BY WHIT ANDERSON STAFF WRITER e Bedford Central School District Board of Education kept busy this past March. Superintendent Dr. Robert Glass presented his proposed budget at the Mar. 22 meeting, receiving the approval of some, but raising the concerns of others, particularly the middle school faculty and the potential sta cuts they will face. Meanwhile, in attendance was Fox Lane High School’s next principal, o cially introduced by the board on Mar. 29. e proposed 2023- 24 $152,538,000 budget will be a $4,505,809 increase (3.04%) from this year’s spending package. e $137,383,087 raised by taxes will hold a 2.19% levy increase, while $2,967,000 in total cash reserves and $8,823,903 in state aid will be utilized. Tax payers in Bedford and Pound Ridge can expect to see a 5.18% and 5.39% rate increase respectively, while Mt. Kisco (-8.36%), New Castle (-0.20%) and North Castle (-0.41%) will experience a drop. An additional $1,915,861 (11.49% increase) will be allocated to the special education program for a total of $18,589,680. e program is also currently in the midst of hiring a new director while Maureen Boozang-Hill acts as the interim. e committee running the hiring process consists of board members, faculty, and parents. Also seeing an uptick in funds will be the ESL program with an additional $347,020, for an 11.78% rise from this year. Noting that district enrollment is steadily declining and that funds kept class sizes arti- cially low during Covid, Glass noted, “We can not sustain those positions once the federal dollars are removed. We have to right-size again to funds that are sustainable within our regular budget.” Largely a non-issue for most schools, Fox Lane Middle School teachers took to public comment on Mar. 29 to raise concerns over this move, as the incoming sixth grade class is expected to jump from its current 246 to 283 next fall. Erin Filner, a social studies teacher, expressed disappointment with what she saw as a sudden move. “It’s very clear to anyone watching that the plan is to cut a middle school team,” she said. Each grade in the middle school is separated into two teams, meaning the budget might reduce a team’s worth of sta . And while the proposed budget is predicting class sizes between 18-25, Filner anticipates that number to be in the range of 25-36. “How does the move get us any closer to the studentfocused goal, and what lessons from the pass have actually been learned?” Rosa Hirsch, another social studies teacher, echoed the same sentiments, emphasizing that a hypothetical cut of four positions would equate to cutting a team that could cover over one hundred students. “ e middle school is cut to the bone, there is no more to cut.” Glass clari ed that he is in talks with FLMS Principal BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 30 FOX TRACKS 4 HEALTH & WELLNESS 21 LEISURE 19 OBITUARIES 7 OPINION 10 SPORTS 18 Culture and Tradition pg 16 DANCE VOL. 2 NO. 1 PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID WEST CALDWELL, NJ PERMIT #992 A MONTHLY PUBLICATION APRIL 13 – MAY 11, 2023 Fox Lane introduces new principal Board of Ed discusses potential middle school cuts Dr. Jennifer Amos BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Mount Kisco has called a halt to a land alienation process that would have paved the way for the siting of a cell tower in Leonard Park. e decision, announced on March 6, may have gladdened the hearts of the folks who fought ferociously to keep the telecommunications facility out of their beloved woods but it doesn’t mean that there won’t be another one in the village. As technology marches on, connectivity is key. at fact was acknowledged recently by the Planning Board, which has been weighing a 3-year-old request from Homeland Towers and Verizon for site plan approval for a 140-foot-tall tower on 25 acres of privately owned property just a minute up the road from the 116-acre park. New member W. Robert “ Bob” Phillips had quite a lot to say on the subject at the Planning Connection issues Mount Kisco cell tower saga continues SEE BOEPAGE 9 SEE CELL TOWER PAGE 26 HOPEMAZZOLA YOU’VE GOTTA HAVE HOPE Sales Vice President Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker cell: 914.714.0090 [email protected] hopemazzola.com MAZZOLA YOU’VE GOTTA HAVE HOPE 95 Katonah Ave | Katonah, NY 10536 Find Out What Your Home Might Be Worth Scan for Instant Results #UGottaHaveHope A refreshing entry to the market, this new Modern offers High Performance and Energy efficient systems, topof-the line everything with lots of light and indoor/outdoor spaces. Excellent use of wood, natural stone and sustainable materials. Truly a livable work of art! Lot next door is also Board of Health Approved and can be purchased solo ($535,000) or with a construction contract. Bedford Corners | New Construction 5BR | 2.08 AC | $2,475,000
PAGE 2 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES 1. Clip the short form on the page 2.Fill out the information. 3.Mail it to P.O. Box 864, Mahopac, NY 10541 4.Or Visit www.HalstonSubscribe.com 5.Or Scan our QR Code to Subscribe. Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to The Katonah-Lewisboro Times. YES, I really enjoy The Katonah-Lewisboro Times, and I’d like to continue receiving it for 3 years, along with a monetary contribution this year. (Please print legibly.) First (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required. Please print legibly.) Last (Required) City: State: ZIP: Name: Signature: Email: Snowbird Dates (if applicable): Date: Phone: Address: (Optional) (Optional for TAPinto E-News) Checks payable to Halston Media LLC Please include this form in your envelope. Mail to: P.O. 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Last (Required) City: State: ZIP: Name: Signature: Email: Snowbird Dates (if applicable): Date: Phone: Address: (Optional) (Optional for TAPinto E-News) Checks payable to Halston Media LLC. Please include this form in your envelope. Please Include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: Mahopac News The Somers Record Yorktown News North Salem News The Katonah-Lewisboro Times Mail to: P.O. Box 864 Mahopac, NY 10541 While we need your Full Support to keep this newspaper strong, we include the option for Basic Support because we don’t want financial reasons to get in the way of our readers receiving this newspaper. Basic Support vs. Full Support Basic Support Full Support $100 $50 $20 other or visit www.HalstonSubscribe.com OR Visit www.HalstonSubscribe.com BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Founding Father George Washington may have slept in a lot of places, but it’s where he once purportedly sat that thrills Mount Kisco historians. Fact. On Nov. 10, 1776, the Revolutionary War leader and his troops were marching through the village on their way back to headquarters in Peekskill after engaging with the British in the Battle of White Plains. While there, Washington stopped to visit sick and wounded soldiers who were being cared for at St. George’s Church. Folklore? Just before arriving at the makeshift hospital, he paused at what was later known as the Caleb Kirby estate. Finding a large, attish boulder to perch on, Washington then ate his evening meal. Part two of the legend involves Mary Weeks, who encountered the company of Continentals on her way home from school. Upon seeing the general in his resplendent uniform, the child became frightened. Washington comforted her by saying: “Don’t be afraid, my little girl, we will not hurt you.” On March 19, the Mount Kisco Historical Society celebrated “Washington Rock” with speeches and the unveiling of a historic marker it purchased with a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, a nonpro t whose main mission is to help people celebrate their cultural heritage. e site is located near the intersection of Route 117 and Lexington Avenue. According to the foundation, Washington made another “important” wartime visit to Mount Kisco on July 5, 1781. It was to meet the Comte de Rochambeau, commander-in-chief of the French expeditionary force that helped the Americans defeat the British. Regaling the fascinated crowd were the historical society’s president, Ralph Vigliotti; its vice president, Michael Kirsch, who organized the event; village historian Harry McCartney; society member Jean Farber; and Mayor Gina Picinich. Among the dozens of history lovers at the Route 117 site that chilly Sunday afternoon, were local, county, and state o cials. George himself put in an appearance, as did his red-coated nemesis, British Gen. Lord William Howe. e former was portrayed by the Rev. Kyle Martindale, pastor of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, and the latter, by actor and educator Michael Grillo, who impersonates historic gures. Washington is Grillo’s main alter ego, so after a quick jacket change, he became George No. 2. A costumed Justin Parker stood at attention as an American soldier. And Ben and Jerry’s ice cream shop across the street provided the frozen treats afterward. ( e rst Saint George’s Church was neglected after the revolution and was razed in 1819. It is right across the street from Leonard Park. Saint Mark’s was built on the same site about 30 years later. In 1911, the congregation decamped to Saint Mark’s current location near the intersection of routes 117 and 133. e older structure was torn down in 1917. Buried in the old cemetery are Revolutionary War soldiers as well as those from the War of 1812 and the Civil War.) Recognized at the ceremony was John “Jack” Mannion of Yorktown Troop 173 who made Washington Rock part of his Eagle Scout project. He and his team cleared brush, installed a permanent wooden sign, and used woodchips and logs to create paths from the sidewalk to the rock and from the rock to a nearby hiking trail. Westchester was a bit like the Wild West during the Revolution. When troops passed through, they brought with them oxen to pull wagons, horses to ride, and cattle for food. In the late 1800s, that area of Mount Kisco – then known as the hamlet of Kirbyville -- was home to the Spencer Optical Manufacturing Co. One of the largest makers of optical goods (ie eyeglasses) in the United States, it employed hundreds of people. e Pomeroy Foundation also helped fund a historic marker for that site, which is just down the road. “ at’s why Mount Kisco is so unique on so many di erent levels,” McCartney told the crowd. Vigliotti o ered some evidence that backed up the tale of Washington’s impromptu dining experience, including a 1920 newspaper article with a 1911 photograph of the famed rock, and the inclusion of the spot on two late 19thcentury maps made by renowned cartographer F.W. Beers. He also noted that there were several Weeks families living in the immediate area in 1776. Little Mary, who would have been around eight at the time, died at a ripe old age and was buried in the Quaker Church (aka Chappaqua Friends Meeting House) Cemetery in Chappaqua. “So there’s some truth to the legend. And the legend seems to bear out and be a fun story. e rock just wasn’t placed here last year, it’s been here since 1776 and, as Harry has said, going way back in time,” Vigliotti said. Celebrating ‘Washington Rock’ Marker unveiled for piece of Mount Kisco history PHOTO: CAROL REIF Rev. Kyle Martindale as George Washington APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023
THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 3 BY JESSICA JAFET CONTRIBUTING WRITER Local treasure-hunters will be thrilled to discover the new thrift shop that opened earlier this year at the United Methodist Church of Mount Kisco. It welcomes shoppers on Wednesdays and Saturdays each week, to peruse a wide range of goods that include household items, clothing, toys, bric-a-brac and much more. e items are arranged throughout the parsonage, a white house located behind the historic Mount Kisco church building, as the adjacent residence is not currently being occupied by the pastor. A few church members came up with the idea to create a charming thrift shop there, with inventory displayed around the di erent rooms of the home. e United Methodist Church of Mount Kisco, built in Carpenter Gothic style, is an old place of worship; the church building was constructed in 1868 and the parsonage in 1871. Both edi ces are listed on the National Register of Historic places. “We thought, hey let’s turn the parsonage into a thrift shop and see what happens—and it has been great, absolutely wonderful,” said Marianne Baldwin, the Administrative Assistant at the church. e shop is sta ed by church volunteers who take in a large number of donated items each week to stock the shelves and racks. ere is a boutique room to showcase jewelry, statues, plus other high-end and unusual items, and there are also rooms for men’s and women’s clothing. In the dining room, you will nd glassware, cooking products, pots and pans and household items. On top of that, there is a children’s area where one can browse toys, clothes and books for the younger ones. According to Baldwin, the church gladly accepts donations of items that are in good condition from the public, with the exception of furniture or any other bulky items that cannot be carried. Goods can be left on the front porch or in the enclosed area in the back. e church is grateful for the funds that are raised by the shop’s sales, which go toward operations and much-needed repairs, like a new roof and siding, she added. Proceeds also help support e Interfaith Food Pantry, which provides nutritious food and complementary programs for locals in need. Baldwin encourages the public to come visit the thrift shop— including the loyal shoppers and vendors taking part in the ea market on the front lawn beginning in May, who she hopes will stroll inside to nd a bargain. “We have been receiving beautiful stu from people; there will be lots of great nds and there is something for everybody,” she said. “Our inventory is changing weekly with the donations we get, and we are always moving stu around—we just want people to come and see what it is all about.” e United Methodist Church of Mount Kisco rift Shop os located at 31 Smith Avenue. Open from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Wednesdays, and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. New thrift shop opens in Mount Kisco PHOTO: JESSICA JAFET The thrift store holds hours on Wednesday and Saturday each week. Fox Lane High School’s Matthew Krasnow is one of 150 students from across the country to be named a 2023 Coca-Cola Scholar. More than 91,000 students applied for this prestigious honor. Finalists were chosen based on academic excellence, leadership and service demonstrated in both school and community activities as well an interview with a committee of scholar alumni and sta . Each of the 150 Coca-Cola Scholars will receive a $20,000 scholarship, join an impressive alumni network, and go to Atlanta for the 35th annual Coca-Cola Scholars Banquet and the Leadership Development Institute. According to the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, “A CocaCola Scholar not only exempli- es superior leadership, service, and academics — they are change agents, positively a ecting others in their community. Less than 1/6 of 1% of applicants are selected for this extremely competitive award.” Matt’s school counselor, Jennifer Hickey, has no doubt that he belongs in such a distinguished group. “Matt is a top student, researcher, re ghter and threeseason athlete. He does it all and is never daunted by a challenge – in fact he thrives on them,” Hickey said. “A true life-long learner, Matt’s passion for academics – namely science – has extended well beyond the classroom walls. His goals and aspirations are high, yet clear and achievable. He will be a leader at any college or university lucky enough to have him. I am certain of one thing: Matt Krasnow will change the world one day.” Matt o ered some inights into the Coca-Cola Scholars Program process. How did it feel when you learned you had won? Each selection round was pretty nerve-wracking — the chances of advancing were so low. I was so relieved when I received it. Beyond relief, I was proud. I looked at the scholar bios from last year and was in awe of some of the most accomplished high school seniors in the US. Who is the rst person you called? I learned that I won while I was in physics class and immediately texted my family group chat. ey have been with me throughout the entire process and were extremely excited for me. What was the process for this scholarship like? e application process consisted of several rounds of decisions. e rst round was very similar to the Common Application — listing my academics, test scores, school activities and extracurriculars. After being selected as a semi - nalist, I completed an additional, more thorough application with several essays. As a Regional Finalist, I completed a virtual panel interview as the nal selection criterion. Are there any perks to being a winner that you are most looking forward to? e Coca-Cola Scholarship comes with a robust network and alumni connections. I’m thrilled for the annual Coke Scholars Banquet in April where I’ll travel to Atlanta to meet the other scholars, alumni and program sponsors. What do you think helped you get to this level of academic success? Believing in myself. I never let myself be intimidated by schoolwork or a rigorous course load. I had faith that I would learn to study more, study more e ciently and balance extracurriculars with school. With con dence in my capabilities, I consistently improved academically throughout high school. Are you involved in any clubs, sports, or community groups? At Fox Lane, I’m co-captain of the track team, having run since freshman year. I’m an active member of the Fox Lane First Responders Club (which meets on Wednesdays, and everyone should come). I am also the copresident of Science Olympiad and will compete at the state competition in March. Outside of school, I pursue my interests in medicine as an emergency medical technician and re ghter at the Bedford Fire Department. I also do medical research with New York Medical College in pediatric endocrinology, where I published a paper as the lead author. It is early still, but do you have any hopes or plans for next year? I don’t know where I’ll be going to college yet, but I plan to study biochemistry and computer science. Wherever I go, I plan to continue my medical research and work as an EMT. I plan to be on the pre-med track. Do you have a favorite class and/or teacher? is year, my favorite class is AP Physics. Mr. Ludwig creates a fantastic blend of intense learning and fun in the classroom. I see physics as a super fun way to apply math to the real world. Although I miss my computer science and biology classes from last year, Mr. Ludwig has instilled an unexpected love of physics in me. Do you have any advice for other students? It is very easy to get caught in the mindset of “doing things for college,” so try to focus on your real interests. When you enjoy what you do, it doesn’t feel like work. Also, take time to relax. You do your best work when you’re happy. Article provided by Bedford Central School District. Fox Lane’s Krasnow named Coca-Cola Scholar Matthew Krasnow
