The Somers Record 03.14.2024

IN THIS WEEK’S PAPER! ELEPHANT’S TRUNK 4 LEGAL NOTICES 36 LEISURE 26 OBITUARIES 29 OPINION 10 SPORTS 20 VOL. 13 NO. 42 Visit News.HalstonMedia.com for the latest news. MARCH 14 – MARCH 27, 2024 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER You may have noticed that the granite obelisk that had held aloft the statue of Somers’ totem Elephant, Old Bet, for nearly two centuries is no longer there. But don’t fret, it hasn’t gone lumbering off into the sunset permanently; the town is hoping to have it all fixed up and back in place by World Circus Day, a celebration that takes place on the third Saturday in April every year. Various iterations of pachyderm-topped pillar have stood in front of The Elephant Hotel, aka Town Hall, at the intersection of Routes 202 and 100 for 196 years. Old Bet was the star of Hachaliah Bailey’s traveling menagerie. The early 19th-century entrepreneur erected a monument in memory of his cherished creature after it had been shot by an irate farmer while touring Maine in 1816. The original effigy was carved out of wood and gilded with gold paint. The most recent version was made of concrete. It too eventually succumbed to the elements. Large cracks were plainly visible in its legs and concerns were raised about safety. Last spring, the town unveiled a beautiful new bronze statue of Old Bet, commissioned by the Somers Historical Society, made by local sculptor Luigi Badia, and paid for by the family of the late Joseph and Barbara Wittmann. A few months later, the concrete Old Bet was removed and stored elsewhere on town property. It was simply too big to cart up the stairs to the society’s Museum of the Early American Circus. The new Old Bet, which sits on the same footprint as its predecessor but is heavier, was bivouacked in the town meeting room while professional engineers examined the obelisk to see if it is structurally sound enough to hold it. A local blacksmith was also called in to give the original wrought iron frame a once over. The stone pillar apparently was found not to be totally plumb (or vertical), which is not surprising considering its age. It was removed last week via truck and taken away to be “cored.” Its base will be reinforced and, if everything goes well – toes and trunks crossed -- it should be back up within weeks, according to Supervisor Rob Scorrano. Last week, the Town Board voted to formally accept the donation of the new Old Bet sculpture as a gift from the historical society and to acknowledge the What’s new with Old Bet? BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Somers is excited to be able to tap into grants that will allow it to resolve some of its drinking water issues. The first big bucket of money is coming from the state and the second from the federal government. Several years ago, tests mandated by aggressive new state health regulations detected perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) above maximum allowable contaminant levels in wells supplying the Town House, aka The Elephant Hotel, in the heart of the town’s BusinessHistoric Preservation District. The two are known as “forever chemicals” because they embed themselves in the environment and bioaccumulate, or build up over time, in the bodies of humans and other living creatures. Water works Congressman Lawler secures $2 million grant for Somers SEE OLD BET PAGE 34 SEE WATER PAGE 36 The marble obelisk that held Old Bet aloft at The Elephant Hotel is being temporarily taken down for repairs. PHOTO COURTESY OF GRACE ZIMMERMAN Find Out What Your Home Might Be Worth. Scan QR for instant value Sales Vice President, Licensed Associate RE Broker [email protected] | hopemazzola.com 95 Katonah Avenue, Katonah, NY 10536 CELL: 914.714.0090 Follow us The Purveyor of the Finest Properties in Town #UGottaHaveHope

PAGE 2 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 All one level living - no steps inside or out! Spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bath end unit with beautiful views. Perfect location in sought-after Heritage Hills! (Easy access- first turn off Warren St.) Eat-in-kitchen with granite counters and stainless appliances, spacious and bright living room with fireplace and doors to expanded deck with electric awning. Large primary bedroom suite with full bath and recessed lighting features four closets. Wonderful attached 2-car over-sized garage! Call today! 845-821-3855 ROBERT BARCLAY Licensed Real Estate Salesperson Top Somers Agent RE/MAX Classic Realty Client Testimonial: There is no one more knowledgeable, caring, considerate and professional than Larry Zacks. We interviewed many realtors and no one had the knowledge and experience that measured up to Larry. We would recommend Larry to everyone we know. He’s the best choice and should be your only choice.. ~A.S. Are you wondering what your home is worth? Should you add on, or remodel? Buy smaller or larger? Please allow me to answer your questions. ZACKS GETS YOU RECORD PRICES! AMAZING HERITAGE HILLS CONDO — END UNIT WITH 2-CAR GARAGE! 914-282-6440 [email protected] RE/MAX Classic Realty Services Provided Property Evaluation | Home Staging High Definition Photography | 3D/Virtual Tours Custom Digital Marketing | Five-Star Service Call Larry TODAY for your FREE CONSULTATION

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 3 HOME, AUTO, BUSINESS, LIFE & HEALTH 914-232-7750 www.forbesinsurance.com Great Food and Great Selection of Craft Beer as well! 24 Woodsbridge Rd., KATONAH BY EMILE MENASCHÉ CONTRIBUTING EDITOR State Assemblyman Matt Slater spends most of his working life navigating the halls of power in Albany. But recently, the rep for Somers, Mahopac, and parts of Yorktown took on another mission entirely as an ensign in the U.S. Navy Reserve. “I’ve always believed deeply in the importance of service, something my mom has instilled in me since I was a kid,” Slater said. “I have a great mentor who encouraged me to look at the Navy Reserve Officer Development Program.” Slater considered all three branches of service but settled on the Navy because he found it to be the best fit for his abilities. He began the enrollment process in 2019. “It’s a direct commission process,” Slater said. “It’s actually the presidentially approved direct commission. So it took some time; plus COVID obviously slowed a lot of things down.” After his official swearing-in by Commander Steve Newhouse on Veterans Day in 2022, Slater enrolled in Officer Development School (ODS) at the War College in Newport, R.I. “It was just a phenomenal experience,” Salter said of his time in ODS. “They challenged us physically, they challenged us mentally, and they provided unique opportunities to push ourselves to new boundaries, which I found exhilarating.” Like others he met during his training, Slater, who holds a master’s degree in public administration, was able to draw upon his professional background and education. “I was with people who were doctors,” he said. “You do need that higher education to go into the Officer Development School Program. But there are so many ways to get involved in the armed forces.” As a reservist, Slater reports once a month for drill, usually to bases in the Bronx or New Jersey, and does a two-week active training stint once a year. After an extended training in Virginia last month, the assemblyman is next due to report sometime in January. “I’m a Supply Corps officer attached to an expeditionary cargo battalion,” he said. “I do logistics, making sure that our frontlines are getting the supplies that they need to be successful. We talk about ‘bullets, beans, and BandAids.’ We need to make sure that our sailors and soldiers are armed, fed, and have the medical equipment they need.” Now that he’s been reporting for duty, Slater said he’s been struck by the diversity among his fellow service members, which include people from all over the country and ranging in age from their early 20s to mid-50s. Not all of them are U.S. natives. “I would estimate that almost half of my unit are immigrants,” he said. “[People] who care so deeply about this country, who are so thankful for this country, that they are protecting this country. It’s amazing to see. “You really get to experience that melting pot of America firsthand,” he continued. “And I think one of the things that is so rewarding about it is you’re all there for the same reason – because you believe in what we stand for, and you’re gonna fight for the principles that keep us free.” Slater believes his military training is also making him a more effective public servant. “There are many parallels with [my military training] and what I do on the civilian side, especially when it comes to things like the ethical requirements of an officer [and] the decisionmaking process,” said Salter, who often has to advocate in Albany to support veterans’ programs in his district. “It’s just a true honor to serve the country,” Slater said. “We follow in the footsteps of those before us. I think that the military has made some great strides in how we treat our soldiers and sailors. I was with a group of Vietnam veterans recently; they never got the welcome home they deserved. We need to make sure that their treatment never happens again. I think that the country recognizes that, and I know that our community recognizes that. “In our community, we have a great sense of pride and love for the armed forces and the individuals who serve,” he continued. “And I really attribute my decision to join the Navy Reserves to the core values of where we live and getting to know so many of our veterans and those who are currently serving. It really motivated me to be part of something bigger. I get chills thinking about it.” Slater reports for duty State Assemblyman discusses serving in Navy Reserve Slater with ITCS Gregory P. Johnson during the khaki inspection. PHOTOS COURTESY MATT SLATER It’s just a true honor to serve the country.’ Matt Slater State Assemblyman

PAGE 4 – THE SOMERS RECORD The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Tom Walogorsky Editor: 914-302-5830 [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky 845-661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director/Photographer [email protected] DESIGNERS Noah Elder Bri Agosta Haven Elder Jacob Elder EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines The Somers Record The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for The Somers Record is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected]. Subscribe To request The Somers Record weekly delivery, call 845-208-8503 or email [email protected]. Subscriptions are complimentary for residents and businesses in the town. Out of town mail subscriptions are $150 per year for First Class Mail. Periodicals Postage Paid at Somers, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Somers Record at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 (ISSN 2330-1597) Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2024 Halston Media, LLC MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Town of Somers Annual Egg Hunt Saturday, March 23 at 9 a.m. To be held at Reis Park, open to all Somers residents 10-years old and younger! Join in for pictures with cottontail bunnies and collect eggs that will be redeemed for candy. (Please bring your own bag or basket to collect eggs.) Sponsored by the Somers Leos Club and Somers Department of Parks & Recreation. For more information, call the Recreation Office at 914-232-8441. 23rd Annual Regeneron Westchester Science and Engineering Fair More than 700 students from 40 Westchester and Putnam County high schools will showcase their graduate-level science research projects in a competitive poster venue at at Somers High School on Saturday, March 16. Participants, mostly seniors and juniors involved in their high school science research programs, will showcase their work via poster presentations, which will be judged by local experts in the fields of life science, physical science, environmental studies, psychology and engineering. Twenty top projects will win spots at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), which is largest, international science fair in the world. ISEF will be held this May in Dallas, Texas and will bring together more than 1,800 science fair winners from over 70 countries. Ten additional projects will win a spot at the International Genius Olympiad, where more than 600 students from over 70 countries will compete with projects focused on sustainability in the areas of energy, environment, engineering and global health. On Saturday, March 16 the public is invited to view student presentations from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Lake Lincolndale Property Owners Association St. Patrick’s Day Party Friday, March 15, from 6 to 11 p.m. Featuring live music by Peter Carucci, along with corned beef and fixings. Bring your favorite potato dish to enter in the contest. Members $20, Non-Members $25, Children $5.  RSVP to [email protected] to enter the potato contest or to obtain further information. Located at 11 Lakeshore Drive North, Lake Lincolndale (GPS Mahopac 10541). Westchester Bluegrass Club www.westchesterbluegrass club.com On the Trail & Special Guests Saturday, March 16, (6:30 p.m. Doors, 8 p.m. show) Most recently, On the Trail had the honor of winning the 2022 Thomas Point Beach Band Competition after participating in 2021’s Telefunken Battle of the Bands at the Podunk Bluegrass Festival. They also were selected as an Emerging Artist at Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival 2023. On The Trail features Austin Scelzo (fiddle and vocals), Tom Polizzi (mandolin and vocals), Charlie Widmer (guitar and vocals) and Matt Curley (upright bass and vocals). Town of Somers Department of Parks & Recreation Spring Programs 2024 Registration begins online on Wednesday, March 20, at 10 a.m. ELEPHANT’S TRUNK SEE TRUNK PAGE 8 FULL BAR WITH MENU • PRIVATE PARTY ROOMS AVAILABLE FOR UP TO 70 PEOPLE • Gluten Free Menu Items Available • Reservations Recommended NOW OFFERING CATERING TO GO AND DOORDASH DELIVERY 252 Route 100, Somers 10589 • 914.232.8080 • www.mammarosaristorante.com Now Taking Reservations For Easter Sunday & Mother's Day (Serving Special Menu) Italian Continental Cuisine 3-Course Lunch Special $29.95 3-Course Dinner Special $39.95 Open Tues-Sun for Lunch and Dinner • Closed Mon • Gift Certificates Available! Great Idea for Family & Friends! WE OFFER DOORDASH! Enjoy the Spring Season and Look your Best! •Precision Cuts • Sets • High-End Color • Highlights • Perms • Blow-Dry • Facial Waxing (914) 232-7070 Hours: Tues • Wed • Fri 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Thurs 10:00 am - 7:00 pm Sat 9:00 am - 4:30 pm We follow strict CDC guidelines. 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MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 5 Independently family built, owned & operated Proudly serving Westchester since 1964 Your Favorite Neighborhood Pizzeria - Eatery Bronx brick oven pizza, generous portions, authentic Italian comfort food — great family value. Thank you very much for your patronage & support! FAST DELIVERY! 914.232.1001 Open 7 Days! ORDER ONLINE TODAY! amorekatonah.com AMORE PIZZERIA • 914-232-1001 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Valid for Amore Pizzeria in Katonah only. Expires 4/30/24. $ 5OFF any order $35 or More AMORE PIZZERIA - LOGO CONCEPT // 2020 I TAL IA N KITCHEN est 1993 PIZZERIA OPEN IN KATONAH VILLAGE lunch | dinner | carry-out | catering Free Parking in rear of Pizzeria 22 Edgemont Road Katonah, NY

PAGE 6 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 845-279-9555 • TankRemovalServices.com Before you place your home on the market, contact ENVIROSTAR about replacing your aging underground storage tank (UST). It is required by most insurance companies prior to insuring property. We replace above ground tanks as well! Call us today for a free estimate and evaluation of your current above ground tank. 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 4/30/24 FREE ESTIMATES WE WILL MATCH OUR COMPETITOR’S ADVERTISED OFFER! We are the name you trust for environmental needs Since 1998 DON’T GET CAUGHT WITH HAPPY HOUR AN AGING OIL TANK! DAILY: 2 PM - 6PM •Happy Hour Cocktail Specials ~ S7 From the Daily Blackboard List • Premium Wines By The Glass - $7 Select from 10 Varietals •HALF OFF ~ Menu Appetizers Selection of 20 Items • BEER ~ Draft & Bottles - $5 * Bar seating only * Not available for take out or on holidays 914-277-7575 • ilfornosomers.com 343 US-202, SOMERS, NY 10589 ‘Wine’ not try our Happy Hour! BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Somers school officials are making several adjustments in the district’s preliminary 2024-2025 spending plan in order to close a nearly $1 million gap -- blamed on such factors such as increased insurance costs and potential losses in state aid. The intent of the fiscal gymnastics is to stay “as far away from the classroom,” as possible, according to schools Superintendent Dr. Raymond Blanch. That means the district is moving to “preserve and protect” things such as class sizes, extracurricular activities, social-emotional support systems, professional learning, special education requirements, and arts, math, and technology courses. These were wants and needs identified during the district’s “budget listening tour,” during which it gathered crucial input from PTAs, the SEPTA (Special Education Parent Teacher Association), school-based leadership teams, district leadership, the Citizens Finance Committee, the Community Pulse Committee, School Operations Services, the SFA (Somers Faculty Association), and SSRP (Somers School Related Professionals). Certain adjustments will be made by not replacing folks who’ve retired or who’ve left the district and by spreading the responsibilities of certain FTE (Full-Time Equivalent) positions, such as the deans at the middle school and high school, among remaining administrators such as the assistant principals. In other words, no one’s losing their jobs. There will be re-training and shifting of resources, however. Primrose Elementary School would not be affected, but the FTE at Somers Intermediate School would be reduced by 0.5 positions, namely on the TOSA (Teachers On Special Assignment) line. At Somers Middle School, that means that the dean’s position would be eliminated, and TOSA staff reduced by a total of 1.5 FTE. At the high school, FTE would be cut by 4.0 which would also affect the dean’s post as well as arts, math, and technology offerings. But not to worry, the courses aren’t going away. However, the number of times they will be offered may be reduced. Elephant in the Room Enrollment is always the big elephant in the room. School officials say that the district is constantly being asked why the budget is going up while enrollment is continuing to go down. The answer is there are always costs that are beyond its control. Couple that with less outside aid and there’s bound to be some difficult decisions that have to be made. It’s been pointed out that declining enrollment – for now – could save the district from having to slash programs and services, reduce staff, or increase class sizes. If the student population was static, or getting larger, and the revenues weren’t keeping up, that would be a different story. (In the past, certain Somers schools have dealt with declining enrollment by offering courses to students every other year, rather than every year.) Many teachers have graciously agreed to take on an extra (paid) class or two, Blanch explained Tuesday, Feb. 27, at a presentation on the budget’s instructional side given by Assistant Superintendent for Business Chris Platania and each building’s principal. Before that happened, school board President Nick Mancini screened a report by Spectrum News’ “NY Capital Tonight” that asked Dr. Rick Timbs, executive director of the statewide school finance consortium, to expound on the topic of Foundation Aid. Created in 2007, Foundation Aid determines public school funding. It was finally phased in full last year. Now Gov. Kathy Hochul’s executive budget is seeking to change the aid formula by stopping the use of the current Consumer Price Index (CPI) to determine increases – 3.8 percent at present -- and instead use a 10-year rolling average of 2.4 percent. Hochul also proposes to alter a provision known as “Save Harmless,” which ensures that school districts don’t see an actual decrease in Foundation Aid funding compared to the previous years’ due to declining enrollments Even if a certain district was getting a slight bump – say 2.4 percent -- in state aid, if the inflation rate’s 4.1 percent, “right off the bat we’ve got a deficit,” Timbs said. Many school districts have lost enrollment over the last three to five years even though their “missions” – the things they offer students – have increased “drastically,” he said. According to Timbs, 337 school districts around the state would have their aid cut by a total of $167 million if the formula changes go through. Some are small and rural, but others are in relatively affluent suburbs who are also experiencing enrollment declines. Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of dollars are at stake, Timbs contended, adding that that any “crimp” in state aid will School officials continue budget process District anticipates decline in state aid SEE SCSD PAGE 35

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 7 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER One Somers family may have lost all its earthly possessions and beloved pets in a devastating house fire, but for the next six months or so at least they’ll have a roof over their heads thanks to the thoughtfulness of town officials and generosity of a local builder. Julia Bambace and her two children had to seek alternate housing after the blaze destroyed their rented two-story home on Lovell Street in December. That meant traveling long distances in order for the teenagers to continue on at Somers High School. The town had already reached a “community benefits” agreement with Boniello Development, a team of home, condo, and townhome builders in Westchester, such as the high-end, 66-unit Somers Crossing, a development sandwiched between Routes 100 and 202. Those “benefits” included money for sidewalks and a sewer extension through the Towne Centre at Somers, a shopping mall off Route 202. The builders subsequently offered the town title and ownership of one of a three-bedroom townhouse at Somers Crossing to be used and occupied by a special needs person or family who live in either Somers or Westchester. It was formally accepted by the Town Board last week. Terms and conditions were set by the Town Board. The town didn’t want the unit to sit unused for any length of time while it determined who that person or family would be. So, said Supervisor Rob Scorrano at the Thursday, March 7, work session, it thought “it would be a great community gesture” to allow the Bambaces to occupy if for the next six months “while they get back on their feet.” The lease starts on March 15 and ends on Sept. 30. This would also allow the twins to remain in town until they graduate this June. The family would be paying rent of $1,800 (with a $1,800 deposit) fee, which is not bad for a brandnew, three-bedroom home. Former neighbor Ethan Aronoff organized a GoFundMe campaign to aid the family. So far $87,250 of a $100,000 goal has been raised. Individual and community groups, such as the Lions Club, have come to their aid. And the family’s plight has drawn the attention of certain state officials, Scorrano said, adding that the town is “very appreciative of everyone’s support.” Board members were more than onboard with the move. “It’s an example of a community coming together,” said Councilman Anthony Cirieco. “It is,” Scorrano agreed. Councilman William Faulkner echoed the sentiment. “It’s a great example of what we can do,” he said. Helping hands Community comes together to house family displaced by fire Sugar rush! Girl Scout Troop 1450 selling cookies outside Bobo’s Cafe. PHOTO: CORINNE STANTON Contact ANTHONY J. ENEA, ESQ. Managing Member • Fluent in Italian 914.948.1500 WHITE PLAINS • SOMERS • WWW.ESSLAWFIRM.COM • Asset Protection • Elder Law • Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care) • Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) • Wills, Trusts & Estates Past Chair of Elder Law Section of NYS Bar Association “Super Lawyer” In Elder Law for 16 consecutive years CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 What steps have you taken to protect your life savings from the cost of long term care?

