BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE Another year has come and gone in Mahopac and it’s time to look back on 2023 and recap the top stories of the last 12 months. From a write-in win to a new school mascot to first responder heroics, record rainfall, a political resignation, and much much more, 2023 has been an eventful year in Mahopac. So, in no particular order, here are the top notable stories of the last 12 months. STERN WINS HIGHWAY CHIEF AS WRITE-IN CANDIDATE In November, Mike Stern overcame great odds to win the race for highway superintendent via a write-in campaign when garnered nearly 60 percent of the vote to defeat GOP candidate Gerard Ahler. It was the first time in town history that a write-in candidate was victorious. Stern, who had sought the Republican nomination but was denied, also looked to run as an independent candidate. However, the state Appellate Court ruled that technicalities in election law would not allow it, prompting him to run as a write-in candidate. MISSING MAN FOUND ALIVE In July, police search teams found an “at risk” Mahopac man alive after he had gone missing for four days. Roy Clayton, 66, was found stuck in a wooded area behind a home on Pouting Rock Road in Mahopac Falls. Suffering from exposure, Clayton was airlifted to Westchester Medical Center where he recovered from the experience. Police used K-9s, helicopters, and door-to-door canvases to search for the missing man, and the first responders were later honored by the Town Board for their heroics. FLOOD RAVAGES MAHOPAC Heavy rains in July brought flash flooding that damaged homes, businesses, roads, and public areas in Mahopac. Mahopac had the highest rainfall east of the Hudson River at 8.13 inches. Carmel Hamlet received more than 4 inches of rain as well. More than a dozen roads were closed or partially closed, including Lake Shore Drive and Birch Road, Stillwater Road at the bridge, Lake Baldwin Drive at the clubhouse, Spring Drive and Kennard Road, Route 6N and Hill Street, Route 6N and Potter Road, with the latter also closed at the bridge. Officials estimate the town suffered approximately half a million dollars in damages. INDIANS BECOME THE WOLF PAC A state edict requiring public schools to stop using Native American names and symbols for sports team mascots forced Mahopac schools to SEE 2023 PAGE 8 Year in Review VOL. 14 NO. 43 Visit News.HalstonMedia.com for the latest news. DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 CLASSIFIEDS 39 LEGAL NOTICES 39 LEISURE 33 MAHOPAC MUSINGS 4 HEALTH & WELLNESS 22 OPINION 10 SPORTS 26 The print edition of Mahopac News is taking a holiday break, but we’ll be back in your mailbox on Jan. 11. In the meantime, read all the latest news at News. HalstonMedia.com BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR The Town Board’s first order of business in 2024 will be to decide how – or whether – to fill a sudden vacancy after Councilman Stephen Baranowski resigned last week. Baranowski’s resignation was announced in a letter to the board and residents of Carmel, which was read by Supervisor Mike Cazzari at the Town Board’s Dec. 13 meeting. Baranowski – who also resigned from the Carmel Republican Committee and from his role as that committee’s chair – did not attend the meeting. The announcement appeared sudden; his nameplate was on the dais in front of his empty seat. Baranowski resigns from Town Board, GOP Committee Town weighs whether to fill vacant seat SEE BARANOWSKI PAGE 34 HAPPY HOLIDAYS! SOLD Lawrence Zacks Over 3,000 Families Helped SOLD SOLD SOLD FREE PROPERTY EVALUATION, CUSTOM MARKETING, RELOCATION SERVICES Call Today! 914-282-6440 RE/MAX Classic Realty [email protected] Due to the shortage of homes on the market, NOW is the perfect time to sell yours!
PAGE 2 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Mahopac News will be back in your mailbox on Jan. 11. Learn about our new 26x annual schedule for 2024 in this week’s Publisher’s Memo on Page 10. In-between print weeks, don’t forget to check out Mahopac News at: Wishing Everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year! Scan Me!
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 3 BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR On the eve of Thanksgiving, the Halston Media newsroom answered a call from a blocked number. Little did we know that it would lead to an exclusive inside look at what can be called... the Santa Claus Operation. As we and many other news outlets do every year, we had put in a request for an interview with Santa. Father Christmas, however, rarely talks directly to the media, and usually sticks to prepared remarks about who’s naughty and nice, the importance of reindeer, and his love for cookies. But this call was different. The elfin voice on the other end of the line confirmed our identity by asking us to verify a few facts they had on file (evidently, they really do know if you’re naughty or nice, and not just kids). After a pause, Saint Nick himself came on the line. “You have five minutes,” he said. “It’s my busy season.” Known by many names – Kris Kringle, Saint Nicholas and Santa are the most familiar in this country – Claus is at the center of one of the most challenging logistical operations in the history of the world; to get around the globe within 24 hours without being detected while delivering the right gifts to the right kids in the right places. “The mission has changed since I first started around 2,000 years ago,” Claus said. “Back then, the world’s population was smaller and more concentrated in Europe, Asia and Northern Africa.” According to researchers, the entire earth’s population was between 175 and 300 million people in the year 1 AD. By 1800, it was still 1 billion at most. The population of the United States was just 5.3 million. Today, the world population is 10 billion, with more than 300 million in the United States alone. “Not only were there fewer people, but there were fewer things,” Claus added. “We did dolls, animal figures, slingshots, balls, sometimes bows and arrows or spears, and parchment or books, and that was about it.” Timekeeping was also far less advanced in the early days, which gave Claus and his elves more time to deliver gifts. “Let’s be honest, people didn’t always know what day it was back then,” Claus said. “If we got the presents out around Christmas, that was fine. Children in those days had harder lives and most of them worked from an early age, so they were grateful to get anything.” So, how do Santa and his elves get everything done now? “I usually don’t talk about it publicly,” Claus said. “But so many people say it’s i m p o s s i b l e that I think it’s time we explained a few things. “ F i r s t , ” Santa continued, “we do have magical powers – the traditional Santa abilities, and no I won’t go into too much detail there. But we also now rely on a combination of teamwork and technology.” While Santa himself declined to go into detail about the tech at the North Pole, an elf with knowledge of the operation said that the team at the workshop uses very sophisticated tools that are decades more advanced than anything available to man. “It’s powered by the magnetic poles,” the elf said. “It can track gift requests by location and then map the most efficient route to get the presents to everyone on time.” According to the elf, Santa began using the tech as early as the turn of the 20th century, when it was then about as powerful as the first home computers. “The tech you guys had in the 1980s, we had in the 1890s,” the elf said. “What you have now we had by 1970. We’re always way ahead. Part of the reason we get it is because we use it for good. It also gives the higher powers a chance to see it in action and prepare for the potential issues that may come up when regular humans get their hands on it.” According to the elf, Santa himself isn’t hands-on with the technology. “It’s Mrs. Claus who drives the development,” the elf revealed. “Santa is smart about a lot of things, but not computers. She’s the one who came up with the flight plan changes to let Santa cover north and south quicker.” While he may leave the tech to his wife, Santa himself “has almost no downtime,” the elf said. “One thing that really bothers him,” the elf said, “is when people say he only works one day a year. Do you know how many letters he gets? In how many languages? There are 4,000 written languages in the world. And even if most of the letters are [written in] common ones like English, Spanish, Chinese, French, and so forth, not all of them are. And even then…kids these days have terrible penmanship. Every letter he gets makes him happy and he insists on reading them personally, but it is timeconsuming!” “I love getting the letters!” Santa insisted when asked about the demands on his time. “I especially love the handwritten ones.” But while he’s decidedly old school when it comes to correspondence, Santa – thanks to Mrs. Claus – is anything but traditional when it comes to making his deliveries. Contrary to popular belief, Santa doesn’t circle the globe in a straight line, the elf said. Instead, he flies north to south in a zigzag pattern, spending an average of one hour in each time zone. By speeding up over oceans, he can spend more time in the zones with more kids. “He heads out with the sleigh at a little before 11 over the North Pacific,” the elf said. “He basically heads south for an hour, delivers the presents, then comes back north in the next time zone for an hour, etc.” Asked why NORAD trackers only show Santa circling the globe from east to west, the elf paused before answering. “Look,” he said. “They detect what we want them to detect. If they saw how we really move, it would flip them out.” Another area where Team Santa is way more advanced than the human world is sustainable travel, a subject Claus himself was more than happy to discuss. “I laugh when people say: ‘Why doesn’t he use an airplane or a spaceship!’” Santa said. “Reindeer have a zero carbon footprint and any ‘pollution’ they do create is biodegradable.” Santa declined to say when and how he came to be carried by reindeer, but admits that he wouldn’t be able to get deliveries at today’s volume completed without them. “They’re very smart creatures,” he said. “They’re incredibly fast when they need to be, but have amazing control. You know how things go flying when a human stops a car short? Well, we fly around the world at incredible speeds and stop literally millions of times in one night, and we never lose a single present!” According to the elf, the reindeer possess another amazing power, revealed here for the first time. “They can change shape but only when they want to,” he said. “They absolutely love to make themselves look like a fire engine! If you see Santa on a fire truck, chances are it’s one of the reindeer shapeshifting.” Another important change, Claus told us, is the variety of toys and gifts available now Around the world in 24 hours: How Santa gets it done Elf “X” offered Halston Media inside information on the Santa operation, photographed at an undisclosed location. PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL This Santa Claus flight plan, with keys to the sleigh, was shared with Halston Media and shows one possible route Father Christmas uses to deliver presents globally. PHOTO COURTESY ELF “X” A copy of Santa’s passport obtained by Halston media; it still uses the Robert Nast portrait from the 19th Century. PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL SPECIAL REPORT SEE SANTA PAGE 36
PAGE 4 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Emile Menasché Editor: 845-208-0774 [email protected] Bob Dumas Editor at Large [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky 845-661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director/Photographer [email protected] Noah Elder Designer Bri Agosta Designer Haven Elder Designer EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines Mahopac News The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for Mahopac News is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Emile Menasché at 845-208-0774 or email [email protected]. Subscribe To request Mahopac News weekly delivery, call 845-208-8503 or email [email protected]. Subscriptions are complimentary for residents and businesses in the town. Out of town mail subscriptions are $150 per year for First Class Mail. Periodicals Postage Paid at Mahopac, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mahopac News at 824 Route 6, Suite 4 • Mahopac, NY 10541 (ISSN 2330-1627) Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 824 Route 6, Suite 4 • Mahopac, NY 10541 Main Office 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Coloring for Adults Held the second and fourth Friday of each month, Mahopac Library’s Coloring for Adults program offers an afternoon of relaxation, stress relief, focus, and fun. For ages 18 and up. Materials are provided. The next session is Friday, Dec. 22, 3-4:30 p.m.This is a drop-in program; no registration is needed. Call 845-628-2009, ext. 100 for further information. Indoor Snow Fun On Wednesday, Dec. 27, Mahopac Library’s third-floor community room will host sessions of indoor snowball fun for three age groups. The program for ages 3-4 and pre-K begins at 10 a.m. and will run approx. 30 minutes; the kindergarten-third grade program starts at 1 p.m. and will run for 45 minutes; the program for grades four-six starts at 3 p.m. and also goes for 45 minutes. Registration required. For more information, or to register, visit mahopaclibrary.org, or call 845- 628-2009, ext. 100. Food Pantry The food pantry at Saint John the Evangelist Catholic Church is open every Friday from 10 a.m. to noon at the Parish Social Hall, 221 East Lake Blvd. in Mahopac. Call 845-628-2006 or visit sjtemahopac.org/events/ food-pantry/20231110 for more information. Rec Dept. Winter Programs Registration for the Recreation and Parks Department’s winter programs begins Monday, Jan.8. Classes begin Jan. 29. Visit the department’s Linktree for the catalog. Call 845-628-7888 for more information. Library Resource Help Looking for a job, working on a research project, or getting started with social media, email, or a new device? Have questions about Libby, Hoopla, or one of the Mahopax Library’s other digital platforms? Book a help appointment to meet one-on-one with a library staff member. They can help library patrons find and use information resources or address basic technology questions. Registration is required: Register online at mahopaclibrary.org, or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100. (Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays in December from open to close.) Learn to Save a Life The Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services offers training in lifesaving skills from community professionals. Original and refresher basic life support (EMT) training is available. You can learn more and register for these courses at putnamcountyny. com/life. For more information and directions, call 845-808-4000. Volunteer Drivers Needed Can you spare a little time to make a difference in the life of an older adult? RideConnect, a program of Family Services of Westchester, is an information, referral, and volunteer transportation program for adults ages 60-plus who can no longer drive. They seek volunteer drivers who are willing to provide occasional rides to older adult neighbors. These rides enable clients to remain active in their communities and to continue to lead fulfilling lives. Rides are typically to medical and dental appointments, grocery shopping, and other errands. Give the gift of mobility and independence. No minimum commitment. Match trips to your schedule. Rides can be set up by phone or online. Your family members, young and old, can ride along. For more information, go to ride connectwestchester. org, call 914-242-7433, or email [email protected]. Visit RideConnect Westchester.org. MAHOPAC MUSINGS 9am-4pm THESE PRICES ARE VALID WITH AD ONLY BEER & SODA Not to be combined with other offers. 20lb. Tank. Expires 12/31/23 $ 2.00 OFF PROPANE FILL-UP ANY CASE OF BEER 24 PACK OR LARGER 5 CASE LIMIT Not to be combined with any other offer. SALE ENDS 12/31/23 $ 2.00 OFF LAGUNITAS $ 16.99 12 pack $ 28.99 HEINEKEN $ 17.99 COORS LIGHT 12 Pack BUD & BUD LIGHT $ 22.9924 Pack Bottles $ 17.99 20 Pack COORS LIGHT & BANQUET PERONI $ 18.99 12 Pack BUD & BUD LIGHT $ 28.99 36 Pack 36 Pack $ 18.99 HAPPY DAD HARD SELTZER MILLER LITE $ 28.99 36 Pack PABST $ 22.99 30 Pack 12 Pack Open Christmas Eve 376 RT 6 MAHOPAC CASH FOR CANS & BOTTLES HUDSON VALLEY BEVERAGE IS NOW A FULL REDEMPTION CENTER GET FULL 5¢ VALUE PER BOTTLE OR CAN
