VOL. 13 NO. 51 THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 29 CLASSIFIEDS 30 LEGAL NOTICES 28 LEISURE 22 MAHOPAC MUSINGS 2 OPINION 8 SPORTS 18 Mahopac Middle Schoolers Find eir Inner Einsteins pg 14 Visit TapIntoMahopac.net for the latest news. BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR Camel Town Supervisor Michael Cazzari has raised concerns about plans to split the town into separate New York State Assembly districts if currently proposed changes to the electoral map take e ect later this year. e proposed changes are part of a court-mandated redrawing of New York’s electoral map following the 2020 census. In a letter to the New York Independent Redistricting Commission (IRC), Cazzari said he was “strongly opposed to the redistricting map,” and echoed those sentiments at a Jan. 30 public hearing before the IRC in White Plains. “ e proposed state Assembly map will be dividing my community into two parts, weakening our town’s in uence in the political process,” Cazzari wrote. By splitting the town into separate districts, residents “will have less leverage in advocating for their interests and securing the resources and policy changes which they, our taxpayers, believe are needed from the state government.” Cazzari told Mahopac News that the current map, with Carmel sharing the 94th NYS Assembly district with Yorktown, has bene tted the town. “We have a good relationship with [current representative and former Yorktown supervisor] Matt Slater dating back to when we was Yorktown supervisor,” he explained. “I think we should stay with Yorktown because we have a lot of shared interests, but if the new map puts us with parts of Dutchess County, as some proposals show, that’s OK too as long as they don’t split the town.” e proposed map would split Mahopac into the 94th and 105th districts. Lake Mahopac would remain in the 94th, but would share the district with towns to the west like Philipstown, while Lake Cassie and Long Pond and areas north of Wixon Pond Road would be in the 105th. Mahopac Golf and Beach Club on North Lake Boulevard would be in both districts. Cazzari added that the 2022 map for U.S. Congress, which may Cazzari to state: Keep Carmel whole Proposed electoral map would split town into separate districts Carmel Town Supervisor Michael Cazzari addresses the IRC on Jan. 30. SCREENSHOT BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR Carmel police arrested a Mahopac man for attempted murder this past Monday, after a reported stabbing at the Cloud House Smoke Shop at 898 Route 6. In a statement, police said responding o cers found the 22-year-old male victim from Shrub Oak “outside the business bleeding profusely from what appeared to be two stab wounds.” O cers found the alleged 24-year-old perpetrator Anas Mousa of Mahopac inside the shop, the department said. “Mr. Mousa was subsequently taken into custody without further incident,” the statement said. “Carmel Police detectives determined an altercation had occurred inside the business, which resulted in the victim being stabbed once in the chest and once in the back.” e victim, who has not been named, was taken to Danbury Hospital in critical, but stable condition, Carmel PD said. Chief Anthony Ho mann told Mahopac News the victim remained hospitalized as of Tuesday morning. Mousa has been charged with attempted murder in the second degree, rst-degree assault, and criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. At press time, Mousa was being held pending arraignment. Man stabbed at Route 6 Mahopac smoke shop 24-year-old arrested for attempted murder SEE REDESTRICTING PAGE 7 STEAM FAIR Progressive Animal Hospital Voted “Best of Somers” 2020-2022 What is the most common mismanaged condition that you see? THE ITCHY DOG! Is your pet... scratching • licking • chewing feet or having chronic skin infections? Stop treating the symptoms and find out the underlying cause with a simple blood test. Get your pet feeling better and stop the frequent trips to the vet. INDEPENDENTLY OWNED and OPERATED 268 route 202 l somers, ny 10589 914.248.6220 l progressive-vet.com
PAGE 2 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 MSA spring soccer e Mahopac Sport Association spring soccer registration is open and will run until March 17. Early bird discounts are available to those registering before Feb. 14. e season is expected to run from April 15 until mid June, and consists of Saturday games and once-weekly practices. MSA is renewing its partnership with Shrub Oak to increase the amount of teams for grades three through nine. MSA said it has a new registration system; all players will need to create a new League Apps pro le. Learn more at msasports.org/soccer. The Book Barn is back e Book Barn at Mahopac Public Library is welcoming shoppers again. Book Barn hours are Tuesday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., ursday, 4 to 6:45 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Book donations are by appointment only. Please call 845-628-2009 x143 to schedule your donation. ank you to all Book Barn patrons for your patience and your support during the weatherization project. Friends of the Library Ra le To celebrate