PAGE 4 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Tom Walogorsky Editor: 914-302-5830 [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky (845) 661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director Photographer [email protected] Noah Elder Designer Bri Agosta Designer Haven Elder Designer EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions is the Wednesday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected] Location 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY HALSTON MEDIA, LLC ©2023 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Pound Ridge Library Located at 271 Westchester Avenue, Pound Ridge, NY 10576. For more information, email [email protected] or call 914-764-5085. To register for these events, visit the calendar at www.poundridgelibrary.org. AN EVENING OF STORYTELLING Saturday, April 22, at 7 p.m. In celebration of the library’s makeover, this grand re-opening event, An Evening of Storytelling stars Moth GrandSlam winner Terry Wol sch Cole who will host the evening and share the experience of her appearance on Jeopardy against 40-time champion Amy Schneider, along with ve other storytellers. is is an all-star lineup of Moth champions and fan-favorite storytellers from the tri-state area. Join in for an evening of funny, poignant tales told live by the people who lived them. Free babysitting will be provided on site. “BUGS WORKSHOP” WITH MADSCIENCE Saturday, April 29, at 1 p.m. Engross yourself in entomology! Inspect authentic insect specimens. Update your insect anatomy know-how. Match-up insects with their habitats. Get bug-eyed with the Insect-A-Vision kit. Registration required. A limit of 12 children for the program. Please register only your child and not the caregivers. Please register on the website. Tribute to Trees Exhibition rough April 28 e “Tribute to Trees” exhibition of more than 50 amazing pieces of art created by youth of all ages will be on display at the Mount Kisco Public Library until April 28. On Sunday, April 23, Mount Kisco’s Earth Day celebration will take place at Fountain Park in front of Village Hall. A fun celebration with live music, creative activities, native tree sapling for each family, and other useful takeaways from noon to 4 p.m. On Saturday, April 29, Mount Kisco’s Arbor Day celebration will be held at the Tea House in Leonard Park. Featuring a Tree City Proclamation, special recognitions, plant a tree, goodie bags for each Tree Art project participant, and a native tree sapling of each family. Co ee & Conversation Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Join Westchester County Legislator Erika Pierce, Westchester County Executive George Latimer, NYS Assemblymember Chris Burdick, Bedford Town Supervisor Ellen Calves and the Bedford Town Board for a Co ee and Conversation at the Bedford Hills Train Station (46 Depot Plaza). ese Co ee and Conversation events are held so that residents can ask questions on the issues that matter most to them. No registration is necessary, and the event is free. For more information email RyanD@WestchesterLegislators. com or call (914) 995-2804. Mount Kisco Recreation Department ANNUAL KIDS FISHING DERBY Saturday, May 6, from 9 to 11 a.m. To be held at Wallace Pond in Leonard Park, rain or shine. Free for children age 4 - 14. 3RD ANNUAL SPRING FLING FOOD TRUCK FUNDRAISER FOR LEONARD PARK Saturday, May 13, from 3 to 7 p.m. To be held behind Village Hall. $5 per individual or $15 per family to gain entrance to the event. FOX TRACKS SEE TRACKSPAGE 28 SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com Spring withBELL! into Savings WHAT IS A HEAT PUMP? Heat pumps will help you find the perfect balance of comfort and savings all year round, while reducing your carbon footprint. These all-in-one heating and air conditioning systems optimize the temperature throughout your home to use less energy, and can save you up to 30% on your cooling and heating costs. $ 1,000 IN REBATES Heat Pump Hot Water Heater Call Us TODAY! 845-600-8004 UP TO $ 174 PLUS TAX Call Us TODAY! 845-600-8004 AC Preventative Maintenance Visit Starting at Only EXP 4/30/23 Coupon must present at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $ 115 INSTANT REBATE Duct Cleaning
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 5 GOING ON APRIL 14TH THRU 16TH HOME FURNISHINGS • MATTRESSES • KIDS’ ROOMS • HOME OFFICE • LIGHTING • WINDOW TREATMENTS • RUGS • ART • DECOR VISIT OUR SPACIOUS BEDFORD HILLS SHOWROOM: 230 RTE 117 BYPASS ROAD COUNTRYWILLOW.COM COMPLIMENTARY DESIGN SERVICES *Free Delivery available on all new purchases over $999. Locations beyond our regular delivery area will be subject to a surcharge. Other restrictions may apply. This is a limited time offer. Editor’s Note: The following are excerpts from an interview Jim Martorano recently conducted with Westchester District Attorney Mimi Rocah. The entire interaction can be viewed on the show, “All About Town with Jim Martorano,” which can be seen anytime on YouTube or on Optimum Channel 74 Wednesday nights at 9 p.m. BY JIM MARTORANO CONTRIBUTING WRITER Question: Can you tell us about some of the goals that you have been able to accomplish in your first two-plus years in office? Rocah: I’ve accomplished a lot of what I set out to do. For example, something I talked about during the campaign was setting up a Conviction Integrity Unit or Conviction Review Unit…We have to put guardrails in place because we know that mistakes happen and a Conviction Integrity Unit is one of those guardrails to make sure we are getting it right. And if we’re not getting it right, what kind of corrections can be made...We hired three women who are professionals in exoneration work…They’re amazing… It’s the first independent conviction review unit in Westchester and it is really a hallmark of any modern prosecutor’s office… Question: We read every day about gun violence. Can you tell us your thoughts? Rocah: I have done a lot of work with Moms Demand Action…We’ve been proactive since I got here…increased our relationship and partnership with law enforcement both across Westchester, the federal level, the state level, as well as New York City to make sure we are getting all the necessary intelligence to do seizures of guns. We’ve gotten literally hundreds of guns off the street in the last two years in these coordinated law enforcement operations. We set up a Gun and Gang Task Force with federal and the local level and again have been really successful in these coordinated efforts…We’re getting guns off the street…Most importantly, we’ve been proactive in preventing guns from getting into the hands of people who might do harm with them… Question: What about so called “red flag” laws? Rocah: Again, we’ve been proactive on the outreach and education front about what’s called red flag laws…We have a process in place in terms of training law enforcement, health care providers, prosecutors, educators…to make sure when there are “red flags,” we can apply to have the gun temporarily removed from the person who is showing signs that they would do harm to themselves or to others and, of course, that is all based on a court application and a court finding and a court order… Question: What about guns improperly stored? Rocah: We’re doing a lot of education on the Safe Storage Law because most school shootings, for example, are done by young people who get access to guns either in their own home or in the home of someone they know…It’s not an anti-gun law. It’s anti carelessness… Question: Besides your work on conviction integrity and getting guns off the street, can you tell us a third thing you are proud of? Rocah: A victim-centered approach to things…my own family, my parents, have been the victim of violent crime on more than one occasion…so I look at things through the eyes of the victims. And so setting up our Cold Case Bureau, which we’ve never had before, was a big accomplishment. There have been over a hundred cold cases in Westchester…That means an unsolved homicide… and there’s a family out there who not only have lost a loved one, but haven’t received the closure that can come with having the case solved…So far, we’ve been able to successfully prosecute five cold case homicides in just two years… and we’re working on many more…We have a new criminal investigator who’s working with our prosecutors…a former NYPD detective with a great history…so I think we’re going to be really successful going forward… Question: In my career of handling over 15,000 criminal cases, I have always been alarmed at the level of mental illness challenges that at least 30% of my clients are dealing with. Are the courts really equipped to deal with this issue on any meaningful level? Rocah: We’ve done a lot in this area. When there is a serious crime of violence…the person who committed that violence is probably going to go to prison for a long time…That’s too late… What we want to do…is to get at the problem BEFORE someone reaches that point…Hopefully mental health court…and our drug court can help…For our part, we’re trying to lower the barriers to entering and get far more people into these programs… and let’s not forget veterans’ court, which also deals with a lot of people with understandable trauma and mental health issues… Question: I have noticed a wonderfully innovative program you have initiated called Fresh Start. Can you tell us about it? Rocah: It is a pre-trial program we started for low level misdemeanors and violations, like loitering…It allows someone who would normally get a desk appearance ticket to receive an option to enroll in this Fresh Start Program…If they successfully complete the program, they never have to appear before a judge and, so, they have no record whatsoever. The focus is low level crimes of primarily first offenders. We know people make mistakes and we want to catch that person and give them a safety net at that early Catching up with Westchester D.A. Mimi Rocah SEE ROCAH PAGE 8
PAGE 6 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER At the Bedford Playhouse on March 11, the grandson of Oscar Hammerstein hosted a fundraiser to bene t the local hub. Hammerstein’s Broadway: An Enchanted Evening of Stories & Song played to a packed house, and in having hearts soar, Andy Hammerstein downplayed his role. “I’m just providing the ligaments that connect all these stories together,” Hammerstein clari ed. After Emmy Award winner Jamie Lawrence opened with a rendition of “Carousel Waltz,” the host brought perspective to the giant’s cultural impact. Hammerstein recounted when the Beatles rst entered America, and a reporter asked Paul McCartney if they hoped to be the next Elvis. “No, we want to be the next Rogers and Hammerstein,” Hammerstein delighted. Moving on, the visual artist reminded us that Rodgers was rst teamed with Hart, but most probably didn’t know that Hammerstein recommended the pairing. e success eventually unraveled, though. Hart succumbed to alcoholism and Hammerstein lled the void. “ ey teamed up to do ‘Oklahoma,’” said Hammerstein. e story really hit home with the start of the war. us, the competing interests of a small farmer and a rancher provided a blueprint for victory. “We had to put di erences aside so we could unite and ght overseas,” Hammerstein informed. e message resonated most strongly among soldiers, the audience was treated to “Oh, What a Beautiful Morning” and Broadway’s Henry rasher hit the high notes. e same goes as Rita Neidich swooned the crowd with “Surrey With e Fringe On Top.” Surprisingly, Hammerstein wasn’t a stranger to the plains. Owning a farm in Pennsylvania, a young Stephen Sondheim was often around. Later asked if the legend was his hero, Sondheim went further. “He was my savior,” Andy conveyed. Far from done, Hammerstein revealed the vehicle that has made these tales of heart endure. “I call them, ‘delayed grati cation love stories,’” he extolled. In other words, the amore would plod slowly before diving in head long. “He kept them apart to bring them together,” Hammerstein said. Even so, the MC expressed a pride that went beyond the creative genius. “He began an anti Nazi committee in 1933, entered the civil rights movement in the 1940s, and spoke up for refugees. “He was all over the place, and the FBI had a 95-page le on him,” said Hammerstein. Putting his money where his mouth wass, South Paci c intersected with his activism. “When it comes to love, race doesn’t matter,” Hammerstein conveyed the theme. Most Americans didn’t agree, and among them was Mike Wallace. “Do you really think love between the races is sensible,” Hammerstein relayed Wallace’s 1949 interview. “Yes,” was Oscar Hammerstein’s one word answer, but only 4% of Americans concurred. But there was probably little disagreement with “Some Enchanted Evening,” and Bruce Sabath more than showed the audience why. Swept away, Hammerstein returned to the mic, and made sure everyone understood that Oscar was not a one-man show. “It’s collaborative art - directors, writers, producers and actors,” he said. “Would ‘Oklahoma’ have been great without Agnes de Mille, would ‘South Paci c’ be authentic without Joshua Logan.” e rhetorical passing, he did have a caution. “Beware the actor’s autobiography,” he joked and referenced Yul Brynner. So many uncon rmed stories, Hammerstein reeled o a few. “He was born in Russia, escaped during An enchanted evening Grandson of Oscar Hammerstein hosts event at Bedford Playhouse PHOTO: RICH MONETTI Andy Hammerstein SEE ENCHANTED PAGE 29 Transforming Ordinary To Extraordinary AL TISO p: (914)729-4485 e: [email protected] SCAPESBYAL.COM LANDSCAPE DESIGN • PLANTING • IRRIGATION MASONRY • LANDSCAPE LIGHTING FREE DIGITAL DESIGN with Consultation. SCHEDULE TODAY! Scan me for more info! Refresh and renew. Spring is the time! Offering 40+ of the finest and freshest olive oils and balsamic vinegars, plus salts, hot sauces, home decor and more! 914.232.7428 | phatoliveoil.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @phatoliveoil 87 Katonah Avenue, Katonah, NY 10536
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 7 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER e Westchester County Police Department is road testing its very rst all-electric marked patrol car in Mount Kisco, village/town o cials announced recently. e 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E is the latest edition to the county’s growing eet of electric vehicles. Terrance Raynor, commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Public Safety, said the vehicle is part of a pilot program. If all goes well, more will be purchased. It is expected not only to save fuel costs but to help the county reduce its carbon footprint. “ e electric vehicle is a great addition to our Patrol eet and will enhance our community policing initiatives in Mount Kisco,” he said, noting that County Police have multiple hybrid vehicles as well. Mayor Gina Picinich pointed out that the village is a bronze-certi ed Climate Smart Committee. “Mount Kisco is the perfect location for this electric vehicle pilot program,” she said, adding that the village appreciated the county’s partnership “as we all work together to reduce carbon emissions and create a safer, cleaner environment.” e Ford Mustang Mach-E is the rst all-electric vehicle to meet the rigorous road-testing standards used by the Michigan State Police, which, along with the Los Angeles County Sheri ’s Department, has established standards now followed by police departments all across the country. It has a 480-horsepower engine and a range of approximately 270 miles. It goes from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds and will save an estimated $2,500 in fuel costs over the next ve years, county police said. County PD unveils first electric patrol car PHOTO COURTESY OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY POLICE Westchester County Police deployed the first electric patrol car at Mount Kisco headquarters. Irwin W. Schriro Irwin W. Schriro, a lifelong area resident passed away on Sunday, March 5, 2023, at the age of 63. He was born in Mt. Kisco, NY on April 27, 1959, the son of Lew and Rose (Katz) Schriro. After graduating from Fox Lane High School where Irwin met his wife Suzann, he began his career in the alarm and security business. Irwin was the lead inventory and service coordinator at Scarsdale Security Systems in Scarsdale. His volunteer re service journey began with the Bedford Hills Volunteer Fire Department while living in Bedford Hills until he and his wife moved to Somers, NY. ere he joined the Somers Volunteer Fire Department where he is a life member, Ex-Chief and past Commissioner. Irwin was also a member of the Putnam Northern Westchester Fire Police Association and Red Knights Motorcycle Club NY Chapter VII, with whom he enjoyed many memorial rides and trips to visit the retired members residing at the Fireman’s Home in Hudson, NY. He was a dedicated husband, father, and grandfather, and continued imparting his vast knowledge and experiences to all who surrounded him. roughout his life he enjoyed shing, hunting, gol ng, bowling in leagues with his wife and friends, attending his wife and children’s many sports events, and the company of his many animal companions. On November 10, 1979, he married Suzann Hitchcock who survives at home. In addition, he is survived by his son, Craig and his wife, Erin of Hyde Park, NY; his daughter Stacey Olivares and her husband Edward-Noel of Middletown, NY; his sister Debra Dinan of Lake City, FL, and his three grandchildren, Anabelle, Mason, and Brendon. He was predeceased by his sister, Bonnie Dauphine. Visitation was held on Saturday, March 11. Private cremation services will take place later. In lieu of owers, please consider a donation in memory of Irwin to the Somers Volunteer Fire Department Inc. (PO Box 272, Somers, NY 10589) OBITUARIES Contact ANTHONY J. ENEA, ESQ. Managing Member • Fluent in Italian 914.948.1500 WHITE PLAINS • SOMERS • WWW.ESSLAWFIRM.COM • Asset Protection • Elder Law • Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care) • Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) • Wills, Trusts & Estates Past Chair of Elder Law Section of NYS Bar Association “Super Lawyer” In Elder Law for 16 consecutive years Do you know what steps you can take to avoid your estate going to probate? CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500
PAGE 8 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 BY WHIT ANDERSON STAFF WRITER Over 50 people attended the WMN Unite’s International Women’s Day event hosted at the Mt. Kisco Library on Mar. 8, highlighting women from all races, cultures, and backgrounds to share their perspective on how they all can connect, educate, and empower each other. Amongst the many notable guests were Westchester County Legislator Erika Pierce, and Village Trustee Karine Patino, who spoke to the importance of community, particularly with the integration of the local Hispanic population. ey were joined by distinguished speakers such as Margaret Adu, a local optometrist from Nigeria, who spoke to the importance of education, Dr. Alli Urbank-Kimmel, who discussed acupuncture and women’s health, and Tamara Silberman, advocating for Israeli women’s rights. Attendees were also treated to an inspiring performance from Gina Bergamini, a professional dancer that brought her belly dancing troupe to perform various styles from North Africa, the Middle East and Europe. She was followed by Shamika Hale, who sang the Black National Anthem, and “Lift Every Voice” and “Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin, and Nicole Sturomski, who performed a Chan, Shaolin and WuTang style of Tai Chi with sta and sword forms. Sturomski, the founder of WMN Unite, an organization that helps support women by providing educational programs centered on health, wellness, - nancial growth and sustainability, was rewarded for her tremendous e orts with a Certi cate of Appreciation for her dedication to supporting and uplifting women in Mt. Kisco and beyond. Pierce presented her with the honor. Furthermore, local womenowned businesses set up stands to promote their products, including Two Souls Jewelry, Decota Naturals, oHHo, e Re llery, Making Faces Paintings, and CNM Creation Designs. “It was a fun and exciting time,” said Sturomski. WMN Unite hosts empowerment event Erika Pierce makes appearance PHOTO COURTESY OF NICOLE STUROMSKI County Legislator Erika Pierce (right) presented Nicole Sturomski, Founder of WMN Unite, with a Certificate of Appreciation for her dedication to supporting and uplifting women in Mt. Kisco and beyond. INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY phase when it’s relatively low risk. Fresh Start is a pilot program…We have trained the police departments, all 42 of them, because now it’s county wide…I don’t want to speak for them, but I would say, based on our success rate, you know most of them are quite enthusiastic and it gives them an alternative…It tries to break the cycle of recidivism… Question: I last interviewed you as a candidate. Now, as the District Attorney, what has surprised you the most during your rst two-plus years? Rocah: e volume of cases proportionate to the number of prosecutors…Each prosecutor has a high volume of cases…plus the new discovery obligations… make it harder to ensure that we are being as victim-focused as I would want us to be…we need to make sure that prosecutors are spending the time that they need to spend with each victim. e victims deserve to have us devote su cient time on each case and with each victim and their families. When I got here, the rst thing I did was institute a role internally that someone in our o ce should reach out to the families of homicide victims within 24 hours. Previously, it was the police handling that, but I think it should be someone from the prosecutor’s o ce as well…It’s a small thing, but it can mean a lot to the family. Question: Have you done anything to relieve the burden placed on the local Assistants, especially given their discovery obligations? Rocah: To make sure we meet all the law’s discovery demands…we set up a Discovery Bureau, which has been very successful. Assistants used to provide their own discovery. But now, if I am a prosecutor in the o ce and I have a case, I can go to the Discovery Bureau and they will help me. Ultimately, each prosecutor needs to own it and review it and certify it… but at least they will get help with the process of gathering the materials from the police departments and outside agencies… Question: I want to thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy day to sit down for this interview. As always, it was wonderful talking to you. Keep up the good work on behalf of the people of Westchester. Rocah: It was my pleasure. ROCAH FROM PAGE 5 295 E MAIN STREET | MOUNT KISCO 914-666-7792 (O) [email protected] www.TheCafeResidentialTeam.com ☑Full-Service Brokerage ☑Personal Touch ☑Advanced Marketing ☑Local & Independent APRIL IS FAIR HOUSING MONTH This year, we commemorate the 55th anniversary of the passage of the Fair Housing Act making discrimination in housing unlawful. Love the Earth April 22, 2023 DOWNSIZING? SCAN HERE! Brewster, NY and Bethel, CT Showrooms On your project everyday until completion... GUARANTEED! 845-278-0070 Southeastkitchenandbath.com Celebrating 50 years