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 5 IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. Jilco Window Corp. 135 Mahopac Ave Granite Springs, NY 10527 914 248-6100 jilcowindow.com IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. Jilco Window Corp. 135 Mahopac Ave Granite Springs, NY 10527 914 248-6100 jilcowindow.com IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. IT’S NOT JUST A WINDOW, IT’S PEACE OF MIND For over 115 years, people have relied on Andersen. With over 100 million windows installed, no other windows are in more homes than the Andersen® 400 Series. With its innovative blend of craftsmanship and style, Andersen is the most trusted and recommended brand among residential homeowners.* Learn more at andersenwindows.com/400series *2018 U.S. Brand Study of Andersen and Renewal by Andersen brands vs. competitive brands. “Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. ©2020 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. Jilco Window Corp. 135 Mahopac Ave Granite Springs, NY 10527 914 248-6100 jilcowindow.com
PAGE 6 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE The town of Carmel bid farewell to three longtime public servants last week who are retiring after more than two decades on the job. Heading off into retirement are Chief of Staff Anne Pasquerello, Town Clerk Ann Spofford, and Highway Superintendent Mike Simone. Pasquerello, who served under four different supervisors over 22 years at Town Hall, retires from her current position as Supervisor Mike Cazzari’s chief of staff at the end of the year. “I started when I replaced Ann Spofford (the current town clerk) as the administrative assistant for [then Supervisor] Frank DelCampo,” Pasquerello said. “Then he went to the county as the deputy county executive. Then when Bob Pozzi was elected, he had his own staff. Then Connie Munday was elected, and she brought me back. When Ken Schmitt took office, he asked me to stay on, and I’ve been here ever since.” Pasquerello will be replaced by Kevin Kernan, whom she is training to become Cazzari’s confidential executive assistant. “I will be coming to help with the transition,” Pasquerello said, noting her move to retirement will be bittersweet. “It is part of your life. I’ve been in Mahopac for more than 20 years. Helping people is what I do best. “It was never boring in this office, there was always something going on,” she added. “Just when you think you have seen it all something pops up. It’s been part of the fabric of my life and these people will remain my friends.” Cazzari joked that Pasquerellohas “pretty much been running the town for the past 20 years.” “I would have been lost the first two years without her,” he said. “She has been a friend and a confidant and has taught me so much.” Pasquerello said she is looking forward to spending more time with her family and pursuing her hobbies when the new year arrives. “I’ve started playing pickleball and I will be hanging out with my grandkids,” she said. “I will travel a little bit and get back to volunteering. I was always passionate about my youth ministry group and working with the food pantry.” Three longtime town officials say goodbye Councilman Schanil also honored after serving one term From left, County Legislator Erin Crowley, Councilwoman Suzy McDonough, Assemblyman Matt Slater, Council Frank Lombardi, Councilman Robert Schanil and his wife Marlene, Anne Paaquerello, and Supervisor Mike Cazzari. Absent are Town Clerk Ann Spofford and Highway Superintendent Mike Simone PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF CARMEL SEE RETIREES PAGE 35 The Toys for Tots program got a major boost at Mahopac High School over the weekend with the Marines combining forces with Mahopac students, faculty, and staff at Saturday’s Illusion concert. Each holiday season, Marine Toys for Tots, a public charity created at the behest of the U.S. Marine Corps., collects new, unwrapped toys to distribute to children in need. The nonprofit also accepts financial donations year-round and says that 97 percent of all donations go directly to providing children with toys. Learn more at toysfortots.org. Illusion rocks ‘Toys for Tots’ The cast of Illusion 2023 stands with a group of U.S. Marines in front of a Toys for Tots trailer full of toys gathered at Mahopac High School. PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 7 Treat your home like a work of Fine Art Welcome to the Interstate Design Centers, where the very best in windows, doors & hardware are on display in Shrub Oak, NY, Greenwich & Westport, CT. The view outside your window is like a painting, so give it the frame it deserves with windows and doors by Andersen. At the Interstate Design Center, we believe that your home is more than just a house, it’s a work of art. So explore new designs and styles from Andersen, the #1 trusted and recommended window and door brand. IDC Greenwich 184 S. Water St Greenwich, CT (203) 531-8050 IDC Shrub Oak 1248 E Main St Shrub Oak, NY (914) 245-5050 IDC Westport 800 Post Rd E. Westport, CT (203) 221-1620 Available at
PAGE 8 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 drop the name “Indians” and all related logos and imagery or risk losing state aid. A committee was formed to develop new team name ideas and a vote was taken among the student body and the name “Wolf Pac” was chosen. The change drew the ire of some residents who felt Mahopac was sacrificing tradition and losing its heritage but others said they were ready for the change. The school released its new logo this month. BARANOWSKI RESIGNS Town Board member and Town Republican Committee chair Stephen Baranowski resigned from both positions in mid-December, days after losing vote of confidence by the Carmel Republican Committee. The Town Board must now decide how (or whether to) fill his seat on the board in 2024. See full coverage on page 1. DELI OWNER BUSTED FOR CHILD PORN Putnam Valley resident and owner of Rocco’s Deli on Route 6 in Mahopac, Derrick Rocco, 47, was arrested and charged with possessing child pornography and taking hidden camera videos in his deli’s bathroom after an investigation that began when police said he was caught trying to take pictures up a woman’s dress at a local supermarket. The investigation started on July 4 after police received a complaint that a man was trying to take “upskirt” pictures at the Stop and Shop in Mahopac. It was while investigating the first set of charges that police say they uncovered even more evidence when they discovered digital storage devices containing child pornography. Rocco remains in jail pending trial. MAN CHARGED WITH ATTEMPTED MURDER In January, a 24-year-old Mahopac man was charged with attempted murder for allegedly stabbing another man while inside the Cloud House Smoke Shop on Route 6 in Mahopac. When officers arrived on the scene, they found a 22-year-old man outside the business bleeding profusely from what appeared to be two stab wounds. Police identified the suspect as Anas Mousa, who was taken into custody without incident. The victim sustained stab wounds to the chest and back. He was transported to Danbury Hospital in critical, but stable condition. Mousa was also charged with assault and criminal possession of a weapon. YOUNG GYMNAST SAVED AFTER COLLAPSING In June, an 8-year-old gymnast who was attending a birthday party at Eclipse Gymnastics in Mahopac had her life saved by first responders after she collapsed and went into cardiac arrest. EMT personnel gave credit to bystanders for helping to save the girl’s life by immediately performing CPR. Rescue workers used a defibrillator and IV medication, and the young girl regained consciousness on her way to Westchester Medical Center where she began her long recovery. MAHOPAC MAN’S RELATIVES RELEASED BY HAMAS After 49 days in captivity, the niece and grandnieces of Mahopac resident Shaul Naor were returned home safely by Hamas after being kidnapped during the Oct. 7 terrorist attacks. Naor’s sister was killed in the attack and her longtime partner remains missing. “Our hearts of full of joy and thanks,” Naor said after his family’s release as part of a prisoner exchange between Hamas and Israel. MHS CHEER TEAM ARE NATIONAL CHAMPS In January, the MHS varsity cheer team won the national title at the National Cheer Association (NCA) High School Nationals in Dallas. The team received a hero’s welcome from classmates, school officials, police, and dignitaries when they returned to town. “Winning t his competition is the most coveted award by and cheerleader,” said parent Sarah Greco. 2023 FROM PAGE 1 COURTESY ROBERT BUCKLEY Parents and friends wait for the bus to bring their champions home. PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL After changing its nickname in at the end of last school year, Mahopac Central School District released its Wolf Pac logo in December. IMAGE COURTESY MAHOPAC CSD Combining the best of modern medicine with proven holistic methods. (914) 248-6220 / Progressive-vet.com 268 Route 202 Somers, NY Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! from all of us at Law Offices of Joseph J. Tock 963 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • TOCKLAW.COM 845-628-8080
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 9 Come See Us At 87 Route 6, Baldwin Place, New York 10505 845-883-6132 WE LOOK FORWARD TO SERVING YOU! MARKET FILL UP WITH TODAY! MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY AND HEALTHY NEW YEAR FROM ALL OF US AT CHESTNUT MARKET
PAGE 10 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Opinion BRETT FREEMAN, PUBLISHER EMILE MENACHÉ, EDITOR TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Editorial Office: 845-208-0774 [email protected] 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of Mahopac News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 845-208-0774 I was born in the wrong decade. Up through the 1990s, community newspaper publishers ran very profitable businesses. Around the year 2000, like many other businesses, the explosion of the Internet offered both challenges and opportunities to our industry. Some have successfully navigated this change. But unfortunately, many community newspapers have become a statistic, as more than 130 newspapers have closed or merged this year alone, and our country is on track to lose a third of all newspapers since 2005. This newspaper and its parent company, Halston Media, will NOT become a statistic. But in order to avoid becoming a statistic, we need to innovate and not be bound by the way our industry has historically operated. I founded Halston Media in 2010 and quickly joined the New York Press Association (NYPA), our industry’s local trade organization. Ever since, I’ve been attending their annual conferences, where at 45 years old, I’m practically a baby among the publishers. I’ve never seen a more anxietyriddled group of people, as our conversations always focus on discovering a magic formula to overcome the billions of advertising dollars gobbled up by Facebook and Google. Many of the publishers sing the blues each year, as they focus on small cost-cutting and/or small revenue-generating efforts to overcome what actually requires a total rethinking of the industry. As they say, the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result. Like my colleagues at NYPA, I’ve spent the better part of a decade focused on small changes, and some of those efforts have certainly been marginally successful. But up until now, I’ve avoided making larger changes out of fear of offending certain sacred cows. It’s a “supposed to” mentality that can lead to slow death and something that business leaders must avoid in order to survive. One of these “supposed to” mentalities is the idea that we must publish a newspaper 52 weeks per year, without fail, even on weeks when doing so would mean losing money. And as the cost of newsprint has spiraled upward and postage rates have increased roughly 55% since 2010 (the first class stamp that cost 44 cents in 2010 will cost 68 cents in 2024), it costs us dramatically more to deliver a printed newspaper into your mailbox now than when we started. This is why, in 2024, this printed newspaper is going bi-weekly, or more precisely, 26 times annually. During historically slow advertising months, there may be two weeks between issues. For example, every year, we lose money by publishing the editions immediately following Christmas and immediately following New Year’s Day. So, if you look at the top of this page and see the date range of this edition, you’ll see that our next issue won’t hit your mailbox until Jan. 11. On the flip side, leading up to the November election, we plan to publish several weeks in a row in order to cover election issues more fully, accommodating the demand from readers and advertisers. We will focus on journalism Every business has a finite set of resources and must decide how to invest its time and energy. It’s unsustainable for a business when resources aren’t aligned with revenue generation. Long term, it’ll lead to burnout, low quality and ultimately bankruptcy. Publishing a newspaper is very labor intensive, particularly for a small staff. Deadlines driven by printing and postal realities absorb 40-50% of our week. I’ve concluded, given our level of staffing, that we will better serve our readers and advertisers by focusing our efforts on activities that will lead to a higher quality product – superior and more timely local journalism – and, in turn, long-term sustainability. This is why we revamped our website a few months ago. We went from five separate sites under the TAPinto brand to one regional site called Halston Media News (News.HalstonMedia.com). Our new website covers the news in eight towns and seven school districts. Readers can now both zero in on their own town but also easily see how other local towns are dealing with similar issues. By freeing up production and logistics-related time on a bi-weekly print schedule, we will be able to double down on our online journalism. With our new approach, you will be able to read breaking news today instead of waiting a week to read about it. Strategic growth and no retreat Lest our competitors smell blood in the water, I assure our friends and enemies alike that this is no retreat. We have spent nearly 14 years growing, and we don’t plan to stop growing. Additionally, the print newspaper will always remain a core product. Since 2010, we’ve launched five newspapers, including Mahopac News, The Somers Record, Yorktown News, North Salem News and The KatonahLewisboro Times. In March 2022, we launched Seasonal Highlights, a glossy marketing mailer, which is distributed to about 130,000 homes in four counties (including Fairfield County, Conn.). In May 2022, we launched a sixth newspaper called The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times (also covering Pound Ridge), which is distributed monthly to over 15,000 homes in three towns. And last month, we were selected to publish the exclusive monthly Heritage Hills Newsletter. In addition to revamping our website, we launched a whole new service for our advertisers earlier this year called Halston Digital Agency, with a focus on helping local businesses navigate social media, Google and programmatic advertising, where we place the ads of local businesses on national websites. Halston Digital Agency also serves local businesses’ website design needs. On our website, you may have noticed a video commercial for Appliance Sales Plus. We have also placed that same commercial on streaming TV, including channels such as Fox News, CBS News, AMC, MTV, ABC News and VH1, while utilizing streaming devices such as Roku, Apple TV, Vizio, Amazon and Google. It’s a whole new world and everyone at Halston Media is committed to these exciting changes. We understand that some readers may be disappointed by the decrease in our newspaper frequency. We’ll be back in your mailbox on Jan. 11. In the meantime, you can find the latest news for your town at News.HalstonMedia.com. You’ll now be able to find even more news... and sooner... through this increased online focus. We truly appreciate the community’s support, including our advertisers and readers. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas. And to the Jewish community, we hope you had a Happy Hanukkah. To everyone, we wish you a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year! Thank you for supporting us over nearly 14 years. Here’s to the next 14 years! BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER’S MEMO Halston Media’s strategic shift Embracing bi-weekly print publishing in the digital age We’ll be back in your mailbox on Jan. 11. In the meantime, you can find the latest news for your town at News. HalstonMedia. com.’ Scan the QR code to read Mahopac News online.
