The Somers Record 07.08.21

Vol. 11 No. 12 Visit TapIntoSomers.net for the latest news. Thursday, July 8, 2021

Board of Ed adopts civility policy

Superintendent’s contract extended,
Trustee D’Anna bids farewell

BY CAROL REIF
STAFF WRITER

e Somers Board of Edu-

cation, meeting in person for

the rst time since the pan-

demic shutdown, packed a lot

into its last agenda of a very

PHOTO COURTESY OF SVFD tough year.

Wet road conditions may have played a role in the accident. It adopted a civility policy,

Somers responders involved reviewed proposed Code of
in ambulance crash
Conduct changes, got lled in

on an upcoming Pre-K pro-

gram, extended the schools

chief ’s contract, and hired a

new doctor.

BY CAROL REIF Road across from the Somers e board heard a former
STAFF WRITER Middle School.
student speak eloquently

ankfully, no patient was about the necessity of teaching

Two Somers EMS work- onboard at the time and the diversity, equity, and inclusion PHOTO: CAROL REIF
and a parent’s fervent plea for
ers were slightly injured when injuries to the EMS folks were a show of support for Somers’s Trustee Michael D’Anna received a warm sendoff from his fellow
Jewish community. board members on Tuesday, June 29.
their ambulance crashed last minor, he said.

week. Westchester EMS, which is

According to Fire Chief based in Mount Kisco, assisted It also bid a fond farewell to keep school open and learn- CIVILITY POLICY

Jonathan Mackey, the crew was by sending ambulances to the to longtime member Michael ers thriving in the midst of an e new civility policy — like

heading to a call around 8:30 scene and to the original call. D’Anna and uno cially wel- unprecedented crisis. the recently adopted DEI policy

a.m. Saturday, July 3, when e incident is under inves- comed aboard new trustee “We’re still standing. We and proposed language changes

their vehicle “unexpectedly” tigation. Nicholas Mancini. made it,” said Superintendent in the Code of Conduct —

went o the road and struck a It was raining at the time Finally, it gave a heartfelt Dr. Raymond Blanch to ap- re ects “a way of being” rather

guardrail. and road conditions are being shout-out to the teachers, sta , plause from trustees and audi- than a process, Blanch said.

e accident occurred on looked at as a possible cause, administrators, parents, and ence members Tuesday, June SEE BOE PAGE 24
students who strived mightily 29.
Route 202 near Old Somers Mackey said.

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BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 31
CLASSIFIEDS
ELEPHANT’S TRUNK 30
LEGAL NOTICES
LEISURE 2
OBITUARIES
OPINION 30
SPORTS
22 TANKER TRAINING
8

10 SVFD in action

20 pg 16

Page 2 – The Somers Record ELEPHANT’S TRUNK Thursday, July 8, 2021

Somers Parks while showcasing local Somers Melen & Trillium. For cancella- a.m. - 12 p.m.
and Recreation tion information call (914)232- Evan Pritchard, a descendant
The Staff musicians and local landmarks. 8441 ext. 4. Rain dates to be an-
Department nounced. For more information of the Mi’kmag people of the
EDITORIAL TEAM All concerts begin at 5 p.m. and call: 914-232-8442 or email: Algonquin nation, and a teacher
TOM WALOGORSKY SUMMER CONCERT SERIES [email protected] of Native American studies at
EDITOR: 914-302-5830 Saturday, July 10 at 5 p.m. are free, bring a picnic dinner and Marist, Pace and Vassar colleges,
[email protected] e Somers Parks and Recre- Lewisboro Land Trust will join members of LLT at the
chair or blanket! Opens Old Field Garden at Old Field
ADVERTISING TEAM ation Department and Somers NATIVE AMERICAN Preserve in Waccabuc for a pre-
PAUL FORHAN Historical Society present Satur- July 10 at Mt. Zion Church with ACKNOWLEDGEMENT sentation and Q&A (please bring
days in the Parks. is collaborative INITIATIVE your own chair if you wish to sit),
(914) 806-3951 series is being presented to provide Scott Urgola for the 18th annual followed by an optional short
[email protected] entertainment for the community Saturday, July 10, from 10:30 hike. Tickets are free, but register
Woody Guthrie Hootenanny and now as attendance is limited to
BRUCE HELLER 50:  www.lewisborolandtrust.org/
(914) 486-7608 runs every other Saturday. First events or write to events@lewis-
[email protected] borolandtrust.org
two concerts will be held at Mt.
LISA KAIN
(201) 317-1139 Zion; then Reis Park stage; and
[email protected]
CORINNE STANTON nal two at Bailey Park. Last con-
(914) 760-7009
[email protected] cert is August 18 featuring Rick