PAGE 8 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Cross over to reliable propane delivery! New Suburban Propane automatic delivery customers receive*: FREE Installation to existing gas lines Safety check On-site tank requirement assessment New customer pricing Automatic delivery Budget payment plans Web portal and mobile app for easy account management 24/7/365 emergency service PLUS 1-800-PROPANE Mention Code: 3822 *Offer expires 4/30/2024. Tank installation special applies to standard installation of above-ground tank. Offer applies to new residential customers with a fuel service agreement, subject to credit approval. Customer is responsible for the removal of competitor’s tank. Not to be combined with any other offer or discount. Other restrictions may apply. Valid at participating location only. Call for details. TIME OFFER LIMITED 1-800-776-7263 914.455.2158 SpirelliElectric.com • [email protected] Specializing in residential & commercial services. Licenses in Westchester, Putnam CREATING CUSTOMERS FOR LIFE Family Owned—Over 40 Years Experience! $25 OFF Service Calls When You Present This Ad. New Customers Only. Keep the lights on. • GENERATORS • Outdoor Lighting • Smart Home Setup • Electric Car Chargers AND ALL OF YOUR ELECTRIC NEEDS! Scan Here To Sign Up (It’s FREE!) Get YOUR Town’s Local News In Your Inbox Daily For detailed program information, visit www.somersny.com, click on “Parks and Rec” and then “Program Registration Site.” For any questions call 914-232-8442 or email [email protected] Adult Cornhole League The Department of Parks and Recreation with A1 Athletics is looking to start an adult corn hole league. Fore more information and team entry forms, please contact 914-232-8442 or email [email protected] Day Camp Positions Now accepting applications for Arts & Crafts Specialist and Counselor. To be a camp counselor, applicants need to be at least 16 years old by the start of camp, 7/1. Preference is given to applicants who are available to work the entire 6 weeks, Monday-Friday, 7/1-8/9. To apply, go to www.somersny.com Somers Middle School Drama Club Presents “Aladdin Jr.” Based on the classic Disney film, written by Ron Clements, John Musker, Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio and directed and produced by John Musker & Ron Clements. Performances to be held at the Somers Middle School Dr. Marien Performing Arts Center on Thursday, March 21 (7 p.m.), Friday, March 22 (7 p.m.) and Saturday, March 23 (2 p.m. & 7 p.m.). Tickets are available for purchase at http://somersms.seatyourself.biz St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 331 Route 100, Somers Easter Egg Hunt Sunday, March 31, at 11:15 a.m. Children of all ages are invited to join in the outdoor fun, beginning at 11:15 a.m., following the Easter Service. Bring a basket to collect the goodies, and plan on a family photo op with the Easter Bunny!  All are welcome. Further information can be found at  www.slcsomers.org, on Facebook at SaintLukesSomers, or Instagram saintlukessomers.   Friends of Somers Library Etsy Artisan Craft Fair April 6 & 7, from, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Celebrating Library Week! Ready, set, go! Join in for two days of creativity and community and discover unique handcrafted items by the Northeast Etsy Artists Collective. To be held at Somers Library, with a portion of all sales benefit the Friends of Somers Library. Somers Parks & Recreation Department Now Accepting Applications for Day Camp Counselors To be a camp counselor, applicants need to be at least 16 years old by the start of camp on July 1. Applicants available to work the entire 6 weeks of camp, (Mon.-Fri. 7/1 - 8/9) will be given preference. To apply, visit www.somersny.com. If you have any questions, please call the Recreation Department at (914) 232-8442. Somers Library Please register using the online calendar at www.somerslibrary. org to have access to online meetings. If virtual, you will receive an invitation prior to the start of the program. Programs are supported by the Friends of the Somers Library through patrons’ generous contributions. Snack Club: Pi Day! Thursday, March 14, from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Each month the children’s room will indulge in making and tasting delicious snacks and foods for our new snack club! This month we are celebrating pi day and making mini pies! All materials will be provided. Space is limited, registration required. For ages 7 & up. Drop-In MahJong Club Fridays, March 15, 22, & 29, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Drop in to play MahJong with your neighbors. This is for anyone who loves the game, wants to meet new people, and have some fun. The library has several Mahjong sets, but players should try to bring their own. All are welcome, but enough knowledge to play unassisted is best. Somers Library Book Group Friday, March 15, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Hybrid Program, available to attend both in person and via Zoom. TRUNK FROM PAGE 4 SEE TRUNK PAGE 30 ELEPHANT’S TRUNK

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 9 BY ALYSSA O’LEARY CONTRIBUTING WRITER Taylor Morrissey has found her way as a leader on campus at Bentley University. A member of the SHS Class of 2023, Taylor emulates the same leadership skills at college due to her high school positions as Secretary of the Fashion and Textile Arts Club (an organization promoting fashion and the arts through the school district and community) and Treasurer of the LEOs Club (an international community service program). She gained exposure to relationships, productivity, communication, and cooperation through these positions of her past. Taylor explained that her leadership foundation stemmed from “the valuable skills of communication, collaboration, and determination [she] gained back home.” Somers taught Taylor how to incorporate a vision into action and embrace change. While currently studying at Bentley - a private business school west of Boston in Waltham, MA - Taylor holds the positions of Her Campus Treasurer (an online magazine for college women internationally), the Honors Program Student Council Mentorship Ambassador, and the Fashion Association of Bentley Events Coordinator. When asked what pushed her to take on such responsibilities at Bentley, Taylor explained that “I really wanted to get involved in campus life on a deeper level. I knew from my past experience back home how great of an outlet organizations were to pursue my passions and be creative, so I took that part of home with me when coming to Bentley.” She was also motivated to increase her responsibilities to meet new people and find a community that shared her interests. Currently, Taylor leads over fifty members weekly to achieve organizational goals and bring visions to life. Her responsibilities range from managing the organization’s budget to gathering feedback and data from members.  In the future, Taylor says she wants “to get more involved in the clubs I’m already in and implement new programs and events or find ways to attract and engage new members.” Taylor loves to be involved in the planning process and to have a say in how clubs operate. Student organizations in her point of view “are a good and informal way to get leadership experience and develop valuable skills like collaboration and communication while exploring my interests.” Taylor is currently undecided but is interested in pursuing a career in Corporate Finance and Accounting. On top of her coursework, she plans to earn her Bloomberg certification which is an online course designed to provide a visual introduction to financial markets and the software Bloomberg Terminal. Taylor is excited about what the future holds and hopes that a portion of that time is spent guiding others.  Taylor is the daughter of Jim and Maria Morrissey of Somers. Leading the way SHS alum gets involved at Bentley Taylor Morrissey is making her presence known at Bentley University. Several Somers students have been recognized for their academic achievements during the fall semester at colleges across the country. In addition, a number of local students were also recognized for their performance during the winter term at The Harvey School! Dean’s List North Carolina State University Natalie Phalen SUNY Albany Ryan McSweeney President’s Honor Roll University of Wyoming Eugene Dilorenzo The Harvey School Cavalier Scholar Logan Alexander Benji Cutler Head’s List Sunflower Burk Olivia Farkas Brandon Hall Addison Silva Mollie Weisberger Honor Roll Sofia Solares Do you know a student with an academic achievement that we should recognize? Let us know at somersrecord@ halstonmedia.com and we would be happy to include them in our next print edition! Celebrating our scholars! HUDSON DERMATOLOGY Hudson Dermatology’s Somers office is ready to offer you the best possible care. Our board-certified dermatologists and expertly trained medical providers use state of the art treatments and the latest equipment to keep your skin healthy and looking its best. We provide important checkups for skin cancer that can catch cancerous growths early, avoiding serious problems later. We can relieve unsightly, annoying conditions like rosacea, rashes, eczema and psoriasis, and remove warts and moles. And we provide Mohs surgery to remove skin cancers with minimum visible impact. In addition, we provide a full range of cosmetic services including Botox, fillers, lasers and peels, skillfully administered to keep you looking fresh, not fake. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Harshitha Mannam to our Somers office. With seven offices, we’re the Hudson Valley’s largest independent dermatology practice, committed to providing you with personal, expert care in a pleasant and private setting. Please call us today or visit our website for more information. 336 U.S. Route 202 Behind Somers Pharmacy 914 617 8950 www.hudsondermatology.com Better Care for Your Skin.

Opinion PAGE 10 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Happily Ever After As objective and independent news writers and editors, we have an imperative to cover the issues most important to the people in Somers. Every day, our team is on the ground reporting on municipal and school news and uplifting the stories of community changemakers. But, amidst industry challenges, it is no longer unfathomable to picture a future when New York State is completely without local newspapers and other local news outlets. According to the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, 2-1/2 newspapers now close each week in the U.S. More than 3,000 newspapers have shuttered across the country since 2004, and New York has been particularly hard hit. In 2004, New York boasted 501 newspapers; today, it’s only 260. In 2022 alone, 30 newspapers closed across the state. A quarter of New York’s counties are news deserts-–down to their last newspaper. Orleans County recently became the first in the state to have none. These closures have also resulted in thousands of lost journalism and newsroom-supporting jobs. Local news matters. Studies show that when a community loses its source of local news, it experiences decreased voter turnout and civic engagement; increased municipal borrowing costs that lead to higher taxes; and decreased transparency among government and business officials, leading to increased waste, fraud and abuse. As newspapers shutter, communities become more polarized, leaving us stuck in a never-ending doom loop where we lose sight of our shared values. During this era of intense national partisanship, local news offers a path forward. The time to act is now. That is why The Somers Record has joined with over 150 other New York local newspapers to launch the Empire State Local News Coalition. The Empire State Local News Coalition, comprising both print and online local newspapers, is advocating for sound public policy that ensures the important work of local news organizations can continue in our state. Through our independent journalism, we aim to serve, inform, uplift and protect New Yorkers. Our coalition cares deeply about our local communities as well as the future of New York’s free press. However, market forces are making it nearly impossible for us to survive. So, together, we are sounding the alarm bell for our leaders in Albany to hear. At the heart of our advocacy is the Local Journalism Sustainability Act. Sponsored by NYS Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal and Assemblymember Carrie Woerner, with the bipartisan support of 55 co-sponsors, this bill provides tax credits to local news outlets for the employment of local news journalists. We want to thank Sen. Pete Harckham and Assemblyman Matt Slater for supporting this legislation. News organizations are incentivized to actually add jobs, returning reporters to many of the state’s newsrooms, which are becoming increasingly desolate. Importantly, the bill is also content neutral, meaning that any legitimate local news outlet--left, right, or in between--can benefit from this bill. The objectivity of the bill’s eligibility requirements means the legislation cannot be weaponized to penalize news organizations critical of government officials. As New York loses talented journalists, lawmakers must act to ensure the industry is allowed not only to survive, but also to thrive. Only local news outlets--with boots-on-the-ground journalists--can deliver the hyperlocal updates and investigations necessary to sustain a community’s civic and financial well-being. Imagine no stories about the Town Board meeting or the school budget debate. No pictures of your granddaughter’s first soccer goal. No obituary of your friendly (and eccentric) neighbor. No reporting to hold public officials to account. And no trusted institution to convene the community around a family in need. We need your help to save local news in New York. To get the Local Journalism Sustainability Act across the finish line, lawmakers need to hear from you about why our newspaper matters and why this bill is important to you. If you would like to help, reach out to Gov. Hochul and to Harckham and Slater (still helpful for the legislators to hear from you, even though they are already co-sponsors) to let them know you stand with local news. Imagine a future without local news New York must enact the Local Journalism Sustainability Act EDITORIAL Support the New York Local Journalism Sustainability Act Contact Governor Kathy Hochul: 518-474-8390 Contact Senator Pete Harckham: 518-455-2340 Contact Assemblyman Matt Slater: 518-455-5783 Our newspaper is a proud member of the Empire State Local News Coalition: support the coalition at SaveNYLocalNews.com. 914-277-4424 • 440 Rt 22 North Salem, NY • www.theblazerpub.com CELEBRATING 531 YEARS! Feast like the Irish... Come Hungry, Leave Full!

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 11 Keep Old Bet the way she is Dear Editor, For more than 20 years, I have worked internationally in the field of natural and cultural resource management. Through my work and personal travel, I have been fortunate enough to visit dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites – like Petra in Jordan, Robben Island in South Africa, and the Medina of Fez in Morocco. Most governments – even those in underdeveloped countries—recognize that historical landmarks enrich our daily lives in many ways. Not only do they preserve shared history and values, but they can generate significant revenue through tourism. That is why I am concerned about the degradation happening to the Old Bet statue situated at our own National Historic Landmark Elephant Hotel. The statue of Old Bet as she has appeared now for many decades embodies the history of Somers as the cradle of the American circus. Postcards, websites and other town memorabilia display the simple, stylized representation of Old Bet on that filigreed ironwork and granite pedestal. I believe it is a grave mistake to change that iconic image. In fact, I would urge that every attempt be made to replicate it. Acknowledging that much time and effort has been poured into the too-heavy new statue that was rendered in a more realistic style, I offer this solution: Put the new statue on prominent and permanent display inside the Elephant Hotel and procure a re-cast of the elephant that was taken down using fiberglass, hollow concrete or some other lightweight and durable material that the existing pedestal can support.   If all the funds for the project have been spent, I suggest putting a request out to the public for donations once the amount needed to create an exact replica is determined. I, for one, would be happy to contribute to bring Old Bet back — looking the way she does in our memories and in so many historic images of our town.   -Barbara Pitkin Somers Overlooked by town on speed bump communication Editor’s Note: In response to Ms. Frick’s letter below, everyone in town who wants The Somers Record is able to receive it for FREE. We include a half page requester form in each edition, and we drop the paper off at the library, The Elephant Hotel and the schools. Additionally, at least once a year, we saturate every mailbox in the town, where we solicit requests. People can also visit our website, HalstonMedia.com, to request the paper. And if anyone is still having trouble receiving the paper, they can email us at circulation@ halstonmedia.com or they can call our publisher personally at 845-208- 8151. Dear Editor: Why were speed bumps and stops signs not installed in front of those who wanted them? Do they not have speeders in front of their homes? They don’t listen to constant thumping 24/7. Why didn’t the Town Board reach out to the rest of the community to ask our opinions before they were installed? Why did residents have to pay to send a flyer out to bring attention to this? The people who wanted them didn’t mail a flyer out. In the past, the Town Board did not notify Shenorock residents of things going on (a beach being installed and sewers going in) and worked with only a few residents, and we see it is still going on. Residents complain time after time that they didn’t know about things going on. What does that mean? The Town Board is not doing enough to keep their taxpayers abreast of what’s going on. With a new supervisor, we were hoping for a change. For months last year, none of the town meetings were being shown on Channel 20. The Somers Record does not even get delivered to everyone in town and nobody seems to be able to fix that. How hard is it to put a note in our water bills? -Danielle Frick Shenorock Over 220 Shenorock residents want speed bumps removed Editor’s Note: In response to the letter below, we’ve been told by many residents that they read The Somers Record from cover to cover! Dear Editor, Supervisor Robert Scorrano doesn’t want residents against the speed bumps to show up at Town Board meetings to speak during the public comment portion of the meeting every week. But it was OK for residents who wanted these speed bumps to do it and get on the agenda. He suggests the Shenorock community should come together NOW. He didn’t suggest that to the residents a year ago who wanted them. He created this issue by not reaching out to all of us first. He doesn’t even know that Shenorock does not have a community center. Crystal Hall is privately owned and you have to rent it out. Thankfully, residents paid to mail a flyer to the community. The Town Board did the same thing with the sewers; no notifications went out to the communities; they did the bare minimum not to bring attention to it. Nobody reads the little sections in the back of the paper and I never saw a single article about speed bumps in a year until last month. The Town Board says residents should read the meeting agendas online every month. Really?! Over 220 signed petitions against the speed bumps should be heard loud and clear to warrant them coming out permanently. The Town Board listened to a few residents and installed them. With 220-plus signatures, the Town Board can take them out. -Rich Jacobs Shenorock LETTERS SOMERS Central School District Forward in Exceence SCSD uses clearly defined Elements of Excellence as the framework to guide decision-making to ensure the development of the whole child. Throughout the year, recent data and information about each Element of Excellence is shared with the community at Board of Education meetings. This month, the district presented an update on Global Citizenship. Global Citizenship SCSD will ensure a sense of responsibility, belonging, and acceptance in all students and foster a respectful understanding of broader perspectives. GLOBAL c i t i z e n s h i p 21ST CENTURY Knowledge & Skills Social, Emotional & PHYSICAL WELLNESS whole CHILD P R O F E S S I O N A L L E A R N I N G C O M M U N I T I E S — F I S C A L S T E W A R D S H I P — F A M L I M M O C & Y U N I T Y E N G A G E M E N T — L E A R N I N G P E R S O N A L I Z E D Scan here for full report In May 2023, students at Somers Middle School took a Student Engagement Survey. Below is a sampling of statements with which students agreed or strongly agreed. “I feel like I belong in my school.” “I feel safe in my school.” 91% 90% “I like most of my teachers at school.” “Most of my teachers care about how I’m doing.” 91% 88% Work locally to make a global impact MLK Day of Service 3rd Annual Veterans Brunch