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 11 On Dec. 9, 1965, CBS aired an animation for its annual Christmas special. Even before the show aired, network executives feared disaster. Who would want to watch a cartoon in prime time? The show had an unorthodox musical score written by a jazz pianist. Pressed for time, the special’s producer hurriedly penned its theme song on the back of an envelope. The show, “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” became an American classic. CBS broadcast the special each year from 1966 until 2001. After acquiring the rights in 2001, ABC aired the show for 18 consecutive years, its 50th anniversary receiving the highest rating for its time slot. The special begins with Charlie Brown complaining to Linus about how confoundingly unhappy he is. It’s Christmas. Why isn’t he happy? To find the answer he visits Lucy’s psychiatric booth. Her advice to Charlie is that he direct the group’s Christmas play. He accepts. On the way to his first rehearsal, though, Charlie becomes discouraged by his observations of Christmas’ commercialization: Lucy complains about not receiving real estate for Christmas; Snoopy decorates his doghouse for the neighborhood’s frivolous lights and display contest and his sister asks him to write a greedy Christmas letter to Santa Claus. At the rehearsal, Charlie suggests that to set the proper mood, the play needs a tree. Lucy wants a big aluminum, pink one. Charlie brings back the only tree left on the lot, a skinny little sapling. When the group sees the tree, they mock Charlie and walk away laughing. Charlie realizes that he can decorate his tree and still have Christmas without commercialization ruining the season. He uses some of Snoopy’s lights and balls to decorate his tree, but the puny sapling falls over under their weight. Charlie Brown, thinking that he has killed the tree, walks away dejected. Seeing this, the group follows Charlie and recognizes that they have judged him and his tree too harshly. In no time they have the tree standing on its own, add decorations and finally see the beauty in Charlie’s tree. It’s an unusual transformation story because it’s the group that’s transformed. They accept Charlie’s simple vision of Christmas. It’s not about having the tallest or bushiest of trees with the most lights. Christmas is about being humble and grateful and seeing beauty. I don’t think “A Charlie Brown Christmas” could have become a timeless classic if it were just a nice Christmas story. The musical score and the angelic choir voices harmonizing to perfection are what make “A Charlie Brown Christmas” magnificent. “Christmas Time Is Here,” the show’s theme song, is reported to have been written in 15 minutes. Oddly, it seems to express as much sadness as it does joy. “Families drawing near. Oh, that we could always see such spirit through the year,” goes its melancholy last lines. The melody is as sad and filled with heartbreak as a love ballad. Christmas trees have a distinctive, though somewhat embarrassing place in my family’s Christmases. My father had an annoying tradition of waiting until Christmas Eve to buy a tree. He wasn’t really a cheapskate, but he liked a bargain. Also, for some years our family didn’t have the extra money to spend on a big Christmas tree. Of course, all the best trees were gone. My brother and I would dig through the trees, trying to find a decent one. And then my father would excitedly call us. “I found our tree,” he hollered to us one year. It was the worst tree on the lot. I worried that by the time we got it in the trunk and home, there’d be no needles left on it. It made me mad. I’d picked out a better tree. Out of spite, I wouldn’t even help decorate the thing. I just sat on the couch giving orders and making fun of my father’s meager tree. I complained that my father threw the tinsel on the tree, instead of hanging it neatly, the way my mother did. I complained that the tree stand was broken, and we had to put magazines underneath one side to keep the tree from falling over. But what really made me mad was the lack of presents. I knew we would be getting the same old stuff, which we would have gotten anyway. We turned off all the lights for our tree lighting ceremony and then had a toast. My father toasted the baby Jesus. Mom raised her glass to the new mother. I toasted the horses in the stable and got into an argument with my brother, who said there were only cows- as if he were there. If there is one thing we can all agree on, though, it’s that every tree on Christmas Eve with tinsel and lights and a family beside it… is perfect. 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PAGE 12 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Governor should grant lifesaving holiday gift with approval of critical biomarker testing bill Dear Editor, Gov. Hochul could deliver a magical holiday gift to New Yorkers in the coming days by supporting a piece of legislation that was overwhelmingly approved by the state legislature. A.1673 was delivered to the Governor’s desk for final approval on Dec. 12. It would require health insurance plans and Medicaid to include financial relief for biomarker testing, ensuring that such tests are provided for the diagnosis, treatment, effective management or continuous monitoring of a patient’s illness or medical condition, as long as there is medical and scientific evidence supporting the use of these tests. Biomarker testing has transformed how cancer is treated, which is why removing barriers to access these tests are a top priority for the American Cancer Society. In addition, biomarker testing is also supporting advances in other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune diseases and organ transplants. In fact, the Michael J. Fox Foundation announced earlier this year a major breakthrough for a Parkinson’s biomarker. This means we not only can provide early detection, but it is expected to usher in advanced treatments for this and other neurological diseases. I am proud to have helped build a bipartisan coalition along with Assemblymember Pam Hunter to get us to this point and proudly signed onto a letter to Gov. Hochul with 95 of my colleagues from every corner of New York State urging her to approve this legislation. Now it’s up to Gov. Hochul and I can think of no better holiday gift to New Yorkers than the prospect of a long and healthy life. -Assemblyman Matt Slater 94th District LETTER I love Christmas carols, which shouldn’t be too surprising for a priest unless I was Father Ebenezer Scrooge. Whether they be religious or not, I think I love them all: “Deck the Halls,” “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” “Silent Night,” “O Tannenbaum,” “Mele Kalikimaka,” “Feliz Navidad.” All of them have become synonymous with the joy of this season, almost to the point that they bring joy in themselves. And it’s not just the joy they bring: there’s a certain goodness and confidence that is brought out of us when we gather around to sing Christmas carols. While few of us would be qualified to lead the National Anthem before a big game, everyone is qualified to lead a cheerful holiday tune. Why are we so confident in singing Christmas Carols? I would propose the reason is summarized in the beautiful hymn, “O Holy Night.” In the first verse, the worldly problem of sin and divine solution of the newborn Savior are both outlined in a way that is as beautiful as it is simple: “Long lay the world in sin and error pining, ‘till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.” That line has always struck me, “and the soul felt its worth.” Any child psychologist will confirm that children do not merely need to be told their worth, but they must feel it: through words of affirmation, through touch, through supporting presence at a meaningless soccer game, in these ways children come to first know their worth through their parents’ clear expression of it. For centuries before the birth of Jesus, God the Father has been communicating our worth through creation, the prophets, and the mighty deeds He performed for His people; but we kept rejecting Him and His love, turning to sins that are beneath our dignity, beneath our worth. As the hymn sings, we and the rest of the world lay in sin and error, pining for something more. Then on one December night in Bethlehem over 20 centuries ago, God outdid Himself. When Jesus was born of a Virgin and laid in a manger it finally happened: the soul felt its worth. God’s response to sin and error was not to reject or condemn the world, but to save it. Jesus’ birth serves as a reminder to the whole world that God the Father has deemed us worthy of redemption and salvation; and dare I say it is the most comforting worth possible: I am not worthy of redemption because of anything I have done, but only because of the Father’s love for me. My worth is not earned, it is freely given. What great love God has for us. A love this strong now bids a response, an invitation which we are free to accept or reject. Rejecting this love is easy; we can simply return to the life of sin and error which we have lived; but how do we accept? Perhaps we can look to another Christmas carol, “The Little Drummer Boy,” for our answer. The little drummer boy is swept up amongst those who are journeying to pay homage Christmas carols and the ‘worth’ of our soul FR. MATTHEW BRESLIN GUEST COLUMNIST SEE BRESLIN PAGE 14 WESTCHESTER’S LARGEST MODEL TRAIN & HOBBY SHOP is now located in the heart of Yorktown Heights! We offer a wide array of modern & vintage toys, train sets, and collectibles. We’re a toy store for “Kids” of all ages! Come on in & check us out! LOCATED IN THE JEFFERSON VALLEY MALL 650 LEE BLVD, YORKTOWN HEIGHTS CALL US AT 914-421-1262 westchestertrainsandhobbies.com • Open 7 days 11-7PM We carry hobby tools & materials, HO, N Scale Trains Die Cast Cars & Trucks, Matchbox, Hotwheels, cars, trucks, military & ship models, pinewood derby, rockets & MUCH MORE! We’re the best kept secret in Westchester
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 13 Thanks to actor Bradley Cooper’s acclaimed biopic, “Maestro,” legendary conductor Leonard Bernstein is back on the podium these days. One of the more indelible images I have of the West Side Story composer is at a celebration of his 70th birthday at the 1988 Tanglewood Music Festival (viewable on YouTube). Swaddled in a proper gentleman’s formal frock and an artiste’s white silk scarf worthy of his theatrical flair, during the celebratory climax, Bernstein, seated in the audience, covers his face, with both hands slightly shaking, to forestall the tears that seem about to burst forth. His fragile emotional state in that moment comes from reveling in a stage full of elite musical talent that includes Larry Kert (the original Tony of West Side Story) and conductor Michael Tilson Thomas (his protégé and arguably a closer resemblance to Cooper than is Bernstein). They are singing the finale to one of Bernstein’s other musical theater classics, Candide. It’s based on the Voltaire satire about a young lad who starts off starry-eyed, seeking an unattainably perfect world. Instead, through his misadventures around the globe, Candide comes to the hard-won realization that our lot in life is not to be a superhero or to be super-rich, but to be selfsustaining, to be humble, to be kind to one another – to do our tiny little bit to make the world a better place by being a better person. It’s not complicated. Unless we muck it up. WORK THE LAND The song that brings Bernstein to the verge of tears, and encapsulates that philosophy, is “Make Our Garden Grow.” Garden in this context is a metaphor for the little plot of land each of us is given at birth to do with what we will. “Make Our Garden Grow” is a pristine and stirring paean to the simplicity and fulfillment of living a good and honest life. More than that we dare not ask, or assume. Heightening the song’s musical impact is that the final stanzas are sung a capella by a soaring choral ensemble. The only music in that portion is the heavenly sound of the singers. When fully staged with all the glitter of a world-class orchestra and choir, as it was at Tanglewood for Bernstein, “Make Our Garden Grow” cannot help but stoke primal emotions in the listener. It is a musical expression of the essence of our existence. And it gets me every time. Clearly, as the YouTube video shows, it got to the 70-yearold Bernstein too, no doubt on many levels. He plausibly might have been considering his own mortality in that moment. Plus, he created the music. It’s his life’s work being celebrated as his life was heading toward its grand finale. (He passed two years later.) MAKING SENSE OF LIFE “Let us try, before we die, to make some sense of life.” Those are some lyrics from “Make Merry resolutions Making your garden grow BRUCE APAR BRUCE THE BLOG SEE APAR PAGE 14 Season’s Greetings from our Family and staff to yours. We wish you a Joyous Holiday Season and a Healthy New Year. Service Integrity Compassion www.YorktownFuneralhome.com (914) 962-0700 • [email protected] Family owned and operated 945 East Main Street, Yorktown, NY 10588 Come See Us At Our New Location! 1065 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 Paint protection film, Vehicle lettering & Full Service vehicle wraps 1065 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 The Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce Makes A Great GIFT! PUTNAM WINDOW TINT HAS MOVED! Over 35 in Business Years AUTO , COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL WINDOW FILM Follow us on Instagram
PAGE 14 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 BRESLIN FROM PAGE 12 to the newborn King; only the boy has no gift fit for a king, let alone the King of kings. So what does he give? “I played my drum for Him, I played my best for Him. Then He smiled at me…” I know the song is about a fictitious percussionist, but picture the smile that Jesus gave this boy; with your mind’s eye envision the Newborn Savior giving you that same look – it’s a truly heartwarming image. This is the way God looks upon us when we return to Him in prayer, when we follow His commands, when we worship Him, and when we genuinely love our neighbor. How easily we forget that each and every day we have the opportunity to “play our best for Him.” When we treat each other with the love and mercy which God has given us, we “play our best for Him.” When we forgive as God has forgiven us, we “play our best for Him.” When we, specifically Catholics, commit ourselves to returning to Sunday Mass, we “play our best for Him.” How easily we return to those sins and errors that promise fulfillment but leave us pining for more. Yet how persistently God continues to make efforts to remind us of our soul’s worth. In this season of gift-giving, perhaps we can give Jesus the only gift He wants on His birthday: our best. After all, it was on His birthday that He gifted us the pleasant, and much needed, reminder of our worth. In this Christmas season, may we all recognize the worth of our souls, the eternal souls willed by God into existence and deemed worthy enough for the Almighty God to be born humbly in a stable in Bethlehem. Perhaps this Christmas season we may take the simple direction of one last Christmas hymn, often played loudly and triumphantly on Christmas morning, “O Come, All Ye Faithful.” How should we begin to come back to Jesus? Simple: “O come, let us adore Him: Christ the Lord!” May Christmas serve as a joyful reminder that we are all deemed worthy of His love, of redemption and of salvation. Merry Christmas to every soul that has been deemed worthy by Christ’s birth. Fr. Matthew Breslin is a Roman Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of New York, serving as Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph’s Church in Somers and Chaplain of Kennedy Catholic Preparatory School. APAR FROM PAGE 13 Our Garden Grow,” by John La Touche, Richard Wilbur, Lillian Herman and Stephen Sondheim. This time of year, we are given to ambitious resolutions as a means of motivating ourselves to self-improvement. The simple sentiments of this song move me to suggest that each of us might stick to the same, very modest resolutions to ring in each year. We can make some sense of life by sticking to the basics in how we resolve to carry ourselves and how we treat others. Resolve to be the person who gets in the game of volunteering for youth sports instead of being the person who snipes from the sidelines. Little things like that. Resolve to be the person who is grateful you are able-bodied enough not to need a handicap spot, so you never presume to occupy that space needlessly. Little things like that. Resolve to be the person who recognizes everyone has a bad day now and then (including you), and so you resist the impulse to trash talk on social media about a restaurant experience, because you know that you’d be messing with someone’s livelihood. Little things like that. As we each tend to our own gardens so that they may flourish, it’s a worthy resolution each day, let alone each new year, to respect other people’s labor in growing their gardens, and to help them till the soil when and where we can, to the best of our abilities. And, most important, resolve to stay humble, recognizing each minute we’re here is a gift. Nobody owes us anything. We have to work to make life worthwhile. As we are reminded by the Leonard Bernstein song that caused its composer’s life to flash before his eyes … We’re neither pure nor wise nor good We’ll do the best we know We’ll build our house and chop our wood And make our garden grow Bruce Apar is a writer, community volunteer and actor. He is nominated in the Broadway World Regional Awards as Best Performer in a Play for his title role in “Tuesdays with Morrie.” Voting is open to the public at broadwayworld.com/rockland/voteregion.cfm. 