JAY GUSSAK Church of the Good
(914) 299-4541 Shepherd
[email protected]
JENNIFER CONNELLY CAR SHOW
(917) 446-7757 Saturday, July 17 from 10 a.m.
[email protected]
SHELLEY KILCOYNE to 2 p.m.
(914) 924-9122 e Church of the Good
[email protected]
GABRIELLE BILIK Shepherd presents their 3rd An-
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/DESIGNER nual Classic Car Show, held at
[email protected] 39 Granite Springs Road, Gran-
ite Springs. Rain date will be
PRODUCTION TEAM Saturday, July 24.
TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL
Registration starts at 9 a.m.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR $20 per car entered. Free admis-
PHOTOGRAPHER sion for other attendees.

[email protected] Trophies will be awarded, and
CHRISTINA ROSE prize ra es will be held. Free
ART DIRECTOR/ gift bags for all. Food vendors
will be on hand. All proceeds
DIGITAL PRODUCTION MANAGER bene t Outreach Programs at
[email protected] Church of the Good Shepherd.

EXECUTIVE TEAM Lake Lincolndale
BRETT FREEMAN Property Owners
CEO & PUBLISHER
845-208-8151 Association

[email protected] FUNDRAISING CONCERT
Saturday, July 24 at 7 p.m.
Deadlines e Lake Lincolndale Proper-

THE SOMERS RECORD DEADLINE ty Owners Association is hold-
THE DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISEMENTS ing a fundraising concert July
24 at our clubhouse featuring
AND EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS FOR our very own Simon O’Keefe’s
band, appearing live, under the
SOMERS RECORD IS THE THURSDAY stars, on beautiful Lake Lincoln-
BEFORE THE NEXT PUBLICATION DATE. dale. Food and Drinks available
for purchase, doors open 6 p.m.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, Advance tickets $10/ $15 at
CALL TOM WALOGORSKY AT the door day of show. Venmo:
914-302-5830 OR EMAIL @LakeLincolndale-Proper-
[email protected]. tyOwners. For more info: info@
lakelincolndale.org
Subscribe
Somers Volunteer
TO REQUEST THE SOMERS RECORD Fire Department
WEEKLY DELIVERY, CALL 845-208-8503
OR EMAIL [email protected]. SUMMER FUNDRAISER
SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE COMPLIMENTARY FOR Help support the Lincolndale
RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES IN THE TOWN.
OUT OF TOWN MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE Fire House by participating in
$150 PER YEAR FOR FIRST CLASS MAIL. their online summer fundraiser.
Enter their ra e for a chance
PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT to win a Weber Grill perfect for
SOMERS, NY AND AT family BBQs, valued at $520.

ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. e drawing will be held on
POSTMASTER: Friday, July 23. To enter, visit
https://go.rallyup.com/lincoln-
SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO dalegrill
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SEE TRUNK PAGE 29
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Page 12 – The Somers Record OPINION Thursday, July 8, 2021

FRANCELLA decided to go with him for some Fun Facts by Jo Ann
rest and relaxation.  at rst
FROM PAGE 10 night away was one of the worst

“I did see a doctor about it, night’s sleep I had ever had. I

and I was told that this happens was soaked from head to toe as I Hot flashes can strike 20-30 times per day. Night sweats are also known as hyperhidrosis,
and 75% of women experience it..
to many women my age. It’s tossed and turned in bed. Finally,

normal.” at 3 a.m. I woke up Ken who

For me, this has been going on was sleeping like a baby, and told

since the ‘90s. It’s gotten worse him I couldn’t sleep because I

as I’ve gotten older, and I do feel was so hot. I asked if he would “You turned on the heat in “Are you kidding me? You when I travel.”

terrible that Ken has to be so try to open a window. California in May?” think I turn o the heat at home “Ugh!”

uncomfortable because of it. “You can’t open the win- “Yep, I put it up to 80 degrees because I’m too cheap to pay So, over the years he has tried

Years ago, Ken had a busi- dows. Why don’t you just turn since you’re so cheap with the the bill? I turn it o because I to understand that he needs to

ness trip to California and I down the heat?” heat at home.” get so hot at night that I can’t sleep in annel pajamas over a

sleep. And now you’ve put the long-sleeved shirt on cold winter

heat on 80 degrees because we’re nights as I jump into bed with

CALL TEMPLE BETH SHALOM TODAY! in a hotel room? Can’t you see a tank top.  But although he’s
that I’m practically swimming in gotten better about sleeping in a
this bed because I’m sweating so cold room, it hasn’t stopped him
Hebrew School Registration is now open for FALL 2021 much?”
from complaining. Ugh!