PAGE 12 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Fresh Seafood Daily, Grass Fed Meats, Homemade Pasta, Sandwiches, Lobster Sandwich, Homemade Foccacia & Individual Pizzas, & Traditional Dishes Like Chicken Or Veal Parmigiano 137 Somerstown Turnpike, Katonah, NY 10536 at the intersection of Rte 100 and Rte 139 (914) 232-9619 Our chefs strive to prepare the best Italian dishes for our customers. Open Lunch and Dinner Tuesday to Sunday Lunch Menu Starts At $16.95 Check out our Easter menu online at Lefontanerestaurant.com Nothing says more about your personal style than your hair. I firmly believe that you can track the entire thread of your life by mapping the different stages your hair has gone through. It’s like cutting a tree open and counting the rings, only less messy, but perhaps more painful. Now that the ‘80s are long over, maybe you wish you had tried the tree method rather than allow yourself to be photographed and run the risk that Facebook Memories may someday be invented. My hair has been through many trials and tribulations, and I wish I had been more sensitive to what it was going through. I was bald at a very early age. It made my head look too large for my body, and my self-esteem took a beating. I tried a comb-over for a while, but I didn’t even have enough hair for that. I considered plugs, but I was afraid of electrocuting myself. It wasn’t until later that I found out that MOST babies are bald. My hair grew in and I felt much better. Then my teeth started falling out, but that’s a story for another time. (I did get money for them under my pillow, so I tried to acquire more teeth from alternate sources, and put the money into a no-load, tax-deferred vehicle, and I wish I could remember where I parked it.) What was your best hair? If you’re a woman, I don’t even have to look at you to know. My theory is that 85 percent of all women look best with shoulder-length hair. Seven percent might look good with long hair, but that’s usually because they ALWAYS had long hair, and it’s hard to picture them any other way. About 5 percent of girls look good with short hair, but would look even better with longer hair. About 3 percent can pull off the bald look, but those are usually model types who could eat you for dinner, so you generally want to pretend you didn’t notice they were bald. Another 2 percent are not good with fractions. A girl once told me she used to have long hair all the way down her back, but it’s unusual for girls to have such a hairy back. If you survived the ‘80s, I bet you teased your hair, possibly in order to save everyone else the trouble. Maybe you lightened it. Maybe you darkened it. Maybe you straightened it, maybe you curled it, maybe you used something called a crimper. But I doubt you just left it alone. I knew a girl who I guess wanted to look like a cheap blonde, but it must have cost plenty to have her roots darkened every two weeks. When I was a kid my Dad used to cut my hair, and he was spectacularly bad at it. He took a little off the top, a little off the sides and then cut my bangs at a 45-degree angle, so I would have had to walk around with my head tilted sideways for it to be straight. He did it for free, so I couldn’t even ask for my money back. I later found a book on his bookshelf detailing how you could cut a kid’s hair EXACTLY that way, and I realized that that is why children run with scissors. These days I only get my hair cut a couple times a year, mostly because I’m too cheap to do it more often. A haircut and a shave isn’t two bits anymore, you know. If you’re too young to remember, two bits is a quarter, which doesn’t seem weird until you consider that one bit must be 12 and a half cents. Anyway, after the haircut, J.D. sometimes asks me if I want product in my hair, but he won’t say which product. In case it might cost more, I tell him just to use by-products instead. It seems like the older you get, the more innovative hair becomes. No longer content with sprouting from your head, it seeks alternate, more adventurous avenues of germination. Your nose, your ears, your neck and other, odder frontiers, places where no human has yet planted the flag of sovereignty. My wife even found a little stray hair sprouting from her chin and claimed that it was mine. You always want the hair you don’t have. I never liked my super-straight hair, but when I got older it gradually became curly. When I realized it was curly because it went gray, I didn’t like that either. I had salt-and-pepper hair, but my cardiologist didn’t like THAT. So, even if you’re not thrilled with your hair, don’t do anything drastic or weird that will make your husband say HOW could you do this to ME? The grass is always greener on the other side, but that’s not a good reason for your hair to be. Say hello at [email protected]. Hair there and everywhere RICK MELÉN MAN OVERBOARD Contact Us The Somers Record is located at 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You can contact us at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected].

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 13 When I was a teen, my brother got me my first “real” job and I am sure he regretted that move until the day he died. Back in the ’70s, he was a vice president and head loan officer at the National Bank of Pawling, which is now Key Bank. He got me a summer job as a teller. I don’t think they keep data on such things, but I just may have been the worst teller in the history of banks. I enjoyed it. It wasn’t difficult work. You got to socialize all day long. But I stunk at it. Literally... as you will soon see. Besides providing friendly customer service, the most important thing a teller must do is balance the cashbox when your shift is over. You count the money before you start and again when you finish. The machine will tell you how much cash you took in and gave out. It should all balance. For me... it seldom did. I’d always have half the staff crawling all over my station, going over the machine tape, recounting the money, and crawling around on the floor looking for stray bills I might have dropped. It was embarrassing. It was the end of a long day and these poor people just wanted to go home. But Bob can’t count. My career in the banking industry was doomed early on. One day (this was when I was a senior in high school) the president of the bank called me in for a chat. He wanted to know if I was interested in banking and if I was going to pursue a business degree in college. Now, all these years later, I realize what I should have said was, “I don’t know yet, sir. I am still carefully weighing all my options... but it’s certainly something to consider.” But instead, what I said was: “Are you kidding me? Oh, my God, no!” Nonetheless, they kept bringing me back every summer. In 1976, the drinking age was 18. I turned 18 on July 15 and took advantage of it throughout that summer. Friday nights were as good a time as any to do it. The problem with that was my job as a bank teller required me to work on Saturday mornings. Had to get there by 8:30. One particular Saturday morning I was hungover. Now, to give you some perspective, this one would easily make the Top 10 Worst Hangovers in the History of Fermentation. I knew I was going to be sick the moment I pulled into the bank parking lot that morning. I was wearing a jacket and tie, so this was going to be a first. The plan was simple—go straight to the men’s room, get it over with, clean up, get some coffee, get to work, and tough it out until noon, when we closed. Unfortunately, the janitor was in the men’s room mopping when I got there. The ladies’ room was occupied. Yikes! Plan B – go to the vault, get my cashbox, take it to my station, and get set up. The janitor should be done by then. Ahh, but as they say, “Man plans, God laughs.” When I got to the vault, without warning, physiology took over, my stomach would not wait any longer, and the little metal room suddenly smelled like a dive bar. One of my teller co-workers walked in just then, saw my whippeddog expression, and burst out laughing. She quickly regained her composure and led me to my station, got me coffee, and then got the janitor to take care of the mess in the vault. Other than that, the morning was uneventful, but I’ve never forgotten that incident. And I haven’t really told that story to anyone before, except maybe a Working for a living BOB DUMAS OUT OF MY HEAD SEE DUMAS PAGE 14 (914) 248-6220 Progressive-Vet.com 268 Route 202 • Somers, NY 10589 Does your pet need an Ultrasound or Echocardiogram? Say goodbye to long wait times and uncertainties! Introducing a revolutionary pet healthcare solution — QuickScan Pet Ultrasound! INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & OPERATED SPEEDY DIAGNOSIS CONVENIENCE EXPERT ANALYSIS CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY PEACE OF MIND Your pet’s health matters to us, and with QuickScan Pet Ultrasound, we’re committed to providing the fastest and most reliable diagnostic service available. DON’T WAIT—give your pet the care they deserve with QuickScan Pet Ultrasound today! LOCATIONS: Baldwin Place • 44 Route 118 • (845) 628-7900 Croton Falls • 1 Center St • (914) 769-3206 Find out why Joe Ferone of Proper Service needs to be YOUR Go-To Automotive Service Center! YOUR FAMILY CAR CARE CENTER For over 100 years of combined auto experience, Joe Ferone and his sta of Proper Service have been serving the community, creating relationships and building a remarkable company with an amazing team JOE FERONE, owner of employees!

PAGE 14 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Scan Here To Sign Up (It’s FREE!) Get YOUR Town’s Local News In Your Inbox Daily SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO VISIT ONE OF OUR SHOWROOMS TODAY! Your Bath. Your Kitchen. Your Home. 49 Route 138 Somers, NY 10589 M-Fr 9:30AM-4:30PM 914-232-2020 3372 Old Crompond Road Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 M-Sat 10AM-5PM 914-736-2468 (ACROSS FROM THE BJ’S SHOPPING CENTER) BESTPLG.COM $100 off $1,000 Minimum Purchase when Shipped Complete. Eligible at Yorktown and Somers showrooms only Show this Coupon to Receive Discount. One per customer Expires 5/15/24 few friends, for obvious reasons. It is true... as you get older you don’t care what people think anymore. It is weirdly liberating. I was never really “fired” by the bank, but on my last summer vacation home from college, I was told there were no jobs available that year. But my brother came to the rescue once again. He wanted to know if I wanted a job working at a new hardware/lumber store that was opening in town. I knew as much about hardware as I did banking so I thought, sure, that sounds great! The store was owned by two of my former high school teachers who had decided to change careers. They went from molding young minds to selling molding. They made the right decision... trust me. I had had them as teachers. I thought the job would primarily be stocking shelves and waiting on customers. It was not. The first day they had me out in the warehouse working a forklift. I cannot stress strongly enough how bad this idea was. I had never worked a forklift before, but they acted as if it was just like riding a bike. They gave me a few quick lessons and left me to my own devices. But the forklift didn’t want to do anything I commanded it to do and it wasn’t too long before I had smashed up a few pallets of lawn fertilizer, spilling piles of the stuff all over the place. So obviously the next thing to have me do was use the forklift to load a flatbed truck with a bunch of cinder blocks and then drive them to a construction site. Somehow I got the blocks on the flatbed without any major disasters, but I had never driven a truck like that before. I am pretty sure you needed a certain type of driver’s license to do it. I just had a regular license and I only had that for a couple of years and was still trying to get better at parallel parking. (They teach parallel parking in driver’s ed, but to this day there is no record anywhere of anyone actually doing it successfully. Kind of like folding a fitted sheet.) I headed out to the construction site going about 8 mph the whole way. The site was about 50 yards off the road and you had to drive through an open field to get there. You followed the tracks that previous heavy vehicles had made. The problem was that the path was not level. It kind of tilted a little to the right because of the lay of the land. The tilt got more extreme as you got closer to the site and by the time I arrived, I was on about a 30-degree angle. The cinder blocks began to slide, busted through the straps, and half of them fell to the ground where they pulverized each other into literal cinders. Somehow, I was still not fired. However, my job description did change radically. Now I was stocking shelves and waiting on customers and life was as it should be. The only machine they would let me near is the cash register and I think I might have broken that too. So... I wasn’t good at the cushy office job where you wore a tie, and I was even more of a disaster at hard labor. What was I to do? Fortunately, I found a career where you spend half the day sitting at a desk with a typewriter, later a computer, and the other half driving around and trying to get people to talk to you when they would much rather gouge out their own eyes than do that. Now I just sit and type, type and sit. The world can breathe a collective sigh of relief that there are no more busted cinder blocks and no unbalanced cashboxes or stinky bank vaults. All of it has been traded for a painful lower back and a touch of carpal tunnel syndrome. That seems about right. Editorial Submissions Press releases and photos should be submitted to The Somers Record by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissons can be emailed to [email protected] or mail it to The Somers Record, 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Send a selfaddressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. DUMAS FROM PAGE 13

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 15 A Guardianship Proceeding is not something that is typically commenced unless there is a true necessity. It is a last resort mechanism for when someone is no longer competent to make their own personal and financial decisions, and has not executed a sufficiently broad Durable General Power of Attorney and a Health Care Proxy. Here are six factors to consider prior to commencing and filing the proceeding: (1) Determine whether the Alleged Incapacitated Person (AIP) has executed a valid Durable General Power of Attorney (POA), Health Care Proxy (HCP), Living Will and HIPAA form. The existence of the aforestated advance directives may obviate the need for a Guardianship Proceeding if they are sufficiently broad enough to deal with the issues present in the particular case at hand. For example, in many instances a valid POA has been executed, but the POA is not sufficiently broad to address the AIP’s financial needs. There may be an immediate need for broad gifting powers for Medicaid and or estate planning purposes where the POA only permits gifting to specific people and in a limited dollar amount, such as $500 or less. (2) Review how title to the AIP’s assets is held. Does the AIP have assets in joint title with others? If so, can these assets be accessed by the joint title holder if the AIP is not able to make decisions as to his or her financial affairs? If so, a Guardianship Proceeding may not be necessary as to those assets. (3) Has the AIP executed a Last Will and Testament or an Inter Vivos Trust? If a Last Will or Inter Vivos Trust are in existence, it will be important to determine whether or not any proposed transfer or disposition of the AIP’s assets sought in the Guardianship Proceeding is consistent or inconsistent with the AIP’s wishes expressed therein. If a beneficiary(ies) under an existing Last Will or Trust is affected by a proposed transfer, he or she will be entitled to notice of the Proceeding and a right to be heard. (4) Prior to filing a Guardianship Proceeding, it is important to determine whether the powers the Guardians will seek will be of an “unlimited” or “definite” duration. Obviously, a critical factor as to the duration of the Guardianship will be whether there is a likelihood that the AIP will be able to handle his or her financial affairs at a later date. Additionally, it will be necessary to determine whether there are any specific or special powers over the person or property that the Guardian requires that are not enumerated as part of the standard powers provided for under the Mental Hygiene Law. For example, perhaps the Guardian needs the power to relocate the AIP to another state or wishes to make gifts or transfers of the AIP’s property. Such powers must be specifically granted to the Guardian, sometimes in a separate proceeding. (5) Does there exist the possibility that the Guardianship will be contested? The possibility that the Guardianship will be contested will have a significant and important impact on whether or not to commence the Proceeding. It is always a difficult decision to commence a Guardianship for one’s father or mother, but the decision is made significantly more difficult when the Petitioner knows or believes that mom, dad or a sibling will contest it. Voluntarily placing oneself into a litigious proceeding with a parent or a loved one may have significant consequences depending on the level of mental capacity of the AIP. (6) Is the appointment of a Temporary or Independent Guardian advisable? In cases where there exists a significant possibility for either personal or financial harm to the AIP because he or she is unable to handle his or her affairs, it may be advisable to request that the Petitioner(s) or an independent third party be appointed a Temporary Guardian pending the final determination of the Court. This is often utilized when there is an immediate need to marshal the AIP’s assets to prevent waste, dissipation or fraud, or where there is an immediate need for someone to handle the Alleged Incapacitated Person’s personal and financial affairs. Additionally, in a contested guardianship setting, an independent non-related third party may be appointed as the guardian of the AIP in a final order by the Court in order to avoid any parties to the matter from making decisions regarding the AIP, where they cannot come to an agreement as to what is in the AIP’s best interest and who should act as the Guardian long term. In conclusion, although the aforestated factors are not the only factors that one should consider prior to commencing a Guardianship, in my experience they are often the most important! Lauren C. Enea, Esq. is an Associate at Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP. She concentrates her practice on Wills, Trusts and Estates, Medicaid Planning, Special Needs Planning and Probate/Estate Administration. She believes that it is never too early or too late to start planning for your future and she enjoys working with individuals and families to ensure that their estate and long-term care plan best suits their needs. Ms. Enea is on the executive committee of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA) Elder Law and Special Needs Section and is also the Co-Editor of the NYSBA Elder Law and Special Needs Section Journal. She is admitted to practice law in New York and Florida. She can be reached at 914-948- 1500. Commencing a Guardianship Proceeding? Beforehand, consider these six factors under Article 81 of the Mental Hygiene Law ‘It is always a difficult decision to commence a Guardianship for one’s father or mother, but the decision is made significantly more difficult when the Petitioner knows or believes that mom, dad or a sibling will contest it.’ -Lauren C. Enea, Esq.  Enea, Scanlan & Sirignano, LLP LAUREN ENEA GUEST CORNER FOCUS ON ELDER LAW