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 9 Mary Harrison on the potential changes and an o cial plan has not been arrived at yet. “ ere’s a little more work to be done. She (Harris) and I continue to have good discussions about it,” he said. Board Vice President Steve Matlin chimed in, “Regardless of what plan is chosen, are you con dent that the class numbers will not revert to what we were told in public forum?” Glass then stated that he cannot see the number going over 30, nor exceeding the 125 student limit per teacher. “ ere is nothing that would drive it above a class size of approximately 25, I want to say,” he concluded. e board plans to adopt the budget on Apr. 12. In attendance for this discussion was incoming Fox Lane High School Principal Dr. Jennifer Amos, replacing the previous principal, Dr. Brett Miller, for his negligence in the school’s incident last spring where students were taking photos of their special education peers in the bathrooms. Amos has been the Chief Academic O cer at the United Nations International School in New York City for four years, and was also the Tappan Zee High School principal for nine. She will o cially take position on Jul. 1. “Dr. Glass and the members of the BOE, thank you so much for your trust and the honor of joining you on the Bedford team...Everything that I have learned about Fox Lane High School and the Bedford District just gets me more and more excited,” she said. e board meets next on Apr. 25 to discuss the budget vote/election information. e o cial vote is on May 16. BY EMILE MENASCHÉ CONTRIBUTING EDITOR A potentially dangerous case of reckless driving came to a safe and somewhat ironic conclusion with the arrest of an 18-year-old Katonah resident in what the Carmel Police Department is calling karma. According to Public Information O - cer Lt. Michael Bodo, the incident began on the evening of March 23, when the young man pulled up in a sports car and started taunting Carmel o cers Bambach and Kloskowski as they were on tra c detail in Mahopac. e o cers were helping pedestrians cross Route 6 for a crowded event when the driver approached the o cers and allegedly started daring them to chase his Blue Dodge Challenger. “Some may describe the young man’s behavior as arrogant,” Carmel PD said in a press release. “He began taunting the CPD o cers with derogatory statements.” Bodo later told Halston Media that the o cers were trying to be friendly at rst and encouraged the driver to go away quietly. “O cer Bambach was even asking him about his Challenger because he’s a car guy,” Bodo said. “ ey gave him every chance to back down, but the driver started making really nasty comments.” e driver then allegedly o ered the of- cers $50 to chase him in his souped‐up Blue Dodge Challenger. “[He] made it very clear that he would never be caught,” the Carmel PD statement said. “O cers Bambach and Kloskowski repeatedly asked this young man to leave the area, as he was creating an unsafe condition by impeding both vehicular and pedestrian tra c.” According to police, the driver’s response was to do a burnout directly in front of the police car, pollute the area with the stench of burned rubber, and then take o down Route 6 at “a high rate of speed.” e Carmel police brie y pursued the car as it headed west toward Yorktown and allegedly “observed [it] swerving in and out of oncoming tra c, nearly causing several head-on collisions,” the statement said. For safety’s sake, Carmel police said they stopped chasing the Dodge and alerted Yorktown police, who also tried to stop the car, now travelling in excess of 100 miles per hour. “ e vehicle failed to comply with Yorktown PD o cers and continued to ee,” the statement said. As in Carmel, Yorktown o cers considered a high-speed chase to be unsafe and ended their pursuit. e Dodge made it to the Taconic Parkway and sped south, where New York State Troopers allegedly clocked it at more than 140 miles per hour. at’s when what Bodo describes as karma intervened. By the time Troopers caught up to the vehicle, they no longer had to chase it. e Dodge was at standstill, sitting at the Taconic’s Pleasantville Road exit with a blown engine. “Evidently, the young man overestimated the performance of his fancy car and the vehicle’s engine had seized, leaving his car broken down and smoking on the shoulder of the road,” said the Carmel PD statement, which also thanked Yorktown and State police for “bringing this very dangerous situation to a safe conclusion.” e driver and his passenger were unharmed. e driver was arrested at the scene and held by State Police. He has been charged with two counts of misdemeanor DWI, 11 vehicle and tra c violations, reckless endangerment, and more. He also faces felony charges for criminal possession of a forged instrument. “He had fake license plates,” Bodo later told Halston Media. “ e real plates were in the back seat.” “ e fake plates on the car were vanity plates. ey said: ‘NOWIFE.’” Sportscar drama brings ‘karma’ Speeder who taunted cops busted after blowing engine BOE FROM PAGE 1 845-279-9555 • TankRemovalServices.com Before you place your home on the market, contact ENVIROSTAR about replacing your aging underground storage tank (UST). It is required by most insurance companies prior to insuring property. We replace above ground tanks as well! Call us today for a free estimate and evaluation Call us today for a free estimate and evaluation of your current above ground tank. SPRING SPECIAL! $100 OFF IN-GROUND TANK REMOVAL With this coupon only. Coupon must be presented at the time of the estimate. Not to be combined with any other offers. Expires 5/15/23 FREE ESTIMATES WE WILL MATCH OUR COMPETITOR’S ADVERTISED OFFER! 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PAGE 10 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES 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 The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5830 Brett Freeman, Publisher Tom Walogorsky , Editor Tabitha Pearson Marshall, Creative Director Editorial Office: 914-302-5830 [email protected]. APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 Albany lawmakers have the chance this month to do something their colleagues in Washington, DC couldn’t: Give a major shot in the arm to local journalism. The New York version of the “Local Journalism Sustainability Act” is being considered as part of the state budget that has yet to be adopted as of press time. If passed, the act would provide more tax credits over the next five years to newspaper publishers across the state for the purpose of employing full-time reporters and editors. In the Halston Media coverage area, we thank Sen. Pete Harckham, Assemblyman Matt Slater and Assemblyman Chris Burdick for co-sponsoring the proposed tax credits. We are asking for the additional support of Sen. Shelley Mayer. It’s believed that legislators are considering rolling the Local Journalism Sustainability Act into the final, negotiated state budget due out any day. The federal version was part of the failed Build Back Better bill, but we hope that both New York Democrats and Republicans recognize the value of good journalism in their communities — New York’s version ought to be overwhelmingly adopted. The costs of supporting free and independent journalism through tax breaks, similar to those offered to the entertainment industry, are small — but the return on the investment is exponentially larger. Without question, the Local Journalism Sustainability Act will do wonders for a New York journalism industry hard hit by years of economic difficulty — from soaring prices of newsprint in recent months to massive reductions in print advertising over the past two decades. Newsrooms across the Empire State have decreased in size; some have shuttered altogether. Our primary competitors are Google and Facebook. These two global corporations don’t invest in sending reporters to town board, school board and planning board meetings, but we do. They don’t attend your kids’ sporting events. We do. And frankly, if you have another local newspaper that you prefer over us, this proposed legislation helps them too. According to the New York News Publishers Association, New York saw its number of daily newspapers drop from 62 to 54 between 2004 and 2019. The loss was even more staggering for weekly newspapers across the Empire State, as the number plunged during those same 15 years, from 439 in 2004 to 249 in 2019. The free press acts as an unofficial check on the three branches of government — serving the readers with independence, obligated to accurately, fairly and truthfully report what’s happening while holding powerful people and agencies accountable. Companies like ours are also able to offer our content for free, making news accessible and available to all. From an economic standpoint, the tax credits provided through this act will help employ reporters and editors, keeping an important sector of our economy sustainable. According to the Economic Policy Institute, every 100 jobs in newspapers and related media sustains 268 additional jobs. The Local Journalism Sustainability Act will strengthen and reinvigorate journalism in New York at a critical time. It will ensure that your local newspapers and websites will always be there to tell you what’s going on, what you need to know, and what you ought to know. We urge the state legislature and Governor Kathy Hochul to make this act part of the state budget both now, and in the years to come. Let’s deliver a front-page rescue for all of New York! Please call Sen. Shelley Mayer and let her know that you support this proposed legislation. Most importantly, please thank Sen. Pete Harckham, Assemblyman Matt Slater and Assemblyman Chris Burdick for their support of local journalism. We localized this editorial and we thank amNY (amny.com) for sharing their editorial with newspapers throughout New York State. Include Local Journalism Sustainability Act in state budget EDITORIAL ‘In the Halston Media coverage area, we thank Sen. Pete Harckham, Assemblyman Matt Slater and Assemblyman Chris Burdick for co-sponsoring the proposed tax credits. We are asking for the additional support of Sen. Shelley Mayer.’ Our publisher once jokingly remarked that nobody gets rich working in the world of local journalism. Since I am not writing this from the comfort of my beach house, I tend to agree. I might not be watching the sunset over a white sand beach, but I have a roof over my head, food in the fridge, and plenty of bacon treats for my dog. Honestly, wanting more than that seems greedy. Some days the world of journalism can feel almost mundane. Board meetings, budgets and basketball scores. Occasionally, there are scandals and state championships. We do our best to support our communities and manage the expectations of our readers. And every so often, we have the opportunity to make an impact in the towns we serve. A few weeks ago, an unbelievable coincidence gave Halston Media the chance to truly make a difference. MAIL BAG On any given day, I receive more than 100 emails. Some of them are spam, but the majority are a mixed bag of requests from readers, news tips, press releases, interdepartmental communications, compliments and (occasionally) complaints. I do my best to be responsive to our readers, because I believe that being accessible to the communities we serve is essential in the world of local journalism. While each communication is important in its own way, occasionally I get messages that lead to something bigger than any single news article. The chain of events that began a few weeks ago was one of those instances. Just before signing off for the day on a Friday afternoon, I received an email from Corinne Stanton, one of Halston Media’s advertising executives. She had been contacted by a friend who explained a tragic situation. A longtime Somers resident, father and husband was in the midst of end-stage renal failure and in desperate need of a kidney transplant. I have always believed in the importance of using the reach and influence of the local paper to help those within the community. At that point, I added the plea for a kidney donation Why we do what we do An inexplicable series of events helped to save a local life TOM WALOGORSKY TOM’S TAKE SEE WALOGORKSYPAGE 11
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 OPINION THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 11 to the list of stories to be assigned to one of our reporters the following week. CONNECTIONS Mondays are the busiest day of my work week, juggling nal content submissions, proofreading and layout alongside our design team for all of Halston Media’s Westchester papers. at evening, three days after receiving Corinne’s initial email, I was contacted by the communications coordinator from the Somers Central School District, Amanda Bergen. A situation had been brought to the district’s attention that was both tragic and unusual. A Somers High School alumnus was on life support, and the family was making arrangements to donate his organs upon his passing. ey contacted the district with the idea that those donations might be given to someone within the Somers community. Amanda contacted the paper in hopes that we might be able to somehow help them ful ll this request. Realizing that the solution to both issues would come by simply connecting the two parties, Corinne, Amanda and I got everyone talking early the next morning. Sadly, the donor had passed away. But the loss came with a nal act of sel ess kindness, and the person in need received their new kidney in time. Two separate families reaching out for help within three days. I don’t intend for this to become a theological discussion of faith, but considering the timeline of events, one has to wonder. Call it divine intervention, fate, or luck, but everyone was involved in what amounted to a bittersweet happy ending. Speaking with Corinne days later, we were still in a bit of disbelief at how quickly all of the events had transpired. When talking about the gratitude she was receiving for her part, she modestly said, “All I did was forward an email.” at may have been true, but the newspaper’s connections within the community are what allowed this to happen. AT YOUR SERVICE Our papers serve many roles within our communities. Halston Media’s reporters, salespeople, freelancers and editorial sta are all connected in the worlds of government, commerce, education and countless local organizations. ese connections are what allow us to truly serve our towns in as many ways as we do. We report on important issues, help celebrate achievements, and even o er support in the face of tragedy. In the case of the events that transpired that week, we were able to really make a di erence in someone’s life. When I think about my time in journalism, my fondest memories are of the stories that actually managed to help our readers. While having a small role in helping someone get a new kidney will certainly be added to that list, others are more simple. When I was the sports editor for North Salem News, I received a phone call from a parent. By his own admission, his daughter was not very athletic and didn’t see much playing time on her team. When her name and photo appeared in an issue of our paper, he took the time to thank me and say it was the happiest day of his daughter’s life. is might seem inconsequential to most people, but for that family, it was the opposite. You can’t put a price on getting a call like that, and knowing the impact that we can have on the communities we serve. When I explained the story of the Somers kidney donation to our publisher and the small but important part we played, I jokingly said I should be rewarded with a day o . He was happy to o er it, but I couldn’t have been more anxious to get back to work. Days like that are why we do this job. Tom Walogorsky believes in good karma, but never turns down free co ee. Contact him at [email protected] WALOGORSKY FROM PAGE 10 AUTO BODY COLLISION SPECIALIST | EXPERT FRAME STRAIGHTENING | PROFESSIONAL COLOR MATCHING | ALL WORK GUARANTEED 24 Hour Lock-Out Service & Towing Available Phone: 845-628-0069 | Phone/Text Now: 914-727-9497 | Fax: 845-628-3745 | 381 US 6 • Mahopac NY | proshopautobodynorth.com PROSHOPAUTOBODYNORTH AND WHEN THEY DO, PRO SHOP NORTH HAS GOT YOU COVERED ACCIDENTS HAPPEN. Car accidents happen when you least expect them, and they can cause significant damage to your vehicle. Driving your vehicle after can be incredibly dangerous, especially if there is damage to the frame. Pro Shop North can assess the damage for you and work with your insurance company to complete any necessary repairs. Customers always come first at Pro Shop North, so we’ll help you make the most of your insurance claim and get you back on the road safely. AUTO BODY COLLISION SPECIALIST | EXPERT FRAME STRAIGHTENING | PROFESSIONAL COLOR MATCHING | ALL WORK GUARANTEED 24 Hour Lock-Out Service & Towing Available Phone: 845-628-0069 | Phone/Text Now: 914-727-9497 | Fax: 845-628-3745 | 381 Route 6 • Mahopac NY | proshopautobodynorth.com PROSHOPAUTOBODYNORTH