“Oh. Guess I just didn’t think

because it’s what I always do [email protected]

OUR RELIGIOUS SCHOOL SCHEFFER home when they broke in?
üGrades K-7 God knows what could have
FROM PAGE 10 happened to you,” I cried.
üFriendly & fun teaching environment
üEngaging, hands-on & virtual lessons news to her. Detectives would e next day, the detectives
meet with her when she got dusted for ngerprints; Mom
LEARN ALL ABOUT home. I was waiting at the also needed to give them a
üHebrew Reading, Jewish Traditions, Crowne Plaza when the limo list of the missing jewelry, all
arrived. Mom looked tanned, valuable. One detective told us:
History & Prayers relaxed and happy. “ ese guys knew just what to
üJewish Holidays & Values look for; they left the costume
When she was safely buck- jewelry and took the good
üJudaica Arts & Crafts led up in the car, I plunged stu , everything that could t
ahead: in their pockets.” Our cousin
760 Route 6, Mahopac, NY tbsmahopac.org 845.628.6133 Ken had been helping Mom
“Mom, did you have your and me make the list and was
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ring with you?” came indignant:
Enjo th Summer Seaso an Loo your Bes !
“No, I left them home this “You’d think that when they
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eye:
Hours: Tues • Wed • Fri 10:00 am - 5:00 pm “I don’t think so, Aunt
Thurs 10:00 am - 7:00 pm “What happened, honey?” Mary,” chuckled Ken. “ ey
Sat 9:00 am - 4:30 pm My heart broke as I told her probably said ‘ ank you,
and watched her happy eyes Jesus!’”
become sad eyes.
“ ose rings were for you We all got a good laugh over
and your sister, my legacy to that - even Mom.
my beautiful daughters.”
“But, Mom, they’re ‘things.’ None of the jewelry was ever
All that matters is that you’re found.
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Thursday, July 8, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 23

Burke Rehabilitation Hospital unveils new Patient Welcome Center

Burke Rehabilitation Hospital hospital, will now be admitted via

held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to a dedicated, spacious, light- lled

mark the opening of its Alice B. facility that ensures safe social dis-

Harmon Patient Welcome Center tancing to protect, prevent and

on the main campus at 785 Mama- respond to the ongoing pandemic

roneck Avenue in White Plains. and other infectious diseases. e

e ceremony took place on Center is designed to streamline the

June 28. e $2.4 million facil- admissions process in a private and

ity was funded through a generous comfortable setting. As patients

philanthropic donation from the arrive, they will seamlessly transfer

Marsal family, as well as a donation to their hospital rooms where they

from the Burke Auxiliary and a will be greeted by their care team

grant from the federal government and begin treatment. Located in a

through the CARES Act (Coro- garden-like setting,the Center pro-

navirus Aid, Relief, and Economic vides a serene and uplifting begin-

Security Act). ning to the rehabilitation journey.

Attending the event was Dr. “We are thrilled to provide

Philip Ozuah,MD,PhD,President meaningful support to this most

and CEO of Monte ore Medicine, worthwhile addition to Burke’s sto-

in addition to Westchester County ried campus,” said a spokesperson PHOTO COURTESY OF BARRY MASON
Executive George Latimer, New for the Marsal family.“ e Alice B.
York State Senator Shelley Mayer, Harmon Patient Welcome Center Former United States Congresswoman Nita Lowey, New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea
New York State Assemblywoman will enhance an already outstand- Stewart-Cousins, Burke Rehabilitation Hospital Board of Trustees Chairman John McCarthy, Burke
Amy Paulin and White Plains ing care experience provided to President and CEO Jeffrey Menkes, White Plains Mayor Tom Roach, Montefiore Medicine President and
CEO Dr. Philip Ozuah, Marsal family members Megan Marsal, Bryan Marsal, and Kathleen Marsal, New
Mayor Tom Roach. Burke’s Presi- patients and their families who are York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin, New York State Senator Shelley Mayer, and VP of Burke Auxiliary
dent and CEO Je rey Menkes and rehabilitating serious injuries and Maria Garcia

Board Chairman John McCarthy, medical conditions.”

among several other representatives e creation of the Patient Wel- Alice B. Harmon Patient Welcome the fullest possible recovery.” dedicated solely to adult rehabilitation

from Burke and the Monte ore come Center has been a cherished Center builds upon our vision of medicine. Burke is a member of the

Health System, also were present. goal of Burke and its Patient Expe- patient and family care by empha- Burke Rehabilitation Hospital is a Monte ore Health System, Inc. e

e Patient Welcome Center rience team for several years. With sizing safety, comfort, dignity and not-for-pro t, acute rehabilitation hospital o ers both inpatient and

will be the entry point for individu- the advent of the COVID-19 pan- support. From the moment of ad- hospital in White Plains, NY. outpatient programs for those who

als admitted for in-patient rehabili- demic in March 2020, ensuring a mission to Burke, patients receive Founded in 1915 through an have experienced a disabling illness,

tation at Burke. Patients, who typi- safe, socially distanced entry into personalized care provided by the endowment from philanthropist traumatic injury or surgery. For

cally arrive on the Burke campus the hospital became paramount. highest caliber team of rehabilita- John Masterson Burke, it is the additional information, please visit

via ambulance from an acute care According to Mr. Menkes, “ e tion specialists to help them make only hospital in Westchester County burke.org.