PAGE 16 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Come celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with us! 14 Frances Kiernan Place & Rt 6 Carmel-Mahopac • 845-621-4222 northwoodinn.net OPEN Tues-Sun Lunch & Dinner Corned Beef & Cabbage Corned Beef Sandwich Fish-n-Chips Sunday March 17th $ 5 Guinness Pints ALL DAY Shot Specials Giveaways MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER TO PLAY THE NEW YORK LOTTERY GAMES. PLEASE PLAY RESPONSIBLY. 24-HOUR PROBLEM GAMING HOTLINE: 1-877-8-HOPENY (846-7369) Newburgh, NY RWHudsonValleyNY.com I-84 | Exit 36B I-87 | Exit 17 Earn Entries All Month Long! Friday, March 29 • 10pm & Sunday, March 31 • 4pm Double your luck with a chance to win a Chevy Colorado*! *Actual models and colors may vary. DOUBLE YOUR LUCK CHEVY COLORADO DRAWING Dear Dr. Linda, My son is in the 10th grade. He is bright and works hard. He always does his homework and likes school, but still has a B average. He’ll get an A in a course and then a C in another. He goes to sleep around midnight every night because of homework and tests. Then gets up at 6 a.m. He doesn’t get home from school most days until after 5 p.m. because he’s doing some sport or is in some other after-school activity. I’ve encouraged the after-school activities and sports since he needs those things for his college applications. My husband thinks I’m causing the problem by pushing him into all these activities. He thinks his grades are simply a result of doing too much without enough sleep. What’s your opinion? -Elizabeth Dear Elizabeth, You’re both right. Yes, colleges do look for sports and other afterschool activities, but if it’s hurting him physically and as a result his grades are dropping, then you need to decide which activities he would be willing to drop. It’s not necessary to pile on activities. College admission counselors look for continuity, leadership and interest. They’re not looking for a list of activities. I just worked with a girl who was exhausted because she was on the track team and also did dance plus several other activities. She had been dancing her whole life and loved it, but thought she also needed a sport for her applications. So she took up track. She hated track and wasn’t even a good runner. I suggested she drop track and continue dance. By changing her schedule, she had more time for schoolwork and wasn’t as tired. And yes, not getting enough sleep can definitely be part of the problem. Research has shown that a large number of our students suffer from sleep deprivation. In my own practice, I see student after student getting poor grades because they aren’t getting enough sleep. Is your child overbooked? DR. LINDA SILBERT STRONG LEARNING SEE DR. LINDA PAGE 17

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 OPINION THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 17 Lincolndale Wine & Liquor colndale Wine & Liquor Huge Selection of your Favorite Wines & Liquors Free Local Delivery (within 10 miles on purchases of $75 or more) Get Ready for March Madness with our Winning Spirits 155 Rt 202, Village Plaza, Lincolndale (next to Sunrise Diner—across from Appliance Sales Plus) Mon-Wed 930-9P • Thurs-Sat: 930-930P • Sun: 12N-8P 845-475-7574 914-248-6000 10% OFF Any 6 Bottles of Wine or Champagne Mix & Match Lincolndale Wine & Liquor Not valid with any other offers. Some exceptions apply. Exp. 5/20/24 15% OFF Any 12 Bottles of Wine or Champagne Mix & Match Lincolndale Wine & Liquor Not valid with any other offers. Some exceptions apply. Exp. 5/20/24 DR. LINDA FROM PAGE 16 One high school girl, an excellent student, studied to the wee hours of the night and as a result needed to spend even more time studying because it took her so long to process what she was learning. She was caught in a vicious circle and was too tired to learn. A high school boy came to me for an 8 p.m. appointment and asked if I had something to help his headache. After talking to him for a while, I found out that he’d been up since 5 a.m. finishing his homework because he didn’t get home until 10 p.m. the night before. He was on the football team and then went to work after practice. He’d start his homework around 11 p.m., fall asleep and then get up at the crack of dawn to finish. He had good study skills and was bright, but was making himself sick. This lifestyle prevented him from learning and doing well in school. As for getting an A in one course and then a C in the other, often students are so focused on one subject, they don’t have the time or the energy to work on the other subject. I bet if your son drops some activities, does his homework earlier and sleeps more, his grades will improve.   If not, find out if some of the courses are too difficult for him. It’s also possible he doesn’t know how to prepare for tests. He may be doing his homework, but not learning the material. -Dr. Linda Dr. Linda, along with her husband, Dr. Al, own Strong Learning Tutoring and Test Prep serving Westchester and Putnam counties for over 40 years. Strong Learning tutors students K-12 in any subject, in person or remotely. Drs. Linda and Al are also the authors of “Why Bad Grades Happen to Good Kids,” available on Amazon and at stronglearning.com. BY JEAN TOCK GUEST COLUMNIST My husband’s first word as a toddler was not “mama” or “dada.” It was “ball.” And shortly after that I am sure he was shouting “Let’s Go Mets!” The man owns 27 Mets T-shirts, 36 Mets baseball caps, seven official MLB jerseys, and well into the hundreds of baseball cards, autographs, bobbleheads and commemorative giveaways. He has had a partial season ticket plan for more than 40 years. He has attended playoffs and World Series games, albeit not many, since we are talking about the Mets. He has seen his favorite players retire and, sadly, he has seen some of them pass on to that heavenly dugout. He has seen Shea Stadium knocked down and Citifield constructed. So maybe you can imagine his dismay that the woman he fell in love with 30-some years ago still knows nothing about baseball. It is not for lack of trying. I listen — most of the time — when he explains plays or when he yells coaching advice at the TV, but I am not sure becoming a diehard baseball fan is a trait I can acquire. I think being a sports fan has to start at a young age for it to “take.” I do enjoy attending a game once or twice a season, but I have other things taking up space in my brain and there is no room left for the ever-changing rules of baseball. I will never understand how my husband remembers statistics, but apparently it is a genetic gift that he shares with our nephews. Chris and Andrew can recite Mets batting averages and can remember specific games with astounding precision right along with their uncle. One year my husband tried explaining to me the “neighborhood play.” It’s when a fielder catches the ball near second base and does not need to step on the base for the out if he is “in the neighborhood.” I spent the entire season asking “Was that the neighborhood play?” I asked so many times that he just stopped talking to me. For years I wore my car keys on a Mets lanyard like a necklace and every time I would approach a cashier at a store they would inevitably strike up a baseball conversation. Then I was really stuck because unless my husband had just given me the What’s the Mendoza line again? SEE TOCK PAGE 18

PAGE 18 – THE SOMERS RECORD OPINION MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 The Vacation Therapists® We Plan You Relax Frank Bastone, Chief Vacation Therapist®️ [email protected] 845-669-6149 LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL YOUR HOME? LET’S WORK TOGETHER Kayleigh Mayer & Catia Leon Licensed Real Estate Salespersons [email protected] M: 914-879-2949 | 914-502-8478 Scan me for your free home valuation! 17 Miller Rd. Mahopac 845-621-1222 RooneyOrtho.com Rooney Orthodontics Children & Adults highlights of the previous day’s game, I knew nothing. I would explain I am only a Mets fan by marriage but still, I felt like a fraud. I was masquerading as a Mets fan simply by wearing this giveaway from “Lanyard Night” at Citifield. I finally ditched the lanyard this year because it was too exhausting trying to come up with Mets chitchat for the cashiers at Stop & Shop. I was completely unaware of professional sports until I got to college. I, of course, knew professional sports existed and I knew the names of the teams. My dad always enjoyed Monday night football. (Go Cowboys.) But I had no real allegiance to or interest in any pro teams. At Penn State, which is located nearly halfway between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, I met lots of people from both cities who were fans in the truest sense of the word: fanatics. Their teams were an extension of their personalities. One of my best friends during freshman year was a girl from Pittsburgh who knew every detail about every hockey player for the Penguins. I had never even heard of the Pittsburgh Penguins. But I will always remember that Karen loves the Penguins. And then of course there was college football. I could not understand what was so remarkable about Penn State football. This was back when Joe Paterno was a god. As students, we could purchase season tickets at a very reasonable cost, which I did. Students were sold a single paper ticket that got hole-punched when they attended the game. Each year I went to one game and after that I sold the ticket, collecting a fee plus collateral to assure I got the ticket back for the remaining games. I sold each season ticket five times over. Maybe if I had actually attended the games, I would be more of a Penn State football fan. The college friends with whom I have stayed in touch are all true fans of the blue and white, and there I sit, unable to contribute to their conversation. Being a sports fan is a valuable trait. It enables you to talk to people with whom you may not have much else in common. My husband can chime in on sports conversations with complete strangers waiting in line at a deli. My daughter’s boyfriend can talk Giants football with absolutely anyone. Being a sports fan connects you to a larger community. According to a recent study, more than 60% of Americans identify as sports fans. Watching professional sports gives such an intense feeling of excitement that endorphins are released – those neurotransmitters that boost mood and relieve pain. You get the same feeling when you exercise, but if you can’t work out one day, it’s good to know you can watch your favorite team and get the same psychological benefit. I find it fascinating that half the sports fans who watch a game will watch their team lose. You probably would not watch a movie if you were told there was a 50% chance you would hate it. The movie’s story is never going to change, but your team may have a better day next time around. Sports fans always have hope. Maybe this is the year I become a baseball fan. I want to share in the excitement of the sports fan community. I don’t know if being a Mets fan will ever be a true part of my identity, but I do understand the appeal of community, camaraderie and loyalty. I’ll dig my Mets lanyard out of the trash if someone can get me to understand the neighborhood play. BY MARGIE MAREK GUEST POET we sought knowledge from a tree bought what is free were taught about disease fought about peace caught mixed-message-fever negotiate, debate hard-ball, intimidate boundaries, barriers a line in the sand and resentment built WALLS consecrating halls until we unified the diversified concentrated the scattered with newfound devotion we focus only on what matters Margie Marek is a member of various Somers Library writing and poetry groups. hocus-focus TOCK FROM PAGE 17

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 19 The CONFIDENCE GRAB THE SPOTLIGHT to That's the BBO difference Call for you FREE consultation today 293 Route 100 Suite 209 Somers, NY (914) 277-1111 www.BBOsmiles.com Starting with the first day of school, students in all grades at Primrose Elementary School started counting the passing days in many ways. Some used popsicle sticks, blocks, or stickers to count each day, then made groups of ten as the weeks went by. For some, it was their first exploration of the base ten number system. Primrose kindergarten students marked the onehundredth day of school with a classroom celebration. Family members visited the classrooms, helping their students count to 100 by dabbing paint, stringing pieces of cereal, and sorting colors of candies, among other activities. “We’re celebrating the one-hundredth day of school,” said Joey Karnach as he dotted paint “sprinkles” onto a giant cupcake drawing. “I’m making a cupcake. I’m dotting it with ten of each color.” “I can’t believe it’s the one-hundredth day of school already,” said Caitlin Karnach, Joey’s mom. “I don’t know where the time goes, but he’s loved every minute of it. I’m so happy to celebrate with him in the classroom today.” Kindergarten students also made projects that represented the one-hundredth day of school to decorate the hallways. Some students used 100 Lego pieces, some used 100 pieces of their favorite candy, while others used 100 stickers of their favorite animal to create a collage. “Mine is the monster truck one,” said Joey proudly about his one-hundredth-day collage project. Other students in the school had different assignments for their one-hundredth day of school. Some answered the question: What would you do with $100? Others discussed things they’d like to accomplish by the time they reach 100 years old, while other students celebrated by imagining what it would be like to turn 100 years old by dressing for the part. No matter how students celebrated, everyone had 100% fun. Article courtesy of Somers Central School District. 100 Days at Primrose Elementary YOUTH FOCUS Is your child’s Scout Troop working on a community service project? Did their team bring home a championship? Is there a youth program you would like to recognize or an upcoming event we should know about? We want to hear from you! In this special section we aim to highlight the youth of our community, including sports, Scouting, and any other programs or events affiliated with the school district. Please send photos and story ideas to [email protected]. Youth Focus is proudly sponsored by our friends at Bridgham Barr Orthodontics, located at 293 Route 100 in Somers. Learn more at www.bbosmiles.com

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Sports PAGE 20 – THE SOMERS RECORD BY TOM WALOGORSKY EDITOR On Saturday, March 2, the Tuskers traveled to Staten Island to square off against the top competition at the state championship meet at the Ocean Breeze Athletic Complex. True to form, the Somers runners did not disappoint. Competing in the 300-meter dash, Haylie Donovan came out on top in the trial race and advanced to the finals where she placed 6th overall, 4th for public schools. “To run against the best in the state, make the final, and come home with a medal was incredible to watch,” said Coach John Vegliante. “Haylie is an elite talent with an elite work ethic.”  Teammate Julia Duzynski took part in an intersectional relay, where runners who finished third in the state qualifier joined forces for a relay against other sections in the state. She would team with runners from Bronxville, Clarkstown South, and Rye Neck, anchoring the Section 1 team in the 1600-meter and running a personal best time of 5:13 to help the squad earn a 4th place medal. The performance was also good enough for the team to place 3rd among Somers runners shine at states Haylie Donovan and Julia Duzynski brought home the hardware at states. PHOTO COURTESY OF SOMERS TRACK & FIELD BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER After five seasons, John Veteri has stepped down from coaching the combined Brewster/Yorktown/ Somers/North Salem (BYSNS) hockey team. Veteri coached for a total of 13 seasons, starting with the Somers/ North Salem (SNS) Sabers modified squad in 2011-12. He did that for two seasons, and then in 2013- 14, he took over as the head varsity coach of the Sabers. “In the 2018-19 season,  we started practicing but ended up not going through with the season due to lack of numbers,” Veteri said. “In 2019-20, that is when the BYSNS merger happened.” Veteri, who teaches adapted physical education at both Pequenakonck Elementary School and North Salem Middle/High School, decided to give up coaching because of his dedication to his family. “I have been blessed with three beautiful children and they are getting to the age where they are involved with sports, activities, and I wanted to be there for them,” Veteri said. “I am grateful to my wife Veteri steps down as coach of BYSNS hockey Veteri started his coaching career with the Somers/North Salem Sabers. PHOTO: SKIP PEARLMAN Haylie Donovan on the podium. SEE VETERI PAGE 21 66 Miller Road, Mahopac 845-628-2050 www.mavistireofmahopac.com With This Coupon • Expires 5/31/24 $10.00OFF Synthetic Oil change (MOST CARS) 25%OFF 25 % OFF STRUTS & SHOCKS With This Coupon • Expires 5/31/24 CARING FOR YOUR CAR & OUR COMMUNITY FOR OVER 35 YEARS! The Friendly Mavis Team SEE TRACK PAGE 24

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 SPORTS THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 21 John Veteri is stepping down after coaching the BYSNS for the last five seasons. PHOTO: ROB DIANTONIO for the support over the years. I am looking forward to being just dad and then probably coach my kids in whatever sports they choose to play.” Veteri said that the thing he will miss most about coaching is the players. “I really enjoyed getting to know students from multiple schools around the area,” Veteri said. “Being able to bring a group of hockey players together from rival schools in other sports was something special. I am thankful for the support of the athletic directors and the parents over the years.” One of those players is junior captain and defenseman Michael Bonelli, who attends North Salem High School. “I enjoyed his attitude towards the game the most,” said Bonelli, who earned All-League Honorable Mention honors this past season. “His ability to radiate what it meant to be a BYSN, always wanting to win but also being fair, always understanding what his players had going on.” Bonelli said that Veteri was a great inspiration to everyone on and off the ice. “He always had our backs and was always there to help us learn and improve our skills,” said Bonelli, who played two years for Veteri. “He helped us learn life lessons that will contribute to our success in the future, all while being a great guy with lots of stories.” Veteri said that coaching high-school hockey is something he had dreamed of doing since graduating college. “Being able to fulfill my dream only two years after graduating college and then staying for 13 years is a proud moment for myself,” Veteri said. “Coaching high-school hockey wasn’t just about the wins or losses for me. It was about connecting with players and having them learn from their experiences through hockey, to take with them as they graduate and move on into the real world.” For Veteri, there were plenty of moments as coach that he looks fondly back on. “I  am proud  to  be able to coach against some of the best coaches/teams in New York state, proud of being able to say that my teams were named Howard Kosel Team Sportsmanship award winners multiple times throughout my tenure and to see how the players, parents, and hockey community rallied around me and my family after my father passed away,” Veteri said. “To be able to continue to donate to Blythedale Children’s Hospital over the past two seasons  in honor of my father has been my proudest moment of all.” Season Honors With the season concluded, a number of BYSNS players were recognized for their outstanding performances, including Lucas Salvatore (All-League), AJ Jones (All-League), Dylan Weber (All-League Honorable Mention), Micheal Bonelli (All-League Honorable Mention), and Matteo Guastadisegni (All-League Honorable Mention). The team would also receive the Howard Kosel Team Sportsmanship Award. VETERI FROM PAGE 20 www.summertrailsdaycamp.com CURRENTLY HIRING STAFF! CALL FOR A TOUR! 914.245.1776 Getting enough good sleep is crucial to your health and well-being. As we recognize Sleep Awareness Month, daylight saving time begins, which can throw off our sleep patterns. Here are some tips on how to tackle sleep deprivation and commit to adopting better sleep practices. What are the signs of poor sleep? Some signs of poor sleep can include not feeling rested after the recommended amount of sleep, waking up during the night or experiencing symptoms of sleep disorders, including snoring, or gasping for air. How can sleep impact your health? Not getting enough sleep or regularly getting poor sleep may sometimes have a role in the development of chronic diseases that have had an increasingly common role in premature illness or death. Some conditions include obesity, depression, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. How can you improve your sleep habits? Talk to your medical provider if you are not getting quality sleep. Your doctor may be able to uncover any underlying conditions that may be causing your sleep issues. You can also adopt healthy sleep habits to improve your sleep and sleep duration such as staying physically active, ensuring that you have a dark and comfortable room to sleep in at night, avoiding screens before bedtime, and developing a consistent routine that is focused on going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. Does sleep play a role in your overall health? Scan the QR code or visit optum.com/tri Optum Medical Care, P.C. (“Optum Medical Care”) is a physician owned and led practice having complete authority for all medical decision-making and patient care through its physicians and other licensed professionals. Optum, through its owned management organizations, provides non-clinical administrative services to support Optum Medical Care and its physicians. Neither Optum nor its management companies employs, engages, or supervises physicians or other licensed professionals, or determines or sets the methods, standards, or conduct of the practice of medicine or health care provided by Optum Medical Care or by any of its licensed professionals. “Part of Optum” reflects that Optum Medical Care is part of Optum’s effort to support forward-thinking physician practices in helping their patients live healthier lives. Optum is a registered trademark of Optum, Inc. in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. All other brand or product names are the property of their respective owners. Because we are continuously improving our products and services, Optum reserves the right to change specifications without prior notice. Optum is an equal opportunity employer. © 2024 Optum, Inc. All rights reserved. 02/24