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I n June 2021, our former editor, Brian Marschhauser, moderated a Q&A with Yorktown resident Mark Levine at the Bedford Playhouse after the re-release of Levine’s book, “ e Trial of the Chicago 7,” which he co-edited with two other editors in 1970. e book was re-released on the 50th anniversary of its publication and coincided with the release of the Net ix lm of the same name, written and directed by Aaron Sorkin. e book is an edited transcript of the trial of seven prominent anti-Vietnam War activists accused of conspiring to riot at the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. e defendants included prominent countercultural gures such as Abbie Ho man, Jerry Rubin and Tom Hayden. As the son of Baby Boomers, I know many people of that generation proudly proclaim their a liation with the counterculture, forever associating politics with their position on the Vietnam War. e phrase, “Never trust anyone over 30,” became a common refrain during the 1960s. Yet some of these same people today (certainly not all) seem o ended by anyone questioning society’s prevailing narratives. In other words, some have become what they once hated. During the Q&A at the Bedford Playhouse, after stating clearly that he was opposed to the Jan. 6 protesters, and that he believed it was an imperfect analogy, Levine made a tangential comparison to them and the Chicago 7. Again, Levine was very careful in his wording and was clear that he opposed what took place on Jan. 6. But for the mere suggestion of a tangential analogy, he was roundly criticized by a person in the audience. Despite this audience member’s obvious a nity for and commitment to the cause espoused by Levine, who exposed the outrageous actions of the judge presiding over the Chicago 7 case, the irony was lost on him. e irony is that despite that audience member’s sympathizing with the counterculture of that era, those who are now enraged by sincere inquiry, open dialogue and debate no longer hold those same values. e counterculture participants of the 1960s generation were the “classical liberals,” who supported questioning and skepticism. Members of the counterculture in 2023 are today’s classical liberals. ey don’t seek to censor people on social media. ey are not o ended by questioning the status quo. ere are no sacred cows. ose who are o ended by questioning the status quo are not classical liberals – they are in fact illiberal. To be clear, the term “classical liberal” has nothing to do with a person’s political party or who they voted for, or how they feel about a host of issues. is is because classical liberals hold all sorts of diverse opinions on the issues of the day. e one thing uniting them is a commitment to sincere inquiry, open dialogue and debate. I use the term “counterculture” and “classical liberal” interchangeably because I believe those who set the agenda of the mainstream culture (those in charge of Hollywood, Wall Street, Silicon Valley and both political parties in Washington) are more protective of their sacred cows than they are about sincere inquiry, open dialogue and debate. Anyone questioning the “accepted” prevailing narrative on any given topic is squarely on the side of the counterculture. Because of such diverse viewpoints, the counterculture creates strange bedfellows. It always has. e shift of many from liberalism to illiberalism is why stand-up comedians, particularly Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock, have been excoriated for their jokes. Humor has no sacred cows. It is the last vestige of a free society. When humor disappears, be afraid. e shift of many from liberalism to illiberalism is also why award-winning Hollywood director Oliver Stone said in an interview in 2020 that he wouldn’t have been able to establish a career if he was just starting out today. It’s why famous liberal comedian and political commentator Bill Maher is now considered by many to be right wing. It’s also why Robert Kennedy Jr., prominent feminist author Naomi Wolf, famous liberal investigative journalist Glenn Greenwald and former Congresswoman and Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee Tulsi Gabbard have all found themselves on the outs among “progressives.” All of the above people have dared to question the o cial mainstream narrative on various topics. Getting into speci cs, Stone’s powerful and nuanced lms clearly Some have become what they once hated BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER’S MEMO SEEFREEMANPAGE 13
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We specialize in interior and exterior painting for residential and commercial customers based in Westchester County, NY. We also do basic maintenance and repairs. Our team is fully licensed and insured, so you can be sure that your home will be taken care of by highly skilled professionals who know what they’re doing. Contact Rick Cook TODAY! 914-486-8905 [email protected] rpcpaintingandcontracting.com FREE ESTIMATES! FREEMAN FROM PAGE 12 sympathize with the anti-Vietnam War movement of the 1960s, but his commentary today about the war in Ukraine remains outside acceptable cultural dialogue. is is the same for Gabbard, who ran for president in the 2020 Democrat primaries. Meanwhile, Maher, in his HBO show “Real Time with Bill Maher,” is an outspoken Democrat, but he has been making headlines recently for his critique of cancel culture in his own party. And of course, Kennedy, who is the scion of Democrat Party royalty, holds the party line about everything except for the topic of vaccines, and for that, the rst sentence on his Wikipedia page as of press time states that he promotes propaganda and conspiracy theories. Similarly, Wolf, a hero of liberal feminist political thought with her book, “ e Beauty Myth,” and who advised the Clinton-Gore campaign in 1996, has also been excoriated for her views on vaccine mandates. Finally, Greenwald was a hero on the left for writing about violations of American civil liberties following the 9/11 attacks. He continues to write about the violation of American civil liberties in 2023, and for that, he is roundly criticized by some of the same people who applauded his journalism during the George W. Bush Administration. To be fair, some of those people who criticized Greenwald during the Bush Administration are now applauding him. My commitment to classical liberal values remains the overarching theme of my political commentary. True classical liberals aren’t dogmatic followers of anything except their commitment to open dialogue and debate. Wearing my journalist hat, a couple of years ago, I joined a secret private Facebook group, the name of which I shall not reveal, consisting of members strongly skeptical of the COVID vaccine’s e cacy. To be clear, I received multiple doses of the COVID vaccine, as did my wife and two children. All of us still came down with the virus. My wife has been infected three times, and is still su ering from long-COVID following her rst bout in August 2021. It left her with debilitating asthma. So, does the vaccine really work? e published data suggests that the vaccine does indeed moderate severity and it reduces incidences of hospitalizations and death. While I accept that data-based observation, as a journalist, I am inherently sympathetic to people who are skeptical, ask questions, question the data and arrive at di erent conclusions. at is journalists’ sacred obligation. e Facebook group I joined — as an observer — used secret terminology in lieu of the word “vaccine,” as they were vulnerable to censorship, and group members didn’t want their page taken down. As a person committed to classical liberal values, I was curious and wanted to hear from all sides on such important issues. I know some of our readers are now shaking their heads in disapproval and are angry with me for being so irresponsible as to listen to conspiracy theorists, but please hear me out. Forget about COVID for one second. If I was the head research scientist for a great vaccine to prevent the next scary virus, and I was in possession of compelling evidence that the vaccine I invented was harmless and would save countless lives, the LAST thing I would do would be to create a culture where those who questioned it had to use secretive terminology on social media. ere is no greater way to harm your own cause than to exacerbate people’s paranoia through censorship. In reality, I’m far less animated by or motivated by the topic of vaccines (or any of the other topics touched upon in this column). I am, however, opposed to anyone’s e orts to sti e debate and open dialogue. My commitment to classical liberal values is why I’m writing this piece. Such questioning of the o cial narrative has led to many important twists and turns in American history. For example, some media outlets were initially ridiculed for spreading “misinformation” when they reported about the Wuhan lab leak theory, but now even the FBI is saying it was the likely cause of the pandemic. Going back to Levine, regardless of the criticism leveled against the imperfect analogy he made during the Q&A at the Bedford Playhouse, Levine seems to be a man unwilling to be forced into any speci c political categories. “I put up a lawn sign saying, ‘ ank You Yorktown Police,’ and right next to it is a ‘Black Lives Matter’ sign,” Levine said in a December 2020 interview with Halston Media. “What gets the most attention are the extremists on the right and the extremists on the left. But there are a lot of us in the middle who believe in doing things the right way.” My own sincere hope as an American is that we return to our nation’s historical commitment to open dialogue. at is what drives progress. My sincere hope as a journalist is that freedom of the press and journalists’ obligation to question and search for the truth, wherever that may lead us, prevail. I’m way too young to hold any political positions about a war in the 1960s, but I think my commitment to open dialogue and debate puts me squarely on the side of the 1960s counterculture and the classical liberals, and I’m proud of that.
PAGE 14 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES OPINION APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 our 4th straight year! New Customers2023 BEST OF SOMERS AWARD awarded annually by THE SOMERS AWARD PROGRAM $ 20 OFF FIRST EXAM! (914)248.6220 268 ROUTE 202 / SOMERS,NY 10589 • Progressive-Vet.com 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 SAVE WITH OUR LOW C.O.D. You can be forgiven if you missed the national observance of Sunshine Week, which occurred the week of March 16. e movement was rst launched in 2005 by the American Society of News Editors to promote transparency and open government. e date was picked since it is the birthday of James Madison, considered by many to be the father of our Constitution. Over a half-dozen good government groups were present in Albany to press for reform in New York’s Freedom of Information (FOIL) and Open Meetings laws, but as in the past, little is expected in terms of legislation. Di erent bills were brought forward in the Assembly and state Senate, but without corresponding bills in the opposite chambers, it is certain that nothing will happen. A Daily News headline captured the moment: “Cloudy forecast for Sunshine Week.” It goes without saying that New York is a laggard compared to other states when it comes to transparency in government, even though they were one of the rst states to pass Freedom of Information legislation in the wake of Watergate. e original legislation said, “ e people’s right to know the process of governmental decisionmaking and to review the documents and statistics leading to determinations is basic to our society.” Although New York was rst to the party, the state legislature has shown no leadership in transparency when compared to their peers since the original legislation was signed. e laws need to catch up with the times, since nearly all information produced by the government at all levels is digital. One bright spot is Open Book New York, maintained by the comptroller, which provides a searchable database of some government contracts. All agencies should be required to participate. A lot of time and resources are consumed with the FOIL process of ling “mother may I” information requests, which must be worded carefully and speci cally or the requests will be denied. e system could be dramatically improved by proactively publishing more information rather than waiting for the requests to roll in. After all, the information is, theoretically at least, not a secret. Some have suggested creating an ombudsman’s o ce to help shepherd rst timers through the process of ling information requests. Years ago, I represented a company called Open Gov that provides economical software to publish government information to the web. I naïvely thought that it would be a no-brainer for most local governments, county and town. Everyone in government talks about improving transparency, but when the rubber hits the road, enthusiasm wanes. It wasn’t as popular an idea as I thought, at least from those in government. Florida and Texas are among a few innovative leaders in transparency and open government. Maybe more sunshine leads to better sunshine laws. Everyone jokes about internet stories that start with “Florida man.” Most of these crazy stories are mined by Google, since every police agency in Florida is required to le their arrest records within 24 hours. County real estate records in Florida are available through clickable maps linked to all of the property information. In Texas, state law requires that government entities must publish their checkbooks online. at rule saves millions for those who previously had to FOIL that information. You can’t get any more transparent than that. Many transparency reforms could be started now by local governments without waiting for new legislation from Albany. For starters, publish all noncon dential information to the web, including property information, checking transactions and public safety information. ose are not di cult steps and would go a long way towards improving transparency and providing better service to the public. Town government should take the lead on sunshine laws DON SCOTT IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 OPINION THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 15 Dear Dr. Linda, Ethan is in the eighth grade and struggling in almost every subject. He always does his homework and does OK on tests when I work with him. But that means I literally have to repeat myself over and over again for him to understand what I’m saying, and even then he doesn’t always get it. When he does, though, he even remembers things he learned in elementary school. We’ve had him tested and seems his hearing is ne and he doesn’t have ADD. He’s a sweet kid, but I think something is wrong. Do you have any ideas about what could be going on? -Ethan’s mom Dear Ethan’s mom, ere are Ethans in every school who are bright children, but who struggle in school because they miss what the teacher is saying. It often begins way back in preschool and kindergarten when, for instance, a teacher tells children to put away what they’re doing, take a mat and come and sit on the oor for story time. When the Ethans don’t immediately end up on the oor sitting on their mats, the teacher reprimands them for not listening and paying attention. e problem, though, is not that they weren’t listening and paying attention—it’s that they didn’t understand or were confused. It’s frustrating for teachers, I know. It happens so often in elementary school that many teachers have resorted to a rule: “Ask three, then me.” What those teachers mean, of course, is that before they will repeat what they said to the class, he must ask three other children what was said or what s/ he needs to be doing. (Never mind that there’s probably also a rule about talking to neighbors in class.) You said it yourself. One time through isn’t enough for students like Ethan to understand oral directions or new material. And for kids like him, there’s nothing quite as motivation-destroying as hearing things like, “If you were paying attention, you’d know what I said,” or “I just said that,” when you know you were paying attention but just can’t connect the dots. By the time they reach middle or high school, these children often give up and check out. So, what is going on? If you have to repeat things over and over for Ethan to understand what you’re saying, it may be that he has an auditory processing disorder. at means that he can’t quickly put what he hears together to make sense out of it. ( ink of the adults you know who don’t get a joke until someone tells it again or even explains it—it isn’t that they’re not listening to you, is it?) Children and adults with APD don’t process what they hear as quickly as others. Some have trouble recognizing slight di erences in the sounds of words, especially if there’s a lot of background noise, as in an elementary school classroom, for instance. • If you’re a teacher, please throw out the rule “Ask three, then me.” Yes, it’s out of the question if you have 20 to 30 kids to repeat everything to each child individually. But, chances are that it’s not every child—the children who ask you again and again are the same ones most of the time. By telling them to leave you alone and ask other children (who may not understand what you said, either), you are really telling them that they’re not worthy of your attention. Note which children keep asking you what they should be doing, contact their parents and have them make an appointment with an audiologist to make sure it’s not a hearing problem, and if hearing is OK, consult a school or private psychologist for testing. ere could be other reasons for the behavior, too—children with ADHD, short-term memory issues, or di culty hearing speci c sounds often exhibit the same symptoms. • If you’re a parent, as with the teachers, I understand you get frustrated and annoyed, especially when it happens over and over. But a child who keeps asking you to repeat what you’ve said has a problem he isn’t equipped to solve for himself. As his parent, you need to determine the source of the problem. Contact your pediatrician and ask for references so you can have your child evaluated by an audiologist, neurologist and/or psychologist. In the meantime, Ethan’s mom, when you work with him, • Remember to show him the same respect that you’d show an adult. If a friend asked you to repeat something you said, would you accuse her of not paying attention? • Have him explain to you—in his own words—what he thinks he has heard from you or in class. If he doesn’t get it, you’ll know. And remember…just because you say it over and over doesn’t mean he understands a concept or what he’s supposed to do. • Preview with him what is going to be taught before he hears it in class. If exposed to the terms and material before he hears them when his teacher talks about them in class, he has a better chance of connecting what is said. A few simple changes may make a world of di erence for Ethan. -Dr. Linda If you want to learn more, contact Dr. Linda Silbert by visiting her at www. StrongLearning.com. Teachers, throw out the ‘ask three’ mantra DR. 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PAGE 16 THE MT. KISCO-B BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER It was standing room only at last month’s exciting and educational display of Indian culture and tradition in Mount Kisco. Sponsored by the local arts council and held at the town library on Sunday, March 19, the event featured dozens of colorfully costumed dancers and singers from all over Westchester County. All were students of the talented Radhika Bahl, who also performed. e folk dances, songs, their places of origin in India, and the women and girls who brought them to life were: · “Chanting for blessings”: Akshitha Deepu. · “ iruvathira Kali” (Kerala): Latika Unni, Radhika Bahl, Litty Samuel, Jayanthi Menon, Julie Asaripparambil, and Diana Bennett. · “Kavadi Chindu” (Tamil Nadu): Rebecca Bennette, Zara Chowllur, Leah omas, Ava Joy, Sarah RobinRaju, and Sheara Eldho. · “Koli” ( sher folk dance): Julia Joseph, Anabel Samuel, Aquena Joison, and Elizabeth Asari. · “Garba-Dandia” (Gujarat): Ann Karottu, AnnMarie omas, Angeleena Prince, Annriya Prince, Aliza Vattakalam, and Riya Alex. · “Bhangra” (the Punjab region): Latika Unni, Radhika Bahl, Rakhee Sikriwal, Sarika Sunku, Sushma Jaiswal, Nithya Narayana, Tina Samuel, Akshitha Deepu, Arathi Shetty, and Dhilan Shetty. Culture & Tradition PHOTOS: CAROL REIF Indian dance display in Mount Kisco THE MT. KISCO-B
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PAGE 18 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 Sophia Rodriguez PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI Valentina DeLuca Sienna Greco Hannah Getman Foxes overcome Ossining! PHOTOS: ROB DIANTONIO Jack Cicchelli makes his move. Owen Baker makes his way through a stick check. Will Oliverio gains possession. BOYS LACROSSE A number of Fox Lane’s student-athletes were recognized for their outstanding performance during the 2022- 23 winter season. Go Foxes! Boys Basketball Niko Dent - All-League Matt Toscano - All-Section Girls Basketball Lauren Antolino - All-League Maddie Broghammer - All-League Boys Ice Hockey Mikey Toole - All-League Girls Ice Hockey Wallis Kellerher-Ferguson - All-Section Boys Skiing Ethan Anthony - All-Section John Hamilton - All-Section Boys Swimming Dylan Gourlay - All-Section Brendan Morgan - All-League, All-Section Boys Winter Track Noah Bender - All-Section Girls Winter Track Morgan Eigel - All-League Wrestling Alex Berisha - All-Section Nathan Brauning - All-Section Justin Gierum - All-Section Brandon Lee - All-League Jake Long - All-League Wilmer Navarro - All-League Barron Ransom - All-League Francesco Ruggiero - All-League Tyler Stermassi - All-League Fox Lane Winter Athletic Awards Sophia Rodriguez PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI Foxes come out swinging! Fox Lane was on top of their game on March 30 when they took the fi eld against the Wolves. The Foxes poured on the runs, battering John Jay’s pitching en route to a huge 12-0 win. SOFTBALL Fox Lane hit the road on April 4, coming away with a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Riverhawks.