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DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 15 With the holidays fast approaching and the possibility that the current Federal Estate and Gift Tax exemption will be reduced from $12.92 million per person for 2023 ($13.61 million for 2024) to approximately $6 million as of January 2026, the importance of deciding whether to make significant monetary and/or property gifts to one’s children, grandchildren and other loved ones or to a Trust for their benefit is significantly higher. For high net worth individuals, the potential loss of millions of dollars because of estate taxes is an important issue, especially if the opportunity to gift significant amounts is to expire in the near future. Thus, utilizing one’s exemption before Jan. 1, 2026, should be explored. Additionally, if one’s estate is near the New York Estate Tax exemption of $6,580,000 for 2023, utilizing one’s federal gift tax exemption is a valuable tool in reducing the possibility of an onerous New York Estate Tax as well. As to the issue of taxation of a gift, a donor can gift up to $17,000 per donee per year for the year 2023 ($18,000 per donee in 2024) free of any gift taxes. The donee/recipient of the gift is not taxed on the amount of the gift even if it is greater than $17,000. However, if the donor makes a gift in excess of $17,000 per donee this year, he or she is required to file a gift tax return by April 15 of the following year. The filing of a federal gift tax return does not mean that the donor will have to pay any gift taxes, as they will be able to apply their federal exemption for federal estate and gift taxes to the amount of any gift above the $17,000 per donee in any calendar year. For example, a single (non-married) donor makes a gift of $100,000 in the year 2023 to his son or daughter, $17,000 of the gift is tax free and $83,000 would be subtracted from the donor’s federal exemption amount of $12.92 million for Federal estate and gift taxes (available through 12/31/2023). If the donor is married, their spouse can join in on the gift and then reduce the taxable amount of the gift to $66,000, and only $17,000 would be subtracted from the lifetime exemption for each donor. It should be noted that New York does not have a gift tax. The existence of a large Federal estate and gift tax exemption, which expires on 12/31/2025 unless made permanent by law, creates a great opportunity for individuals to remove highly appreciating assets from their taxable estate. It is also a great way of reducing the assets one owns, which may be subject to one’s long-term care costs. Because the above stated exemption expires/sunsets, many affluent individuals are using the current exemption and the 2024 exemption to make significant gifts. They are also taking advantage of the IRS previously stating that they will not claw back into one’s taxable estate any gifts made before the exemption changes, if it is later reduced. The other issue that needs to be addressed by the donor is whether he or she wants the gift to the donee to be an outright gift that is free of any trust. This is a decision that often requires consideration of a number of factors, such as the age of the donee (child or adult), the ability of the donee to appropriately manage his or her financial affairs and whether or not the donee is financially responsible. The creation of an Irrevocable trust for the beneficiary is a prudent way of gifting and managing assets for a loved one. The trustee of the trust can be given the discretion to use the assets and income of the trust for the benefit of the trust beneficiary as delineated in the Trust. The trust can also specify the age the trust beneficiary is to receive the trust assets outright, and the trust can also have more than one beneficiary. The trust can also be for the lifetime of the beneficiary. Furthermore, if the creator of the Trust wishes to do so, they can be responsible for the payment of any income taxes on the interest and dividends the trust assets generate, thereby creating another mechanism to get assets out of the name of the Trust creator for tax purposes. Additionally, the assets transferred to the Irrevocable trust will be protected against any claims the beneficiary(ies) could have against them until the time the trust makes a distribution to them outright. Additionally, one can give the trustee(s) the authority to continue the trust beyond the set termination date if doing so is in the best interest of the beneficiary. The assets in the trust will also not be subject to equitable distribution claims in New York in the event the beneficiary gets divorced. Furthermore, if the beneficiary develops any disabilities during the term of the trust and the beneficiary needs any federal and/ or state aid, a properly drafted trust will allow the beneficiary(ies) share to be continued as a Special Needs Trust for the beneficiary, which will not impact their eligibility for any Federal and/or State programs. In conclusion, unless one is making a relatively small gift to a donee and there are no concerns as to the donee squandering or wasting said monies, an outright gift may not be appropriate. In most instances, the use of a trust to hold the gift is a much wiser option. Even the three wise men would have approved of it! Anthony J. Enea is the managing attorney 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 esslawfirm.com. Lauren C. Enea, Esq. is a Senior Associate at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP. She concentrates her practice on Wills, Trusts and Estates, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning and Probate/ Estate Administration. She believes that it is never too early or too late to start planning for your future and she enjoys working with individuals to ensure that their plan best suits their needs. Ms. Enea received a B.S. in Business Management from Quinnipiac University, graduating Magna Cum Laude, and a J.D. from the Pace University School of Law, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida. She can be contacted at 914-948- 1500 or esslawfirm.com. Tis the season to consider gifting! ‘In most instances, the use of a trust to hold the gift is a much wiser option. Even the three wise men would have approved of it!’ -Anthony J. Enea and Lauren C. Enea Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP ANTHONY J. ENEA GUEST CORNER LAUREN ENEA GUEST CORNER & FOCUS ON ELDER LAW
PAGE 16 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 I want to wish all our readers the most joyous of holidays and a healthy and happy New Year. But before we start looking at 2024, let’s take a moment to enjoy 2023’s holiday season. All my life I have been thoroughly immersed in celebrating Christmas, but I often wondered what it would be like to observe other holiday traditions. This year, I decided to dedicate my annual Christmas column to exploring what all our holiday customs have in common. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or any other wonderful holiday, there are common themes of love, unity and gratitude. While these holidays have different origins, religious or cultural significance, and unique customs, they share a fundamental purpose of bringing people together and spreading joy during the festive season. One of the prominent common denominators among these festive events is the emphasis on family and community. During all these celebrations, families and friends come together to share meals, exchange gifts and create lasting memories. It is a time when we prioritize relationships and cherish the bonds we have with loved ones. Whether it’s gathering around a Christmas tree, lighting the menorah, or participating in Kwanzaa’s daily ceremonies, the focus on unity and togetherness remains constant. When I thought further about these holidays, I realized that another critical aspect of all of them is the spirit of giving and generosity. Christmas is characterized by gift-giving. People express their love and appreciation by presenting thoughtful presents to one another. Similarly, during Hanukkah, the custom of giving gelt (money) or small gifts reflects the importance of sharing and kindness. In Kwanzaa, the principle of Ujamaa (cooperative economics) encourages individuals to support local businesses and give meaningful presents that promote African heritage and culture. These acts of giving not only bring joy to recipients, but they also strengthen the bonds within communities. As I examined these traditions further, it became evident that they all, in their symbols and rituals, promote common themes of continuity and tradition. Christmas trees, menorahs and Kwanzaa’s kinaras are symbols that hold deep meaning and represent the values and beliefs associated with the holidays. These symbolic elements serve as reminders of the past and connect individuals to their heritage and ancestors. Whether it’s the lighting of candles or the singing of carols, these rituals evoke a sense of comfort and familiarity, creating a shared experience across different cultures and religions. I have always marveled at the gorgeous, brilliantly decorated Christmas trees which occupy a prominent place in so many living rooms this time of year. The more I thought about it, the more I appreciated that light and hope are common threads among holiday traditions. Christmas lights, Hanukkah candles and Kwanzaa’s central candle (Mishumaa Saba) all symbolize the triumph of light over darkness and the hope of a brighter future. In today’s world, where it often feels like there is rampant hate, conflict, war, suffering and uncertainty, these holidays serve as beacons of optimism, reminding us that we need to embrace positivity and spread joy in the face of adversity. The final common denominators that I gleaned from my brief study of these holidays are the virtues of gratitude and reflection. Whether it is the Christmas tradition of giving thanks for the birth of Jesus Christ, the gratitude expressed during Hanukkah for the miracle of the oil, or the introspection and appreciation of African heritage during Kwanzaa, these celebrations encourage us to reflect on our blessings and express gratitude for what we have. This is a time to acknowledge the blessings of the past year, appreciate the present moment and look forward to a hopeful future. These holidays bring us together, foster a sense of community and promote acts of kindness and generosity. They symbolize hope, continuity and the importance of maintaining traditions. Despite their unique origins and cultural differences, they share a universal message of spreading joy, embracing love and appreciating the blessings of life. And let’s not forget the lasting memories that are produced in the process. For me, no holiday evokes stronger or more profound memories than Christmas. Given the one advantage that old age provides, perspective, I can look back and appreciate how thoughtful my parents were as they tried their hardest to give me lifelong joyous Christmas memories. Mom and Dad certainly succeeded. Etched permanently in my heart are the many Christmas mornings when my sister and I excitedly gathered around the Christmas tree to see what amazing gifts our parents had lovingly prepared for us. But the greatest gift of all was their unconditional love. Finally, before the unsparingly swift pace of Father Time brings us hurtling into another year, I want to take a moment to give thanks to you, my readers, for taking the time to peruse these columns. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you happiness and joy this holiday season. Whichever holiday tradition you follow (or if you don’t follow one), may your heart be filled with love, a sense of gratitude and an appreciation for this wonderful gift called life. Happy Holidays. What these wonderful holidays are all about JAMES MARTORANO MY PERSPECTIVE
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 17 People love to buy items previously owned by celebrities. Purchasing objects once owned by or associated with a famous person makes the new owner feel celebrity-adjacent with bragging rights. Last month at an auction in France, a black felt bicorn hat once owned by Napoleon Bonaparte sold for the record amount of $2.1 million. This recognizable headpiece was said to be one of about 120 versions of the two-cornered military dress hat owned by the French emperor. This famous black chapeau was a key part of Napoleon’s image. What would someone do with this very expensive celebrity collectible? Set the hat in a glass display case in the living room or wear once a year for Halloween? Is this very old hat in fragile condition? Imagine peering inside of the hat to see sweat stains, dirt smudges and hair oil. Didn’t everyone have head lice back then? How hygienic were those battle-field conditions, not to mention the snow, rain and wind damage? In 2021, one of Elvis Presley’s most iconic outfits, a white jumpsuit and cape decorated with metallic eyelets, sold at auction for $1,012,500. The King of Rock and Roll famously wore this white jumpsuit while performing at Madison Square Garden in 1972. Maybe the new owner will allow friends to try on the white jumpsuit and take selfies while singing, “Love me tender.” Celebrity footwear can also fetch big bucks. The red ruby slippers once worn by Judy Garland when she portrayed Dorothy in the classic 1939 movie of “The Wizard of Oz” are now estimated to be worth $3.5 million. In 2005, a pair of these ruby slippers was stolen from the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minn. At that time, the ruby slippers were owned by a Hollywood memorabilia collector who had loaned the iconic shoes to the museum for display. The red shoes were stolen when a Michigan man climbed through a window of the museum and broke the display case. It took years to track down the famous footwear. They were eventually recovered in 2018 during an FBI-led sting operation in Minneapolis. One of at least four pairs of ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland during the filming of “The Wizard of Oz,” the stolen shoes were returned in excellent condition. Another pair of the ruby slippers, along with costumes and props from the movie, is on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Clothing and shoes are only some of the celebrity items collectors purchase at auctions. A recent article published online in Guitar World Magazine lists the most expensive rock guitars sold in the last few years. In 2023, the Kramer guitar played by Eddie Van Halen sold for $3,932,000 at a New York auction. One of Eddie’s most recognizable guitars from 1983-1984, this striped guitar was featured in the music video for “Hot for Teacher.” At a Nashville auction in 2023, Eric Clapton’s 1964 Gibson SG guitar sold for $1,270,000. British rocker Clapton played this guitar in the 1960s when he was a member of the band, Cream. Two of the late Kurt Cobain’s guitars can claim the top spots for most expensive auction prices paid for rock guitars. In 2022, a New York auction brought in $4,550,000 for the Fender Mustang guitar famously played in the “Smells Like Teen Spirit” music video. In Los Angeles in 2020, Kurt Cobain’s Martin D-18E used for the Nirvana performance on MTV Unplugged fetched a whopping $6,010,000! Kim Kovach has a black and white blazer with shoulder pads from 1985 that she is happy to sell! www. kimkovachwrites.com Napoleon’s hat and other collectibles KIM KOVACH READING, WRITING & CHOCOLATE The Consumer’s Choice for Discount Heating Oil! SAVE WITH OUR LOW C.O.D. PRICES! • No Contracts or Commitments • Oil Burner & A/C Service/Tune-ups • Quality Heating Oil • Senior Citizen & Volume Discounts • Heating, Cooling & Generator Installations • Price Matching (Restrictions apply) Order online at: www.codoil.com CALL US TODAY AND SAVE! 914.737.7769 Your Family Car Care Center! LOCATIONS: Baldwin Place • 44 Route 118 • (845) 628-7900 Croton Falls • 1 Center St • (914) 769-3206 Visit us at www.ProperService.com For over 100 years of combined auto experience, Joe Ferone and his sta of Proper Service have been serving the community, creating releationships, and building a remarkable company with an amazing team of employees! Find out why Joe Ferone of Proper Service needs to be YOUR Go-To Automotive Service Center!