PAGE 22 – THE SOMERS RECORD SPORTS MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Somers high schooler goes for the gold with Team USA Charlotte Senitta began skating at age 7. Team Image’s junior team was selected as Team USA this year and competed internationally. PHOTOS COURTESY OF SCSD Life at Somers High School is a new experience for ninth-grader Charlotte Senitta, but balancing her time between school and high-level competitive figure skating is not. She’s been successfully doing it for years. “I love getting to represent my country,” said Charlotte, a synchronized skater for Team USA. Charlotte started skating at seven years old. Inspired by her mother, who was also a competitive figure skater, Charlotte joined Team Image, a synchronized skating team, at age eight. “I love performing our no-hold element, where we skate in the shape of a block to showcase lineup, edges, turns, and some individual skills,” said Charlotte. “We also do fun choreography to show off the personality of our music and skating, and it can be one of the most enjoyable parts of the program.” Charlotte skates for Team Image at both the Junior and Novice levels, the two highest divisions in U.S. Figure Skating. The Junior team was selected as Team USA this year and competed internationally, traveling as far as Finland to compete for the Marie Lundmark Trophy and the Netherlands for the Lumière Cup where they earned a bronze medal. The Novice team competed domestically and traveled around the country throughout the season. “It was challenging to learn three different routines at the beginning of the season,” said Charlotte. “Like anything new, it takes time to learn and get used to, but eventually it becomes muscle memory.” Somers High School physical education classes helped Charlotte build more strength and stamina which translated into more efficient and effective conditioning training during skating practice, both on and off the ice. In biology class she learned about carbohydrates and proteins and how they work together to give her body more energy, helping to make her the best athlete she can be. Charlotte currently skates for more than 12 hours of scheduled practice each week. As every athlete knows, it can be tough to balance practice and competitions with schoolwork, social life, and family life. Charlotte can often be found in study hall at school, diligently working to get ahead on her schoolwork. “In Tusker 101, we talked about prioritizing time management, the use of school resources, and getting good amounts of rest, which all lead toward a healthy athletic lifestyle,” said Charlotte. “Although I don’t have as much free time, I’ve learned how to get my work done fast so I have more time with my friends.” This skating season, Charlotte’s Junior team placed sixth at the Fall Classic in California, third at the Boston Classic, and recently received a bronze medal at the US Nationals in Las Vegas. Her Novice team won its division in Boston, earned a silver medal at the Eastern Sectional Championships, and received a pewter medal (4th) at the US Nationals in Las Vegas.  “I love training with the team and getting to skate as a group,” said Charlotte. “We share many good memories both on and off the ice. It’s awesome to experience things together.” Article courtesy of Somers Central School District.  A C T I V E H O M E S F O R S A L E 1 6 4 1 % D E C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 S O M E R S M A R K E T U P D A T E F E B R U A R Y 2 0 2 4 A V E R A G E S A L E P R I C E $ 7 7 7 , 1 1 3 H O M E S S O L D 2 2 1 6 % I N C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 8 % I N C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 S I N G L E F A M I L Y A C T I V E H O M E S F O R S A L E 9 1 3 % I N C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 A V E R A G E S A L E P R I C E $ 5 7 6 , 2 4 5 H O M E S S O L D 2 2 3 8 % I N C R E A S E F R O M 2 0 2 3 7 % I N C R E A S E C O N D O M I N I U M S F R O M 2 0 2 3 Source: OKMLS, single family & condominium, active, sold & average sale price, 01/01/2024 - 02/29/2024 as compared to 01/01/2023 - 02/28/2023, Somers school district. T H I N K I N G A B O U T S E L L I N G YO U R H O M E O R C O N D O ? I T ' S T H E P E R F E C T T I M E T O B E O N T H E M A R K E T. W E H AV E L O W I N V E N T O R Y A N D M A N Y B U Y E R S . P L E A S E F E E L F R E E T O C O N TA C T M E A N Y T I M E . I ' M H E R E T O H E L P. D O N N A O ' C O N N E L L A s s o c i a t e R e a l E s t a t e B r o k e r S o m e r s B r o k e r a g e M 9 1 4 . 2 6 3 . 9 1 0 8 O 9 1 4 . 2 7 7. 8 0 4 0 Ext. 3 3 4 D o c o n n e l l @ h o u l i h a n l a w r e n c e . c o m d o n n a o c o n n e l l . h o u l i h a n l a w r e n c e . c o m

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 SPORTS THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 23 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Feb. 10, Somers High School hosted the second annual Tusker Rumble Cheerleading Competition, and squads from throughout the area were ready to bring it on. Somers competed in the Class B division, and the Tuskers flew pretty high according to Coach Taylor LaRusso. “We work so hard, and second place is still victory like no other,” she explained. Rebecca Lippolis agreed. “To end the season with a second-place finish, that’s pretty good,” said the back spot. Lippolis believes the team saved the best for last. “I think we nailed this whole entire competition,” the junior added. At base position, Farah Cicogna spelled out the foundation. “Everyone needs to be working together to make sure the stunts go off,” said the Tusker. Of course, the flier has the most at stake. “It takes a lot of courage, said LaRusso. “You’ve got to go up there.” So, your teammates below must have your back. “You got to trust the people underneath,” the coach added. Emily DeJesus certainly does, which must go a long way to alleviating her fears. “No, it’s still scary,” the sophomore assured. But Anna Puerto wouldn’t know it from her teammate’s consistency. “ Emily knows what to do under pressure situations,” said the base. “She stays live, and she’s good at her job.” So does Madison Davoli. Not on this team, she’s a nine-year-old Somers flier who understands the basics too. “Cheerleading is a sport where you work together to get first place,” said the young spectator. Also believing in synergy is Camille Blewitt. “I hold the girls up in the air,” said the 3rd grade base. Charly Hirsch got that attribute locked up for the moment, and the flier can’t help feeding off the adulation. “It’s very exciting,” she said, “the way everyone in the crowd is cheering.” Miquel Iglesias was actually just returning the favor. “It’s a community thing,” said the Tusker football wide receiver. “They showed up for us. I wanted to show up for them.” In this, the football player saw what the coach gave voice to. “This is a sport. This is a lot of athleticism. This is a lot of skill,” said the former James Madison University Cheerleader.  “It’s a lot of commitment, and you put it all out there on the mat.” No argument, Lippolis made sure the praise went both ways. “Coach LaRusso inspires us to always do better,” said the cheerleader. “She is an amazing person, and she’s really good at cheer as well.” But the season over and the awards in, Puerto provided capper. “We’re extremely grateful,” she concluded. Somers cheerleaders take second at Tusker Rumble Coach Kailyn Riefenhauser, Nikki Hershfiel, Eva Weinberg, Farah Cicogna, and Taylor LaRusso PHOTO: RICH MONETTI 4 Heritage Hills Plaza, 202 Ctr. • Somers, NY 10589 914-277-4222 • www.somerssmiles.com A new generation of family dentistry CALL US & make your appointment TODAY! COMPLIMENTARY IN-HOUSE WHITENING ON ALL FULL COMPREHENSIVE INVISALIGN CASES* BEFORE *Promotion applies for the month of March STRAIGHTER healthier smile! Spring into a AFTER 719 Rte. 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • 845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com 60 Years of Excellence CALL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE Softening. Filtering. Clean Water Solution. March into $pring $avings! $150 OFF INSTALLATION OF A SOFTENER

PAGE 24 – THE SOMERS RECORD SPORTS MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Thursday Feb. 29, the Somers Boys 6th grade basketball team traveled to Hartsdale, and faced Scarsdale at the Leffell School. The semifinal round of the Tri-County Basketball League playoffs, the Tuskers turned a 6-0 deficit into a 29-19 third quarter lead, but the home team refused to oblige the gap. The lead was cut to two on several occasions, so putting panic aside, Jaxon Ticker knows there’s only one way to settle the final score. “You got to keep pushing and don’t stop,” said the Somers center, and his team did just that to secure an exciting 46-41 victory. The Tuskers certainly had to find the accelerator after Scarsdale’s early outburst, and Michael Brucker was in the middle of all three plays. TheScarsdale  center made a long outlet pass for Harrison Glantz’s fast break layup, muscled a put back and freed up Harry Forschner with strong penetration into the paint. Still, Somers took time to get on the scoresheet, but it was JJ Holub’s quick hands that put the first mark down. The forward, who says his main job is to “rebound and play defense,” got the steal, and went coast to coast for the layup. Not done yet, he reiterated his role on the next possession.    Holub stepped in with another steal and hit a streaking Michael Paulmeno for the layup. So a 6-4 score after one, Somers was almost ready to run. They just had to wait until Matthew Greebel knocked down a put back to open the second. 16 straight points on the way, the run began with another Paulmeno layup and continued with a couple of steals. One for Ticker and one for Holub, all four points went down on putbacks and in full beast-mode. “That’s what we call him, the beast” said assistant coach Mike Paulmeno of Ticker. Up 10-8, Justin Mariani was a monstrosity on the glass too. Going up for two offensive rebounds, he was fouled and added one from the line at 4:43. The run then turned into a stampede, and Jonathan Lantz did so by moving his feet and planting them strong. He went coast to coast for the layup and hit an open jumper off Ticker’s offensive rebound. The defense wasn’t on standby, though. Backcourt pressure turned into a layup and foul shots for Paulmeno and a memorable jumper for Ticker. “The most exciting moment of the game for me was getting the steal and scoring the jump shot,” Ticker said. A 20-8 game with 2:35 remaining, the Tuskers quickly found they weren’t home free. Brucker scored a conventional three point play, and after Ticker hit a jumper and Logan Kelly had a put back, Evan Group and Anderson Kaplan answered with baskets to close the half. A nine point game, Somers came out of the gate first, and do so by switching up roles.  Point guard Paulmeno jumped out his shoes and scored the putback to get the lead back to double digits. But Scarsdale was not impressed, and Teddy Lipkind and Brucker led the way. The guard got to the line for one, and after Brucker drew the foul for two more, Lipkind spotted his big man ahead for a fast break layup. So a basket was definitely needed, and Luca Guaragna simply applied basketball 101 to his position above the arc. “I saw an open shot and just took it,” said the guard In for three, the ten point lead still didn’t move the home team. Mike Paulmeno hugs his son after the big Tusker win. photo: RICH MONETTI TRACK TRI-COUNTY BASKETBALL LEAGUE FROM PAGE 20 public schools. “To go to the state meet against the best of the best and come home with medals is incredible,” added Coach Vegliante. “It was a fun day and both girls represented Somers well.” For the boys, the 4x400 relay team of Andrew Fasone, Sam Parsons, Arjun Ohja, and Aiden Meza ran a 3:35, finishing 18th in the state. Andrew Fasone turned in a time of 35.15 in the 300-meter, earning a 14th place finish. Arjun Ojha finished 20th in the state with a time of 1:25 in the 600-meter. “I am so proud of these boys, making the New York State meet is one of the hardest championships to make out of Section 1,” said Coach Mike Lacko. “This was an amazing season, and again I am speechless and proud of my team and these boys. This spring season is going to be one to remember. Mark my words!” SEE BASKETBALL PAGE 25 Somers beats Scarsdale to reach league finals with REBATES from BELL! SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! ENJOY 0 DOWN, 0% FINANCING! ACT NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! LIMITED TIME OFFER 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com Heat pumps are a cleaner & healthier alternative to traditional heating & cooling systems. This all in one system will eliminate your need for fossil fuel and help you save thousands. Learn more about rebates & financing options! EXCLUDES SERVICE CONTRACT • EXP 4/30/24 Coupon must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $50 OFF ANY OF OUR SERVICES SAVE THOUSANDS in Federal, State and Local Incentives on your new HEATPUMP PROJECT CALL US TODAY! Sniff out sweet savings

Lipkind fed Brucker for two, and Kaplan and Brucker got to the line for one each.   A Kaplan jumper and foul shot by Greebel then cut the lead to three, so the elephants needed a ringleader. More role reversal, this time the Ticker penetrated and freed up Paulmeno for the conventional three. Unfortunately, Somers got little time to sigh relief. Lipkind scored a layup, and after a beautiful inbound by Paulmeno got one from the foul line for Ticker, the Scarsdale guard went coast to coast to open the fourth. 32-30 now, Paulmeno and Lipkind traded blows. The Somers guard sank a runner, and Lipkind got the steal and layup to maintain the status quo. Not for long, Ticker played heart stopper. He scored a layup off the steal and next hit a running jumper in the paint. A six point lead looking good with four minutes to go, Scarsdale continued to make things ugly.  Forschner dropped a layup, and Somers needed yet another hero. Open in the corner, the call went to Luca Ciavardini and his job description met the moment. “Catch and shoot,” the guard described his role, and down went jumper. Time called with 3:17 remaining, Brucker wasn’t done with the ice water. He drove through traffic and made it a four point game again. Fortunately, the heroes continued in abundance for Somers. Paulmeno penetrated for Ticker again, and Lantz went off glass for the putback. Up eight at 1:54, the whole team got into the act to tie the ribbon. Working all the way around the perimeter, Holub was left open in the corner and put his fear aside. “I was so nervous but I just went for it,” he said. Good for a 46-36 lead, Coach Anthony Zurica basked in the culminating moment. “It’s sharing the ball. It’s what we do in practice. But when you see it work in the game, it makes you feel good as a coach,” he concluded. MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 SPORTS THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 25 BASKETBALL FROM PAGE 24 Rocco Zurica PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI JJ Holub Michael Paulmeno Jaxon Ticker WE’RE NOT YOUR ORDINARY DENTISTS. Affiliate of Astoria | Bay Shore | Garden City | Hoboken | Howard Beach Huntington | Lake Success | Long Island City | Mt. Kisco | Oceanside White Plains | Yonkers | Yorktown Heights Put Your Health Where Your Mouth Is™ and book an appointment today, call 914-770-8555 For more information: CareMount Dental is now ProHealth Dental. ProHEALTH Dental proudly announces a groundbreaking affiliation with Northwell Health. Northwell is New York State’s largest health care provider, with more than 900 locations. ProHEALTH Dental has a network of 16 state-of-the-art dental offices throughout the NY Metro Area. Together, we will treat patients holistically, focusing on how oral health improves overall health. phdental.com Oral Surgery General Pediatrics Orthodontics Endodontics Sleep Cosmetic Dentistry Periodontics Implants

PAGE 26 – THE SOMERS RECORD LEISURE MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle! For puzzle solutions, please see theparamountrehab.com CLUES ACROSS 1. Chaps 5. Currently fashionable 9. Collision 11. More slim 13. European city 15. Implicitly 16. The side of something that is sheltered from the wind 17. The Mount Rushmore State 19. Gold or silver wire cord 21. Muscles along insects’ diaphragm 22. Trent Reznor’s band 23. Sweet juicy gritty-textured fruit 25. Broken branch 26. Indicates ten 27. Expression of annoyance 29. Brings together 31. Ancient city in Thrace 33. Sailors’ spirit 34. Looked into 36. Muckraking woman journalist Rheta 38. A type of cast 39. One’s responsibility 41. Where golfers begin 43. Make a mistake 44. Semitic Sun god 46. Ancient Italian-Greek colony 48. Beheaded 52. A place to stay 53. Unwise 54. Most supernatural 56. “Dennis” is a famous one 57. Ointments 58. Exam 59. Leaked blood CLUES DOWN 1. Baseball managers assemble it 2. Revised 3. Mountain is a popular kind 4. Takes to civil court 5. Pouches 6. A type of veil 7. Chants 8. Boston hoopster 9. Elongated appendage 10. Sailboat 11. 2017 Oscar-winning film 12. Actor Gosling 14. Monetary units 15. Assembly 18. Russian pop duo 20. Embellished with expressions 24. Infrequent 26. Temperature unit 28. Hydrophilic amino acid 30. Honk 32. Legislative body 34. Swinish 35. Russian assembly 37. Take over for 38. Put in advance 40. Satisfy 42. Felt 43. Dutch cheese 45. Witnesses 47. Strong insects 49. Gasteyer and de Armas are two 50. Ancient people of Scotland 51. Cheerless 55. Sick PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF 02/29/24 St. Patrick’s Day presents the perfect opportunity to try authentic Irish cuisine as well as foods and beverages that have become associated strictly with the holiday (like green beer). It’s likely someone you know will be cooking corned beef and cabbage this St. Patrick’s Day. But what if you’re among those who just doesn’t fancy the salted and pickled flavoring of this familiar favorite? “Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes” isn’t exactly corned beef, but it can be a worthy alternative. It’s warm, filling and flavorful, and can be just the thing to eat on a chilly March day. What’s more, this rich beef can pair well with a dark stout like Guinness. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of “The Healthy Slow Cooker” (Robert Rose) by Judith Finlayson.  Zesty Braised Beef with New Potatoes Serves 8 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided 2 ounces chunk pancetta, preferably hot pancetta, diced 2 pounds trimmed stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes and patted dry 2 onions, finely chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon cracked black peppercorns 1/2 cup dry white wine 2 cups chicken stock 2 pounds small new potatoes, scrubbed and thinly sliced (about 30 tiny ones) 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, dissolved in 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 1/4 cup finely chopped parsley leaves. 1. In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil over medium-high heat. Add pancetta and cook, stirring, until nicely browned, about 3 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker stoneware (3-1/2 to 5 quart). 2. Add beef to skillet, in batches, and cook, stirring until browned, about 4 minutes per batch. Transfer to stoneware as completed. 3. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining tablespoon of oil to pan. Add onions and cook, stirring, until softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, salt and peppercorns and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Add wine, bring to a boil and boil, stirring and scraping up brown bits from bottom of pan for 2 minutes. Add stock and potatoes and bring to a boil. Simmer for 2 minutes. 4. Transfer to stoneware. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until potatoes are tender. Stir in cayenne solution. Cover and cook on high for 10 minutes. Transfer to a server dish and garnish with parsley. Serve with a big platter of roasted carrots. Try a new meat and potatoes dish this St. Patrick’s Day