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Page 24 – The Somers Record Thursday, July 8, 2021

BOE much, much better ways to a verbal warning to a long- PRE K ON THE WAY It actually had composed
FROM PAGE 1
understand each other.” term suspension. This spring, Somers a written statement, but be-

Somers has already been learned it was getting a state cause all members couldn’t

It applies to all personal CODE OF CONDUCT informally using the “re- grant that could pay for a agree on including a reference

interactions in the district, A public hearing was held storative justice” approach program that prepares 3- and to violence that occurred dur-

whether they involve on proposed additions to as part of that process; now 4-year-olds for kindergarten. ing some protests, it was never

belligerent fans at athletic the Code of Conduct, which it’s moving to solidify it. Because the news came so released.

events, nasty social media covers things such as stu- While the aim is to re- late in the budgeting process, However, just three days af-

posts, or students, staffers dent rights and responsibili- build relationships by cre- the district faces a tight turn- ter this March’s Atlanta-area

-- or even school board ties and disciplinary proce- ating space for growth around time and may have to spa slayings that left eight dead

members -- taking potshots dures and penalties. through reflection, it’s delay the Pre-K pilot’s launch — six of them Asian women

at one another. It echoes the civility poli- much more than just get- until the second semester of —  it issued one in support of

The policy forbids cy in that behavioral expec- ting two battling kids to- 2021-2022. the Asian community.

“disrespectful, rude, abusive tations are based on mutual gether in a room to talk it It won’t lose funding if it Now growing hate crimes

or intolerant behavior or respect, tolerance, and other out. decides to go that route. e and rhetoric against Jews in

language” -- period. principles. When things have reached grant covers 95-97 percent of the U.S. have been linked to

While protecting the right Proposed language states the intervention stage, “re- the costs. e funding limit is the recent outbreak of violence

to freedom of expression, it that no one will be sub- storative justice” seeks an- $5,400 per pupil. between Israel and Hamas.

aims to “maintain, to the jected to harassment or dis- swers to these questions: Spots in the full-day pro- ere are fears about long-

greatest extent reasonably crimination based on their What happened? Who was gram will be distributed via lasting repercussions.

possible, a safe, harassment- actual or perceived “race, harmed or affected by this lottery. Parent Fabriana Hersh eld

free, civil environment, gender identity, religion, behavior? What needs to be e district, which has re- appealed to the board — for

and to maintain civil sexual orientation, the lan- done to make things right? ceived proposals from several the second time, she said — to

communications and guage they speak, learning How can people behave dif- potential vendors, saves mon- make an o cial statement

interactions with mutual differences, background, or ferently in the future? What ey by hosting it at Primrose supporting Somers’s Jewish

respect.” any other differences.” can be learned from this ex- Elementary School. If it had residents.

Violators may be asked Prohibited conduct runs perience? to pay for outside space and Anti-Semitic sentiments are

to leave “school district from mild missteps -- skip- The code is being tweaked utilities, costs could skyrocket. “fully alive in our country” and

premises.”  If they refuse, ping detention, mouthing now, with more substantial More details will be avail- hate crime targeting Jews are

they can be ejected. off, disrupting class -- to changes expected. able at the board’s reorganiza- rising at an “alarming rate,” she

It doesn’t mean that more serious offenses -- as- Administrators and teach- tion meeting, Blanch prom- said.

everyone has to agree or can’t sault, using illegal sub- ers have started “restorative ised. Pointing to rallies against

be passionate or angry at stances, stealing. justice” training. Support anti-Semitism in Mahopac,

times. Academic misconduct in- staff will have similar learn- SUPPORT SOUGHT Scarsdale, and New Castle,

“It’s about treating people cludes plagiarism, cheating, ing opportunities. Last year, the board drew Hersh eld wondered why the

the right way,” said Trustee or altering records. Accepted for a first read- ak for not taking an o cial board “couldn’t even write a

Chadwick Olsen in June, Depending on the trans- ing, the policy also covers stand against racism in the letter of support.”

adding that civil discussions gression’s nature, disciplin- off-campus behavior such as wake of the George Floyd SEE BOE PAGE 25

are “more productive and ary action can range from cyberbullying.  murder.

