This is because there are spousal and parental obligations of support to their spouse and/or minor child. However, the spouse or parent can fund and create a testamentary trust (one created in their Last Will and Testament) or an inter-vivos SNT, which is not funded until they are deceased. For example, their Last Will and Testament and/or Revocable or Irrevocable Trust provides for a distribution to the SNT upon their demise. A third party SNT can be testamentary, inter-vivos (created during life with the exceptions stated above), revocable and/or irrevocable. There is great flexibility in how the SNT can be drafted. The funds and income generated by the third party SNT can be used on behalf of the disabled individual to supplement and not supplant government benefits such as Medicaid and SSI (Supplemental Social Security Income). In essence, the trust assets can be used to cover expenses that are not intended to be provided for by Medicaid and/ or SSI. For example, they can be used to purchase a home for the beneficiary, provide for special therapies, wheelchairs, handicap accessible vans, recreational and cultural experiences (vacations, etc.). Payments made in the form of in-kind distributions for food or shelter will reduce SSI payments as they are considered unearned income. However, payments for goods and services other than food and shelter will not reduce SSI income. There is no limit to the amount that can be used to fund the SNT. Additionally, in spite of the restrictions imposed by statute and SSI regulations, third party SNTs generally give the Trustee(s) the power to make distributions to meet even the basic needs of the beneficiary (food, clothing, and shelter), even if it will diminish the receipt of government benefits. When considering an SNT for a loved one, it is important to thoroughly review the present and potential future needs of the disabled beneficiary. A thorough analysis by a qualified and experienced attorney who is familiar with the array of federal and state benefits that may be available is advisable. Anthony J. Enea is a member 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 can be reached at 914-948-1500 or at www.esslawfirm.com. Thursday, July 13, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE North Salem News – Page 23 Yorktown Chamber of Commerce 2010 Organization of the Year November 29, 1987-March 21, 2003 MAY WE STAND AS TALL AS HE DID in memory of Our 20th Year Proudly Supporting Community Recreation and Education HARRISON APAR Standing three feet tall due to a rare dwarfism, as a featured speaker at his middle school graduation, Harrison told classmates... ‘Dreams Do Not Come Easily, But If You Stretch Enough, Nothing Is Out of Reach’ Facebook.com/HarrisonAparFoundation [email protected] • 914.275.6887 P.O. Box 1383, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit incorporated in the State of New York It happens here. GreatNorthernCatskills.com Greene County Youth Fair July 27-30 Angelo Canna Park, Cairo Importance of a third-party SNT Benefit a disabled loved one without impacting government aid Lunch & Learn Series Held on the last Wednesday of each month, Lunch & Learn programs at Enea, Scanlan and Sirignano, LLP, shed light on a variety of important elder law and estate planning topics. The free educational program, held at the firm’s White Plains location, is open to the public – though space is limited. Those interested are encouraged to register early by calling 914- 948-1500 to reserve their spot. A light lunch and refreshments are included. Future programs include: September 27 LLCs: The Pros, Cons and Estate Planning: For some, an LLC can be a useful tool to pass assets down to loved ones while avoiding or minimizing estate taxes. Discover if an LLC may be right for your estate planning needs as well as how they are used to reduce the risk of personal liability with rental properties. Presentation by Anthony J. Enea, Esq. & Michael P. Enea, Esq. October 25 Understanding the Implications of Gray Divorce: A divorce later in life often adds a level of complexity to the estate and tax plan process. Understand what potential complications may arise and how to address them – from division of assets and tax issues to estate and longterm care planning. Presented by Lauren C. Enea, Esq. ANTHONY J. ENEA GUEST CORNER
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