the reopening of the Book Barn, the Friends of Mahopac Public Library are hosting a ra e January 28 through February 18. e prize will include a mixology kit donated by Jean and Joe Tock and a basket of additional items for raising a cheer. Ra e tickets are $5 each. To see the prize and purchase tickets, please stop by the Library’s main desk January 28 through February 18. e drawing will be in the Library, Saturday, February 18, at 2 p.m. Proceeds of the ra e will support the programs and services of the Mahopac Public Library. United for the Troops Gala announced Tickets are on sale now for the annual United for the Troops Gala, scheduled to take place on Friday March 10 2023 at 7:00 p.m. at Villa Barone Hilltop Manor 466 Route 6, Mahopac. e event will include dinner, dancing, and open bar a 50/50 ra e and a $10,000 ra e. Organizers of the volunteer-led nonpro t said the annual event “raises essential resources in bringing a little comfort to our troops.” Learn more at unitedforthetroops.org. Shred Day announced On Saturday, April 15, Town of Carmel residents can bring up to three boxes of documents for free shedding at Michael Geary In Line Memorial Park on Rte. 6 and Croton Falls road, (across from the Mahopac Fire Department). e town will accept paper goods only. Proof of residency required. For more information, visit ci.carmel.ny.us or call (845) 628-1500. Learn to save a life e Putnam County Bureau of Emergency Services o ering training in lifesaving skills from community professionals. Original and refresher basic life support (EMT) trainings is available. You can learn more and register for these courses at putnamcountyny.com/life. For more information and directions, please call the at (845) 808-4000. MAHOPAC MUSINGS SEE MUSINGS PAGE 23 NMLS #60828 Registered Mortgage Broker NY & CT Banking Depts. All Loans Arranged through Third Party Providers. Call Us Today! 800-771-1071 YOUR LOCAL HOME MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS 1013 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 - www.putcap.com STARTS HERE! We have the Sammies! Wings Wings Wings By the Dozen, 1/2 Tray or Full Tray Buffalo • Mild-Medium-Hot Death • Asian • Honey BBQ • Thai Peanut Butter Award-Winning Dry Rub Can’t decide? Order an assorted sandwich platter! Order your favorite sandwich as a party wedge! Award-Winning Dry Rub (845) 628-3139 www.mahopaccrossroadsdeli.com 616 Rte 6 • Corner of Rte 6 & 6N • Mahopac, NY 10541 MAKE YOUR CATERING RESERVATIONS TODAY! PIG ROASTS • COUNTRY BBQS • AND MORE! ALL ORDERS MUST BE RECEIVED BY NOON ON THURSDAY FEBRUARY 9 MAKE YOUR CATERING RESERVATIONS TODAY! GET YOUR ORDER IN TODAY! STARTS HERE! THE BIG GAME Pricing starts at $14.95/ft How can we feed your belly?
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 3 BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE Much to the chagrin of some Mahopac residents, a plan to build a 140-foot cell tower in their neighborhood is back in play. After bouncing between state and federal courts over the past several years, representatives for Homeland Towers, the Danburybased company seeking to build the tower, and Verizon Wireless, were back before the Planning Board in January to seek site plan approval. The project is also before the Zoning Board of Appeals in search of three variances. The tower is proposed to be built on Maple Hill Estates, a condo development near Kia Ora Boulevard. whose Homeowners Association gave permission for the project. However, while the tower would be on Maple Hill Estates property, it would abut neighboring Walton Drive, just hundreds of feet from some homeowners’ backyards. The saga at Walton Drive began in 2018, when Verizon Wireless and Homeland Towers asked for site-plan approval to build cell towers on residential properties on Croton Falls Road and Dixon Road. In November 2019, the Planning Board denied those applications on several grounds, primarily saying it believed Homeland had not sufficiently proven a need for the towers. Homeland took the town to federal court, where a judge urged the parties to compromise and settle the matter themselves. Six months after the federal action was initiated, Verizon and Homeland agreed to withdraw their application for a cell tower at the Croton Falls Road property, while the town agreed to issue a building permit for the tower at a new, more palatable location on the Dixon Road property. The agreement also called for a cell tower at an entirely separate location on the other side of town in Maple Hill Estates instead of Croton Falls Road. No Planning Board or Zoning Board of Appeals special use permit or variances had been undertaken for the Maple Hill tower, nor any vote taken by those respective boards. But what some town officials did not realize at that time was that the Maple Hill Estates site butted up against the adjacent Walton Drive neighborhood, putting some homes in very close proximity to the tower. Neighbors complained that their road would be used as a thoroughfare for heavy construction equipment, disrupting daily life and potentially damaging lawns. Walton Drive residents filed an Article 78 lawsuit asking the State Supreme Court to block