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Thursday, July 8, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 25

BOE Noting that “there are of hate; apathy toward a sym- “represent” the community.
FROM PAGE 24
horrible things that go on in bol that killed 6 million Jew- He has since learned that ‘We’re still
the world, and sometimes ish people. I would have been “it takes so much more to run

She claimed that the last time they come close to home,” one of them. Apathy against a school district.” standing. We
the town showed solidarity Olsen said the board is a symbol of dangerous rhet- “It really takes everybody,

with Jewish residents was in “wrestling” with what its role oric that still exists today in the parents, the students, made it.’
2018, following the deadly in these matters is and how this country. I won’t pretend teachers, administrators … all

attack against a Pittsburgh it “communicates” that to the I wasn’t part of this apathy; I pulling together.” Dr. Raymond

synagogue. community. was,” the college student said. While board members have Blanch

“What has changed in Over the summer, trustees Mentioning a LBGTQ had their occasional di er- Superintendent
four years? Why the silence intend to discuss ways they classmate who had su ered ences, they’ve worked as one

now?” asked Hersh eld, can ensure that “everyone insensitive remarks — and to accomplish much in the

whose husband is a second- in our district knows they’re worse; two Asian-American last decade, including getting

generation Holocaust survivor. supported,” he added. friends who were “constantly budgets passed every year,

“Silence killed my husband’s Former student council confused for each other”; and adding four student resource D’Anna received a plaque

family and millions of others. president Kyle Chouinard a student “on the spectrum” o cers, and instituting the engraved with district mas-

We’re not heading for another had lots to say on the subject who had been bullied because International Baccalaureate cot Tusker and a personal-

Holocaust. It’s more like too. of his di erences, Chouinard program. ized blanket to remind him of

American Jews are heading e 2020 grad wanted to emphasized their stories were D’Anna promised trustees warm thoughts being sent his

toward the situation of Jews in give the board something all “part of the Somers educa- they’ve not seen the last of way.

Europe today. Hated, hiding, “concrete” to think about tional experience.”  him: “I’ll be that annoying

sometimes beaten or killed, whenever it hears “rumblings” Speaking up not to be person at the nance com- PERSONNEL NOTES

looking over their shoulders that teaching diversity, equity, critical but out of concern, mittee who asks all those Dr. Steven Levine, retired

on their way to a fenced- and inclusion isn’t necessary. he added: “I care about the questions to make sure that after 20 years as district phy-

o synagogue under police Speaking of the swastika school district, the sta , and things still line up.” sician, will be replaced by Dr.

protection.” found in a school library, Ch- the students too much to sit Among board members Elliot B. Barsh, a Mount Kis-

Saying “we can do better,” ouinard said that, while the back and watch.” who declared they will sorely co pediatrician.

she urged the board to be an district took it very seriously, Quoting civil rights activ- miss D’Anna was Dr. Lindsay Barsh, who came highly

“ally.” some students didn’t. ist Maya Angelou, Chouinard Portnoy. recommended from the North

“You can interrupt this A common reaction was said: “When you know better, “When I joined this board Salem school district, was

pattern. You can show your “Oh, that’s been there a long do better.” as a newbie, very overzealous awarded a one-year, $48,000

Jewish students and families time,” he recalled. and wanting to do and help contract.

that Somers is indeed No Place Chouinard, embarrassed D’ANNA’S FAREWELL and be, you were so patient, Blanch’s new contract,

for Hate,” said Hersh eld, to admit that he might have Trustee Michael D’Anna, kind, and thoughtful,” she told which will keep him as the

hoping that teachers educate thought “What’s the big moving on after serving for him, expressing gratitude for head of Somers schools until

students about the Holocaust deal?” then now realizes apa- nine years, said Tuesday that D’Anna’s ability to keep col- 2026, was also approved by

and the dangers of anti- thy’s a mistake. he rst ran thinking he could leagues focused on “always the board. He has been super-

Semitism. “Apathy towards a symbol use his nance experience to doing better.” intendent since 2011.