PAGE 18 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Christmas is certainly the holiday with the best soundtrack, and all that music, with its references of snow, cozy firelit familyoriented gatherings and giving, extends to everyone of any culture and creed who feels like celebrating. No matter what you have to be thankful for or whom you have to be thankful with, music will help you do it. And by the time you’ve heard “Carol of the Bells” enough times to put you in a coma, you’ll be ready for the civilized quiet of Martin Luther King Day. My favorite winter date night is two seats at Garrison Keillor’s Prairie Home Companion at the Town Hall on 43rd Street. When I visit the town hall in any other city, it’s usually for a different reason, but paying for a ticket is one thing the two experiences have in common. The Prairie Home Companion in December has a healthy dose of Christmas songs, droll radiostyle skits about winter in New York City and some fun poked at those in need of it. I’d guess there are some who have red marks from getting fun poked at them so many times over the years. On hand was Ellie Dehn, an opera soprano, which reminded me of my Mom who was always trying to get me to embrace opera music by playing “Die Fledermaus” on the record player and wafting it over in my general direction with her hands. It didn’t make me like opera but it did make me love my Mom even more. I still don’t know why they need all that heavy vibrato, like you’re trying to sing while driving over railroad tracks. At the end of the evening we all sang “Silent Night” together, all 1,495 of us not counting the performers. The irony of how any newborn Savior is supposed to sleep through that was not lost on me. Garrison Kiellor was smart enough not to let the soprano start it in some ridiculous key only she could sing. A song cannot choose its writer, and classics will be classics even though they might contain some weird references. But I can’t help thinking that “tender and mild” better describes a habanero pepper. I remember when I was a kid and our neighbor Mrs. Goldsmith led us around the neighborhood singing Christmas carols, even though she was Jewish. She liked the songs, kept a Christmas tree and didn’t take things too seriously. I’m not sure if you could get away with caroling in this day and age; people are naturally suspicious that anyone who makes contact with them in any way is somehow angling for a sales opportunity. In those days you might even get some cookies, but now? “Ma’am, do you mind if I run a couple tests on the cookie first? I’m an ovo-lacto vegan with gluten and nut allergies, and I only eat free-range baked goods that have not been experimented on animals.” “Don’t worry, it’s made of plastic.” The theater staff at the Town Hall might have been wondering what all that Tupperware was for when they searched my knapsack on the way in, but I’m sure they’ve seen a lot weirder stuff than that. Some of the other stuff in my knapsack, for instance. I needed it because afterward we went next door to our favorite Italian restaurant, and even though we split one meal it’s still way too much food to finish unless it’s 2 in the morning and you’re alone and no one is watching and you make last-minute plans to run a triathlon the next day. Not everywhere was there holiday harmony. There were tears flowing all around us at the restaurant. We were surrounded by two couples out on their own date nights on either side of us, and emotions among the women were running high. They may have been tears of sorrow or tears of joy, but at least they weren’t bored to tears. The couple on our right looked like they might have been visiting New York from another country, and I couldn’t read how the evening was going. Words were exchanged, voices were raised, makeup was running, and there was literally a bone to pick. She took her fork and moved it toward his face, but he opened his mouth and swallowed whatever was on it in a deft defensive move. On our other side was clearly a fight, which seemed pretty serious until dessert arrived. Closing arguments were concluded and a verdict was reached and a banana was the only thing that was split. I swear there are some couples who like to break up deeply just so it takes longer to make up. But for us, nothing beats a date night in New York City at Christmas time. Walking back to Grand Central you could see the twinkling lights down 6th Avenue. It turned out to be an ambulance, but even if all you give someone for Christmas is a cold, it’s the thought that counts. Say hello at [email protected]. Do you hear what I hear? RICK MELÉN MAN OVERBOARD Contact Us Mahopac News is located at 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You can contact us at 845-208- 0774 or email mahopacnews@ halstonmedia.com. 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. 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DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 19 BY COACH BILL SWERTFAGER GUEST COLUMNIST I have been fortunate enough to have coached and/or played a large variety of sports, including football, baseball, softball, ice hockey, swimming, track and field, golf, tennis, soccer and wrestling. I am a huge proponent of participating in sports, in general, to develop many of the qualities and attributes needed for a long, successful and meaningful life. I have dedicated much of my life to the sport of wrestling because I haven’t found any other activity that can better prepare kids for everything they will encounter in their lives. Over the years, my incredible coaching staff have understood that we are using wrestling as a vehicle, the best, most complete one, to teach kids how to be active, productive and successful in every aspect of their young lives. Wrestling builds character. There is no other sport where you go out to compete by yourself in front of your friends, family and teammates and battle in a warlike contest, with only the victor getting his hand raised in front of the crowd. It is a very humbling and personal experience that calls on every mental and physical resource you possess to endure, survive and grow from the experience. After decades of competing in and coaching wrestling, I still marvel at the amazing transformation in the confidence and self-esteem these young athletes develop over the course of a few years. I have had thousands of parents thank me and my staff for what wrestling has done for their child. Most of the gratitude centers around the following qualities: They have become self-motivated, they have developed a no-quit work ethic and they have learned to eat healthy and properly. Wrestling has taught them about dedication to attaining a dream, the courage to push on when they want to give up, but most importantly, to believe in themselves. Being able to defend yourself, anytime, anywhere, is a tremendous side benefit a wrestler develops. Word of warning: It is not wise to pick a fight with a wrestler. That is why almost 50% of the Navy Seals have a wrestling background, as well as the majority of successful UFC fighters. Wrestlers understand and are taught to only use the skills they have honed on the mat, if threatened. The good news is that they always have them at their disposal. I’ve heard many David and Goliath stories involving wrestlers that were provoked or threatened. The majority of wrestlers’ grades also improve during the season and beyond. Why? It seems counter to logic, but what I think happens is that wrestling fosters a culture of self-discipline and selfimprovement. It doesn’t hurt that they are also very tired after practice, which has taken the edge off that high energy adrenaline that kids get at night; so they have dinner, study and go to bed. They end up developing this productive, time management routine and continue using it after the season and beyond. Wresting is a whole body sport. When wrestlers train, they need to strengthen and develop every muscle group, because they will all come into play, all the while staying flexible and limber enough to perform and defend all the attacks and moves thrown at them. This is one of many reasons why wrestling is such a great sport to participate in if you want to be the best you can be at any other sport you may be involved with. It is the perfect cross training sport for all the fall and spring athletes. Kids should be encouraged to be playing multiple sports all the way through high school, but that is a subject for another day. Possibly the biggest benefit wrestlers can expect is to develop a mental toughness that is unequalled. It’s incredibly daunting to step out on that mat and put yourself on stage “solo” and compete in a winner take all, gladiator-like environment, especially when your opponent has more experience and is more skilled than you. It is a type of controlled survival experience that builds character real quick. The mental training, visualization, relaxation and goal-setting techniques we employ and work on daily set these kids up for success way beyond the time they hang up their wrestling gear. Presidents Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt, Eisenhower and six others… all wrestlers. Actors Tom Cruise, Ashton Kutcher, Vince Vaughn…wrestlers. Generals Norman Schwarzkopf and George Patton…wrestlers. NFL All-Pro’s Ray Lewis and Ronnie Lott…wrestlers. Musicians Ludacris and Garth Brooks…. wrestlers. Sugar Ray Leonard and Larry Holmes…wrestlers. UFC Superstars Randy Couture and Brock Lesner…. wrestlers. Novelist John Irving…wrestler. Nobel Prize winner Norman Borlaug… wrestler. Lots more where that came from. Suffice it to say, if you have endured the grind and punishing lessons that wrestlers put themselves through on a daily basis, there is a great likelihood of being highly successful, very humble and a productive, contributing member of our society. Like our great wrestling hero, Dan Gable, exclaimed, “Once you have wrestled, everything else in life is easy. Wrestling is training for the rest of your life.” Ready…Wrestle! Bill Swertfager is a trustee on the KatonahLewisboro Board of Education. Previously, he re-established the Youth, Middle School and High School John Jay wrestling program after a 10-year hiatus to become one of the most respected programs in New York State. Every kid should wrestle LAW OFFICES OF TED A. NOVICK 988 South Lake Boulevard Mahopac, NY 10541 l 845-678-3179 [email protected] l www.novickesq.com FREE phone consultations with Ted are available. Evening and Zoom meetings are available upon request. Over his career, Ted has successfully handled numerous million dollar medical malpractice, car accident, construction accident, premises & employment discrimination cases. e rm’s recent success includes a construction accident case which settled for $4,000,000.00 • $4,000,000.00 construction case settled for injured construction worker. • $1,200,000.00 for motor vehicle accident case with broken bones and surgery. • $750,000 medical malpractice case for removing the wrong bone. • $650,000.00 case settled for heart attack patient. • $2,100,000.00 construction case settled for worker who fell from scaold. AREAS OF PRACTICE RECENT CASE RESULTS: • Medical and Surgical Malpractice • Personal Injury • Premises Liability • Wrongful Death • Wrongful Employee Termination • Automobile Accidents • Birth Injuries • Burn Cases • Construction Site Accidents • Failure to Diagnose Cancer • Business Law • Business Advice • Civil Litigation • DUI/Criminal Wishing you and yours a very Happy, Healthy and Safe Holiday Season! PLEASE REMEMBER! Don’t Drink and Drive
PAGE 20 MAHOPAC NEWS – DECEMBERAnthony Loewy, 3, wasnt sure what to make of Santa. The children from the Boniello Drive and Hilltop Road gather together up front by the “Santa Stop Here” sign for their annual Santa greeting. This community has done this “Santa Stop” for 23 years running and is a tradition complete with hot cocoa and snacks. Violet, 3, and SkylaKolthay, 5were veryexcited tomeet SanDesirée and Anthony Morisset, 11 HuTrenhomos.,popop KMorThe crew from Kia Ora, Birch, and Mountainview Raising Canes! When your town has two volunteer fire departments, it gets twice as much love from Santa! Father Christmas made two visits to Mahopac this year, getting a ride from the Mahopac Volunteer Fire Department one week, and the Mahopac Falls VFD the next. Both excursions delivered candy canes and smiles. Rocwasthe nService: 914-669-9679 Auto Sales: 914-485-1195 Fax: 914-669-9685 6 Dingle Ridge Road - North Salem, NY 10560 meccanicshop.com Call 877-516-1160schedule your freeCall Us for MULTIPLE QUOTES So You Can Get The Best Buy! REPLACING scores of Allstate, State Farm & Geico Policies EVERY DAY! • Savings • Service • Satisfaction Don’t Call an 800 # SHOP LOCAL! WE OFFER MANY A-RATED COMPANIES! Travelers • Safeco • Progressive • Kemper • Hartford AARP Sterling • Hanover • Utica Mutual • Adirondack and many more Are your rates going up? 421 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 845.208.3707 Stay Safe. Stay Healthy. Auto • Home • Umbrella • Life • Business Aardvark Insurance Congrats on a successful Mahopac Street Fair!
R 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 ar 5, y o nta. Grampa and Kensy Dugan dson ole, 9 , with Kevin riarty AJ 9, and LilyMariconda, 6 and their mom were excited to see the Clauses Celine, 3, and Charlotte, 8 Holden, 3, and Olivia Love, 5 ran to give Santa and Mrs. Claus huge hugs. Leo, 3, Leila, 6, Audrina, 10, and Ariana, 8 with the Clauses Vasta and Perez families get a photo op with the Clauses. PHOTOS: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL cko s on nice list. Michael and Kelly DiChiaro PAGE 21 0 to e quote! NMLS #60828 Registered Mortgage Broker NY & CT Banking Depts. All Loans Arranged through Third Party Providers. Call Us Today! 800-771-1071 YOUR LOCAL HOME MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS 1013 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 - www.putcap.com AWARD WINNER LIC. REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE BROKER Grace Vinciguerra
PAGE 22 – MAHOPAC NEWS HEALTH & WELLNESS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Winter is synonymous with the holidays, snow and, of course, the common cold. Though colds are not exclusive to winter, they tend to be more common in the colder months of the year, when people typically spend more time indoors, making it easier for cold viruses to spread from one person to another. As cold season hits full swing, it’s important to recognize that the common cold is not always behind those uncomfortable coughs and sniffles. Respiratory syncytial virus, often referred to as RSV, is a serious respiratory virus that produces symptoms similar to those associated with the common cold. Some basic knowledge of RSV can ensure people seek the treatment they need to overcome it. What is RSV? The Mayo Clinic reports that RSV is a virus that infects the lungs and respiratory tract. Though RSV may not be as familiar as the common cold, perhaps it’s more familiar than many people realize, as the Mayo Clinic indicates most children have been infected with the virus by the time they’re 2 years old. The American Lung Association reports that RSV is so common among children because they so frequently come into physical contact with other kids. When is RSV most likely to occur? According to the ALA, the peak season for RSV is fall through spring. However, the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment notes that RSV infections rose sharply in summer 2021. Though that spike was likely due to a relaxation of coronavirus restrictions, it underscores that RSV can strike in summer, even if it’s less likely to spread during times of year when people tend to spend more time outdoors. What are the symptoms of RSV? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that people infected with RSV typically exhibit symptoms within four to six days of infection. Such symptoms, which usually appear in stages and not all at once, may include: • Runny nose • Decrease in appetite • Coughing • Sneezing • Fever • Wheezing Young infants with RSV may be irritable, less active and experience breathing difficulties. The ALA notes that RSV is the leading cause of hospitalization in all infants, so symptoms should be taken seriously and brought to the attention of a child’s pediatrician immediately. The ALA also notes that symptoms like difficulty breathing, not drinking enough, decreased activity, nasal flaring and bluish lips and fingernails require urgent care. How is RSV managed? The CDC notes that antiviral medication is not typically part of a treatment for RSV, as most infections go away within a week or two without intervention. Symptoms such as fever and pain can be managed with over-thecounter fever reducers and pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen (the CDC notes that aspirin should never be given to children). Drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and speaking with a physician prior to taking something or giving a child something to treat RSV is recommended. Is there an RSV vaccination? The CDC recommends immunization for those most at risk of serious illness from RSV. High-risk groups include infants, toddlers and adults age 60 and older. Parents and older adults are urged to speak to their child’s doctors and their own physicians about RSV vaccination. RSV symptoms mirror those of the common cold, but the virus can be more serious than that. More information is available at cdc.gov and lung.org. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. What to know about RSV
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 HEALTH & WELLNESS MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 23 P U T N AM RIDG E 46 Mt. Ebo Road North | Brewster, NY 10509 | Phone 845.278.3636 V I S I T US A T WW W. P U T N A M RIDG E . C O M S C H E D U L E Y O U R T O U R T O Y A D SHORT TERM REHABILITATION, IN-HOUSE DIALYSIS, MEMORY AND LONG TERM CARE O UR S P E CIA L T I E S PUTNAM RIDGE A TRADITION OF caring, A LEGACY OF . P U T N AM RIDG E 46 Mt. Ebo Road North | Brewster, NY 10509 | Phone 845.278.3636 V I S I T US A T WW W. P U T N A M RIDG E . C O M S C H E D U L E Y O U R T O U R T O Y A D SHORT TERM REHABILITATION, IN-HOUSE DIALYSIS, MEMORY AND LONG TERM CARE O UR S P E CIA L T I E S PUTNAM RIDGE A TRADITION OF caring, A LEGACY OF . P U T N AM RIDG E 46 Mt. Ebo Road North | Brewster, NY 10509 | Phone 845.278.3636 V I S I T US A T WW W. P U T N A M RIDG E . C O M S C H E D U L E Y O U R T O U R T O Y A D SHORT TERM REHABILITATION, IN-HOUSE DIALYSIS, MEMORY AND LONG TERM CARE O UR S P E CIA L T I E S PUTNAM RIDGE A TRADITION OF caring, A LEGACY OF . P U T N AM RIDG E 46 Mt. Ebo Road North | Brewster, NY 10509 | Phone 845.278.3636 V I S I T US A T WW W. P U T N A M RIDG E . C O M S C H E D U L E Y O U R T O U R T O Y A D SHORT TERM REHABILITATION, IN-HOUSE DIALYSIS, MEMORY AND LONG TERM CARE O UR S P E CIA L T I E S PUTNAM RIDGE A TRADITION OF caring, A LEGACY OF . P U T N AM RIDG E 46 Mt. Ebo Road North | Brewster, NY 10509 | Phone 845.278.3636 V I S I T US A T WW W. P U T N A M RIDG E . C O M S C H E D U L E Y O U R T O U R T O Y A D SHORT TERM REHABILITATION, IN-HOUSE DIALYSIS, MEMORY AND LONG TERM CARE O UR S P E CIA L T I E S A TRADITION OF caring, A LEGACY OF Happy Holidays FROM YOUR FAMILY AT PUTNAM RIDGE.