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 27 Law Offices of Joseph J. Tock 963 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 TOCKLAW.COM • 800-869-8080 CRIMINAL DEFENSE/DWI • PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS LAW • WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES, PROBATE ‘ The collective background Joe & his team bring forth is that of expertise, dedication and compassion. ~C.K. Come See Us At Our New Location! PUTNAM WINDOW TINT AUTO , COMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL WINDOW FILM Follow us on Instagram 1065 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • Paint protection film • Vehicle lettering • Full Service vehicle wraps • gift cards available Over 35 in Business Years Students in the Science Research program at Somers High School are inspired to take on the challenge of a three-year research project while working closely with mentors. The class culminates in students presenting their findings with the help of posters and written papers at various regional and state science fair competitions. For the 2023/24 school year, three Somers students presented at the Upstate New York Junior Science & Humanities Symposium in Albany. “A research symposium is something quite beautiful,” said Angie Ayoubi, who placed first at the competition. “It’s the ultimate learning experience.” “It was amazing to see other students’ research from across the state and hear about their unique projects,” said second-place winner Sienna DeMarinis. The Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair (WESEF) is the biggest regional competition in the country and will be hosted at Somers High School on March 16. Twenty Somers High School students are participating in the competition, each with a uniquely inspired project. “I knew I wanted to do something cancer-related because my grandpa had cancer at the time,” said Conner Entenberg. “He was going through chemotherapy, so I was drawn to chemotherapy research.” Conner’s project, Emigration Defects in Endogenous Thymic Regeneration After Chemotherapy Insult, studies how the thymus gland and the immune system are affected by chemotherapy. He spent hours each week studying the samples provided by his mentor at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where they handled the chemotherapy testing. “My mentors gave me a lot of thymus slides,” said Conner. “I had to take representative fields of view to capture the whole thymus, which ended up being over 500 slides. It took me an hour each day for eight months last year.” This year Conner, like many other science research students, spent much of his time analyzing his findings and drawing conclusions, working on his presentation poster, and writing a research paper. As the WESEF competition is quickly approaching, anticipation is building. “The competitions are fun,” said Conner. “The one that matters the most is WESEF because we can go to the international competition if we do well at that one.” Sienna found her inspiration a little later than some of the other students. When she joined the program in tenth grade, she didn’t have a clear idea of what she wanted to research. Over the summer going into junior year, she decided she wanted to focus on something in environmental science. “I was reading a lot of articles, and I stumbled across water contamination research,” said Sienna. “I decided to email one of the women who had worked on it. She responded and was delighted to get me into the lab.” Sienna’s mentor was a Ph.D. candidate at Yale University. While researching her project, Adsorption of Phosphorus and Copper by FeCrosslinked and Non-Crosslinked Chitosan Beads, Sienna drove to New Haven Scientific minds poised for success WESEF comes to SHS on March 16 Students are inspired to take on the challenge of a three-year research project. The Regeneron Westchester Science & Engineering Fair will be hosted at Somers High School on March 16. SEE SCIENCE PAGE 34

PAGE 28 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 914.948.1500 This ad is donated by Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 $75 per person includes: 6:30 - 10 pm - Beer & Wine Open Bar 6:30 -7 pm - Appetizers 7 - 8 pm - Buffet dinner, dessert, soda/coffee 8 - 10 pm - 9 Comedians For tickets go to: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/b832fde8-d716-4a4f-af98-c73a84064a2a Or scan the QR code: CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. Sponsorships Available Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 COMEDIAN LINEUP CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 COMEDIAN LINEUP CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. Today, the residents of Somers have a town government which provides consistently good leadership. Trustworthy and honest, it serves Somers well. However, prior to 1943, Somers was home to a political dynasty, a clique called the “Royal Family” for 50 years. Their story is remarkable, especially since most Somers’ residents at that time did not know it existed. The players included George Turner, the Somers Town Supervisor from 1908 to 1941 and the Town Clerk from 1918 to 1943, Ella Brady, often referred to as “Maw” Brady. Justice of the Peace William Johnson was also involved. James Crane, Receiver of Taxes for 30 years, was another member of the clique, but here were many other individuals in the “Royal Family.” Half the town paid no town taxes. They had little to fear since Somers never held any tax lien sales. Highway Superintendent Tom Flood allegedly padded payrolls with members of his family. General funds were found missing and the books of the Town Supervisor and Receiver of Taxes never balanced. Records were kept written in pencil and stored in various barns in Somers. The Sunday Daily Mirror magazine section from Oct. 3, 1943, compared Somers to Tammany Hall -- calling it “Elephant Hall.” While Somers had a calm appearance, in reality it was a saga of political corruption, graft, embezzlement, tombstone voting, and barn burning, according to the Mirror. It was so bad that the Town Supervisor George Turner, embezzled town cemetery funds for upkeep of the Turner family burial ground for years. In 1940 Somers attracted newspaper attention, when it was found that there were more people on the voting list than were counted as living in the town according to the US Census. The local “Elephant Hall” people explained that summer residents registered to vote locally were not in town in April for the census and consequently not counted. Dur - ing George Turner’s tenure there were many unexplained town expenses sprinkled throughout the loosely kept town records. He owed the town for four years of taxes on his 380-acre Lincolndale farm. The taxes and interest amounted to $4,500. Supervisor Turner misappropriated at least $9000 in town funds according to a state audit. During his watch corruption was rampant. In 1941, Turner was indicted by a grand jury on four counts of misappropriation of town funds. Bail was set at $10,000 which was posted that afternoon by his Town Clerk, “Maw” Brady, and others. Ultimately, he was convicted and sent to jail. He eventually repaid some $10,000 dollars of the approximate $35,000 he owed. The Town Clerk’s husband, Simeon Brady, operated an illicit still producing rum for bootleggers. It operated at least from October 1937 to February 1938 on his 1000-acre farm. It produced 121,000 gallons of booze which would incur a tax of $243,000. Simeon and his son Simeon Junior were arrested in February 1942 by government agents. Besides the illicit still they found, the Brady properties also included large estates, a hotel, golf course, clubhouse, and bar. They had an airstrip on their property to fly out the booze. (Some say they serviced the Stork Club in Manhattan). His wife, “Maw” Brady, was a benign little lady who owned a string of horses at the Empire Race Track in Yonkers which she visited daily. She hosted lavish parties for various politicians. Although she owned a chauffeured limousine, she was only seen in Somers driving a 1923 model T doling out ice cream patronage to kiddies. In May of 1942, the Justice of the Peace in Somers, William Johnson resigned. A New York State Superior Court was considering a motion that he was unfit for office. Johnson received tax receipts from Receiver of Taxes James R. Crane for $1,836.69. The checks Johnson sent to Crane were never cashed and were found later in Crane’s basement. Eventually they were returned to Johnson and a good check was drawn by Mrs. Johnson. According to the Somers criminal court docket, Johnson never collected any fines. Most amazing was the Town of Somers foreclosing on numerous residents’ homes where they had been paying taxes before and after the foreclosure. The deeds were then turned over to the Town of Somers. The tax maps in Somers were found to be inaccurate and despite many requests, were never redrawn. Tax lien records before 1930 had disappeared. Some say they were Do you remember the Somers scandals? The Model T owned by Town Clerk “Maw” Brady SOMERS HISTORICAL SOCIETY SEE HISTORICAL PAGE 32

Albert Miskiewicz Albert Miskiewicz, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on February 7, 2024. Born to George and Mary Miskiewicz on July 18, 1940 in Bronx, NY. Al was a true Bronx native through and through, his life and legacy deeply interwoven with the community he loved and served. Al’s early years were shared with his siblings, Joanie and Diane, and his cousins and friends in the Bronx which where the cornerstone to his youth. He married Carole Bohenek in 1965 and they were blessed with three children, Christine, Suzanne, and Michael. Al’s love of his life outside of his family was the FDNY and Ladder 38 in the Bronx. As a member of Ladder 38 (First due at the Zoo) he created bonds and help lead one of the busiest houses in the 70’s as the “Bronx was Burning.” As a receiver of the Frank Kridel Memorial Award in 1973, the 1991 Civil Service Member Award from the 100 Year Association of NY, and the Westchester Region EMS Council Civilian Award in 2005, he truly led a remarkable career of over 30 years and had an impact on so many. Al’s legacy is also carried on by his adored grandchildren: Kyle, Brett, Luke, Jillian, Taylor, and Jack. Each of them having their own personal relationship and connection with him. Predeceased by his parents and his sister Joanie, Al’s memory is honored and kept alive by his loving wife Carole, his children and their partners Christine & Doug, Suzanne & Shane, and Michael & Alison, his cherished grandchildren, and his sister Diane. Services to celebrate Als’s life were held on Monday, February 12, at Clark Associates Funeral Home in Katonah and at St. Joseph’s Church in Somers on Tuesday, February 13. Al Miskiewicz’s story is one of dedication, love, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community. He will be deeply missed, but the memories and impact he had will continue to grow and flourish for years to come. In memory of Al Miskiewicz please consider a donation to the Ray Pfeifer Foundation. Dedicated to assisting September 11th first responders with various medical needs at https://theraypfeiferfoundation.org. Betty Hengst Betty Hengst of Somers passed away on February 22, 2024, from old age complicated by heart and lung disease. She was five days short of her 85th birthday. Mrs. Hengst was the co-founder and director of Our Montessori School in Yorktown Heights and Carmel, as well as a wonderful mother, wife, grandmother and friend. Betty was born Betty Brown Milton in 1939, Albany, Georgia, and grew up in Atlanta with her parents, Frances and Bill; and sister, Fran. At the University of Florida, Betty met and fell in love with her future husband, Werner Hengst, and soon after marrying they moved to Cocoa Beach, Florida. Betty had the opportunity to work as a teacher with the pioneering educator Dr. Frank Brown at Melbourne High School, and there she became interested in the Montessori method of teaching children. In 1967, living in Washington, DC, Betty and Werner had a daughter, Christy. Within the year they moved to Peekskill, New York. Betty began teaching, and increasingly found herself wanting to implement the practices she found so inspiring in Montessori education. When Christy’s pre-school closed, Betty decided to start her own school, with Werner’s support. Our Montessori School started in 1972 with five children, and over the years grew to, at one point have more than 300 students, in five different locations. The school integrated many creative and practical approaches and sought teachers and staff who loved what they were doing and were excited to be there. Werner retired from his job at IBM, and together they were a great team. It’s not easy to start a school and keep it going; Betty’s strength of spirit and determination - some have called her a force of nature - helped to navigate through many crises. Above all, Betty’s enthusiasm for fostering love of learning, and having each child be able to work at their own level to encourage success was contagious, and the school flourished and was much loved for 48 years. In those years also, Betty and Werner’s daughter Christy got married, and soon they had two grandchildren, who visited often, and many adventures were had. In 2016, Werner’s health failed and with MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 29 We see you here. The things you love doing are more than just passions. They’re what make you “you.” This is why at The Bristal, our expert team members dedicate their time, attention, and energy to creating customized social activities that ensure each resident continues being the unique person they are. And, in the process, create the one-of-a-kind community we are, too. Schedule your visit today and see for yourself. THE BRISTAL AT ARMONK | 914.306.8580 THE BRISTAL AT WHITE PLAINS | 914.594.5787 thebristal.com Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies. Equal Housing Opportunity. Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care OBITUARIES SEE OBITUARIES PAGE 33

PAGE 30 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 My Community Bulletin Board Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in The Somers Record Bulletin Board and reach over 7,000 USPS delivered mailing addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! 845-278-7312 ALL FUEL CO. The Shelley Family Home Heating Fuel 1606 Rte 22, Brewster • Burner Sales, Service & Installation • Tank Removal & Installation • Propane Available for Cooking & Heating Established 1979 Hunter Douglas Showcase Priority Dealer WESTCHESTER 914-277-4229 • PUTNAM 845-278-2575 AS FEATURED ON FREE ESTIMATES AND FREE INSTALLATION DISCOUNTED BLINDS & SHADES VERTICAL-MINI BLINDS-SILHOUETTE SHUTTERS-WOOD BLINDS-VIGNETTE LUMINETTES-ROMAN BLINDS-VALANCES Shades Above the Rest for Home & Office SAVE AN ADDITIONAL $25 PER BLIND! www.westrockwindowdesigns.com Somers Resident Your business card COUPON could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. DSL Construction The Home Team! Floors • Decks • Kitchens • Bathrooms Workman's Comp, Liability • No Job Too Small! FREE Consultation and Design Fully Insured to Meet Your Needs Complete Remodeling of Your Home OFFICE: 845-276-8608 LOU: 845-494-9857 Proudly Serving Heritage Hills Community DSL Construction Inc. Windows, Doors, and Painting Full Service Window and Door Installations Call for Free Quote and Measure We deal with all the major window, door, and paint brand manufacturers Office: 845-276-8608 • Lou: 845-494-9857 Fully Licensed to meet your needs! Workman's Comp, Liability • No Job Too Small! Get This Newspaper’s App On Your Phone Always Stay Informed About News Involving YOUR Town & Schools Android Scan Here iPhone Scan Here Get Our App! Discussing “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine,” by Gail Honeyman. No one has ever told Eleanor Oliphant that life should be better than fine. Eleanor is bright but socially awkward and leads a solitary lifestyle. Eleanor becomes enamored with a singer, who she believes she is destined to be with. The novel tells the story of Eleanor’s transformational journey towards a fuller understanding of herself and life. Talk-N-Drum with Nanette Garcia! Saturday, March 16, from 11 to 11:25 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Please only register for ONE session. Talk n’ Drum is a multisensory method to teach Spanish, Italian and ESL with sign language included in every lesson. Through drumming, singing songs and movement, the child has a music and language ‘experience’. Talk n’ Drum also teaches focus, develops cognitive skills, critical thinking, listening and motor skills. But the most important thing T n’ D teaches is that learning anything can be FUN! Registration required. For ages 3 & up. Read with a Therapy Dog! Saturday, March 23, from 11 to 12:30 p.m. Reading with a Therapy dog is back! The library is welcoming Hank from Paws for a Caus, with multiple time slots available per day, each child will get to read with a special friend for 15-minute increments. Best for beginning readers (age 5) & up. Lil’ Atoms STEM Club - Scribble Bots Tuesday, March 26, from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. Join in each month for STEM/ STEAM based experiments and projects. This month you will be turning a few items into Scribble Bots, robots that will “doodle” for you! For ages 8 to 11. Space is limited, registration required. Author Talk Wednesday, March 27, from 7 to 8 p.m. “Crossings” by Ben Goldfarb. A Virtual Presentation. Roads, those most ubiquitous features of human civilization, are the subject of this perceptive book by an environmental journalist. Roads kill more creatures than any other “environmental ill”; they also bisect migration routes, pollute with noise, and help to facilitate deforestation. Chabad of Yorktown 2629 Old Yorktown Rd in Yorktown Heights. Please RSVP for programs by visiting www.chabadyorktown. com Purim Ladies Hamantash Bake Wednesday, March 20, at 7 p.m. Chabad of Yorktown invites you to get into the Purim spirit as we bake some of the most delicious Hamentashen you’ve ever tasted! Lots of fillings to choose from! Gluten free dough option. Share the love by gifting some of your creations to family or friends. $25 cover. Community Pancake Purim Celebration Sunday, March 24, at 10 a.m. Chabad of Yorktown, Somers and Cortland proudly invites the entire community to Pancake Purim at the Yorktown Community & Cultural Center, 1974 Commerce St. in Yorktown. (Entrance near Yorktown Stage.) Hear the  Megillah! Pancakes, waffles, cheese blintzes and more! Purim crafts! Balloon sculptures! Fantastic Bubble Magic Show by popular entertainer Jay Jay! Come in costume and get a prize! Temple Beth Shalom 760 Rte 6 in Mahopac, www. tbsmahopac.org, Stories and Snacks with Rabbi Sarah Join in at Temple Beth Shalom in Mahopac for Stories and Snacks with Rabbi Sarah on the following dates: Sunday, March 24 at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, April 14 at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, May 19 at 11:30 a.m. Ideal for age groups 2-5 years old. Please call 845-628-6133 to register. A Message from The Friends of the Somers Library The Friends of the Somers Library is dedicated to supporting and enriching the Somers Library. Over the years, the library has played an essential role in the Town of Somers by providing access to knowledge, TRUNK FROM PAGE 8 SEE TRUNK PAGE 31 ELEPHANT’S TRUNK