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 LEISURE THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 19 You never know who, living among us, may go on to acquire a measure of public recognition. It could be a neighbor down the road, or your child’s classmate. Recently, an alumna of North Salem High School, Lt. Peggy Dente, was part of the rst all-female U.S. Navy yover at the Super Bowl, as reported in this newspaper last month. Yorktown alone has produced its own cavalcade of stars that range from a regular host on Turner Classic Movies (Dave Karger) and a WWE wrestling superstar (Amanda Saccamanno, aka Mandy Rose) to an NBC New York TV journalist (Jessica Cunnington), a world-touring country singer-songwriter (Jessica Lynn), and a budding actor who’s been on NCIS Hawaii and Net ix Biblical series “ e Chosen” (Andrew Dispensa). ere’s even a Jeopardy winner in our midst, Somers High alumna Katie Palumbo, currently of Amawalk. ere also are those who are luminous on a grand scale, yet whose fame stays under the radar. THE CAPA SPACE World-class photographer Robert Capa is one such buried treasure, literally. His gravesite is in the Amawalk Friends Cemetery in Yorktown Heights. Amawalk now is the site of a newly completed education and exhibition photography center whose name pays homage to him and brother Cornell – e Capa Space. Robert was “a groundbreaking photojournalist who placed himself in the middle of military con icts to document the destruction of lives and property while also capturing the survivors who marched on through life, the human spirit in triumph over unspeakable adversity.” Cornell (interred at Amawalk Cemetery along with their mother) had his own estimable career, and founded the International Center of Photography in Manhattan. Calling Robert Capa a photographer is like calling Elon Musk a tinkerer. His legacy and his in uence invoke immortals of the 20th Century whom befriended him and admired not only his talent but his generosity of spirit and erudition. Who did he hang with? Only the likes of Hemingway, Steinbeck and Picasso – for starters. MORE THAN 50 PHOTOS Starting last week and running through Oct. 8, the space named for him will present an exhibition of more than 50 of his photographs under the title “ is Is Robert Capa!” His images, says e Capa Center, “set the bar for all subsequent war photography.” Robert Capa, who was killed by a land mine at 40, was a recipient of the Medal of Freedom, in recognition of an extraordinary 20-year career behind the camera, traversing theaters of battle throughout the world. His Wikipedia entry says, “He is considered by some to be the greatest combat and adventure photographer in history.” e intrepid and tightly focused Capa deliberately headed into “embattled regions to document war, and in his work inevitably caught images of children in harm’s way.” His peripatetic nature landed him not only in the second World War, but also in four others, including the Indochina War and the Spanish Civil War. HEMINGWAY + HITCHCOCK It was during that con ict that Capa and Ernest Hemingway bonded, a relationship portrayed by the adventuring novelist in “For Whom the Bell Tolls.” Capa reportedly is the basis too of the James Stewart character in Alfred Hitchcock’s suspense classic “Rear Window.” Capa’s exploits extend even to playing poker on a movie set with director John Huston, author Truman Capote and iconic actor Humphrey Bogart. e man was a veritable celebrity magnet. Another bold-face name, “Of Mice and Men” author John Steinbeck, said of his friend, “Capa’s work is itself the picture of a great heart and an overwhelming compassion. No one can take his place. No one can take the place of any ne artist, but we are fortunate to have in his pictures the quality of the man.” BONUS FEATURES During the exhibit’s run, two other features are in the works, with dates to be determined. One is a talk by Hamilton College professor of history and photography, Nadya Bair. Also in development is a theatrical piece titled “George and Ruth: Songs and Letters from the Spanish Civil War.” e two-person play dramatizes the true story of George and Ruth Watt, adapted from the letters they wrote while George was ghting the fascists in Spain and Ruth was at home in New York City. Yorktowner Elise Graham, one of “ e Capa Space” board’s seven founding directors (which includes another Yorktown resident, architect Tim Hartung), said, “I’d love to thank the community for their support of our inaugural exhibition ‘Empathy and Empowerment’ by photographer Jose Alvarado Jr., who grew up in Yorktown, attended Yorktown High School and is now a photographer for e New York Times.” e Capa Space is at 2467 Quaker Church Road, in Yorktown Heights, and runs until Oct. 8. Gallery hours are from 1 to 5 p.m. ursday, Friday, Sunday, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. For more information, visit eCapaSpace. org. From June 2-4, Bruce will play the title role in “Tuesdays with Morrie” for e Armonk Players at the Whippoorwill eatre. All shows are free of charge. [email protected]; 914-275-6887. Wartime sharpshooter without a gun Robert Capa photos are focus of exhibit Soldier Saluting at Farewell Ceremony for the International Brigade, Spain, 1938. PHOTO BY ROBERT CAPA, FROM THE ROBERT AND CORNELL CAPA ARCHIVE AT THE INTERNATIONAL CENTER OF PHOTOGRAPHY This Is Robert Capa! Gallery hours 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Sunday, and from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, through Oct. 8 Location 2467 Quaker Church Road, in Yorktown Heights. TheCapaSpace.org BRUCE APAR BRUCE THE BLOG
PAGE 20 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES LEISURE APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle! For puzzle solutions, please see theparamountrehab.com CLUES ACROSS 1. Atomic mass unit 4. Criticize mightily 7. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.) 10. Stand in for 11. Everyone has one 12. Brew 13. Rectify 15. Popular Dodge truck model 16. Beef or chicken intestine 19. Satisfy 21. Of a particular people or localized region 23. Movements in quick tempos 24. Able to pay one’s debts 25. Fleshy bird beak covering 26. Dueling sword 27. Helps 30. Court is in it 34. Touch lightly 35. Airborne (abbr.) 36. Of one 41. Baked good 45. Jai __, sport 46. About aviation 47. Low oval mound 50. Rugged mountain ranges 54. Compel to do something 55. A way to carve 56. Sao __, city in Brazil 57. Mustachioed actor Elliott 59. American Idol runner-up Clay 60. A way to soak 61. Car mechanics group 62. Born of 63. Time zone 64. Sea eagle 65. Even’s opposite CLUES DOWN 1. Sharp mountain ridge 2. Thin, fibrous cartilages 3. Provides new details 4. Muscular weaknesses 5. Ottoman military title 6. Banes 7. Horse-riding seats 8. Arms of a shirt 9. Narrow path along a road edge 13. Viper 14. Disfigure 17. Variety of Chinese language 18. Portray in a show 20. Wrongful act 22. No (slang) 27. State of agitation 28. __ Diego 29. One point east of due south 31. 007’s creator 32. The NBA’s Toppin 33. Midway between north and northeast 37. Examples 38. __ Gould, actor 39. The habitat of wild animals 40. Artful subtlety 41. Infielders 42. Keep under control 43. Herb 44. Distressed 47. A way to go down 48. Type of acid 49. Take by force 51. Collected fallen leaves 52. Shout of welcome or farewell 53. Monetary unit 58. Swiss river When seafood is not the typical rst choice for families, it could be challenging to come up with new ways to prepare sh, crustaceans and more. ose who have exhausted their llets and salmon steak options can look to scallops for inspiration. Scallops are a species of marine bivalve mollusk that come in “bay” and “sea” varieties. e large muscle inside of the scallop, which can sometimes be 2 inches in sea scallops, is cooked and eaten. Bay scallops, which are harvested from the shallow waters of East Coast estuaries and bays, are roughly one-third the size of sea scallops. Bay scallops tend to be more tender than sea scallops, but both can be delicious when prepared correctly. In certain instances, manufacturers will produce “faux” scallops, which actually are chunks cut from certain sharks and stingrays. is recipe for “Seared Scallops with Snow Peas and Orange” from “Real Simple Dinner Tonight: Done!” (Time Home Entertainment) from the Real Simple Kitchen can be a tasty, unique meal when other sh dinners have already been tried. Expand seafood ingredient possibilities Seared Scallops with Snow Peas and Orange Serves 4 1 cup couscous 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons olive oil 16 sea scallops (about 1-1/2 pounds) Kosher salt and black pepper 4 strips orange zest (removed with a vegetable peeler), thinly sliced 1/4 pound snow peas, trimmed and halved lengthwise Cook the couscous according to the package directions. Meanwhile, heat 2 teaspoons of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the scallops dry, season with 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper, and cook until opaque throughout, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm. Wipe out the skillet. Heat the remaining tablespoon of oil in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the orange zest, snow peas, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper and cook, tossing frequently, until the snow peas are just tender, about 2 minutes. Serve with the scallops and couscous.