Piano Man at
The Country House

in Westchester

Music is one of the most enigmatic Valley, and “ e Piano Man” to e Dr. Mark Smoller is a resident of Putnam Valley and
pleasures of human existence — relax- Country House, can be seen tickling the “The Piano Man” at The Country House each week.
ing and transportive, yet requiring abso- ivories while playing a lively rendition
lutely no e ort whatsoever to enjoy. of “Roll Out the Barrel.” On other oc- PHOTO COURTESY OF THE COUNTRY HOUSE
casions, a rousing “Twelfth Street Rag”
e sounds of sultry saxophones in a is spilling out through the opened doors music, forever creeping into our hearts their minds and reinvigorate their spirits.
jazz hall or the bellowing vocals rever- of the lobby, like a musical extravaganza. and minds and providing us with never
berating in an opera house remind us of ending pleasure and happiness. For an e Country House is a marketing partner
the myriad of musical experiences that Music of long ago lls the rafters of hour each week, e Country House has of this newspaper. is article is written by
people love, and love to enjoy. ere is this makeshift musical arena as Mark their own “Piano man” who transports
something about music that captures does his magic with his extraordinary the residents back to a time when they e Country House, a 100 bed boutique
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and it is these intangible feelings that tunes. He delights the residents with de vivre. And for many, that feeling re- a beautiful rustic landscape. It is located at
inspire people to seek out melodies and songs that they had listened to in their mains until Mark returns the following 2000 Baldwin Rd in Yorktown Heights,
symphonies, brass bands and rock bands. youth, when rst falling in love, when week with more songs that captivate NY. For more information, call 914-455-
marching o to World War II and 1363 or visit meridionsenior.com.
Whether 17 or 70, there is a universal marching home again.
yearning for the sounds of music in our
lives. e Country House, an assisted As Mark breaks out into a melli uous
living in Yorktown Heights, NY, knows version of “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,”
this all too well and is intent on keeping a murmur of recognition instantly lls
residents entertained and engaged with the room. Heads sway to the melody as
vibrant programming, including lots
and lots of music. Regardless of culture ngers keep time like batons. Residents,
or medical condition, residents internal- who just a few minutes earlier may have
ize their own appreciation for music. been lost in their own thoughts, now
have a light in their eyes, as they vividly
On any given Tuesday afternoon, Dr. recall warm memories of long ago.
Mark Smoller, a resident of Putnam
How wonderful is this thing, called

Page 26 – The Somers Record Thursday, July 8, 2021

Columnist Tracy Beckerman releases book about her dog

She is featured on this week’s episode of the Hudson Valley Uncensored podcast

Syndicated Halston Media humor col- Writing about experiences with her kids a lot more than they bargained for. From
tracking wet cement through the house to
umnist Tracy Beckerman thought she was helped her nd the humor in it, and em- shredding the family’s underwear, Riley is
a one-dog wrecking ball. Yet, this lovable
lost when she quit her high-powered ca- brace the joy of parenting. retriever also brings joy, laughter, and a
renewed sense of wonder into the house-
reer in television and moved from the city As if raising two kids in a new place hold.

to the suburbs to raise her two young chil- wasn’t tough enough, Beckerman and her At times hilarious and heartwarming,
“Barking at the Moon” speaks to life’s
dren. husband decided to add a dog into the challenges, and to mothering children
both human and furry. With Beckerman’s
“ at’s how ‘Lost in Suburbia’ was mix. Soon life began to pick up speed and trademark wit and heart, she reminds us
that no matter what stage of life we’re in,
born,” Beckerman said to Brett Free- she realized she needed to make the most we can learn a lot from the dogs who teach
us how to stop and enjoy the ride.
man in the latest episode of his podcast, of every minute before her kids left for
Beckerman is an award-winning author,
Hudson Valley Uncensored, in which she college and the dog…well, we won’t talk speaker, and syndicated humor columnist
who has appeared on NBC’s Today Show,
discussed her new book. “Because I was about that. CBS is Morning, and Good Day New
York. Her numerous honors for writing
literally lost. I just did not know what my Her new book, “Barking at e Moon: include the prestigious Writer’s Guild of
America award, a CLIO, and a New York
identity was anymore without the city and A Story of Life, Love, and Kibble,”is a hu- Emmy®.