construction of the cell tower. Last summer, the state ruled in favor of the homeowners. The suit did not seek monetary compensation. Instead, it looked to overturn the Town Board’s May 2020 decision to approve the project without input from the town’s Planning Board or Zoning Board of Appeals. State Supreme Court Justice Thomas R. Davis ruled that the Town Board usurped the authority of the ZBA and Planning Board by entering into the agreement to allow the Maple Hill Estate tower without those requisite approvals. “The existence of a town law that allows a planning board to waive any requirements pertaining to site plan approval does not save the Town Board’s actions here,” Davis wrote in his decision. “A planning board may very well have that authority, but the Town Board does not. Again, once a town creates a local planning board, the planning board has the exclusive authority to undertake the actions it is empowered to take. “The simple fact of this action is that a proposed cell tower at Walton Drive, which had never been reviewed by the ZBA or Planning Board, was granted or relieved of every approval it needed by the Town Board, which had no authority to grant those approvals,” the judge continued. “The Town Board’s actions in entering into the federal consent order for the ZBA and Planning Board on the terms set forth therein were unlawful.” However, Homeland took the town back to the federal court in the Southern District of New York and in November of last year a consent order was agreed upon by all parties that would place the proposal before the appropriate boards and go through the requisite process required for any site plan approval. Robert Gaudioso of the law firm Snyder and Snyder, representing Homeland Towers, went before the Planning Board last month to lay out his case for site plan. Gaudioso said radio frequency exposure is always an issue, but the plan complies with federal regulations. “We hired a third-party company and the report [has been filed with the town],” he told the board. “They applied methodology approved by the FCC and the worst-case scenario [radio waves] are 40 times below the federal standard.” One of the variances Homeland has applied for is for the setback of the tower. Town code requirements for setbacks from occupied residences is two times the height of the tower—in this case that would be 280 feet. Homeland’s tower would be approximately 174 feet, so a variance for the extra 106 feet is required. “If we pushed it back, we would have to have a higher tower, remove many more trees, and create much more disturbance,” Gaudioso said. Gaudioso said, as required by code, Homeland looked at alternative sites. “We looked at better parcels to be on and reached out to several landlords and those properties were either not available or didn’t work from a radio frequency standpoint,” he said. Gaudioso noted that Homeland tested the signal with a crane at 140 feet and discovered that height would remedy the signal gap. “We’ve provided all the data on dropped calls the access failure rate,” he told the board. Homeland said it also looked into endangered species affected by the project. The DEC and U.S. Fish and Wildlife said one species of bat might be affected, but as long as the tree culling took place between October and March when the bats weren’t roosting, it wouldn’t be a problem. Robert Cavallaro, a spokesperson for the Walton Drive residents, said he wasn’t surprised to see the tower plan return and realized it will probably get built; neighbors just want to make sure it is done right. “We are caught between a rock and a hard place,” he said. “Our intentions were to get this done right. We were hoping they would walk away but they didn’t; they had to reapply. “We always knew there was a 50 percent chance it would be there, so we are fighting to make sure it is done right. We needed to raise a red flag,” he continued. “Our street is very tight. Where will trucks turn around? Will they maintain the property? There are lots of questions. What they do and say now could change. We have people who have been here a long time, and this is where they are most comfortable, and they took that away from us. It is heart-wrenching and it’s exhausting. We already made our point, but if it goes to federal court again there is nothing much we can do.” Federal law mandates a 150- day “shot clock” from the time the application is filed in order to expedite the process and a public hearing will be required, likely at a Planning Board meeting later this month. Walton Drive cell tower plan roils residents After court fight, ‘heart-wrenching’ project looks set for approval GOOGLE MAPS Land owned by Maple Hill Estates abuts homes on Walton Drive GOOGLE MAPS ‘We are caught between a rock and a hard place.’ – Robert Cavallaro Walton Drive spokesperson