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 HEALTH & WELLNESS THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 21 I t is a common misconception that only the “uber rich” need an estate plan, when in actuality, everyone should have a plan. In fact, whether you plan, or not, you do have a “plan:” the difference is whether it is the plan you want, or one that New York law decides for you based on the laws of the state. Here are five common estate planning mistakes and pitfalls to avoid! 1. FAILING TO PLAN AND/ OR REVISIT YOUR PLAN REGULARLY Failing to have any plan at all is probably the most common mistake. Statistically, only 42% of U.S. adults have estate planning documents in place and only about 36% of parents with minor children have end-of-life plans in place. While we may at one time or another feel that estate planning is not necessary, technically everyone over the age of 18 should have a plan in place. This plan does not need to be complicated; it can start as a simple Will that indicates who is to receive your assets and who will be entrusted with handling your estate in the event of death, and should also include documents called advance directives that indicate who will handle medical (health care proxy) decisions and financial (power of attorney) decisions, if you were to become incapacitated and unable to make your own personal and financial decisions during your life. Once your plan is in place, it is equally as important to re-visit your plan regularly to confirm that beneficiaries are still alive and those you wish to inherit your assets, and that the individuals you have chosen to handle financial and personal affairs are still as you wish. 2. THINKING A TRUST WILL “OVER COMPLICATE” THINGS OR FAILING TO FUND A TRUST Revocable and/or Irrevocable Trusts are excellent vehicles to avoid “probate” (which is the Surrogate’s Court process validating one’s Last Will and Testament and the Executor gaining access to funds held in one’s name alone after death). They are also excellent vehicles to specify how funds are to be used and/or when they are to be distributed to beneficiaries. The use of a Revocable Trust as the center piece of your estate plan and the proper funding of said trust can eliminate the need for Probate of your Last Will and Testament. 3. RELYING TOO HEAVILY ON BENEFICIARY DESIGNATIONS Many people think that the best way to plan is to have beneficiary designations on all assets. For example, you might have a brokerage account that is in your name alone and names your spouse and/or children as beneficiary. While this is a common “quick fix” to avoiding probate and allows funds to pass to a beneficiary upon death, it can cause more harm than good in certain situations. From a tax planning perspective, important New York and federal estate tax planning techniques can be lost if funds are passed directly to a beneficiary spouse. Additionally, if a beneficiary is a minor and receives the assets, a Guardian of Property must be appointed by the court before the funds are released from the financial institution to said Guardian. These funds would then be held in joint control with the court until the minor beneficiary reaches age of majority. A trust for a minor child could avoid this outcome. Having not only named beneficiaries, but alternate beneficiaries is also important, in the event your named beneficiary does not survive you. Another issue that arises if you appoint a beneficiary(ies) for a bank, brokerage or retirement account is what happens to said account if the beneficiary is not surviving upon your demise. If there is no surviving named beneficiary, then said account will become part of your probate estate and if you have received Medicaid benefits (home care and/or nursing home care), it will be subject to any claims made by Medicaid and/or your creditors. Lastly, funds left directly to named beneficiaries are not necessarily available to pay for the expenses that might need to be paid after your passing. For example, if a single individual were to name one of his siblings as beneficiary on his brokerage account, those funds would go to that sibling at his or her death. If another sibling paid for the funeral and/or other expenses that arose, technically the beneficiary sibling has no obligation to use the funds he/she received to reimburse another, or pay for any expenses of your estate, etc. 4. USING ONLINE TEMPLATES AND FORMS While convenient and cost effective, online templates and forms can inevitably lead to mistakes and/or omissions that cannot be corrected once an individual becomes incapacitated or deceased. Unfortunately, online forms are often incorrectly labeled, outdated, or do not comply with New York specific laws and/or estate and long-termcare planning concerns. 5. KEEPING YOUR ESTATE PLAN AND WISHES A SECRET If you do not share your plan with your agents and/or trusted advisors, it makes their job in the event of incapacity or death very difficult. Having open communication with those you trust and advising them what assets you have and the plans you have put in place, and who they should contact in the event of incapacity/death (doctors, financial advisors, accountants, attorneys) is instrumental to ensuring that your goals are met and wishes followed. Equally important is discussing your end-of-life wishes, including burial arrangements, locations, etc. As you can see from the complexity of the above raised issues, working with an Elder Law and Estate Planning attorney can ensure that you have created a plan that is customized to your needs and correctly reflects your wishes and goals. 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 www.esslawfirm.com. Avoid these estate planning mistakes! LAUREN ENEA GUEST CORNER The law firm of Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP, with offices in Somers and White Plains, is pleased to announce the launch of their 2023 Lunch & Learn Series. Held at noon on the last Wednesday of each month, the free educational programs will shed light on important elder law and estate planning topics. “Many clients come to us when they (or their loved ones) are on the verge of losing everything, which can amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars in assets,” said Anthony J. Enea, the firm’s managing member. “Educating seniors and their families on the need for advanced planning is extremely important to all the attorneys at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano – and it’s never too early to start. There are several planning options available for adults of all ages, yet many remain in the dark.” The ninety-minute programs, which include a light lunch and refreshments, will take place at the firm’s White Plains location and are open to the public at no cost – though space is limited. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register early by calling 914- 948-1500 to reserve their spot. APRIL 26 – AGING IN PLACE: A GUIDE TO GROWING OLDER AT HOME Nearly 90 percent of seniors wish to stay in their own home as they age (source: AARP). Learn how to prepare a home to safely age in place through senior-proofing, necessary legal documents, strategies for bill paying and financial management, as well as an overview of the Medicaid home care program. Presented by Sara Meyers, Esq. & Samantha Lyons, Esq. MAY 31 – ESTATE PLANNING AND YOUR RESIDENCE: WHAT IS A MEDICAID ASSET PROTECTION TRUST? Learn the ins and outs of Medicaid planning as well as options for home buying and selling within the trust. Presented by Anthony J. Enea, Esq. JUNE 28 – PROTECTING YOURSELF AND YOUR LOVED ONES FROM FINANCIAL ELDER ABUSE AND SENIOR SCAMS Often referred to as “the crime of the 21st century,” learn key signs of financial and personal elder abuse, typical scams that are targeted toward the senior population as well as the important estate planning documents to help protect against financial abuse as one ages. Presented by Sara Meyers, Esq. SEPTEMBER 27 – LLCS: THE PROS, CONS AND ESTATE PLANNING For some, an LLC can be a useful tool to pass assets down to loved ones while avoiding or minimizing estate taxes. Discover if an LLC may be right for your estate planning needs as well as how they are used to reduce the risk of personal liability with rental properties. Presentation by Anthony J. Enea, Esq. & Michael P. Enea, Esq. OCTOBER 25 – UNDERSTANDING THE IMPLICATIONS OF GRAY DIVORCE A divorce later in life often adds a level of complexity to the estate and tax plan process. Understand what potential complications may arise and how to address them – from division of assets and tax issues to estate and long-term care planning. Presented by Lauren C. Enea, Esq. The attorneys at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP specialize in elder law planning, asset protection planning, wills, trusts & estates, Medicaid applications (home care and nursing home), guardianships, and special needs planning. The firm has also attained Martindale-Hubbell’s highest rating, AV Preeminent, for superior ethical standards and legal ability. It is located at 245 Main Street in White Plains, with additional offices in Somers. For more information or to schedule a consultation, call 914- 948-1500 or visit esslawfirm. com. Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, launches Lunch & Learn estate planning series
PAGE 22 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES HEALTH & WELLNESS APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 EXCELLENCE IN COSMETIC AND GENERAL DENTAL CARE SINCE 1972 Dr. John J. Browne Dr. Eugene Goetz Dr. Ben Miraglia Dr. Alexandria Rivera Dr. Luke Charms Please welcome Dr. Rivera & Dr. Charms: Now Accepting New Patients! • General Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Dental Implants • Invisalign® Treatment • TMJ Treatment • Smile Makeover 280 N. BEDFORD RD, SUITE 201, MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 BGMDENTAL.COM Schedule Today: 914-200-1018 2009-2023 DENTAL Insurance Physicians Mutual Insurance Company A less expensive way to help get the dental care you deserve Get help paying dental bills and keep more money in your pocket This is real dental insurance — NOT just a discount plan You can get coverage before your next checkup CALL NOW! 1-877-690-2680 Don’t wait! Call now and we’ll rush you a FREE Information Kit with all the details. Product not available in all states. Acceptance is guaranteed for one insurance policy/certifi cate of this type. This specifi c offer is not available in CO: call 1-800-969-4781 for a similar offer. For complete details about this solicitation of insurance, please contact us. Certifi cate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN) 6129-1118 FREE Information Kit 1-877-690-2680 Visit us online at www.dental50plus.com/seasonal No matter how smoothly past visits have gone, many individuals still want to avoid a trip to their dentist’s o ce. But should a toothache arise, only a dentist can get to the root of the issue. Toothaches run the gamut from mild to throbbing to unbearably painful. Toothaches may be temporary, but many persist for some time. Here’s a look at nine reasons for toothaches. • Orthodontic appliances: A common cause of discomfort, orthodontic devices can cause toothaches. e pain is most noticeable immediately after an adjustment, but it may ease as the mouth grows accustomed to the wires or pressure. • Tooth sensitivity: Despite being hard, teeth actually are porous. Certain conditions may cause the enamel on the outside of teeth to wear away. Exposure of the inner layer of the tooth, called dentin, to the air or foods and beverages may result in pain. • Sinus congestion: Sometimes teeth aren’t to blame for mouth pain. Pain that persists in the upper teeth only on both sides of the face may occur due to sinusitis. It often is preceded by nasal congestion. • TMJ: Temporomandibular disorders can cause tooth pain. TMJ may result from injury or trauma to the jaw. Tooth grinding, also known as bruxism, can cause tooth pain. • Impacted wisdom teeth: Wisdom teeth are a dental milestone that takes place between the ages of 17 and 21. Wisdom teeth actually are third molars, and are given the name because they come in at a mature age, according to the American Dental Association. If there isn’t enough space for them, wisdom teeth can cause crowding and pain. When molars do not fully erupt, the result is impacted wisdom teeth, which can be very painful. • Damaged llings or dental sealants: When llings or sealants come out, vulnerable parts of the teeth become exposed. is can result in pain. • Tooth damage: Dental caries, or cavities, can cause toothache, as can tooth abscesses and tooth fractures. • Gum disease: Gum disease may start with mild in ammation and then become more severe if it is left untreated. e in ammation also may a ect the ligament that attaches teeth to the socket in the jaw. is ligament has many nerve bers. When in amed, the nerves can get red up and cause pain. • Food: A kernel of popcorn wedged between teeth or a sharp piece of pizza crust that gets lodged behind a molar can cause pain if not addressed. Toothaches occur for a variety of reasons. Figuring out the cause can lead to e ective relief. is article is from Metro Creative Connection. 9 common causes of toothaches
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 HEALTH & WELLNESS THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 23 With Spring arriving, golfers are flocking to their golf courses to resume their favorite leisure activity. After the Winter idle period, resuming golfing requires proper form and preparation to prevent injuries. GOLFING ENTAILS THE BODY FUNCTIONING AS A UNIT: Playing golf requires your whole body to function together as a unit. With each golf swing, your body undergoes a combination of rotational, compression, stretching, and shearing forces that moves around the stable link, the core. Each club golf swing requires • stability from the core and buttock muscles (Glutes); • flexibility from the torso (thoracic spine) and shoulders; and • balance to have proper swing, as well as to pick up your golf balls NINE PRE-GAME WARMING-UP STRETCHES: Warm-up while you do deep diaphragm breathing to get oxygenated blood from your lungs into your muscles to help relieve tension and bring fuel to your muscles. I recommend the following warming-up stretches: Warm-up, blood circulation March in place bringing your knees high up to your chest: 1. First keep your elbows bent. Do 20 marching steps and bring your opposite elbow to your knee. Exhale as you crunch. Keep marching; and 2. Bend your arms sideways, like a goal post. Pull your elbows and arms forward in front of your chest and open your shoulder blades. Open your elbows sideways again and squeeze your shoulder blades together. Alternate the movement as you march. Breathing deep in and out with your diaphragm, and you’re your shoulders and neck relaxed. Do for 20 marching steps. Flexibility for your thoracic spine 3. Stand with your legs shoulder-width apart, knees straight. Slide with your one hand down the side of your thigh in a side bend and bring your other arm over your head to feel the stretch along your side. (Side bend as if you are standing between two walls one in front and one behind your back to prevent bending forward.) Do slow stretches and exhale as you bend sideways. Repeat 5 times. 4. Feet shoulder-width apart and knees bent. Hold your club horizontally in front of your chest with hands onto the ends. Keep your core and glutes tight and rotate your thoracic spine and shoulders from one side to the other side, follow with your head. Stretch slow and controlled and exhale as you turn. Repeat 5 times. Glutes and core stability 5. Hold onto your club with your right hand. Place the handle end on the ground at about 45 degrees angle in front of your body. Lift your right knee up in a stork stance, squeezing your left glutes and core and rotate your right knee wide open and close. Use your left arm to follow your body to balance. Repeat 10 times. Switch the club to your left hand and repeat with left leg. Keep your torso, neck and shoulders relaxed. 6. Stand with your legs wide apart and feet slightly turned out. Keep your back straight, hinge from your hips. Slide with your hands down on your thighs as you bend down into a deep squat pushing your knees open with your elbows, come to resting with your forearms/elbows onto your thighs as you squat down. Exhale as you squat down, inhale 3 times holding the squat and exhale as you come up to the upright position tucking your core and glutes and lifting your ribcage to come to the upright position again. Repeat about 3 times. Balance - control your body in space 7. Hold your club horizontally in front at shoulder-height with hands onto the ends. Lunge forward, keep your core and glutes tight. Bend deep into your front knee (while keeping your back leg straight). Rotate your body and torso slowly from side to side and keep your balance. You can modify this balance stretch by bending your back knee and lean onto your back knee to help stabilize your body. Repeat rotation 5 times, then tighten your core and glutes to come to upright position (push with your club on the ground to assist you coming up if you need to). Repeat with other leg in front. 8. Hold your club horizontally in front at shoulder-height with hands onto the ends. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent. Shift your weight over to your right leg and, at the same time, turn your body with the club to the right. Then sway your body to the left and shift your weight onto your left leg. Alternate the weight shifts from right to left 10 times. Exhale as you transfer the body from side to side. Keep your balance and do not tense your muscles. Cool down and get your mind and body connected for your game 9. Hold onto your club, get into your set-up stage. Quiet your mind from distracting thoughts and feel the energy and blood flow from you neck, shoulder, thoracic spine into your lower back, glutes, thighs to your feet grounding you. Gently mimic the phases of your golf swing: from your set-up into your takeaway, to your backswing. Weight shift and prepare with gentle movements to get ready to transition into your downswing impact and swing through. If you experience any pain or tightness doing any of the warm-up exercises, please contact your physical therapist or reach out to me as all exercises can be modified. LIZE LUBBE GUEST CORNER ADVERTORIAL Lize Lubbe is the owner of Lize Lubbe Physical Therapy with its main practice located at 892 Route 35 in Cross River and a PT Studio in the premises of Apex Fitness (where her team focus on the rehabilitation of sports-related injuries). Learn more by calling 914-875-9430, emailing [email protected] or visiting www. lizelubbept.com. GOLF: 9 WARMING-UP STRETCHES FOR 9 HOLES to prevent injuries Lize Lubbe Physical Therapy (LLPT) has opened a PT Studio on the premises of Apex Fitness (at Orchard Square at Cross River) to focus on sports-related physical therapy rehabilitation services. Our PT Studio at Apex will serve the needs of high school and college athletes, runners, golfers and tennis players, devotees and “weekend warrior” work-out gym members, and non-gym members, and other sport enthusiasts to continue their fitness goals, free of pain and to restore full pain-free mobility after injury. Our PT Studio will be staffed with physical therapists who specialize in working with athletes, young and old. Our team provides dedicated, personable hands-on physical therapy rehabilitation services to help you prevent injuries and, if injured, to accelerate your recovery. www.lizelubbept.com [email protected] 914.875.9430 PT Studio at Apex Fitness Orchard Square at Cross River 20 North Salem Rd., Cross River, NY 10518 The professional services of our team at the PT Studio include the following: • A free walk-in basic sports-related injury screening of about10 minutes • Guidance on sport-specific warm-up and exercise programs • Brief assessment and Kinesio taping • Individualized full PT rehabilitation treatment programs to recover from injury or surgery with full access to all the equipment at Apex Fitness, to get you back practicing your chosen sport, pain-free
PAGE 24 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER What are the odds? Within days of deciding to reach out to the public for help, the family of John Fiscella, a 54-year-old Somers man who was desperately in need of a new kidney, got a life-changing voicemail. It came from Maryjean Lugo, a Somers mom whose 22-year-old son, Vincent, had just passed away. She and her husband, Bill, were hoping to donate his vital organs to someone in the community. e Lugos had heard about the Fiscella family’s plight, were touched by the fact that he and their son had both graduated from Somers High School and that they were both musicians, and wondered if they could do something. at was Tuesday morning, March 14. e message “came out of the blue,” said an awestruck Heide Fiscella, John’s wife. A diabetic, Fiscella was in endstage renal failure. e popular guitar teacher had been on dialysis for more than a year and was on a waitlist for a kidney transplant. ( eir son, Eddie, 21, a pianist, is studying music at his dad’s alma mater, Berklee College of Music in Boston.) He was sleeping 15 hours a day and no longer had much energy for lessons, much less the performances he used to give at local venues such as the Wright-Reis Homestead in Somers. ings had gotten so bad health-wise that the family feared this past Christmas might be his “last,” Fiscella said, good-naturedly joking that he got so many presents – including a race car set – that he felt “like a kid again.” A lifelong asthma su erer, Vincent Lugo had collapsed at home after a severe attack late the previous Friday. He was rushed to the hospital and had to be placed on life support. Doctors there told the family that he had also tested positive for COVID. On Sunday, his parents got the heart-wrenching news that the damage to their beloved son’s brain -- due to lack of oxygen -- was irreversible. He was declared legally dead the following day. ey instinctively knew that their son – who was described as sel ess, kind, generous, and talented by those who knew him – would have wanted to give someone the precious gift of life. And it would be a comfort to them, too, to feel that he was going on somehow. e Lugos turned to LiveOnNY. e nonpro t is a federally designated organ procurement organization for the greater New York City area. After calling the Lugos back Tuesday – which she said was very “emotional” – Fiscella gave them her husband’s information and the number of the transplant team at Westchester Medical Center. (Directed organ requests have to originate from the donor’s family.) At that point, there was no way of knowing if the two men would be a match. Less than three hours later, the Fiscellas got a call from the Valhalla hospital. “Can you get down here, like now?” they were asked. “ ey didn’t give any names or information because they didn’t know how much we knew. ey just said we have a kidney for you, but people wait for years on the list for something like that. So we knew that this was no coincidence. It had to be them,” Heide Fiscella said. Fiscella had to go through more screening to assess the risk of rejection. Tests were being conducted almost right up to the moment they wheeled him into the operating room. “We were very nervous about being disappointed,” his wife said. He passed with ying colors and underwent successful transplant surgery early Wednesday. e Lugos con rmed this week that they had donated Vincent’s kidneys, heart, and liver, which means their son saved Fiscella’s and three other lives. HOW DID THIS COME TO BE? So how did the two families come together so quickly? Heide had written a plea for help, which she passed to A precious gift Two families share bittersweet story Vincent Lugo John Fiscella REGIONAL SEE GIFT PAGE 25 WHERE HORSE & RIDER BECOME ONE A Unique & Outstanding Horse Riding Experience 21 Waccabuc River Lane, South Salem 203-613-1146 • hazelnutfarmny.com Hazelnut Farms is a full service barn offering two levels of board and horseback riding lessons in Dressage, Hunter, Jumper and Equitation. We teach Students of all ages and skill levels, including new riders and those who want to rediscover their love for horses. BOARDING • LESSONS • TRAINING • LEASING HazelnutFarm Est. 2007 Prepare for power outages today WITH A HOME STANDBY GENERATOR $0 MONEY DOWN + LOW MONTHLY PAYMENT OPTIONS Contact a Generac dealer for full terms and conditions *To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions. REQUEST A FREE QUOTE CALL NOW BEFORE THE NEXT POWER OUTAGE (844) 536-2370 FREE 7-Year Extended Warranty* – A $695 Value!