PAGE 24 – MAHOPAC NEWS HEALTH & WELLNESS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Part of an elder law attorney’s job is to turn festive and fun holidays into opportunities for serious, analytical reflection. Christmas is no exception. I’m not saying that you should refrain from merriment or not sing along to “White Christmas.” That would brand you as a party pooper. We do not want that. What is important is that you take notice of your aging loved ones. The winter holidays are rare occasions when the whole family gets together. For many of us, a text replaces a phone call. A phone call replaces a quick popin. A quick pop-in replaces a full visit. We have condensed the amount of time we spend with our closest relatives. Lost time equals lost understanding. Sensing adversity through patient observation and conversation, then flushing it out, is preferable to waiting for the shoe to drop and reacting. A Christmas visit is a perfect time to engage and listen. Take Uncle Fred. The Uncle Fred you saw last year was still physically imposing. He lifted dining room chairs like they were matchsticks. He was outspoken on politics, sending delicate ears scurrying for cover. This Christmas, you spot Uncle Fred slumped in his kitchen chair munching on an onion roll. You try to bait him with some politically explosive banter. He responds with a shrug. He looks older and tired. Fred has definitely weakened a bit in the intervening 12 months. A year is enough time to process changes in appearance and disposition. A slight decline is not a license to place Uncle Fred in a nursing home after the Christmas cookies are served. It is merely a wake-up call to take his planning more seriously. Does he have a recent Power of Attorney? Did he ever create the Trust he always talked about? Uncle Fred’s example marks a familiar trajectory. Sometimes, a visit home really jolts an adult child. Clutter, piles of papers and dirty dishes hit your eye the second you settle in your parents’ doorway. How unsettling these images are directly correspond to your loved ones’ lifelong views on cleaning. Recognizing changes that are wildly out of character should lead to fast action. If someone is experiencing great difficulty managing their basic day-to-day activities, then practical solutions should be sought. There are home health and companion care services that can restore some order. These services can be covered by Medicaid, paid privately or through long-term care insurance. If remaining at home involves too many logistical headaches, then Assisted Living residences are an intelligent alternative. I can envision the reaction to this article: senior family members guzzle four cups of coffee before company arrives, rushing around the house to perform extra cleaning; or, seating Cousin Annette far away from Grandma so she does not entertain any thoughts about putting her in a “home.” To be clear, making sure loved ones are doing well is always a noble goal in keeping with holiday spirit. A strong, supportive family looks out for one another. Happy Holidays from everyone at The Feller Group, P.C.! Contact the professionals at The Feller Group, P.C. today for more information. The Feller Group is a multi-disciplinary law practice specializing in elder law, estate planning and business advisement. This article was written by Alan D. Feller, Esq. Feller can be reached at 845-621- 8640, or visit thefellergroup.com. I’ll be home for Christmas Things to look out for while spending time with elderly loved ones AI-GENERATED IMAGE FROM DALL-E ALAN D. FELLER, ESQ. GUEST CORNER 17 Miller Rd. Mahopac 845-621-1222 RooneyOrtho.com Rooney Orthodontics Children & Adults Elder Law Wills, Trusts & Estates Estate Planning Medicaid Applications Guardianships Probates Elder Law & Estate Planning A Tradition of Excellence in Elder Law (845) 621-8640 thefellergroup.com 625 Route 6, Mahopac NY 10541 We make home & hospital visits Contact the team today! (845) 621-8640
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 HEALTH & WELLNESS MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 25 After COVID-19 waylaid sports participation and other activities, young athletes have returned to competitive athletics in droves. The most recent data from the Sports & Fitness Industry Association says 37 percent of children between the ages of 6 and 12 played team sports on a regular basis in 2021. At the highest point in 2008, 45 percent were involved in sports. According to various youth sports participation surveys, including those from the Aspen Institute and TeamSnap, children between the ages of 6 and 18 spend an average of 16.6 hours each week playing sports. With so much time devoted to sports participation, everyone involved can take steps to ensure that young athletes are safe and healthy during practice and play. • Encourage rest. Pushing the body to the brink without routine rest is a recipe for injury. Rest provides recovery time for muscles and joints as well as the mind. Athletes can aim for at least one day off from the sport per week. After the season ends, children can take an extended break before beginning a new sport. • Eat balanced meals. Families can plan balanced meals that will provide the nutrition young athletes need to fuel their bodies. With increased physical activity comes a need to eat more. The International Olympic Committee says nutrients such as vitamin D, calcium and iron are essential but often lacking in youths with restrictive diets. A young athlete should eat plenty of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, protein and vegetables. • Encourage variety. MedlinePlus reports that many young athletes are engaging in “single-sport specialization” early on, focusing only on one sport, even during off seasons. Repetitive use of joints, bones and muscles for these sports can cause various injuries. To prevent that, young athletes should participate in a variety of sports and training exercises. • Wear the right gear. Athletes always should wear the safety gear required for the sport they’re playing. This may include eye protection, helmets and more. • Discourage young athletes from playing through pain. Pressing on through pain or an injury is a recipe for damage that could keep a player out for the season or even permanently. Young athletes shouldn’t try to be heroes and play through pain. • Alleviate mental pressure on athletes. Many young athletes throw themselves entirely into sports, perhaps at the expense of having more wellrounded childhoods. The National Federation of State High School Associations says only around 2 percent of high school athletes are awarded some form of athletic scholarship to compete in college, and fewer than 2 percent of NCAA student athletes go on to play professionally. Putting all of one’s eggs in the sports basket can contribute to anxiety that stems from pressure to succeed. Keep the emphasis on fun so young athletes don’t feel pressured. • Avoid performance-enhancing substances. Caffeine, anabolic steroids, steroid precursors, creatine and stimulants are substances athletes use to boost performance. They can cause many health issues and even lead to addiction. Young athletes can take many steps to stay healthy without affecting how much they enjoy the thrill of competition. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. How to keep young athletes healthy www.aonpt.com GOODROW BUILDING 862 Route 6 Mahopac NY 10541 (845) 208-0963 MILL POND OFFICES 293 Route 100 • Suite 107 Somers, NY 10589 (914) 276-2520 BREWSTER 3 Starr Ridge Road Brewster, NY 10509 (845) 279-9288 The Road To Recovery Starts Here Best Wishes for a Happy Holiday Season!
PAGE 26 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Sports BY SKIP PEARLMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER After being held to 13 points in the first half of last Saturday’s game against Lakeland, the Mahopac HS boys basketball team went to work in the second half and dropped 37 points on the Hornets, walking off with a 50-37 victory in a game played at Mahopac High School. The Wolf Pac also took care of Ketcham 56-45 the prior Wednesday on the road after having started the week’s action a day earlier with an 81- 35 victory at Lincoln High School. Saturday’s win took Mahopac to 4-0. But it didn’t look good early on against the Hornets. The Wolf Pac managed just four points in the second quarter and trailed 21-13 at halftime. Mahopac’s turnaround came with a 20-point third, and the Pac pulled away in the fourth behind 19 points from senior forward Daniel Dedvukaj, and 11 from senior forward Liam Scanlon. John Kearney, Danny Koch, and Connor Ferrieri each added six points. “In each game, we’ve had some big runs and some dominant spurts,” Mahopac coach Matt Calabro said. “We still have a lot of room to get better, but we’re showing some consistency. “Dedvukaj (who has dealt with injury) gave us a new dimension,” the coach added. “He’s been a beast. He and Scanlon complement each other and work well together. And they’re both largely responsible for our good start. We’ve shown good composure; the kids have been able to adjust well. And I’m happy with the leadership.” The prior Wednesday at Ketcham, facing the recently re-named Storm (Mahopac and RCK were two of the last schools in the state to give up their “Indians” nicknames), Mahopac got 19 from Dedvukaj, 14 from Scanlon, and seven from Pac boys roll past Lakeland, RCK, start season 4-0 SEE BASKETBALL PAGE 27 Pac senior Daniel Dedvukaj (23) eludes a defender and drops in two of his teamhigh 19 last week at RCK. PHOTOS: SKIP PEARLMAN Pac senior Danny Koch (3) glides toward the rim last week at RCK. 66 Miller Road, Mahopac 845-628-2050 www.mavistireofmahopac.com With This Coupon • Expires 1/31/24 $10.00 OFF Synthetic Oil change (MOST CARS) 25% OFF 25 % OFF STRUTS & SHOCKS With This Coupon • Expires 1/31/24 CARING FOR YOUR CAR & OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 35 YEARS! The Friendly Mavis Team
Kearney, with the Pac building a 28-19 halftime lead. The team blitzed past Lincoln to open the week, with Dedvukaj dropping 22, Kearney adding 19, and Koch and Scanlon each chipping in with 10. The Wolf Pac set the tone early with a 28-0 run to open the game. Calabro said he was pleased, but not surprised, by his team’s strong start. “I’m not surprised,” he said. “I’m happy with the way we’ve come out, we needed to start strong, and it’s a direct result of all our preseason and offseason work.” Mahopac looks to continue its early success with a game at home Friday against Spring Valley at 6:30 p.m. DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 SPORTS MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 27 BY SKIP PEARLMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER The Mahopac High School girls basketball team dropped both of its games in last week’s Somers Tournament, falling to Walter Panas, 69-51 in last Thursday’s opener, then losing to the host Tuskers, 55-45, in Saturday’s consolation game. In the loss to the Panthers, sophomore Caily Salon led the Pac with 13 points and six rebounds, and senior Juliana Mangione added 10 points and four steals. Two days later against Somers, senior Fiona O’Boyle led Mahopac with 16 points. Sophomore Madysen Ford added 13, but it wasn’t enough. “It was a tough weekend for us at the tournament,” Pac coach Mairead Hynes said. “But we did have periods of very good basketball. We’re looking to try to extend those, and hoping to bounce back before the holiday break.” The Wolf Pac (3-3) was hoping to get back over .500 when they take on Clarkstown South Thursday (Dec. 21) on the road, in a game rescheduled from Monday due to power issues. Mahopac also plays in the Mahopac Tournament on Dec. 28 and 29 at Mahopac High School. The Pac takes on Nanuet at 1 p.m. in the opener; game times are TBA for day two. Mahopac girls fall to Panas, Somers at Tuskers’ tournament Junior Caily Salon (21) led the Pac with 13 points and six rebounds in a loss to Panas last week. PHOTO SKIP PEARLMAN BASKETBALL FROM PAGE 26 Senior Liam Scanlon (5) dropped 14 points on the Ketcham Storm in a win last week at RCK. PHOTO: SKIP PEARLMAN BBrreewwsstteerr, , NNYY aannd d BBeetthheell,, CCT T Design Centers Design Centers On your project everyday until completion... GUARANTEED! On your project everyday until completion... GUARANTEED! 884455--227788--00007700 SSoouutthheeaassttkkiittcchheennaanndbdbaatthh..ccoomm Celebrating 50 years 914.455.2158 SpirelliElectric.com • [email protected] Specializing in residential & commercial services. Licenses in Westchester, Putnam CREATING CUSTOMERS FOR LIFE Family Owned—Over 40 Years Experience! $25 OFF Service Calls When You Present This Ad. New Customers Only. Keep the lights on. • GENERATORS • Outdoor Lighting • Smart Home Setup • Electric Car Chargers AND ALL OF YOUR ELECTRIC NEEDS!
PAGE 28 – MAHOPAC NEWS SPORTS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR Mahopac topped Suffern 163-113.75 in another strong home display last Tuesday at Eclipse. Wolf Pac gymnasts won or tied for top scores in all four events, with Kelsie Thimm taking the allaround honors with a 34.05 over teammates Lexie Castrataro (33.50), Lia Dimase (32.23) and Anna Carinci (32.15). Suffern’s Zabrina South (31.05) finished fifth, just ahead of Riley Hughes (30.85). Elia Lombardi, Kayla Contreras, and Sophia Lombardi gave Mahopac eight of the top nine finishers. The vault was the closest event, with Hughes and Thimm matching Suffern’s Zabrina South with an 8.10. Thimm topped the uneven bars with an 8.30. Castrataro took the honors in both the balance beam and floor exercise with 9.10 and 9.25 respectively. “Another great team effort,” said coach Vin Collins. “We are improving with every competition.” Aside from the first-place tie in the vault, Mahopac locked out the top five scores in every category. (South tied Keira Callahan for sixth on the floor). “Our floor exercise and beam routines have gotten stronger due to nice execution and coach Jamison Castrataro’s knowledge and experience,” Connor said. “Kelsie, Lexie, and Anna really stepped it up on beam and floor, and Riley had her best vaults of the season.” Behind Thimm on the uneven bars, Castrataro scored a 7.17, followed by Dimase (7.10), Elia Lombardi (6.60), and Sophia Lombardi (6.20, tying South). Thimm finished second on the balance beam, ahead of Carinci, Dimase, Elia Lombardi, and South. Hughes and Kayla Contreras also scored above 8 for Mahopac. Dimase (8.70). Hughes and Thimm (both 8.60), and Callahan (8.5, tied with South) helped Mahopac take nine of the top 10 scores in the floor exercise. “Sophia was solid on bars and Elia did well in her first high school competition,” Connor said. “And Lia is getting stronger every time she competes”. Mahopac sweeps to win over Suffern Kelsie Thimm topped the uneven bars en route to the allaround win vs. Suffern, Lexie Castrataro topped the score sheet in the balance beam and floor exercise vs. Suffern. PHOTOS: JENNA WALDMAN GYMNASTICS WHY DO WE ADVERTISE IN HALSTON MEDIA’S LOCAL NEWSPAPERS? TO ADVERTISE WITH US, CALL BRETT FREEMAN AT (845) 208-8151 We’ve advertised with Halston newspapers since the beginning because we know they connect us to the communities we serve. We view our ads as an extension of word-of- mouth advertising; they have definitely played a role in our continued success with both new and returning families. -Jamie Sirkin Summer Trails Day Camp & Baseball Camp
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 SPORTS MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 29 BY JUSTIN CONTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER The inability to take advantage of a long power play proved to be the turning point in a 5-1 Mahopac loss to the Eagles of Eastchester, Tuckahoe, Bronxville, Edgemont (ETBE) at the Brewster Ice Arena on Saturday. Mahopac’s goalie, eighthgrader Liam Robinson, made 13 saves to help keep the game within reach until the end of the second period, but the Eagles’ relentless attack and stingy defense ultimately proved too much to overcome. The game got off to a fastpaced start and ETBE struck six minutes in. Allowing the goal didn’t linger in the mind of Robinson, who doesn’t dwell on the negative. “All I do is focus on the next [play],” he said. “I know there’s nothing I can do about that one, it’s in the past. You just have to move forward from it.” Unfortunately, the Wolf Pac netminder would face many more shots throughout the game. He held ETBE at bay for most of the rest of the first period before heartbreak in the dying seconds. When Mahopac struggled to clear the defensive zone, the Eagles swooped in to score and make it 2-0 at intermission. The visitors came out strong after the break, but Mahopac’s defense held early in the period, while the offense set up a clear chance to cut the Eagles’ lead in half. The Wolf Pac’s Alex Wanner sped down the boards and found captain Christian Martirano to set up a shot, only to see it saved. “To get us back in the game, finishing those shots propels us Wolf Pac iced by Eagles 5-1 Christian Martirano challenges for the puck against ETBE on Saturday, Dec. 16. PHOTOS: JUSTIN CONTI BOYS HOCKEY Mahopac goalie Liam Robinson stands in the crease against ETBE on Saturday, Dec. 16 at Brewster Ice Arena. SEE HOCKEY PAGE 32 Contact ANTHONY J. ENEA, ESQ. Managing Member • Fluent in Italian 914.948.1500 NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 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 Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!