PAGE 4 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 (ISSN 2330-1627) PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY HALSTON MEDIA, LLC AT 824 ROUTE 6, SUITE 4 MAHOPAC, NY 10541 MAIN OFFICE 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2022 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC The Sta EDITORIAL TEAM EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR: 845-208-0774 [email protected] BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE [email protected] WHIT ANDERSON SPORTS EDITOR [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM PAUL FORHAN (914) 806-3951 [email protected] BRUCE HELLER (914) 486-7608 [email protected] LISA KAIN (201) 317-1139 [email protected] CORINNE STANTON (914) 760-7009 [email protected] JAY GUSSAK (914) 299-4541 [email protected] PAM Zacotinsky 845-661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL CREATIVE DIRECTOR PHOTOGRAPHER [email protected] NOAH ELDER DESIGNER [email protected] EXECUTIVE TEAM BRETT FREEMAN CEO & PUBLISHER 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines MAHOPAC NEWS DEADLINE THE DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISEMENTS AND EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS FOR MAHOPAC NEWS IS THE THURSDAY BEFORE THE NEXT PUBLICATION DATE. FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL BOB DUMAS AT 845-208-0774 OR EMAIL MAHOPACNEWS@ HALSTONMEDIA.COM. Subscribe TO REQUEST MAHOPAC NEWS WEEKLY DELIVERY, CALL 845-208-8503 OR EMAIL [email protected]. SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE COMPLIMENTARY FOR RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES IN THE TOWN. OUT OF TOWN MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE $150 PER YEAR FOR FIRST CLASS MAIL. PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT MAHOPAC, NY AND AT ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES. POSTMASTER: SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO MAHOPAC NEWS AT 824 ROUTE 6, SUITE 4 MAHOPAC, NY 10541 Gerard C. Ahler Jr. has announced his candidacy for Town of Carmel Highway Superintendent. In a statement announcing his run, the Republican noted his long residency in the town and his connection to the community. “I have been a resident of Mahopac for over 35 years, raising my four children here–two in college, one a high school senior and one a high school junior–all while running a successful home improvement business in the town.” He said 40 years in the construction industry gives him insight on what needs to be done to improve the roads. “I have realized many improvements that are necessary to help our town and residents,” he said. “I ran for this position in 2007 and lost [to incumbent Michael Simone] by only a few hundred votes. In the 16 years since my initial bid, nothing has changed under the current superintendent and my former trusted running mate.” Ahler said his priorities will include implementing a recycling program and improving leaf removal and brush clean up. He also said that, if elected, he would be “be available to our residents within a 12 hour turn around time [and be] transparent in regards to current and future projects.” Ahler to run for Carmel highway super COURTESY GERARD AHLER Gerard Ahler Putnam County Executive Kevin Byrne is advocating for the adoption of new legislation that will cement a property tax deduction program for volunteer re ghters and ambulance workers. In late December of 2022, Governor Hochul signed into law A10155A, which was co-sponsored by then-Assemblymen Kevin Byrne and Michael Lawler. e legislation standardizes and simpli es the existing tax breaks, allowing all counties across New York State to opt into the program. “ is is government at its best; supporting and giving back to those who do the sel ess work of protecting their communities and neighbors,” said County Executive Byrne. “I’m proud to have helped work on this legislation while I was an Assemblyman, and I’m even prouder to be able to bring it home to the brave volunteers in Putnam County as their County Executive. I look forward to collaborating with our partners in the County Legislature to provide this tax break, and I thank Governor Hochul for signing our legislation into law.” e new law allows for local governments to o er up to a 10% exemption of assessed value to eligible volunteers as well as a number of other options to optin to with the goal of assisting in County considers tax break for volunteer EMTs & firefighters SEE TAX PAGE 23 237 Route 6 Mahopac • 2nd floor • By Appt Only • No mail received here—drop slot available Former IRS Agent & 30+ Years Experience 20% OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS OFFERING SECURE CLIENT PORTALS ADDITIONAL SERVICES INCLUDE: Medicare, Social Security, and Retirement Planning Including Plan Roll-Overs INCOME TAXES 845-628-9300 [email protected] CALL OR E-MAIL TODAY FOR A FREE ESTIMATE FORMER IRS AGENT & 30+ YEARS EXPERIENCE 20% OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS OFFERING IN-PERSON OR VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS & SECURE CLIENT PORTALS CALL OR E-MAIL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 845-628-9300 [email protected] 237 Route 6 Mahopac 2nd “Professional Services with a Personal Touch” floor * By appt only * No mail rec’d here, drop slot available Thomas J. 