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YOUR ENTIRE PURCHASE* 20 + % % OFF 10OFF FREE GUTTER ALIGNMENT + FREE GUTTER CLEANING* her mother-in-law, Rose, to distribute. (Neither she nor their son was a suitable donor. On the national transplant list for a year, they also had yet to be crossmatched.) Unfortunately, this wasn’t the first time the Fiscella family has had to go through something like this. In 2018, John’s brother, Matt, was suffering from chronic kidney disease. The dad of three and a 1989 Somers High School grad was undergoing dialysis three times a week in order to stay alive. He put the word out via Facebook and a living donor emerged. The transplant was a success and the Fiscellas and that person’s family have kept in touch ever since. Rose Fiscella thought if a public plea worked once, it could work again. “I said, let’s try it. What do we have to lose? Now that it’s turned out fine, it feels like we won the lottery twice,” she said, adding that there weren’t words to adequately describe the Lugos’ “unbelievable” act of generosity. Rose then passed Heide’s email to a friend, Corinne Stanton, a Halston Media account executive who has lots of connections in the community. Stanton immediately sent it to Somers Record editor Tom Walogorsky on Friday, March 10. Maryjean Lugo works as a library aide at Somers Intermediate School. On Monday, March 13, she contacted SIS Acting Principal Linda Belger to see if she could get the word out that they hoping to find community members in need of a transplant. Belger thought alerting the local newspaper would attract a wider audience. She reached out to the school district’s spokesperson, Amanda Bergen, who contacted Walogorsky. Putting two and two together, he sent the Fiscellas’ note to Bergen, who passed it to Belger. The district’s email was sent to Stanton. Belger contacted Maryjean, who then left a voicemail with the Fiscellas. And a life-saving connection was made. Calling back was rough, John Fiscella recalled. “We didn’t know what to do. We were like, this is the person’s worst hour of need, their lowest point. How do you call somebody? What do you say? We were crying but she held up pretty good,” he said of Lugo. THE ‘CAT WHISPERER’ Teacher Matt Ridgeway said on Facebook that it “was a privilege to have (had) the chance to teach and mentor Vin at Somers High School.” Calling him an “unforgettable kid who shared positivity, kindness, and his great smile with so many people,” Ridgeway said Lugo will “be sorely missed.” If his mother had to name that special something that made Vincent so memorable to so many it would be: charism. And it wasn’t just people, animals were charmed too. His family jokingly called him the “cat whisperer.” One of their favorite photos shows the big tough-looking guy gently cradling his favorite feline, Lucky. Music was Lugo’s biggest thing. After getting his first drum kit at age 13, he went on to play guitar and bass, sing, and write songs. When a teenager, he went to the School of Rock in Bedford. While not currently in a band himself, Lugo was a great supporter of those who were and was known to perform with his favorite groups. Mother and son bonded over music. She introduced him to rock and roll and other genres of her generation. He grew up listening to the Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath, Styx, and Journey. The first live concert they attended together was put on by Jon Bon Jovi in Central Park. Vin was seven. At nine, he rocked out to KISS. As a teen, he discovered metalcore, a fusion of extreme metal and hardcore punk. While not all of that type of heavy music was her thing, Maryjean went along when she could. “I was supporting his passion,” she explained. Once Lugo learned to drive, he started taking himself “all over the place,” Maryjean said, noting that he “attended just about any show that he could.” And that’s what people remember most about him, how supportive he was of other musicians. “He was just a shining light in that community,” his mom said. When not at his day job as a postal carrier in South Salem, he would hang out with his girlfriend, Aviana, or go out with his dad to hit a few golf balls at the driving range or to catch a car show. Vin could be a little introspective. When in need of some alone time, he would drive over to Bear Mountain, a quiet spot where he could take in nature and relax. “He found that comforting, I think,” Maryjean added. Calling her late son “a good soul” and her “whole world,” she hopes that she, his loved ones, and friends find some comfort in his last act of kindness. The fact that he has helped another musician seems like “it was meant to be,” Lugo said, adding: “Here is this 22-yearold kid and he was able to give the gift of life. It’s a testament to who he was.” THANKS AREN’T ENOUGH The fact that John’s donor was so close in age to their own son really hit home for the Fiscellas. “I can’t even imagine what they’re (the Lugos) are going through. A thank-you doesn’t even seem to scratch the surface, but I’m thinking of them night and day for what they’ve done. For Maryjean to be so brave to make that phone call, right after losing her son, to reach out and call to see if there was something they could do, it’s just mindblowing,” Heide said. Asked to jump in, John wasn’t shy about expressing his gratitude. “First of all, anyone you know gets free guitar lessons for life. Second, of all, just big hugs all around and if they need anything … I know you’re not supposed to give them money or anything like that … maybe a little gift box for Christmas,” he said. GIFT FROM PAGE 24
PAGE 26 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 Add Value to Your Home We specialize in targeted home improvements — both big and small — to maximize your home’s value,comfort and beauty. • Bathroom Remodeling • Kitchen Remodeling • Durable Vinyl Siding • Room Additions • Add-a-Levels • • Replacement Windows • General Carpentry • Basement Finishing • Painting • Interior Trim • Handy Man • Sero’s Contracting When we’re done, there is nothing left to do. Licensed & Insured • Local References • Brewster, NY • 845-216-1955 • 845-279-6977 • [email protected] CELL TOWER FROM PAGE 1 SEE CELL TOWER PAGE 27 Board’s March 28 meeting. “We’re going to get a cell tower. at’s a given,” he said. If the tower is approved at 180 South Bedford Road, the village needs to make sure it’s a “standard for how you do things right,” Phillips opined, adding: “We’re not going to get perfect here; we’re going to get the best. e idea is to reduce the impact as much as we can.” Noting that the village’s hands are “a bit tied” because of federal law, board member Barbara Roppolo agreed that “there has to be a cell tower somewhere.” Knowing that, the village is trying to “make the best of an undesirable situation,” she said. WHAT LED TO THIS POINT Wireless carriers have been trying to close what they say are cell coverage gaps along the Route 172 corridor for years. In the fall of 2018, Homeland approached the village about putting a tower at Leonard Park or near a water tank at Mount Kisco Chase, a private residential community. e following January, trustees concluded that neither the Chase nor the park sites were good ts. In 2020, Homeland submitted an application for site plan approval for a cell tower at 180 South Bedford Road. at application was still on the table in 2022 when the village revisited the Leonard Park option, citing a desire to keep the facility as far away from homes as possible. To do that, however, meant it had to nd another parcel of land to use for public recreational purposes. at led to public hearings last year on the parkland alienation question and on whether the village should acquire 180 South Bedford Road via eminent domain. Suggestions for alternate locations came from several corners of the community. EMINENT DOMAIN PATH e owners of the property were listed in a 2022 Environmental Assessment Form as Skull Island Partners LLC. e proposed “action” detailed in the EAF submitted by the village was described as “condemnation of privately owned lands for the preservation of open space, forest, and creation of passive and active recreation, public utilities, and related improvements of the subject property.” It noted that the property contained forests and wetlands and was located in a state-listed Critical Environmental Area because of its “exceptional or unique character.” e acquisition would result in only seven of the 25 acres being “disturbed,” the EAF noted. e Village Board determined that its acquisition of the property for public use would not have any “signi cant environmental impacts” and, therefore, it wasn’t necessary to prepare a full Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). e village sent a letter to Skull Island Partners LLC C/O David Seldin of Tierra Verde, Fla. notifying it of its intentions to acquire the land through eminent domain. Signed by Village Manager Ed Brancati, it said: “ e condemnee has acknowledged its willingness to sell said lands.” (Eminent domain doesn’t mean municipalities can just grab someone’s private property. ey have to meet certain criteria and landowners have the right to legal redress if they feel they haven’t been given a decent o er.) However, nothing could move forward without Albany’s explicit say-so. e state Legislature wasn’t to reconvene until this past January. Almost a year to the day it voted to begin that journey, the Village Board reversed course – at least as far as the parkland alienation process goes. ( e eminent domain exercise is a di erent animal.) Reading from a prepared statement Monday, March 7, Mayor Gina Picinich explained the reasons behind the decision. “During the past year, we have performed our due diligence, we’ve engaged telecommunications and legal specialists to provide insights on the alienation process and to assist in negotiating a lease and then we began negotiating a lease with Homeland Towers,” she said, adding that the board has also “sought and listened to public comment.” en Picinich dropped the bombshell: “ at process has ceased.” Saying that despite the “extraordinary” amount of “hours, e ort, and energy” village o cials have put in, “there are still outstanding issues” that haven’t been resolved to all board members’ satisfaction, said the mayor, adding: “As a result, we have been unable to come to a consensus on a variety of points, including the space to be dedicated as parkland to replace the alienated land.” However, the possibility of the village’s “acquiring the property at 180 South Bedford Road remains open for future consideration,” Picinich said. at could put it at odds with the folks proposing the cell tower. To make things even more complicated, there is still a proposal for a solar farm on the same site that’s hanging out in left eld. Picinich said the village had made an e ort to purchase the property “based on the current assessed value” but its o er was “rejected.” Personally, she said, she thought “that it would not be nancially prudent to overpay for this property” because that would put an “undue burden” on taxpayers. According to one media report, Picinich last year had said there was about $1.3 million in the village’s Open Space Fund. However, that wouldn’t be enough to make the purchase and other sources of money would have to be found, she said. Earlier, Picinich had indicated she would not be in favor of borrowing money to pay for the land, the same report noted. Deputy Mayor Lisa Abzun also contributed her thoughts about the decision. She said she approached the parkland alienation process with the understanding that the board is often asked “to make di cult choices and that several competing interests, all positions, not just for or against or good or bad, would need to be digested, evaluated, and considered.” Village o cials had to determine not only how siting the tower in Leonard Park would a ect the community and environment, but how it might “bene t our residents, our businesses, and organizations by providing
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BUY 1, GET 1 40OFF % Windows, Patio & Entry Doors1 Monthly Payments Minimum purchase of 4 – interest accrues from date of purchase but is waived if paid in full within 12 months. 866-944-1728 Windows, Patio & Entry Doors Minimum purchase of 4. 1 necessary connectivity for education, emergency services, directions, and safety,” Abzun said. Even though the board has backed away from that particular process, “the issue of the placement of cellular infrastructure in our community and in every community is not going away,” and Mount Kisco needs to “get ahead of the curve” so it can manage where these sites are going to be placed, she explained. Among the many challenges Abzun said the village faced were: dealing with FCC mandates -- under federal law, municipalities can’t use the fear of adverse health effects due to radiofrequency exposure to block an otherwise compliant cell site; supporting the coverage of documented gaps in cellular services, which have economic and safety implications; and preserving Leonard Park’s “integrity and beauty.” (Conservation Advisory Council chair John Rhodes told The Mount Kisco-Bedford Times that many municipalities have “successfully” been challenging those FCC health rules as outmoded.) Voting “aye” on March 7 to halt the alienation process were Picinich, Abzun, and trustees Anne Bianchi and Karine Patiño. Trustee Karen Schleimer was participating via Zoom but was not allowed to vote due to public notification rules. Picinich is not seeking re-election this year. Abzun is running for mayor and will face off with mayoral hopeful Tom Luzio in a Democratic primary in June. In a March 8 statement, Luzio declared that he would not “commend” Village Board members for “their actions last night in finally discontinuing consideration of Leonard Park as a potential cell tower location.” “Their ‘efforts’ wasted taxpayer time and money,” the candidate charged, saying that he did, however, applaud “residents who battled the board on this issue.” “Save Leonard Park,” an ad hoc group of citizens who vehemently opposed the park location, was over the moon. Theresa Flora, the driving force behind the protests, posted on Facebook: “Save Leonard Park saved Leonard Park!! It was literally Right vs Wrong, and we were prepared to stand in front of the bulldozers. If any of them have any ideas of pivoting back at some point, they better put those thoughts out of their heads. We fought City Hall and WON!!” BACK TO THE FUTURE The focus is now back on 180 South Bedford Road where neighbors – citing environmental, aesthetic, and other concerns -- are protesting just as loudly as their “Save Leonard Park” counterparts had. Leading the charge in this case are the stewards of the Marsh Sanctuary, a 156-acre nature preserve off Sarles Street, and resident Rex Pietrobono, who has repeatedly said he fears that RF emissions from the tower will harm his family’s health. His house is located about 280 feet away from the proposed cell tower site. Pietrobono made that and other points at the Planning Board’s March 28 public hearing on the Homeland proposal for 180 South Bedford Road. Opponents have decried the possible removal of hundreds of trees at the site and claim that cell towers and solar farms are more suited for commercial areas. According to Rhodes, 180 South Bedford Road is located in a Conservation Development zone and only certain things can be built there: limited housing, golf courses, and cemeteries, for instance. Sometime after the zone was created, it was amended to allow for ground-based solar farms such as the one in Oakwood Cemetery. The “key” is that 35 percent of the site has to be forever left in its natural state, he said. That can be done by giving land trusts conservation easements. Parcels also have to be a minimum of 25 acres. The 180 South Bedford Road site just squeaked in, size-wise. Complicating matters is the likelihood that there be a renewed attempt by SCS Sarles St. LLC to site a solar farm on the same piece of property. According to Rhodes, SCS Sarles St. LLC had withdrawn its original application for a special use permit and then re-submitted it more than a year ago. The Planning Board held public hearings and issued a positive declaration indicating the solar farm could have significant adverse impacts, he said. Lawyers have been arguing about the actual “status” of the solar application, Rhodes added. If it is indeed active, then the next step for the Planning Board would be to hold a “scoping” review to determine exactly what types of things the EIS has to address. Public hearings would follow. One tenet of CD zoning is “that there can only be a single primary use on a parcel” and some are questioning whether a cell tower is a primary use, Rhodes said, adding: “How do you define it? Where’s the threshold?” Referring to the solar farm application as “looming,” Village Attorney Whitney Singleton told the Planning Board on March 28 that his position on the proposal had not changed in the six months since he wrote a memo explaining that “there are components of the cellular application that make the solar application non-compliant with zoning and vice-versa.” “We have given the property owner and the applicants due opportunity to verify which application they wish to move forward with,” Singleton said, urging the board to concentrate on the cell tower. “Presently, the cellular application is before you and it enjoys the benefits of a lot of federal protections,” he noted, adding: “So at this point in time I think that’s what you should be focusing on.” “If it negatively impacts the solar application, that’s a selfcreated hardship from my perspective,” Singleton said. Co-chair Michael McGuirk CELL TOWER FROM PAGE 26 SEE CELL TOWER PAGE 28