the job. And I kind of was really depressed. morous and heartfelt tribute to life’s grow- Beckerman is also the author of the
humor book, “Lost in Suburbia: A Mo-
I had yet to discover the joy in parenting. ing pains. moir: How I Got Pregnant, Lost Myself,
and Got My Cool Back in the New Jersey
It just felt like such a burden. And I feel When Riley comes into her family’s Suburbs” (Perigee Books, 2013). Her rst
book, “Rebel without a Minivan: Obser-
horrible saying that, but it was just true.” life, the Beckermans realize that they got vations on Life in the ‘Burbs,’’ was released
in 2008.
Tracy Beckerman with her dog, Monty PHOTO COURTESY OF TRACY BECKERMAN QUOTES FROM THE PODCAST
HUDSON VALLEY UNCENSORED • “We ended up with this dog that was
Ride the LuckyLink to Atlantic City EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS
like Dogzilla. e dog was just absolutely
Service Operates Friday/Saturday/Sunday Beckerman shared the story of getting nuts, and tore our house apart. But, you
Express From The Je erson Valley Mall a dog so that her kids could grow up with know, in a very loving way.”
that great childhood experience, and how
www.luckylink.us • 347-927-0750 it made her slow down and appreciate life • “Something about having the dog
in a new way. slowed things down and made me realize
that I really need to stop and smell the re
She talked about learning to cherish hydrant, and appreciate what we had right
small moments with her family, and how then and not wish it away too fast.”
writing her column, “Lost in Suburbia,”
helped her nd the joy and humor in par- • “[Having pets] added a great deal of
enting. She answered questions about the chaos to the house, which we already had,
upbeat tone of her writing, dealing with because we had two kids, but it was a joy-
isolation during the pandemic, what dogs ous chaos. So I think there’s a lot of fun in
bring to our lives as humans, and what we that kind of hectic time of your life.”
can learn from our furry friends.
• “After we lost Riley, I was sitting with
You’ll also hear hilarious stories about my husband out on the porch, and I was
her dog, Riley, what it was like to come staring at the stars and the moon. And I
together as a family to say goodbye to him, said, I feel like barking at the moon in Ri-
and how life with her new dog, Monty, ley’s honor. And my husband said to me,
is di erent as an empty nester. Becker- ‘Do you know what barking at the moon
man ended the interview by explaining means? ...It actually means trying to do
the touching inspiration behind her book something in vain. So whatever it is that
title, and encouraged listeners to nd the you’re trying to do, and it’s not going to
humor through all of life’s ups and downs. happen. You’re barking at the moon. And
I realized that it was sort of an appropriate
Her column is upbeat and silly and her analogy, because here I was trying to stop
book takes on a similar tone. She takes time, not have the dog die, not have the
great joy in being able to give people kids get older and move out. And I was re-
laughter through her writing, especially ally barking at the moon because you can’t
during the pandemic. do that.”

Not being able to see her loved ones • “I de nitely recommend dogs as pets,
during the pandemic has been very di - because they’re wonderful companions,
cult. Her dog kept her company, made her and they de nitely enhance life. We’re al-
laugh, and motivated her to get outside. ways looking for ways to make things hap-
pier, and better, and shinier, and having a
“ ere’s a reason so many people went dog seems to do that.”
out and got dogs during the pandemic,”
she said. “It was for that warmth and that Subscribe to Hudson
comfort, that companionship, and the joy Valley Uncensored for free
of the silly things that dogs do.”
• Visit hudson-valley-uncensored.
Beckerman said that dogs bring so captivate.fm
much joy to our lives as humans, and they
are loyal to a fault. • Find it on Apple Podcasts, Spotify
or Google Podcasts

Order ‘Barking at The
Moon: A Story of Life,
Love, and Kibble’

Find it on Amazon

Thursday, July 8, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 27

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Page 28 – The Somers Record Thursday, July 8, 2021