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PAGE 6 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR AT LARGE A GoFundMe page has been established to help the family of a Putnam Valley girl who su ered a severe brain injury after in a September car accident that took the life of a Mahopac man and injured two other teens. Emily Quinn, 15, is on a long journey to recovery after the traumatic brain injury. A talented gymnast who represented Putnam Valley and the Lakeland/Panas combined team at the state championships last year, she was being trained by former Olympians at Dynamic Gymnastics in Mohegan Lake and competed at the National level. Friends have described her as a “bubbly, happy and hardworking girl.” On the GoFundMe page, her family writes that during her time in the hospital, Emily overcame several health scares. After months of hospitalization, she has transitioned from the ICU to a rehabilitation facility where she will have to relearn many daily tasks. “She is incredibly strong, a true ghter and continues to amaze us every day. She is truly a miracle in progress,” the family wrote. Emily was injured in a two-car accident on Sept. 27 on Wood Street near Meadow Crest Drive in Putnam Valley near the Mahopac Falls border. e driver of the rst vehicle, 23-year-old Bryan Tumolo of Mahopac, was pronounced deceased at the scene. e second car contained Emily, her older sister, Caitlin, 17, and Catlin’s boyfriend, Ethan Cruz, 18, of Lake Peekskill. Cruz was also seriously injured, and a GoFundMe page has been set up in his name as well. Police said that the preliminary investigation indicated that the rst vehicle was northbound on Wood Street when it crossed over into the path of Cruz’s vehicle, e Quinn family said that Caitlin experienced a brief setback from her injuries around late November and was readmitted for another surgery. She has since recovered and is o cially back in school. While she was hospitalized, she submitted her college applications. “We are also happy to announce [Caitlin] has been accepted into multiple colleges with merit scholarships. We are incredibly proud of how strong and resilient she is,” the family wrote. e link to the GoFundMe page for the Quinn family is gofund.me/d9dbc48e. Ethan Cruz’s page is at gofund.me/9462cdb3. You can also support the Quinn family by purchasing a leotard from Melody’s Leotards. e leotards say “She is Strong” on the front, and “Quinn Strong” on the back and are available in a variety of color options and back styles. Cost is $30. Find them at melodyleotards.com/product/quinnstrong-fundraising-leotard. “We are blessed to have such an extended community who has shown tremendous support during this di cult time,” the Quinn family wrote on their GoFundMe page. “We recognize we will not be able to individually thank everyone. We ask that you extend our gratitude to your friends, family, churches and communities who have continued to keep the girls in their thoughts and prayers.” GoFundMe page to aid local gymnast Accident near Mahopac Falls left Emily Quinn with traumatic brain injury PHOTOS: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL Emily Quinn performs her fl oor routine in last years divisionals for the LPPV varsity gymnastics team at Eclipse Gymnastics Center in Mahopac. 845.628.2233 • 2 Mahopac Plaza, Route 6N, Mahopac Serving Breakfast & Lunch • WiFi Available Apple, Pumpkin, Pecan, Coconut, Cherry, Banana Cream, Chocolate Cream & Lemon Meringue Pies! Honey Balls, Gingerbread Houses, Cookie Trays, Pastry, Breads, Bagels & More! Gluten Free Baked Goods Available including Gluten Free Cannoli & Rainbow Cookies! Who Loves You?! Gale Bauman TAX CONSULTATION with CPAs FREE TAX ASSOCIATES www.galebaumantax.com 6 Old Tomahawk St. Granite Springs NY ACCEPTING DROP-OFFS AND APPOINTMENTS Call or email to book your appointment (914)248-7600/[email protected] Individual: -minimizing tax liability & maximizing refund -communicating with IRS & State -navigating through complexities of 1040s -audit representation Business: -preparation of all business tax returns (1120, 1120S, 1065) -audit representation -preparation of trust, estate & gift tax returns -Trust, Estate & Retirement planning -Tax planning/project of income tax liability -setting up a new business entity Retirement Planning 20 EXPIRES 03/31/23 % OFF FOR NEW CLIENTS
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 7 also change, allowed Carmel voters to help ip the seat from Democrat Sean Patrick Maloney to Republican Mike Lawler. Maloney, Cazzari said “never visited us once” and focused his e orts on the towns in western Putnam. He believes Lawler will pay more attention to the area. e bipartisan IRC is responsible for drawing New York State’s district lines after the 2020 Census following a court order that threw out a previously redrawn map for being too partisan. A later ruling threw out the 2022 Assembly map drawn by a court-appointed special master. With a nal version of the electoral map due in April, the body has been holding public hearings and is accepting public comment through both traditional and online channels at nyirc.gov/participate. “For 35 years I was a police of- cer for the town of Carmel, so I can tell you that I know every neighborhood, all of our hamlets and our people,” Cazzari told the commission at Monday’s hearing. “Our people are homogenous. Our needs, our