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 31 Russell Girolamo Jr. Stephanie Girolamo Burke Jennifer Thorp Auto | Home | Business | Life (914) 962-9777 www.girolamoagency.com 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS EST. + 1962 Russell Girolamo Jr. Stephanie Girolamo Burke Jennifer Thorp Auto | Home | Business | Life (914) 962-9777 www.girolamoagency.com 60 YEARS IN BUSINESS EST. + 1962 Service... Integrity... Compassion Family owned and operated We began with a mission to celebrate life and serve families. There is much peace to be found here, and we invite you to find yours. Explore more. Take a tour. Read our story. Share in experiences. Anthony J. Guarino Family Owned & Operated 945 East Main Street • Shrub Oak, NY 10588 • (914) 962-0700 YorktownFuneralHome.com • [email protected] Now Accepting New Patients We Are In-Network With MetLife, Delta Dental, United HealthCare, Cigna PPO, and Ameritas PPO, and We Accept Other Insurances 914.277.3518 380 Route 202 at Junction of 116 (across from Heritage Hills) PaulHarbottle.com Excellence in Dentistry In Somers Since 1990 Paul D. Harbottle, DDS VOTED TOP DENTIST 2009-2019 by his Peers as featured in fostering literacy, and serving as a gathering place for residents of all ages.    Our organization has been working to fund the library’s resources and programs. We have witnessed firsthand the positive impact that the library has on our community, and we are committed to ensuring its continued success. To that end, we are reaching out to you to request your support in our mission. The financial support of town residents has played a pivotal role in the growth and improvement of the Somers Library over the years, and we are grateful for the continued dedication. Your generous donations have enabled us to: Enhance Educational Programs: Through your support, we’ve been able to offer engaging and educational programs for children, teens, and adults, including author talks, workshops, and live events. Improve Facilities: Your contributions have helped us make vital improvements to the library ensuring a comfortable and welcoming environment for all visitors. Promote Involvement: Your donations have enabled us to launch initiatives aimed at community involvement in our town, including summer reading programs for children and educational programs for adults. As we look ahead, we are eager to expand our offerings. To achieve these goals, we kindly ask for your continued financial support. To make on online donation, please visit the library’s website at www. somerslibrary.org and click on the “support” tab in the menu. Follow the prompts to the Friends of the Somers Library. To donate in person, there are membership flyers available at the front desk of the library that you can fill out and leave with one of the librarians. If you received one of our mailings, you can send a check in the envelope provided. Your donation, will make a significant difference in helping us fulfill our mission. Donating to the Friends of the Somers Library is an investment in the future of our town. Somers Library Foundation Needs You Are you a passionate supporter of the Somers Library and looking for a way to help improve the services and capabilities? The Somers Library Foundation is looking for new board members. There are lots of opportunities to use your talents and build new skills. Send the foundation an email at [email protected]. Watch the Somers Library Foundation website (https://somerslibrary foundation.org) for details on upcoming meet and greet events to learn more about the Foundation and what it means to be a board member of the board. Somers BSA Troop 376 WEEKLY MEETING Most Tuesdays, from 7 - 8:30 p.m. at the Somers Middle School Cafeteria. Embark on a journey that your son will remember and benefit from for a lifetime! There is no youth program quite like Scouts BSA, which offers leadership development, teaches citizenship and responsibility, embeds useful outdoor survival skills, can spark career interests, and boasts exciting activities that few outside of Scouting have the opportunity to experience. Celebrating 30 years in Somers, Troop 376 is sponsored by the Somers Lions Club and proudly offers a well-balanced “Adult-Guided, Youth-Led” program that includes activities for all skill levels and interests. As a slightly smaller Troop, Scouts enjoy ample opportunities for direct involvement and leadership, as well as a significant voice in suggesting future troop activities. Camping trips, day hikes, family-friendly activities like bowling nights and ropes courses, community service projects, annual “high adventure” excursions, and visits to historic destinations like Gettysburg are just some of the activities you can look forward to with Troop 376. To learn more, email [email protected] and visit www.SomersTroop376. org. Somers BSA Troop 228 Weekly meeting Mondays, from 6 - 7:30 p.m. at the Amawalk Firehouse Give your son the tools to develop his confidence, leadership skills, and interest in community service while experiencing the outdoor adventures of Scouting. Discover the TRUNK FROM PAGE 30 SEE TRUNK PAGE 32 ELEPHANT’S TRUNK

PAGE 32 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 dumped into the Atlantic Ocean near Key West Florida. The Town Clerk got the Town Board members to sign blank pages in the minutes book, and she would “clip in” the minutes later. With the powerful “Royal family” in control, reform seemed impossible. However, the corruption was doomed because of one man, Otto E. Koegel, a prominent New York lawyer who bought a large farm in the early 1930s called the Kaywood Farm on Mahopac Avenue in Somers. His professional career prevented him from getting involved with Somers politics for almost ten years. However, around 1940, he started attending Town Board meetings. He soon learned that the entire township “was under the high-pressure thumbs of affable, favor-doing neighbors who ran the town.” He traveled to Albany to see the State Comptroller, a friend of his, asking him to conduct an independent investigation of the Somers government. Auditors worked for three months and uncovered extensive corruption. Eventually the Town Supervisor, Town Clerk, the Justice of the Peace, and the Receiver of Taxes resigned. The rest is history. Otto Koegel became the Somers Town Attorney. He was the President of the John Jay Association and helped save that property. He was the official Town Historian and founded the Somers Historical Society on Sept. 28, 1956. He helped create the Museum of the Early American Circus on the third floor of the Town House. Sadly, he passed away in April 1975 at age 83 at his beloved farm. In 1953, he had donated several acres to the Church of Good Shepard in Granite Springs, to build a new church and parsonage. The original memorial to Commander Somers was originally on his property. Koegel Park in Somers, part of his original farm, is named after him. Following his exposure of so much corruption in Somers, an election was held in 1943 to select new town officials. After the bitter election, Koegel was warned that the “friends of the Royal Family’ will be after you now.” The following night, Koegel’s barn worth $30,000 was burned to the ground. Four thoroughbred horses were saved, and an arson investigation ensued. Article provided by Somers Historical Society. HISTORICAL FROM PAGE 9 Otto Koegel on his Cattle Farm on Mahopac Avenue in Somers natural wonders of New York State, whether canoeing in the Adirondacks, hiking the Appalachian trail, or camping at one of our State Parks. Excursions for all ages and levels of experience. Scouts explore their personal interests through over 135 merit badges. Troop 228 is sponsored by the Somers Volunteer Fire Department. We are proud citizens and actively give back to Somers through community service and environmental conservation projects. To find out more, email us at [email protected] or visit our website at Troop228somers.com. TRUNK FROM PAGE 31 SEE TRUNK PAGE 33 Elder Law & Estate Planning Wills, Trusts & Estates Small Business • Real Estate Matrimonial • Criminal Personal Injury • Commercial SOMERS • YONKERS Evening Appointments & Home Visits Tel: 914-964-6806 www.marralaw.com • [email protected] P R E S E N T S T H E 2 0 2 4 ANNUAL GALA An Evening of Dinner, Dancing, and Great Company! A P R I L 5 , 2 0 2 4 7 P M - 1 1 P M V I L L A B A R O N E H I L L T O P M A N O R Open Bar, Seated Dinner, Raffles, & $10,000 Raffle Drawing FESTIVE OR BUSINESS CASUAL ATTIRE As a 100% volunteer-led nonprofit, this annual event supports essential resources for deployed American service members. MORE INFORMATION, TICKETS & SPONSORSHIP: www.UnitedForTheTroops.org P R E S E N T S T H E 2 0 2 4 ANNUAL GALA An Evening of Dinner, Dancing, and Great Company! A P R I L 5 , 2 0 2 4 7 P M - 1 1 P M V I L L A B A R O N E H I L L T O P M A N O R Open Bar, Seated Dinner, Raffles, & $10,000 Raffle Drawing FESTIVE OR BUSINESS CASUAL ATTIRE As a 100% volunteer-led nonprofit, this annual event supports essential resources for deployed American service members. MORE INFORMATION, TICKETS & SPONSORSHIP: www.UnitedForTheTroops.org CALL TODAY and sign up for a tour! 914-962-5196 or 914-815-5281 2090 Crompond Road - Yorktown Heights PRESCHOOL • Ages 18 Mons – 5 Yrs • Operating Hours 7am – 6pm • New York State Certified Curriculum • Before & After Care Available • 1/2 Day Students Welcome • Whole School Live Music Twice Per Day • Individualized Classroom Art Class Three Times Per Week • Physical Education Classes Four Times Per Week • Pre-K Field Trips To Stuarts’ Apple Farm, Muscoot Farm, East Coast Sport Complex, John C. 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MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 33 his death, and her own health problems, it became harder for Betty to keep up with running the school. When COVID-19 hit, it was too much and despite efforts to save it, the school had to close. Betty considered that, in addition to her family relationships, the school was absolutely her life’s work. Although she was sad that it ended, she knew that many, many children had benefited from the inspiring education they got there. Betty Hengst is survived by her daughter, Christy; son-inlaw, Helmut Hillenkamp; and grandchildren, Oliver and Eliza Hillenkamp of Santa Fe, New Mexico; her sister and brotherin-law, Fran and Tom Patterson; and niece-in-law and nephew, Sharon and Thomas Ira Patterson, and great-grand niece, Paisley Patterson of Atlanta, Georgia. A memorial service and celebration of Betty’s life will be held in May. Rosemarie Smalheiser Rosemarie Smalheiser, lifelong resident of Westchester County, passed peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Saturday, March 9, 2024. Rosemarie had a vivacious spirit and strength and it showed in her final months while managing her cancer diagnosis. Born in New Rochelle to Vittorio and Cecilia Iacopetta, she was raised and surrounded by the love of her parents and a close knit family which included her cousin Elaine Griffiths. Rosemarie was raised in a loving world thinking she had it all. She went about her life achieving all that she wanted. Rosemarie married Steven Smalheiser in January 17, 1971 and subsequently raised her two children Daniel and Jennifer who she adored. She spent their childhood years as a proud homemaker. Rosemarie made sure to provide a home to her Family, always overindulging in Christmas gift giving and over the top annual Thanksgiving dinners which she cooked with much love; she always added more water to the soup to include a cast of characters for more than 52 years. Upon the kids departure to college, which she might have preferred never to have happened, Rosemarie set out on a 28 year career with Lou and Debbbie Buddetti at ERA Insight Realty. She loved providing a service to people, priding herself on helping them find a new neighborhood and home. Her penultimate achievement was securing two grandchildren Owen and Tessa Cramer and a son-in-law Chris Cramer who was treated like her kin. She was and will forever be loved by all of us. Friends called at Clark Associates Funeral Home in Katonah on Tuesday, March 12.  The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at St. Josephs Church in Somers. Interment followed at Ferncliff Mausoleum in Hartsdale. Flowers can be sent in her honor or contributions may be made to Maria Fereri Childrens Hospital 100 Woods Road, Valhalla, NY. OBITUARIES FROM PAGE 29 Point B Planning, LLC d/b/a/ AtwoB (“AtwoB”) is a registered investment adviser. A copy of AtwoB’s current written disclosure statement discussing AtwoB’s business operations, services, and fees is available at the SEC’s investment adviser public information website or from AtwoB upon written request. This article is for information only and should not be considered investment advice. Michael Tom CFP® CFA® • Jeff Wund • Todd Rebori, CFA® 23 Parkway, Second Floor • Katonah, NY 10536 STRESSED ABOUT TAXES? We’ll help you organize, strategize, and file. www.AtwoB.com • (914) 302-3233 PERSONAL WEALTH MANAGEMENT Financial Planning • Investment Management Income Tax Planning • Retirement Plan Services For Income Taxes email: [email protected] The Consumer’s Choice for Discount Heating Oil! SAVE WITH OUR LOW C.O.D. 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FUNERAL PREARRANGEMENT Both pre-payment and no-payment options Serving all Faiths since 1858 • Cremations and Burials Somers Lions Club In 1966, the Somers Lions Club was chartered and has grown exponentially with dedicated men and women who volunteer their time, skills, and energy to make a difference in people’s lives, both in our community and for the charities we support. Lions can be found working on “hands-on” projects, fundraising, and running numerous community events in and around Somers. If you are in need of assistance, there is a good chance that the Lions can help. Visit www.somerslionsclub.org for more information. Follow on social media @somerslions. The Somers Lions would like to welcome its newest members and are proud to serve alongside you. TEAM Tuskers Mentors Sought for Intermediate & Middle School Program TEAM Tuskers Mentoring is looking for adults interested in spending time with a 3rd- through 8th-grade student at their school for the upcoming school year. The commitment is to spend 1 hour a week, every week with a student and make a difference in their life. You will develop a relationship and help open new lines of communication while playing games, doing puzzles, or just chatting. Please consider volunteering for this great program.  A child will benefit from spending time with you! For more information, visit somersschools.org/ Page/7356 or call 914-481-2716.    TRUNK FROM PAGE 32

PAGE 34 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 Officials are hopeful that Old Bet will be back in time for World Circus Day. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GRACE ZIMMERMAN town’s ownership of the old Old Bet. That was done for legal purposes, to protect both parties in case something should happen. The state’s Historical Preservation Office is fine with the project but told the Old Bet committee last year that the monument has to look the same in order to retain its landmark status, local historians say. The red brick building itself – opened between 1820 and 1825 by Bailey as an inn and tavern -- was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2005 for its role in the development of the American Circus. Bailey had purchased Old Bet at an animal auction, thinking she would be a fine farm draught animal. That didn’t work out. But when neighbors began clamoring to see the elephant, Bailey realized he could make a buck by charging up to $1 – a lot of money in those days – per peek. Soon, Old Bet and other critters were part of a traveling menagerie. Sadly, it was the money part that sealed the elephant’s doom. The farmer who shot her thought it was a sin to charge poor folks to see a wild animal. OLD BET FROM PAGE 1 SCIENCE FROM PAGE 27 SEE SCIENCE PAGE 38 once a week for four months. “Chitosan is a naturally occurring substance that is abundant in nature,” said Sienna. “We turned it into a bead that can target contaminants in water, such as phosphorus and copper.” Sienna and her mentor spent anywhere from two to five hours in the lab each time. Together they did two rounds of research, one for phosphorous and one for copper, with each taking approximately two months to complete. Sienna added, “Analyzing the data was difficult but it was well worth it. I was able to be an active participant.” Taylor Bassi completed a science research project twice. Her first project was inspired by an episode of the television show Grey’s Anatomy that featured 3D bioprinting tissue for transplants. She found her mentor very early on in her first year of the program and then spent the summer between her sophomore and junior years researching at Brigham and Woman’s Hospital at  Harvard Medical. Taylor presented her project, Tuning Phase Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Porous Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering, during her junior year. “Doing that research was enlightening for me because it gave me a very clear idea of what I wanted to do, which is biomedical engineering,” said Taylor. “I have a passion for tissue engineering.” She spent the summer between her junior and senior year doing research for her second project at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York with a new mentor. This time her project was Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus Detection and Optimization from Formalin-fixed Paraffin-embedded Blocks. “I optimized a method to detect the virus from biopsies AFFORDABLE Dumpster Rentals! CIRONE CARTING 845-533-5262 Same-Day Roll-Off Container Delivery Available 10-yard • 12-yard • 15-yard 20-yard • 30-yard CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE cironeconstruction.com Neal L Sullivan, CPA Joanne Cerbino Edy Schupp 421 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 845-628-9604 • www.callsullivan.com BUSINESS • UMBRELLA HOME • AUTO Call Us Anytime for Multiple Quotes Service: 914-669-9679 Auto Sales: 914-485-1195 Fax: 914-669-9685 6 Dingle Ridge Road - North Salem, NY 10560 meccanicshop.com BUYING ONLY 845-628-0362 WE WILL COME TO YOU! 53 WE BUY: YEARS! Gold • Sterling Silver Jewelry • Coins Paintings • Bronzes Clocks • Collectibles Antiques • ETC. Items for sale? Call us! Somers sculptor Luigi Badia with the “new” Old Bet statue.

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 35 “jeopardize programs they already have.” The Gap From a budget-to-budget standpoint, the district anticipates receiving $130,000 less in state Foundation Aid for 2024-2025, Platania said. Meanwhile, it’s looking at an increase in total expenditures (instructional and noninstructional) for 2024-2025 of $5,466,376. With an anticipated increase in revenues of only $4.5 million, that created a “gap” of $966,376 that needed to be closed. (Revenues are generated by the tax levy, interest earnings, state aid, fund balance appropriations and through other sources such as sales taxes and health services fees.) What To Do? The district plans to use about $1.7 million from its reserves/appropriated fund balance to help balance the budget. Leftover funds act as “shock absorbers” that will prevent drastic cuts to programs, staff, and services. Somers’ fund balance appropriations have been as high as $2 million (in 2011- 2012) and as low as $25,000. It depends on the circumstances, Platania explained. (Of course, if the district finds out it’s getting more, not less, Foundation Aid than expected, that money could be deposited back into the piggy bank.) It also intends to go “to the max” with the tax levy, something it didn’t have to resort to in three of the past five years. Right now, the so-called state tax cap allows Somers to raise the levy by a maximum 2.95 percent – which includes “exclusions” such as debt service. This just requires a simple majority (50 percent plus 1) of voters to approve it. The CPI (Consumer Price Index), or 2 percent, whichever is less, is part of the tax cap calculation. The last few years the CPI has been well above 4 percent. Last year, it was 8 percent, Platania said. Strong Pushback Opposition to the proposed change in the Foundation Aid formula is widespread and intense in the education community. Last month, Melinda Person, president of the 600,000-member New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) union, summarized the discord at a roundtable discussion with upstate lawmakers and education officials. “These cuts cannot go through,” she insisted. The “common thread” that Person said she’s heard from every district she visited is that “we don’t want to go backwards, we want to move forward.” “To pull the rug out from districts who have done the right thing is unconscionable,” she emphasized. Hochul’s budget would actually increase Foundation Aid by $507 million, or 2.1 percent over the current allocation. However, half of the 673 school districts in New York would end up with cuts due to the governor’s proposed change in the program’s formula, according to an analysis done by the New York State School Boards Association. Next Steps The state budget is supposed to be passed by lawmakers by April 1. That didn’t happen last year, and Somers didn’t find out its allocation until May, said Platania, who suspects the same thing will happen this go-round. That kind of puts the district behind the eight ball because the Board of Education is scheduled to adopt the spending plan on April 16. There will be another public budget planning session on March 26. Folks will get the chance to weigh in on May 7. The actual vote and trustee election takes place on May 21. There are two Board of Education seats up for grabs, those of President Nick Mancini and Trustee Heidi Cambareri. It was not known at press time if either were running for re-election. SCSD FROM PAGE 6 Last week, the Pickleball Barn was honored to host renowned pickleball instructor, Coach Zorano Tubo! Coach Z and his team travel around the country conducting clinics and teaching pickleball. 70 members of The Pickleball Barn participated in the day-long event, and were fortunate enough to be joined by Gordon Gebert, President of the Pickleball Television Network, CEO of the National Pickleball League, and accomplished keyboardist who has played and toured with Angel, Marty Balin ( Jefferson Airplane), Donna Summer, and his onetime “Best friend” Ace Frehley of Kiss. To learn more about Coach Z, visit https:// southerntierpickleball.net/ Coach Z comes to the Pickleball Barn PHOTO COURTESY OF JEFF MATUSOW C Clark & Giordano | G Funeral Home Clark Funeral Home is now Under New Ownership Family Owned and Operated Joseph Giordano Jr., Owner/Yorktown Graduate and Resident Centrally Located in the Heart of Yorktown Oversized Chapel and Large Parking Lot 914.962.3333 • www.clarkfh.com 2104 Saw Mill River Road (Route 35, 118 & 202) • Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 Additional Location: Curry & Giordano Funeral Home, Peekskill We look forward to serving and giving back to the community that has been our home for so many years.