A look at pollinator pathways

NOTICE TO BY CAROL REIF plants pollinators eat.
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER (Native caterpillars and bees
RESIDENTS
e next time you take a big can’t nosh on plants from China
Homeowner Funding is now offering homeowners a chance bite out of a juicy peach or enjoy or Japan.)
to make necessary energy efficient home repairs and will be a eld of beautiful wild owers,
offering its services to families who: thank a bee. Or a butter y, or a Everyone loves the monarch
1. ARE UNABLE TO PAY CASH FOR NECESSARY HOME bird, or even a bat. butter y with its black-laced or-
ange wings.
REPAIRS. ose are the four b’s organiza-
2. CANNOT AFFORD HIGH OR ADDITIONAL MONTHLY tions that promote so-called pol- But do you know it can’t sur-
linator pathways hope folks will vive without milkweed, which
PAYMENTS. remember this summer before most folks think of as “weeds.”
3. HAVE BEEN TURNED DOWN FOR FREE STATE OR they decide to do things like ex-
cessively mow their lawns or use Farmers also have evicted
GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS. fertilizers, pesticides, and even milkweed from their elds. And
mosquito repellents. now the beloved butter y is in
REPAIR TO INCLUDE: danger of extinction.
ROOFING • SIDING • WINDOWS • DOORS & MORE... National Pollinator Week be-
gan on Monday, June 21, the rst Pollinators pathways don’t
Money Is Now Available Through up to $25,000 day of summer. have to be formal gardens, they
Approved Lenders to Qualified can just be pots of the appropri-
Applicants* for Home Repairs And what’s summer without ate plants or owers on your pa-
the humming of bees and the tio or porch, Pooley said.
No Money Down No Equity Required
itting of butter ies? According to Jan Antonucci, of
CALL TODAY: (800) 736-9629 But watching out for insects the Somers Land Trust, it’s not PHOTO: CAROL REIF
or visit NYImprovementFund.com is more than just an exercise in that hard to start a pathway.
environmental altruism, it’s ul- At least 75% of flowering plants
*Approved applications will have the work completed by a quality repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING timately essential for human ex- First interested conservation need help from pollinators such
istence, says Pam Pooley, of the organizations such as garden as bees and butterflies.
Saving a Life EVERY 11 MINUTES North Salem Open Land Foun- clubs, land trusts, or conservation
dation. commissions create a steering tive bees and sparing autumn
aloneI’m never At least 75 percent of owering committee of volunteers. leaves will provide a nursery for
Life Alert® is always plants need help from pollinators the overwintering eggs and pu-
here for me. such as bees, butter ies, moths, Folks are encouraged to add pae of pollinating insects.
bats, birds, wasps, and beetles. their properties to the pathway
One touch of a button Without that, they can’t pro- and towns can identify open You can leave clippings on the
sends help fast, 24/7. duce fruit and seeds. spaces that are protected and grass as a natural fertilizer or use
other lands of high value. (North slow-release organize fertilizers,
GwPiSth! e hard work pollinators do Salem has 30 easements or pre- or nothing at all. It’s also good to
results in one out of every three serves spread around town and provide a source of clean water.
Help at Home Help On-the-Go bites of food people eat. in nearby communities, Pooley
said.) HOW IT STARTED HERE
® You might have noticed but- In 2016, Connecticut con-
ter y-adorned placards in places en these places are literally
Batteries Never Need Charging. around North Salem like the mapped, giving neighbors the servationist Donna Merrill was
green space in Croton Falls or incentive to join the pollinator working with the Hudson-to-
For a FREE brochure call:I’ve fallen and I can’t get up! by the town o ces on Titicus party. Housatonic Regional Conserva-
Road, or a more permanent sign tion Partnership.
1-800-404-9776 at Somers’s Angle Fly Preserve. Education is a big part of it.
Speakers can be booked to ex- She was trying to launch a
Prepare for ese mark special gardens plain threats to pollinators, the community land stewardship
power outages that host native plants that pol- importance of native plants, and project when she got the bright
with a Generac linators nd especially yummy. alternatives to pesticides, for in- idea to o er folks from South Sa-
home standby stance. lem, N.Y., to Ridge eld, Conn.,
generator Plants that attract butter ies Working with a town’s recre- free native dogwood trees to cre-
include: nasturtiums, cosmos, ation department or conserva- ate a connected pollinator habitat.
REQUEST A FREE QUOTE! lavender, daylily, zinnias, and tion advisory council can also
Queen Ann’s Lace. help identify invasive plants on By all reports, it was a smash.
877 516 1160 public lands and set up removal Next, Merrill rounded up
To lure bees, plant bee balm, — and planting of native species groups in town like the Land
FREE rosemary, sage, roses, Echinacea, — events, such as the one North Trust, Wilton Garden Club, and
geraniums, poppies, and asters. Salem did at the town library this the Woodcock Nature Center.
7-Year Extended Warranty* past spring. Together, they found ways to en-
A $695 Value! Bees and butter ies both like Even schools can get in on the courage residents to plant native,
O er valid February 15 - June 6, 2021 Black-eyed Susans. act by planting pollinator gardens pollinator-friendly, plants and
and teaching about the impor- to avoid pesticides and chemical
Special Financing Available If you want to get really fancy, tance of bees and butter ies. fertilizers.
and have a hummingbird visit Residents can be asked to It evolved into a bigger thing
Subject to Credit Approval your garden, put in penstemon, avoid using pesticides and other where towns can identify a path-
*To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the hardy fuchsia, and hyssop. poisons, add native plants while way and focus on reaching out to
generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions. landscaping, and think di erently home and business owners.
e decline of bees and butter- about their lawns.
ies can be blamed on the con- at doesn’t mean individuals
uence of several things. is time of year is heaven can’t contribute by simply pro-
Open and wooded lands alike for clover – a nice green ground viding small and safe way stations
are falling prey to development. cover and nitrogen xer that bees for pollinators.
Chemicals are wiping out both and butter ies adore.
the ora insects rely on for food. After all, it’s a small price to
Likewise, critters that eat bugs Constant mowing will do clo- pay for the privilege of eating.
— birds, amphibian, reptiles, and ver in. Adding shrubs, trees, and
mammals — are starving. Inva- a mini meadow will reduce lawn For more information, vis-
sive species — like the red leaf size. it:  www.healthyyards.org  or
barberry, prized for its showy fall www. pollinator-pathway.org.
foliage — are crowding out the Leaving some bare ground and
dead wood will help nesting na-