PAGE 30 – MAHOPAC NEWS SPORTS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Thursday, Dec. 14, the Mahopac wrestling team hosted a five-way meet at the high school. Two close matches versus Carmel and Clarkstown South for the Wolf Pac, the first one came down to the wire and Conner Lowery was the man on the spot. “My heart was really pounding,” said the 124-pounder, and aptly, it was a thud that decided the outcome versus South. Lowrey got the pin in the third period, which made the anxiety worth its weight. “It’s such a great feeling,” he said after the 34-30 win, which was followed by a 42-36 victory over Carmel. Starting in the middle, Pace Zeiler opened the day at 131 and beat Louis Esposito in a tight, 2-0 shutout. “I was on top the whole time,” said Zeiler. After neither wrestler scored a takedown in the first, the Pac grappler got the reversal in the second. “I grabbed his leg, pulled it up high, and turned into him,” Zeiler said. “It was pretty hard.” No such drama in match two; Robert DeMauro took care of business. The 138-pounder got the takedown, threw in a couple of near falls, and pinned Patrick Sweeney in the first period. With the score 9-0, Michael Cuozzo put down the team’s John Hancock to help him register four more. “On the takedown, I did our signature move,” said the senior. “It’s called the Srednicki.” It’s a throw the team’s assistant coach did all the time in college, Cuozzo racked up points, and the 11-0 victory yielded a four-point decision. But scoring 13 straight did not foretell an easy team victory. John Belz pinned Dan Walsh to get South into the match, and then Jake Clark got a serious run for his money. At 160, Clark and Mason Ready traded reversals and takedowns until the score stood tied at 12. With two periods complete, Clark knew that determination would decide the outcome. “It was just a matter of whoever lasted longer,” he said. The third-period choice for Clark, he had the advantage by starting down and got a reversal with 52 seconds left. The ride home made good on the wrestler’s words too. “I knew I tired him out,” said Clark, and the capitulation showed in the final seconds of the 14-12 win. Still, Clarkstown was undeterred. James Benison got his team another pin to bring the visitors within four. So Nick Greco made sure the Vikings didn’t get too much wind in their sails. He came out with a single-leg takedown and sent Luke Gilroy straight to his back. The view was not so good for the Vikings; Greco got six, and Mahopac now led 22-12. But Clarkstown would not go away. Jason Ardizone pinned Preston Kirwan and John Brew pinned Joe Ramano to take a 24- 22 lead. Then back to the top of the order, Bryce Sini got the Vikings’ third straight pin (against Justin Cabuhat), and now led by eight. That left it to Charles Przymylski to take charge. He found an opening, hit a a lateral drop, and the mat caught Kiran Shanker’s back. “It was great to get a win for the seniors,” said the sophomore – and it probably wasn’t bad either to set up Lowrey for the walk-off. Onto the cross-town rivals, Robert DeMauro suffered no letdown after the close victory and sent the Wolf Pac in the right direction. The 108-pounder hit the takedown and ran a bar at 1:11 of the first for a 6-0 lead. The first of three straight pins, Cuozzo was next. He lifted Yaroslav Tymkiv off the mat for the first-period takedown and did the same after escaping from the bottom to start the second. Only this time, Tymkivoff went straight to his back, and Cuozzo had the pin at 1:04. Then Sean Coronel got in under the wire. The 152-pounder got the fall with five seconds left in the first and gave Mahopac an 18-0 lead. Clark wasn’t able to follow up his win, though and Jack Robinson’s pin got Carmel on the board. So Greco stopped the bleeding again. He threw his Ram to the ground on the takedown and put him away at 1:22 of the first. The pins didn’t stop coming either. Leo Venables pinned Hector Ramirez, Preston Kirwan dropped Edgar Ramos, and Robert Addonizio made the score 30-18 when Ramano was given another look at the ceiling. It didn’t keep the novice wrestler down, though. At the sport for about a month, the 285-pounder took up wrestling to get in shape and be part of the camaraderie. An eye-opener for sure, he sees more upside than downside. “It’s scary before you wrestle, but after you go out, it’s incredibly exciting,” said the sophomore. His teammates no doubt showed the same in rooting for their rookie. But there was still a match to be won, and Kevin Bray’s pin made it 30-24. Cabuhat got a chance for some redemption and didn’t waste any time. He shot a single leg, got the takedown and Jose Jimenez Sola went to his back. The pin followed, and Przymylski received a forfeit to make it 42-24. Unfortunately, neither Lowrey nor Zeiler were able to register sweeps. Even so, the back-to-back pins yielded the final 42-36 victory Not a problem for Zieler, because he knows how each Mahopac wrestler has the other’s back. “I won my first match, I helped the team out,” he concluded. “The second I lost, and they helped me out.” Mahopac wrestlers take two Wolf Pac tops Carmel, Clarkstown South in five-way meet Joe Ramano Pace Zeiler PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI Mike Cuozzo WRESTLING
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 SPORTS MSA Wrestling Assistant Program Director Dave Zeiler brought two athletes to the Nighthawk Classic last Sunday in Newtown, Conn. Cruz Zeiler and Brayden Collins, both in the 10U division, each placed fourth. In his second bout, Zeiler won by pin against Henry Cohn of New Canaan Youth. MSA sends grapplers to battle in Connecticut Coach Dave Zeiler with 10U wrestlers Cruz Zeiler and Brayden Collins. MSA athlete Cruz Zeiler wrestling Ben Weintraub of Newtown, Conn. PHOTOS: BRETT FREEMAN MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 31 Additions • Renovations Kitchen/Bath • Windows/Doors Finished Basements Custom Cabinetry • Decks Int/Ext Remodeling Full-service home building, renovation & remodeling team you can trust for high quality craftsmanship. Call us for a FREE CONSULTATION and start planning your dream remodeling project TODAY! Experience the Difference 914 245 0244 www.sunrisecarpentry.com Happy Holidays! Here’s to a joyful holiday season.
PAGE 32 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 Mahopac’s Matthew Dulyk (25) takes a shot. PHOTO: JUSTIN CONTI drastically,” Martirano said. The turning point came when Mahopac went on a five-minute powerplay, which included a 1:41 spell of 5 on 3 after a tripping penalty put ETBE two men down. But the Eagles were able to kill the penalty, emerging unscathed with seven minutes left in the second. “The Eagles players were very disciplined [killing the penalty],” said Mahopac head coach Tim Donaghy. “We have the talent to have a great power play but we got frustrated and settled for easy shots.” Seven seconds after being back at full strength, they put in their third goal and carried a 3-0 lead into the second intermission. The third period saw the Wolf Pac open up the attack to try to get back in the game, but the Eagles seized the advantage to stretch their lead to 4-0. Mahopac finally got on the board via a thirdperiod power play, with Matthew Dulyk, Ross Silver, Mixxix, Wanner, and Martirano leading the way. Martirano’s assist set up Dulyk, who snapped a hard wrist shot past the ETBE goalie to make it 4-1. But instead of heralding a comeback, the goal proved to be a consolation prize, as ETBE scored one last time with 4:34 left to make the final tally 5-1. “As a group, we need to believe we can win these games even if things don’t go well for us in the beginning,” Donaghy said. “Part of the learning process is to stick to the game plan and have patience. We will get there.” Mahopac is scheduled for a road game against Pearl River on Friday, Dec. 22, at 4:55 p.m., at Sport-O-Rama in Monsey. HOCKEY FROM PAGE 29 Newburgh, NY RWHudsonValleyNY.com MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER TO PLAY THE NEW YORK LOTTERY GAMES. PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY. 24-HOUR PROBLEM GAMING HOTLINE: 1-877-8-HOPENY (846-7369) Friday, December 29 • 10pm Earn Entries All Month Long! *Actual model and colors may vary. SANTA’S ELECTRIC SURPRISE Win A New Tesla!* FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HOT WATER HEATER & GAS NEEDS 59 Years of Excellence Putnam & Westchester County’s Premier Plumbing Professionals Since 1964 719 Rte. 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • 845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com TAKE $25 OFF YOUR NEXT SERVICE CALL! VALID ON CALLS OVER 1 HOUR. EXPIRES 1/31/24 May you have a Happy & Prosperous New Year!
DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 LEISURE MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 33 Eggnog is a rich and delicious beverage that has become synonymous with the most festive time of year. This milk- and egg-based concoction is tasty on its own, or it can be dressed up with other flavors and spiked with a favorite spirit when celebrating the holiday season with other adult partygoers. December is National Eggnog Month, and Dec. 24 is National Eggnog Day. There is no more perfect time of year to learn everything you can about eggnog — all the while sipping a cup of this creamy concoction. Indulge in these festive facts about the beverage, courtesy of Mental Floss, The Fact Site and Tastemade. • Eggnog likely originated in the medieval period and was known as “posset,” a hot, milk-based drink made of spices and wine. Even though posset could be a cocktail, it also was used as a remedy for colds and flu for its soothing properties. • Milk, eggs and sherry used in the early recipes were difficult to come by, so when eggnog first appeared it was a drink only the wealthy could enjoy. That changed when eggnog was popularized in the American colonies, where dairy products and liquor were more readily available. • Entymologists believe “eggnog” stems from the word “noggin,” which refers to small wooden mugs often used to serve strong ale, known by the slang word “nog.” • In the Medieval period, it was risky to drink milk straight because it wasn’t pasteurized. Eggnog contained alcohol so that it would kill off any harmful bacteria in the milk. • A typical homemade version of eggnog has roughly one egg per serving. However, commercial eggnog is regulated by the FDA and can only contain 1 percent of the product’s final weight in egg yolk solids. That stems from fear of raw egg and salmonella. • President George Washington apparently enjoyed serving eggnog at Christmas, and even had his own special recipe (see below), according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. • There is no right or wrong alcohol to use when preparing eggnog. Distilled spirits like rum, sherry, cognac and whiskey all have produced suitable eggnogs. • Puerto Rican coquito is a traditional drink that is very similar to eggnog. • Individuals concerned about eggs or milk in eggnog can enjoy a vegan recipe made from nut milk instead. Commercially produced vegan eggnog offerings are now more widely available. • One of the more notable flavors in eggnog comes from the use of nutmeg. Nutmeg is a fragrant spice made from grinding the seed of the nutmeg tree. Now that you’ve learned about eggnog, whip up a batch of George Washington’s original recipe this holiday season. Eggnog (George Washington’s original interpretation) • 1 quart cream • 1 quart milk • 1 dozen tablespoons sugar • 1 pint brandy • 1/2 pint rye whiskey • 1/2 pint Jamaican rum • 1/4 pint sherry Eggs (Washington forgot to include the number of eggs, so home chefs can improvise or use six, which seems to be the standard in traditional recipes) Mix liquor first, then separate yolks and whites of eggs, add sugar to beaten yolks, mix well. Add milk and cream, slowly beating. Beat whites of eggs until stiff and fold slowly into mixture. Let sit in cool place for several days. Taste frequently. Tip: Today’s recipe makers may want to set the eggnog in the refrigerator as the “cool place” of choice. Tasty tidbits about eggnog Enjoy President George Washington’s recipe 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. Droops 5. Subatomic particle 10. Not in danger 14. Nursemaid 15. Black band worn in mourning 16. Long song in opera 17. Edible seed of a Philippine tree 18. Chicago political family 19. Pursues pleasure from one place to another 20. Appetizer 22. Hill (Celtic) 23. Simple shoe 24. Songs to one you love 27. Secret activities 30. Upset 31. Popular hot drink 32. Body art (slang) 35. Fired 37. Blood relation 38. Identical 39. Porticos 40. Partner to cheese 41. Type of sword 42. Enough (archaic) 43. Surface layer of ground 44. Cotton fabric woven like satin 45. Choose for a post 46. Father 47. Tell on 48. Indian title of respect 49. Fonts 52. Fencing sword 55. Mock 56. Vaccine developer 60. Atmosphere surrounding a person or place 61. Marten with a short tail 63. Chinese temple 64. Invests in little enterprises 65. Popular cut of meat 66. Charity 67. Iron-containing compound 68. River in Northern Europe 69. One point east of southeast CLUES DOWN 1. Exhausts 2. Genus of fish related to gars 3. Impudent behavior 4. Adherents to Islam 5. They come after A 6. Spoke 7. Room to receive guests 8. About opera 9. End-blown flute 10. Heroic tales 11. Member of a Semitic people 12. Dog’s name 13. Opposite of west 21. Political divisions in ancient Greece 23. Ocean 25. Cool! 26. Young woman about to enter society 27. One from central Caucasus 28. Indian city 29. A way to serve ice cream 32. Emaciation 33. Escort aircraft carrier 34. Italian city 36. Mythical settler of Kansas 37. Unhappy 38. High schoolers’ test 40. Measured in pace 41. Satisfies 43. Gullible person 44. Enclosed space 46. Substance used to color something 47. Shirt type 49. Discover by investigation 50. __-Castell, makers of pens 51. Semitic Sun god 52. Grads wear one 53. French river 54. Part of a cap 57. Digestive fluid 58. Metrical foot 59. Body part 61. Very fast airplane 62. Supplement with difficulty
PAGE 34 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 In his letter, Baranowski cited the need to care for a family member with dementia as the primary reason for stepping away from politics. “I recently made a final decision to resign my position as town councilman to focus on my health and to help take care of a family member with dementia,” Baranowski’s letter said. “My decision is effective immediately. “I have been wrestling with this decision for some time, and it has been a very difficult one,” the letter continued. “With all the challenges and issues we face as adults, it is important to always put our families and our health first. This sometimes forces us to make difficult decisions [regarding] our priorities. It has been a pleasure serving the people of the town of Carmel for the last few years and I am grateful for all the support you’ve given me. I am very confident that my colleagues will continue to move the town forward.” With Baranowski stepping down, the board has two options, according to County Election Commissioner Kelly Primavera. It can leave the seat vacant until the November 2024 election, or appoint someone to serve for the rest of the year, and then put the seat up for grabs in the general election next fall. “There will be no special election [before November]” said Primavera, who also confirmed Baranowski’s exit from the GOP Committee. Two days before he quit, Baranowski lost a vote of confidence among members of the town’s Republican Committee. At that meeting, he had been given three months to regain the trust of his fellow committee members. But over the next two days, several influential Republicans hinted that Baranowski wouldn’t last that long as committee leader; however, no one who spoke to Mahopac News predicted his resignation from town government. A CPA and graduate of Mahopac High School, Baranowski chaired the Carmel Conservative Party from 2004 to 2016 before being elected to the Town Board in 2021. He served in the Army from 1983 to 1985 and was honorably discharged. He has an MBA in accounting and finance and a doctorate in business administration. Cazzari thanked Baranowski for his service to the U.S. military and town board. “Stephen will be missed,” Cazzari said. As for finding a replacement before next November, Cazzari said late last week that it will be a decision for the new year when newcomer Robert Kearns joins remaining councilmembers Suzanne McDonough and Frank Lombardi on the board. To fill the role before the election, Cazzari said, all three board members would need to unanimously agree to the appointment. While the board’s standard makeup of five (four council members and the supervisor) prevents stalemates when there’s a split vote, Cazzari noted that the town has operated without its full board before and could do so again in 2024. “We may go the course and go on with one missing board member,” Cazzari said last Friday. “That’s the way it was done twice before [in recent years] – when Frank DelCampo left to be deputy county executive and when Anthony DiCarlo left to be District 9 legislator. They didn’t replace [either of them].” But while town government could function as a quartet, Cazzari didn’t rule out replacing Baranowski. “People have contacted me and some committee members have also made suggestions,” Cazzari said. “This is a decision for the incoming board. The appropriate action is that we discuss it at our first meeting.” The board’s reorganization meeting is set for Wednesday, Jan. 3, at 7 p.m. BARANOWSKI FROM PAGE 1 BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE Back in 2019, the Carmel Town Board passed an amendment to the town code outright banning the doorto-door solicitation of goods and services throughout the municipality. However, the board may have overstepped its bounds because such solicitations are considered a form of commercial speech and are protected against “unreasonable governmental regulation” under the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the Constitution, according to the Nauman Smith Law Firm website. The board must now amend the code once again. “We are being sued because that law was too restrictive because it outlawed [door-todoor peddling] outright,” said Supervisor Mike Cazzari. At the time of that solicitation ban, town officials had grown concerned about the dramatic increase in the number of permits that were being issued, and homeowners were complaining about sketchy peddlers showing up on their doorsteps. “Really what precipitated this and why we’re doing it is there are 22 complaints that the police department has received regarding solicitors who go from door to door,” said then-supervisor Ken Schmitt in 2019. “The tactics that they use are sometimes really unprofessional. 