PAGE 28 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 pointed out that mitigation measures suggested by village consultant Michael Musso of HDR Engineering were “crafted based on the single project (the cell tower) going forward.” However, Musso noted separately that the location of the solar project should be included in site plan drawings that are part of the cellular application. MITIGATION MEMO Musso last month provided the village with a comprehensive plan for mitigating certain potential adverse environmental impacts from the tower project. Those measures include preserving the most amount of trees possible; fencing part of the site to preserve views from the Marsh Sanctuary’s famed amphitheater and its naturalist’s cottage; using a “stealth” design that would make the monopole look more treelike; increasing screening through landscaping such as soil berms and new plantings; and making changes to the road utility crews need to access the site. Some of these – such as the height of the fence – might require variances from the Zoning Board of Appeals. Calling wireless telecommunication issues “complicated,” McGuirk laid out what his thinking had been in this particular case. The board has “received a lot of legal advice” on the matter, he said. Federal Communications Commission rules limit the village’s “ability to scrutinize the safety of the emissions from these towers,” he explained, acknowledging the public’s exasperation with the situation as well as his own. “But it seems fairly well established that if the applications are presented to us and they are compliant under FCC guidelines that if we want to take actions that can be upheld, then we have to trust what the FCC has set forth,” McGuirk explained, adding: “I just wanted to share that frustration, but it’s a reality that we’re dealing with.” “For the mitigation, I guess I could simply say, I’ll take it all,” said McGuirk who also thought the tower would be better up the hill. Turning to address Homeland’s attorney Robert Gaudioso, who is also representing telecom giant Verizon, McGuirk pointed out that the “visual assessment” included in the applicant’s Environmental Assessment Form (EAF) determined that “almost 17,000 people will see this tower every day.” “For a village that’s got slightly under 11,000 people that’s an impact. I think the off-site mitigation is essential,” he said. WHERE WILL IT SIT? Another question to be answered is where the tower will be placed on the 25-acre parcel. The consensus on the board appeared to be that moving it to the top of the site – away from Route 172 and the adjacent properties – is preferable and might render the suggested mitigations unnecessary. Once upon a time, there was a grand mansion on the hill. In ruins since the 1980s, the flattened area where its tennis courts were is the spot where some want the tower to be. When asked by co-chair Crystal Pickard to address the subject, Gaudioso countered: “From our perspective, it’s just a moot point because we can’t get the landowner’s authority to go up the hill. And that’s the same as why we can’t go in the park. The Village Board, the landowner, won’t allow us.” A sight distance analysis Homeland had done more than two years ago determined that the tower would least likely be visible if placed on the south side of the ridge. The applicants picked that spot based on comments from the public, village consultants, and members of the Planning Board, Gaudioso said. If it were placed by the old tennis courts, the tower could be seen from Leonard Park which, he said, “is a visual resource to be evaluated under SEQRA.” Not only could it be seen, but it would be “shockingly visible,” Gaudioso claimed. Pickard said she’d like the mitigations – especially the fencing – to be discussed directly with the site’s neighbors. Admitting that there’s no way to completely mitigate an enormous cell tower, she said there’s still much that can be done to ease the burden on folks nearby. Pickard urged the applicants to “talk to your neighbors. Move it if you can talk your landlord into it.” Co-chair William Polese agreed. “Let’s put the best mitigation plan possible in place,” he said, adding that moving the structure to the hilltop “would be great.” PUBLIC VOICES HEARD A public hearing on the Homeland Towers application set for March 14 was canceled due to inclement weather. The Planning Board continued the hearing on Tuesday, March 28, and then adjourned it to April 25 in order to allow to give the applicants more time to review the latest public comments and to craft a formal response to Musso’s mitigation recommendations. Among those writing in last month were John Stockbridge, a member of the Marsh Sanctuary’s board of directors, and Piertobono, who reiterated his “continuous and strong opposition” to Homeland Towers proposed cellular applications. “The best mitigation is relocation,” read his letter to the board, referring to moving the cell tower up the hill … and away from his house. The board also heard from real estate brokers Dorothea “Dee” Roider and Marianangela Cavaggioni, who both claimed the tower project would lower the value of adjacent properties, and Rhodes, who wrote to say the organization “is concerned that this application, which is so clearly morally, legally, and environmentally wrong for the selected location, seems to be close to approval for what we believe may be the wrong reasons.” Insisting that “aversion to the possibility of a no-fault, no-penalty lawsuit based on outdated federal regulations is not a valid reason to overturn numerous wellestablished local and state regulations,” Rhodes said, claiming that federal courts have ruled in favor of “municipalities contesting the assertions of unfettered privilege put forth by telecom companies in similar cases.” In addition to a number of important “technical issues,” the site under consideration is not “the least impactful site as is required under state law,” he said later. Bedford Hills resident Nancy El Bouhali wrote to remind the board of its duty to protect the community. “You have a huge responsibility, but it should not be difficult to deny permits for applications which are so very wrong for their chosen locations and challenge setback codes. Mt. Kisco is too wonderful a town to destroy; allowing the entrance to become commercial will certainly change the landscape – both literally and figuratively,” she asserted. Luca Fariello, of Wildlife Preserves Inc., the owner of an adjacent 12.5-acre lot, begged the village to “not allow these applications to ruin the favorable reputation of Mount Kisco government, the local ecosystem, the aesthetics of the neighborhood, and the character of the community. The fate of this neighborhood is in your hands.” CELL TOWER FROM PAGE 27 Featuring a DJ, inflatables, and more than 10 food truck vendors on site to choose from! LIFEGUARDS AND CAMP COUNSELORS WANTED Now accepting applications for lifeguards and camp counselors. Email recreation@mountkiscony. gov for an application. Bedford Hills Free Library 26 Main St, Bedford Hills. 914-666-6472 For more information or to register for programs, visit www. bedfordhillsfreelibrary.org FIESTA! Tuesday, April 18, at 10:30 a.m. For preschoolers and families. Join us in person as Flor Bromley presents stories, music, movement, TRACKS FROM PAGE 4 SEE TRACKSPAGE 29 Make the smart and ONLY CHOICE when tackling your roof! Before After Erie Metal Roofs is trusted by homeowners nationwide to provide a level of value on new roofi ng that other home improvement companies simply can’t match. Erie Metal Roofs are designed to provide the ultimate defense against everything from hurricane-force winds to hail while also boosting energy effi ciency and curb appeal. It’s not only the best protection you can get for your home, but it’s also designed to last a lifetime. 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License numbers available at eriemetalroofs.com/licenses/ QR MADE IN THE U.S.A. 1.888.502.0937 FREE ESTIMATE Expires 6/30/2023 Photo Submissions Photos submitted to Mt. Kisco Bedford Times need to be high-resolution. Images that are submitted at a low resolution cannot be published. Submit photos to North Salem News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissons can be emailed to northsalemnews@ halstonmedia.com or mail it to Mt. Kisco Bedford Timess, 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned.
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES – PAGE 29 and puppetry, in both English and Spanish. An entertaining and popular program to engage young families. LOS CUENTOS/THE STORIES Saturday, April 22, at 11 a.m. Led by Rachel Izes and Naida Velazquez, for preschoolers. Rachel and Naida team up to present picture books, songs, and games in both Spanish and English. This fun and interactive program is a terrific way for preschoolers and their families to get a taste of both languages and learn more about the diverse world around them. WONDROUS WORLD OF WLS RESOURCES Tuesday, April 25, from 4 to 5 p.m. For adults. Led by Katherine Whymark. Take a deep dive into all the digital resources available through the Westchester Library System, including information for seniors and job hunters. Town of Bedford Recreation Department For more information, visit www.bedfordny.gov/departments/recreation-parks SPRING CRAFT TIME Friday, April 28 With Program Supervisor Kimberly O’Brien. Spring has sprung and it’s time to let our creativity flow. Come be creative and make a crafty thing to bring home. This craft time will be filled with creativity and fun, so come on out and be crafty. To be held in Bedford Hills Community House, Main Room. Grades K - 1, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. (small snack served) $10 Residents/School-district Residents, $15 Non-Residents Grades 2 – 5 6 – 8 p.m. (pizza and dessert served) $20 Residents/School-district Residents, $25 Non-Residents Town of Bedford Veterans Committee 321 Bedford Road, Bedford Hills [email protected] HONOR FLIGHTS Scheduled for Saturday, April 15 (Stewart Airport) and Saturday, May 20 (Westchester Airport). If you are interested in participating or volunteering as a “guardian” (or you know someone who might like to participate), please visit https://hvhonorflight. com/veterans/ VETERANS DAY It’s a long way off, but the committee has reserved the newly refurbished Bedford Hills Community House for a celebration on Saturday, Nov.11. Planning is underway. Bedford Free Library Located at 32 Village Green, Bedford, NY 10506. For more information or to register for events, visit www.bedfordfreelibrary.org WHOLE BRAIN THINKING WORKSHOP Thursday, April 20, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. During this interactive and fun introduction to “Whole Brain Thinking” you will learn: - How to put your whole brain to work for better decision making. - How to communicate more effectively through “Whole Brain Thinking.” - Understand & apply a simple model to deliver improved decision making at home or at work. Appropriate for high school students and up. STORYTIME AT ROCHAMBEAU FARM Saturday, April 22, at 11 a.m. Join Mrs. Crummy for a special storytime at Rochambeau Farm, located at 214 W. Patent Road in Mt. Kisco. This family event will be held rain or shine. RideConnect Rideconnect has volunteers ready to help drive seniors to their medical appointments and assist with shopping. Services are free to seniors residing in Westchester and southern Putnam Counties. To request assistance call (914) 242-7433. Anyone wishing to volunteer for Rideconnect may do so by emailing Marietta Manoni at mmanoni@ fsw.org TRACKS FROM PAGE 28 FOX TRACKS Securities offered through Cantella & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Cantella and Co., Inc. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. 2022 was a CRAZY YEAR! 845-628-5400 SFGtaxes.com | [email protected] 824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 We can help make your taxes less crazy. the revolution, was educated in China and was supposedly a gypsy and an acrobat,” Hammerstein mused. Not letting the facts get in the way of a good story, Hammerstein offered some certainty. “He came into the audition in a pair of pajamas, sat down with a sevenstring guitar, crossed his legs and gave his musical interpretation,” Hammerstein remembered. So taken by the renditions, the songwriters had to switch gears. “They had to rewrite everything,” he assured. So “Hello Young Lovers” got the treatment from our own Robin Reitzes. But all good things… “You can’t stay on top forever,” he lamented, and as their stars faded, the 60s saw others shine. Influence, on the other hand, never dies. “There were a lot of Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals that weren’t written by Rodgers and Hammerstein,” he joked. Of course, the duo obviously didn’t disappear, and a new medium made them more visible. They wrote an operetta for “Cinderella” and 107 of the nation’s 172 million people tuned in. “Those are bigger than Super Bowl Numbers,” he asserted. One last triumph was “The Sound of Music,” and Henry Thrasher’s version of Edelweiss would have brought tears to Christopher Plummer’s eyes. “It was the last song Oscar ever wrote,” said Hammerstein. Lucky for us, Reitzes sang “My Favorite Things” and the quartet closed with “Climb Every Mountain.” So the program completed, Hammerstein reeled off the numbers - 34 Tonys, 15 Oscars, two Pulitzer Prizes and two Emmys. A question remained, though. “Do you want to hear more? Because we practiced it,” Hammerstein teased. Oklahoma elevated as the encore, but there was a regret. “I wish I had more time to tell more stories,” he concluded. ENCHANTED FROM PAGE 6
PAGE 30 – THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 I often ask local business owners and professionals about their advertising. Many tell me they don’t need to advertise because everyone knows them. While I don’t argue with them, I believe they’re on a perilous course. Lack of advertising may not cause serious short-term business erosion, but it’s likely to lead to serious longer-term pain. You may think that everyone knows your business, but that’s really not the case. A recent U.S. Census Bureau five-year analysis found that, on average, 16% of Americans moved each year. So without advertising, not everyone knows your business today, and even fewer will know it a year or two from now. Over my career, I’ve studied the results of numerous tests measuring the impact of increasing, decreasing or eliminating advertising. The question is whether there is an eventual “payout” to advertising expenditures. Test results have been quite consistent. Increasing or starting an advertising campaign produces sales gains pretty quickly, though sometimes not enough to increase the bottom line for the first year. But profits usually start growing by the second year and beyond, as the sales tail wind grows. Conversely, the negative sales impact of reducing or eliminating advertising may be small enough to increase profit the first year, but sales usually drop off further over time, reducing profit by the second year and beyond. And then restoring sales and profit growth becomes increasingly costly. Advertising is an investment, like maintaining and improving property and equipment. You may be able to defer maintenance for a short while, but the longer you wait, the more expensive the repairs. If you’re planning to go out of business shortly, then eliminating advertising . . . except for focused going-out-of-business promotional ads . . . may be wise. If you’re in for the longer haul, though, then cut back on advertising at your own peril. Savvy marketers realize there also are different degrees of awareness. They often focus on “top-of-mind” awareness. That is measured by asking people, in considering some category of product or business, which brands they think of immediately. The first brand they mention is considered top-of-mind. Research shows that, especially for categories where there are numerous choices and extensive comparisons between those choices aren’t likely, top-of-mind awareness is a key driver of market share. That’s why brands like McDonald’s and Coke, and big insurance companies such as Progressive, Geico, and Liberty Mutual, keep spending on advertising. When a buyer needs to choose what or from whom to buy, top-of-mind awareness is important. You may not compete with major brands like those, but almost every business or professional practice has multiple competitors. So top-of-mind awareness matters. And, in fact, local merchants do often compete with mega-retailers like Amazon. If a local consumer is thinking about a gift purchase or about numerous product categories, unless the local merchant has built strong top-of-mind awareness, Amazon or some other mega-retailer may be the consumer’s automatic choice. Don’t let them win so easily. Beyond creating and sustaining top-of-mind awareness, what you communicate is important too. Advertising can convince prospects why they should choose your business, practice or firm over others. It can communicate how you’re different and better. It can also communicate what you have to offer that’s new, special or timely. So put yourself in your customer’s shoes and let them know “what’s in it for me.” And for best results, be sure your advertising aligns with the rest of your marketing mix (i.e. your product, packaging, place, and pricing). Do you want to learn more? Visit www.halstonmedia.com, and fill out the “Get in Touch” form on the home page. Before helping his son found Halston Media, Kenneth Freeman led a global marketing research company. Freeman earned his MBA from Harvard University and has led the marketing departments at major Fortune 500 corporations throughout his career. Everybody knows me... REALLY? WITH KEN FREEMAN Get the most out of your lawn this spring. 50 Your First Application % OFF* Save now with *Requires purchase of annual plan. Special price is for first Lawn application only. Requires purchase of annual plan, for new residential EasyPay or PrePay customers only. Valid at participating TruGreen locations. Availability of services may vary by geography. Not to be combined with or used in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Additional restrictions may apply. Consumer responsible for all sales tax. †Purchase of annual lawn plan required forTruGreen Lawn Assessment, which is performed at the first visit. ◆Guarantee applies to annual plan customers only. BBB accredited since 07/01/2012. ©2023 TruGreen Limited Partnership. All rights reserved. In Connecticut, B-0153, B-1380, B-0127, B-0200, B-0151. SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY! 1-866-868-3284
APRIL 13 - MAY 11, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE THE MT. KISCO-BEDFORD TIMES– PAGE 31 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 KG+D Architects, PC, has been named the Firm of the Year by the American Institute of Architects New York State Chapter (AIANYS). e AIANYS Firm Award was established in 2005 to recognize notable achievements in design, community service, education, and service to the profession by an architectural rm in New York State for a period of at least 10 years. KG+D is the rst rm to receive this award that does not have an o ce in New York City. KG+D has been in practice in Mount Kisco for 28 years and has built upon a well-established legacy of over 90 years of superior services to clients throughout the Hudson Valley/Fair eld County region. e rm is led by a team of professionals who provide a diverse and well-balanced collection of skills, professional experience, and leadership qualities. • Russell A. Davidson, FAIA ‐ President + Principal • Erik A. Kaeyer, AIA, LEED AP ‐ Vice President + Principal • Walter P. Hauser, AIA – Vice President + Principal • Sarah Dirsa, AIA, LEED AP, NOMA – Principal • Brian Mangan, AIA – Principal • Travis Schnell, AIA – Principal • Susan Davidson, ASID – Associate Principal Four of the KG+D principals became licensed architects while working at the rm, and this has been the only rm that they have worked for throughout their career. One principal started at KG+D as a high school intern and the current president of the rm has worked for the rm for over 37 years. Many of the sta —which is comprised of 40% women—have worked in the rm for over 20 years. Two KG+D principals have served as president of the Westchester/Hudson Valley Chapter and the New York State component. Russell A. Davidson, FAIA, also served as vice president and national president of the American Institute of Architects in 2016. Several other rm members have served on committees and have been recognized by the AIA. In addition to serving and the profession, KG+D team members are also involved in supporting local non-pro t and community agencies through volunteering both personal time and professional services. In the past ve years, KG+D has been the Architect of Record on approximately $590 million worth of construction with $430 million in the public facility market. is equates to approximately 73% of the rm’s total workload. Over the past 28 years, the team has provided services for projects ranging in size from a $70 million new school to a $20,000 sidewalk improvement project. e rm has been recognized with over 30 design awards and its work has appeared in 25 industry publications. Some of KG+D’s notable projects include: • Jacob Burns Film Center, Media Arts Lab • Rippowam Cisqua School, Upper Campus Additions + Renovations • Chappaqua CSD, New Seven Bridges Middle School + District Wide Projects • e Harvey School – Middle School, Arts Center & Athletic Center • Katonah-Lewisboro Schools – John Jay High School & John Jay Middle School KG+D has been named Architectural Firm of the Year Mt. Kisco based business is rst awardee that does not have o ce in NYC Team photo of the Mt. Kisco-based KG+D Architects
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