Somers was issued a violation for the PFOS and PFOA by the Westchester County Health Department and told it needed to come up with a remediation plan ASAP. Among the long-term options it weighed were installing an on-site filtration system, finding an alternate water source, and/ or forming a water district that included adjacent properties and hooking into the system at Heritage Hills, a sprawling condo development that has five wells and its own treatment facilities. The on-site filtration idea apparently dried up due to the lack of space on the Town House’s property, which is located at the confluence of Route 100 and 202. After engaging its engineering consultants, Woodard & Curran, to determine if there was a feasible regional solution, the town started putting out feelers to see if folks in the business district were interested in forming a water district. Reaction from property owners reportedly was positive. Lifelines Thrown Albany rode to the town’s rescue this February with $1.7 million in funding from the Water Infrastructure Improvement (WIIA) program. The WIIA program helps municipalities fund critical wastewater and drinking water infrastructure projects. It aims to reduce water pollution and safeguard supplies from emerging contaminants and toxic chemicals. But wait, there’s more. Just last week, U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler, a Republican who represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, announced that his office had secured $2 million grant for the town through the federal Community Project Funding program. The money will be used, he said, “to facilitate primary drinking water regulations by constructing a water main in the core of the Somers community” and to “address severe risks to public health by addressing PFAS MCL exceedances in the Business-Historic Preservation District.” Lawler noted that a total of $35.9 million for Somers’s and 16 other projects in his district had been included in a “bipartisan appropriations package” passed in the House on Wednesday, March 6. “I am thrilled to have secured almost $36 million in funding for communities across New York’s 17th District,” Lawler said, noting that the projects range from” providing clean drinking water for tens of thousands of residents to repairing aging infrastructure and dams to expanding pedestrian safety and accessibility.” This infusion of cash will “significantly improve the quality of life of residents across the Hudson Valley.” Lawler also said that the $35.9 million in funding is “more than quadruple” the amount of funding brought back by the 17th District’s previous representative, Democrat Mondaire Jones. Seeking to regain his old seat, Jones will face off against Lawler in the fall if he wins the Democratic primary in June against former Bedford Supervisor MaryAnn Carr. PAGE 36 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 WATER FROM PAGE 1 SEE WATER PAGE 37 NOTICE TO BIDDERS  TOWN OF SOMERS  NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board of the Town of Somers will receive bids for the sale of various used office and computer equipment, some inoperable.  Bids will be accepted until 10:00 a.m. Thursday, March 28, 2024, at the Town House, Somers, New York, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud.  Any mailed-in bids must be enclosed in a sealed envelope marked “BIDS FOR USED OFFICE EQUIPMENT” – March 28, 2024, on the outside of the envelope.  For a list of items, contact the Town Clerk, Town of Somers, (914) 277- 3323 or email [email protected].    Bids are to be returned to the Town of Somers Town Clerk, 335 Route 202, Somers, NY 10589.   BY RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN BOARD,  TOWN OF SOMERS, NEW YORK  Patricia Kalba, Town Clerk  Dated:  March 7, 2024  PUBLIC NOTICE  PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Somers, Westchester County, New York will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 7:30 P.M. at the Somers Town House, 335 Route 202, Somers, New York, 10589 on the application of Russell and Lisa Hom to renew a Special Exception Use Permit.  The property included in this application is located in an R-40 Residential District at 1 Delra Lane, Yorktown Heights and is known and shown on the Town Tax Map as Section: 16.17, Block: 2 Lot: 1. All persons having any interest in the application are invited to attend and will be given an opportunity to be heard.  For questions, email [email protected].   BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS VICTOR CANNISTRA CHAIRMAN Denise Schirmer, Secretary March 7, 2024 PUBLIC NOTICE  PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Somers, Westchester County, New York will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 7:30 P.M. at the Somers Town House, 335 Route 202, Somers, New York, 10589 on the application of Donald Capoccia and Tommie Pegues for two Variances.  The property included in this application is located in an R-80 Residential District at 78 Moseman Avenue, Katonah and is known and shown on the Town Tax Map as Section: 48.17, Block: 1 Lot: 7.  All persons having any interest in the application are invited to attend and will be given an opportunity to be heard.  For questions, email [email protected].   BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS VICTOR CANNISTRA CHAIRMAN Denise Schirmer, Secretary March 7, 2024 PUBLIC NOTICE  PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Somers, Westchester County, New York will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 7:30 P.M. at the Somers Town House, 335 Route 202, Somers, New York, 10589 on the application of Matthew and Michelle Hasselmann two Variances.  The property included in this application is located in an R-40 Residential District at 47 Pines Bridge Road, Yorktown Heights and is known and shown on the Town Tax Map as Section: 47.08, Block: 1 Lot: 1. All persons having any interest in the application are invited to attend and will be given an opportunity to be heard.  For questions, email [email protected].   BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS VICTOR CANNISTRA CHAIRMAN Denise Schirmer, Secretary March 7, 2024 PUBLIC NOTICE  PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Town of Somers, Westchester County, New York will conduct a Public Hearing on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 7:30 P.M. at the Somers Town House, 335 Route 202, Somers, New York, 10589 on the application of Ana Carpenito to renew a Special Exception Use Permit.  The property included in this application is located in an R-40 Residential District at 27 Butler Hill Road, Somers and is known and shown on the Town Tax Map as Section: 6.16, Block: 2 Lot: 36.  All persons having any interest in the application are invited to attend and will be given an opportunity to be heard.  For questions, email [email protected].   BY ORDER OF THE ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS VICTOR CANNISTRA CHAIRMAN Denise Schirmer, Secretary March 7, 2024 Get This Newspaper’s App On Your Phone Always Stay Informed About News Involving YOUR Town & Schools Android Scan Here iPhone Scan Here Get Our App!

Early Days Somers Supervisor Rob Scorrano echoed Lawler’s feelings about the grants at the Town Board’s Thursday, March 7 work session. “This is positive, exciting news,” he said, adding: “We just need to get moving in the direction we need to get moving in.” Now that the town’s “declared” its funding source, among the many necessary next steps could be approaching the owners and operators of Heritage Hills’s water system, Veolia North America, to see about access. Veolia merged with the system’s previous overseers, Suez, in 2022. If it’s able to work out a deal with Veolia, the town will then have to go through the process of forming a water district and get various approvals from agencies such as the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Then there’s the actual construction of a water main from the new source up to the Town House. Property owners along the way also will be given the option to hook up, Scorrano said. Water Over the Dam In 2021, when the PFOA and PFOS violations were levied, then town Supervisor Rick Morrissey said he was “comfortable” that no employee’s or visitor’s health had been compromised because the building had already been using bottled water due to high sodium and chloride levels. He agreed, however, that the situation was something that needed addressing. Other tests around that time found coliform bacteria, but that was a problem that was eliminated by disinfecting the plumbing system and making other changes. For PFOS and PFOA, the fix isn’t as easy. New York’s Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for PFOA and PFOS is 10 parts per trillion (ppt). The levels found in the historic landmark’s wells in the spring of 2021 were 11.5 ppt for PFOA and 39.4 ppt for PFOS. Forever With Us Around since the 1960s, PFOS and PFOA have been used in a variety of consumer and industrial products, such as stain-resistant clothing and furniture, nonstick pans, food packaging, and firefighting foam. Chronic exposure can lead to cancer and while not an immediate threat like sodium and chloride isn’t something to be taken lightly. Woodard & Curran, the town’s engineering consultants, had noted that if the Town House’s water had PFOS and PFOA in it, then it’s likely that other wells that access the same aquifer might also contain them. The state doesn’t require homeowners to test their wells for PFOS, PFOA, or 1,4-Dioxane, which is a synthetic chemical and likely carcinogen that municipalities must also test for. The good news is that levels of 1,4-Dioxane in the Town House water were undetectable, according to the town’s water department. (The states Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for that substance is 1 part per billion (ppb).) Situation Not Unique In 2021, PFOS and PFOA were both found in the water used by the Pequenakonck Elementary School in nearby North Salem and the Meadow Pond Elementary School in Lewisboro. Only one of the contaminants – PFOA – was detected at a level that triggered an immediate “Do Not Drink” advisory at both schools. Bottled water had to be provided for drinking and for use in the school cafeteria. It was safe for washing hands, flushing toilets, and cleaning purposes. Last April, the North Salem school district got the thumbs-up from the Westchester health folks to use the new water filtration system at the Middle/High school campus. Its water is now passed through 12 granular activated carbon and greensand filters that remove PFOA and PFOS and minerals such as iron and manganese. PQ was to undergo similar improvements in its water filtration system. According to North Salem schools Superintendent Dr. Duncan Wilson there is a small proposition included in the district’s preliminary 2024-2025 budget to raise $713,000 to complete the PQ water filtration project. The district has the necessary approvals and bids and is ready to start it this summer, he said. The original project, which was to remove the minerals, “grew considerably” in the past two to three years due to the new health requirements for PFAS and PFOA, Wilson added. Who Is Veolia? Veolia operates 8,500 water and wastewater facilities around the world and serves more than 550 communities in North America. PFOS and PFOA were found in all of the five wells in 2021 used by Heritage Hills but they were all way below the MCL of 10 ppt. The highest recorded was 7.01 ppt and the lowest, 1.80 ppt. No violations were found and the likely source of the contamination was, according to a report describing the quality of Heritage Hills’ drinking water, “released into the environment from widespread use in commercial and industrial applications.” Veolia’s drilled wells are all located off Route 202. They are fenced in and capped in order to protect them. It should be noted that all drinking water, included the bottled stuff, “may be reasonably expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants,” Veolia’s water quality report said. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk, it added. None of the five wells were found to be in violation for inorganic contaminants such as nitrate, barium; lead or copper; disinfectants or disinfection by products, secondary contaminants such as chloride, manganese, or sodium; radiological contaminants such as radium and uranium; or PFOS/ PFOA. Good to Know For information about contaminants and potential health effects, call the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 1-800-426- 4791 or the Westchester County Health Department at 914-813- 5000, or by viewing the EPA drinking water website, www.epa. gov/safewater and the New York state Health Department website, www.health.state.ny.us. MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 37 Gourmet Easter Buffet March 31, 2024 Breakfast Selections, Pasta Stations Assorted Hot Chaffers, Antipasto Station And Much More Prepared By The Finest European Trained Chefs Soda, Espresso, Cappuccino, Coffee And Tea Included Call Now For Reservations 845-628-6600 $70 Per Person $40 Kids Up To 12 Years Old Excludes Service & Tax Two-Hour Seating 12:30-1 Or 3:30-4 Enjoy An All You Can Eat Brunch/Dinner Buffet Indulge In An Array Of Hot And Cold Foods Fresh Fruit And Dessert Stations WATER FROM PAGE 36

PAGE 38 – THE SOMERS RECORD MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 NO NEWS... 1. Clip the short form on the page 2. Fill out the information. 3. Mail it to P.O. Box 864, Mahopac, NY 10541 4. Or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com 5. Or Scan our QR Code to Subscribe. We need you to subscribe. It’s FREE & It’s Easy! is NOT necessarily good news! # Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to The Somers Record YES, I really enjoy The Somers Record and I’d like to continue receiving it for 3 years, along with a monetary contribution this year. (Please print legibly.) First (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required. Please print legibly.) Last (Required) City: State: ZIP: Name: Signature: Email: Snowbird Dates (if applicable): Date: Phone: Address: (Optional for TAPinto E-News) (Optional) Mail to: P.O. Box 864 Mahopac, NY 10541 While we need your Full Support to keep this newspaper strong, we include the option for Basic Support because we don’t want financial reasons to get in the way of our readers receiving this newspaper. Basic Support vs. Full Support Basic Support Full Support $100 $50 $20 other or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com OR or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com Checks payable to Halston Media LLC. Please include this form in your envelope. Please include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: North Salem News Mahopac News Yorktown News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS–SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER – FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC, Plaintiff, -against- RAY SANTANASTASIO, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD SANTANASTASIO ; LISA VACCARELLI, AS HEIR, DEVISEE, DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DONALD SANTANASTASIO ; ANY AND ALL KNOWN AND UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, ASSIGNEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, TRUSTEES AND ALL OTHER PARTIES CLAIMING AN INTEREST BY THROUGH, UNDER OR AGAINST THE ESTATE OF DONALD SANTANASTASIO ; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT ; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING ON BEHALF OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE ; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, Defendants - Index No. 62124/2023 Plaintiff Designates Westchester County as the Place of Trial. The Basis of Venue is that the subject action is situated in Westchester County. To the above named Defendants–YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. That this Supplemental Summons is being filed pursuant to an order of the court dated February 2, 2024. NOTICE-YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME – If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Honorable Rolf M. Thorsen, J.S.C. Dated: February 2, 2024 Filed: February 5, 2024. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage and covering the premises known as 6 N Shenorock Drive, Shenorock, NY 10587. Dated: October 23, 2023 Filed: February 13, 2024 Greenspoon Marder LLP, Attorney for Plaintiff, By: Angelo A. Regina, Esq., 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022 P: (212) 524-5000 F: (212) 524-5050 No Service by fax) Service purposes only: Trade Centre South 100 W. Cypress Creek Road, Suite 700, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 P: (888) 491-1120 F: (954) 343-6982 Fayetteville LLC. App. for authority filed by the SSNY on 9/7/2023. Office: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, PO Box 568, Katonah, NY 10536. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. 39 Quincy Court LLC (formed in Wyoming as East River LLC). App. for authority filed by the SSNY on 12/7/2022. Office: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, PO Box 568, Katonah, NY 10536. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Application for Authority of Ferenz Electric, LLC filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 7/20/2023.  Formed in Connecticut on 2/12/222.  Office location: Westchester County.  SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be  served.  The Post Office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is: 320 Long Ridge Road, Pound Ridge, NY 10576.  The office address required to be maintained in Connecticut is 134 Byram Shore Road, Greenwich, CT 06830.  Certificate of formation filed with Denise Merrill, CT Secretary of State 165 Capital Avenue, Suite 1000, Hartford, CT 06106.  Purpose:  Any lawful activity  FOR SALE FINE, LIKE NEW FURNITURE:  * Empire style Sofa, 76" long  * Round, 5 ft. Dining Table, w leaves  * Wood King Size Bed frame (No matt.)             Sold our House!              914 232 3896   SCIENCE FROM PAGE 34 Science Research students work closely with their mentors. to help make testing more accessible,” said Taylor. “That protocol has now been published for use. It’s a new way to diagnose the virus.” Being a part of the science research program and her experience in the labs gave her a clearer understanding of what to look for in college research facilities, allowing her to focus on what schools might provide her with the opportunities she’s hoping for. “This was a turning point for me. Science research told me this is what I want to do,” said Taylor. The Science Research program offers students another avenue to expand their education in high school. While every student is inspired to pursue a research project that is impactful to them, no two students find that inspiration the same way or follow the same path on their way to their final presentation at the fair. “Competitions are terrifying but exhilarating, and this class is a lot of work,” said Taylor. “You don’t do it unless you love it.” Article courtesy of Somers Central School District.

MARCH 14 - MARCH 27, 2024 THE SOMERS RECORD – PAGE 39 In Case You Missed It The Somers Fire District announced last week that they recently received the delivery of a new 2023 Ford Transit “Medix” Ambulance. The new addition marks the first time in history that the Somers Volunteer Fire Department has placed a 6th BLS ambulance in service. Harvey Theater Presents Winter Double Feature The stories below were published on our website in-between print editions. Never miss another local story again by visiting News.HalstonMedia.com. Scan the QR codes in the summaries below to read the full story. Scan Here To Get The Top Local News Delivered To Your Inbox Daily. Somers Land Trust: An Important Mission Are you concerned about the amount of time people spend indoors, scrolling on their phones, playing video games and engaged in social media? A priority of Somers Land Trust is to promote outdoor activities and educate the public about the environment. Statistics show that time spent in nature can decrease stress, improve mental and physical health, and increase overall happiness. There are walks in your town that are waiting for you to explore. The Harvey School Performing Arts Department presented winter productions of “12 Angry Jurors” and “Welcome to the Moon & Other Plays” in Katonah. While these productions consisted of separate casts and crews, the Harvey students and faculty worked collaboratively to create two extraordinary plays. “12 Angry Jurors,” originally written by Reginald Rose and adapted by Sherman L. Sergel, was directed by Ms. Virginia Holmes and assistant-directed by Ms. Megan Taylor. Somers Fire District Unveils New Ambulance Burdick and Harckham Announce ‘Traveling with Dignity Act’ New York State Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblymember Chris Burdick announced the “Traveling with Dignity Act,” their new legislation, at a special press conference on Feb. 26 alongside leaders from Constructive Partnerships Unlimited, a trusted provider of supports for people with disabilities, plus members of the disability community and advocates. The “Traveling with Dignity Act” will provide for height-adjustable adult changing tables and facilities to be placed within a facility for personal hygiene and made available for persons with disabilities, veterans, seniors or other individuals in public roadside rest areas, museums, libraries, and buildings and amusement attractions.

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