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DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 35 America and the world changed forever on Dec. 7, 1941, when the surprise Japanese attack on the Pacific Fleet based at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, brought the U.S. into World War II. More than 2,400 people died in the attack. Mahopac veterans gathered on the anniversary of the attack to remember those who died that day and in the years of bloody fighting that followed it. Nick Piqueras and Freddie Wennberg, of VFW Post 5491, salute after they lay the wreaths in remembrance of those who died at Pearl Harbor. PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL Veterans remember Pearl Harbor Assemblyman Matt Slater came to the Dec. 13 Town Board meeting to offer citations to the retirees courtesy of the state Assembly. He praised Pasquerello for her public service. “Anne, you did a great job, and it has been wonderful to know you,” he said. “I was a staffer too for a long time and understand the sacrifices a staffer makes on a day-to-day basis behind the scenes. It’s what makes you and this entire town hall so great.” Town Clerk Spofford has spent 27 years of public service and decided not to seek re-election this year. Due to illness, she was unable to attend last week’s meeting, but she returned the following day and spoke with Mahopac News. Spofford began her career as the confidential secretary to then-Supervisor DelCampo and later served as deputy town clerk under Munday for four and a half years before becoming town clerk. She won reelection in 2006 and has held the office ever since. Spofford is a lifelong town resident. She is a graduate of Mahopac High School and currently resides in Carmel Hamlet. Like Pasquerello, she’s looking forward to more family time and community service. “I have four grandchildren and one on the way due on Christmas Eve,” she said. “I will continue to volunteer and do some traveling, so I am excited about what the future will bring.” Simone, who was also absent from last week’s proceedings, was first elected to the highway superintendent post in 2000. He surprised everyone when he announced earlier this year that he would not seek re-election. Simone also served a stint as a Mahopac School Board trustee. “Mike still calls me and emails me about all the issues that highway superintendents are facing all across the state,” Slater said. “He has been a great leader for the town of Carmel, and I don’t think people really understand that he had to reach across New York State and did a great job with CHIPS (Consolidated Local Street and Highway Improvement Program) funding. That is one of the things he advocated for and would come up to Albany all the time and make sure Carmel was well represented. Mike did a great job and will be missed as well.” Schanil feted The board, Slater, and County Legislator Erin Crowley also paid tribute to Councilman Robert Schanil, who served one four-year term but came in third in June’s Republican primary in a race for two open seats. For the past two years, he served as Cazzari’s deputy supervisor. He was presented with a plaque to commemorate his service to the town. “I have been blessed to work with a fine group of people and appreciate the two supervisors who I have worked under,” Schanil said at the meeting. “Both have their own unique leadership styles and I have learned a lot. The last four years serving as an elected official have meant the most to me. I thank this wonderful community for its encouragement and support. It is overwhelming how many wonderful people I have met along this journey.” Schanil said the biggest challenge he faced during his term was coping with the coronavirus pandemic. “Unfortunately, some of us lost loved ones along the way...but as we mourned our losses, we stood together to get through it,” said Schanil, a retired police officer. “This is what a great community is all about. “As a board member, I am proud of our accomplishments,” he continued. “We maintained our [Aa1] bond rating and have been fiscally responsible in managing the townwide budget. I hope I am leaving this place in a better position than when I first came in and I am committed to remaining engaged and volunteering in our community.” Slater acknowledged Schanil’s service, noting how difficult the job can be. “You give yourself fully to the job and the community,” Slater said to the council member. “In a lot of ways, you left your mark on this board. It is not easy, and we celebrate you and applaud you. Great job and I hope this is not the last time that we see you.” Crowley also acknowledged the sacrifices a board member must make in service to the job. “You served as a cop and our community and put yourself out there,” she said to Schanil. “You have given up weekends, holidays, even when you didn’t need to [run for town board] after you retired [from the police force]. You are a selfless human being.” RETIREES FROM PAGE 6 HOURS: Sunday Closed Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat 10 AM–6 PM Thursday 10 AM–7 PM 1961 Commerce Street • Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 1-855-518-2436 CALL US TODAY FOR AN APPOINTMENT! Let us create a unique design that will make your kitchen dreams come true, creating a lifetime of memories . All of Us at Kitchen Headquarters Wish You a Very Happy Holiday and a Wonderful New Year
compared to earlier times. Again, Mrs. Claus plays an important role. According to the elf, Mrs. C has set up a massive intelligence network that combines data mining with human and elvish operatives on the ground all over the world. “One thing people don’t realize is that we’re not all based at the North Pole,” the elf said. “There’s a core team up there and we elves all train up North and return every couple of years, but we’re really everywhere. “We also have a lot of humans working with us, though they may not realize it,” the Elf added. “When you see humans do coat drives, Toys for Tots, food pantries, even just helping out, they’re part of our team. That part of the job happens all year. As Santa says, we can’t make people do these things, it has to come from inside them. But he does try to lead by example and then hope they continue giving after the holidays.” The global intelligence network also helps Santa source the gifts before Christmas. Claus himself declined to comment when asked if the elves made toys in his workshop. But according to the insider elf, it’s been a combination of elf-building and acquiring from commercial vendors for about a century. “We realized with advertising that kids would want specific brands, so we had to get those,” the elf said. “Fortunately, our worldwide network is good at getting us the right games and toys that each generation of kids wants.” As for how he knows whether kids are naughty or nice, Santa said it’s really not that complicated. “Most kids are basically nice, even if they’re naughty sometimes,” he said. “So we don’t need to detect the nice ones, we assume they are all nice. If someone is naughty enough to not get a present, it shows up on our system loud and clear. But it has to be really naughty, like being cruel to animals or hurting people on purpose.” What about nice kids who don’t get the present they want? “That’s a complicated one,” Santa admitted. “We try to balance between what a kid wants and what is the right gift. And sometimes, we just miss. Sometimes they get what they think they want and discover it’s not what they wanted after all. “And sometimes, there are things we can’t control that mean a kid doesn’t get the present he or she wants,” he continued. “But in those cases, we hope they discover that the thing itself isn’t the point, but the gift of giving.” “Our job isn’t really to deliver gifts, but to create a love for giving,” Santa said. “Remember, I go back to the days when a kid might get one ball or rag doll or some sweets and be happy to have that, and I see kids all over the world who don’t have much and don’t ask for much. Knowing someone is out here giving them a gift, hopefully opens their heart so when they get older, they can pass that along. That’s really what we do.” Santa has been on the job for at least 2,000 years and sees no sign of slowing down. He declined to discuss his age, but said he has no plans to retire. Asked what he thinks about whether people believe in him or not, Santa offered a hearty “Ho-ho-ho, Merry Christmas!” and said he had to get back to work. Later, the anonymous elf offered a final bit of insight. “Listen, Santa is way more than the guy in the red suit,” the elf said. “He’s a symbol of Christmas, but he isn’t just for Christmas or Christians – he works for everybody, and 99 percent of the time, no one knows it’s him making a gift happen. He works through people way more often than he flies around the world. But those trips are important because he’s showing how to give without asking for anything in return. “As for believing in him, Santa is here as long as people believe in the idea of him,” the elf added. “The philosopher Rene Descartes once said: ‘I think, therefore I am.’ Ideas have power and they’re immortal. People might think they can outgrow Santa to replace Santa, but they never do. Santa Claus came to town a long time ago and he’s here to stay.” PAGE 36 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 This 13th-century portrait of Saint Nicholas is said to be Mrs. Claus’s favorite picture of her husband. Santa’s use of reindeer power gives his sleigh almost no carbon footprint. IMAGE COURTESY WIKIMEDIA.ORG SANTA FROM PAGE 3 FACTORY TRAINED SERVICE TECHNICIANS WE SERVICE ALL BRANDS OF COMMERCIAL & HOMEOWNER POWER EQUIPMENT EAST ROAD MOTORS 58 CAROLAN RD. 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PAGE 38 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024 how they try to sell their goods and services—banging on people’s doors, walking around [to the backyard]. It got to the point where there were so many of them. There was a lot of concern raised by the residents about the safety and the health of their community.” Schmitt pointed out at the time that the number of peddler permits had risen dramatically over four years. Twelve permits were issued in 2015, 27 issued in 2016, 21 issued in 2017, back up to 27 in 2018, and then 37 in 2019. “There’s been a significant increase; that is why we are doing this,” Schmitt said four years ago. “Something needed to be done.” But banning door-to-door peddling outright is not permitted so the board is now looking to adjust the code for the second time in four years. “The issues remain the same though,” Cazzari said. “You don’t want nefarious people going door to door.” The new amended code would require a criminal background check for those who apply for a permit. “Homeowners will now know that these [solicitors] have been thoroughly vetted,” Cazzari said. The supervisor said the checks would look into the nationwide background of the permit applicant, not just in the town of Carmel or the county of Putnam. “Maybe some guy was never arrested in Carmel for anything but had a scam arrest in some other town,” he said. “Like someone stealing people’s checks [from mailboxes] and breaking into homes or something like that. If they live in another county or state, we’d have no idea if they’ve committed a crime. They might be selling magazines at your front door while someone is coming through your back door and stealing your purse. You’d be making seniors vulnerable, so these background checks will cover everything.” Cazzari said permit applicant will be responsible for obtaining and paying for their own background checks. “You can do that; you can do a criminal history check on yourself through the state or FBI,” said Cazzari, a retired police officer who once served as chief of the Carmel Police Department. “This way, we are not doing an outright ban. We are allowing it with reasonable stipulations, which is permitted.” Cazzari said the solicitation code does not apply to those fundraising or campaigning political candidates. “Little kids (such as Girl Scouts selling cookies) shouldn’t count; fundraisers shouldn’t count,” he said. “Nonprofit charities shouldn’t count but we will see how it all plays out.” Cazzari said the wording for the newly amended code has not yet been finalized but will be placed on the town website when it’s ready and residents can peruse it and comment. A public hearing is slated for Wednesday, Jan 17, at 7 p.m. at Town Hall where residents will be able to comment further and provide feedback on the proposed amendment. BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE Management at the Promenade on 6, a small business hub in Carmel Hamlet, is warning business owners of a scam in which criminals pose as event planners for the Promenade and try to entice victims into purchasing table rental space for events at the venue. Jennifer Mahr, project manager for Promenade on 6, said they are merely landlords for the businesses in the Promenade and do not rent tables. She said the scammers apparently monitor discussions on social media about events at the Promenade on 6 and then reach out to individuals via email or instant message posing as the event planner. “I had a woman reach out to me and ask if she should pay them and I said absolutely not,” Mahr said. “Any events planned are private events and run by the businesses we have. We (Promenade on 6 management) are not their marketing team.” Mahr said the scammers will tell a potential victim they can rent a table for $100, which she said doesn’t seem like a lot but if they sign up 10 people, it can add up. “It’s a very lame scam,” she said. “But we will watch it and see where it goes. I think we caught it in time.” Mahr said business owners need to be vigilant and vet everything that comes across on the internet. “People have to be careful how they give their money away,” she said. “There are fake Facebook profiles. Check to see how old it is. If they’ve been there less than a year, you have to find other ways to validate, and I don’t know if older people know how to do that. One time we had an ex-tenant who we thought was bashing us, but it turned out to be a fake [Facebook] profile.” Carmel Police Chief Anthony Hoffmann said he wasn’t aware of the Promenade on 6 scam, adding that his force has limited resources to investigate such internet crimes. ‘That’s a pretty new one,” he said. “I haven’t heard of that one before.” Hoffmann said even the Carmel Police Department has been the victim of Facebook scams. “We had to crank up our filters,” he said. “So, thankfully we have that protecting us. Before that, we had someone copy some of our [CPD] patches and then use them to say they were selling our sweatshirts. Then people would send in money to get a shirt and then not get it. The same thing happened to the Brewster PD. People think it’s safe because it’s the police and they are not going to pull a scam.” Promenade on 6 warns of internet scam PHOTO COURTESY OF THE PROMENADE ON 6/FACEBOOK The Promenade on 6 SOLICITATION FROM PAGE 34 Advertise With Us When you advertise with Mahopac News, you are reaching thousands of households and businesses throughout Mahopac, Mahopac Falls and portions of Carmel. To advertise or to place a classified, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email [email protected]. NEW YORK HOMEOWNERS: HELP IS AVAILABLE EVEN IF YOU COULD PAY CASH ROOFING | SIDING | WINDOWS | DOORS & MORE! Approved applications will have the work completed by a quality repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs. Contractor License: NY: #2719-h14 888-254-6006 or visit NYProgramFunding.net NEED HELP WITH EXPENSIVE REPAIRS? WE MATCH YOU WITH FUNDING YOU CAN AFFORD. ...but it won’t last! Enrollment is only open during a limited time. 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PAGE 40 – MAHOPAC NEWS DECEMBER 21, 2023 - JANUARY 10, 2024