wants—it is a community. We have shared values. And if you split us, which is what your new map is showing, you’re going to take a big chunk of western Mahopac, a very populous part [of town] and you’re going to divide us.” Cazzari reiterated that splitting the town would weaken it politically in Albany and beyond. “Being that Assembly members are elected every two years…they are close to the people,” he said. He argued that having one Assembly member represent the town means more support in Albany for policy changes, grants and state aid. “My community should be kept in the 94th [NYS Assembly district, currently represented by Matt Slater of Yorktown] and I urge you to keep us together.” Asked whether he was speci - cally asking to remain in the 2022 version of district 94 drawn by the special master, Cazzari said “I’m advocating that you keep the Town of Carmel together no matter what you do, but we want to stay with Matt Slater.” IRC member Willis Stevens, who once represented Carmel in the New York State Assembly, told Cazzari that “we tried very hard to keep communities of interest intact. e Town of Carmel, which I represented a bunch of years ago, is truly a community of interest and we’ll do our best so that it is not split down the middle.” REDISTRICTING FROM PAGE 1 Proposed changes to electoral map would divide Mahopac into separate NYS Assembly districts SCREENSHOT NYS Assembly district 94 as it currently stands SCREEN SHOT AWARD WINNER 293 Rt 100 - Suite 207 Somers, NY 10589 OFFICE: 1-914-243-3050 CELL: 1-914-629-0236 [email protected] LIC. REAL ESTATE ASSOCIATE BROKER Since 1985 Grace Vinciguerra Each office independently owned and operated •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• AWARD WINNER 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! 914.455.2158 10% 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! 10% OFF Service Calls ItalIan ContInental CuIsIne Take-out Available • Full Bar with Menu • Private Party Rooms Available From 20 to 70 People Gluten Free Menu Items Available • Reservations Recommended 252 Route 100, Somers 10589 • 914.232.8080 • www.mammarosaristorante.com Open Tuesday-Sunday for Lunch and Dinner Make Your Reservation for a Memorable Valentine’s Day Serving Special Menu Mamma Rosa Gift Certificates are the Perfect Present Year-Round!
Opinion BRETT FREEMAN, PUBLISHER EMILE MENACHÉ, EDITOR TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Editorial O ice: 845-208-0774 [email protected] 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2021 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of Mahopac News or its a iliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 845-208-0774 PAGE 8 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 BY EMILE MENASCHÉ EDITOR I t’s about time I introduce myself, the new guy who’s actually an old guy in many ways. As you may know, I began taking the reins of Mahopac News in November after a lucky decision to tag along with my wife Amy for a charity event at Villa Barone. By a happy accident, I met publisher Brett Freeman and his wonderful mom and dad. We got to talking, and here we are. I’m very thankful for Brett, Tabitha Pearson Marshall and her design team, and my fellow writers/editors Bob Dumas, Tom Walogorsky, Whit Anderson, and Carol Reif for making me feel part of the Halston Media family from Day 1. I didn’t know it at the time, but that outing would foreshadow my rst couple of months at Mahopac News. Villa Barone is a Mahopac xture. But although I’ve lived here for more than 35 years, I’d never been to an event there before that night. It was a chance to do something new (well, new to me) in an otherwise familiar place. And that sense of discovering “new” things that have actually been around us the whole time is exactly what it’s been like to edit and report for Mahopac News. It’s a rare thing in life, to feel the thrill of being a new arrival on ground you’ve stood on for a very long time. I’m very grateful for that sense of discovery. Amy and I raised three kids in Mahopac and have shared our home with four dogs over that time. For about 25 of our years here, our relationship to the area was de ned by our kids: story time at the library, preschool at the Presbyterian church, swimming at Sycamore Park, waiting for the bus to come up the hill, driving to concerts, soccer games, Girl Scouts meetings, and the countless other events that mark a child’s journey from infancy to graduation. But most of my other life was outside of town: White Plains, New York City and traveling for work, Somers for pick-up soccer and Yorktown to see my mom and dad. When our kids left the house and I stopped commuting for work, I discovered another “new” Mahopac thanks to my dog, Hudson. You will probably see pictures of him from time to time because he insists on the attention. He’s very cute and very sweet and very, very stubborn. Anyway, Hudson has a thing about going for walks in our own neighborhood. He’s opposed to it. Either the stars must align, or you need a Papal dispensation to get him to walk past the mailbox, especially if there’s a car in the driveway. Not even a pocketful of treats will get his tail more than a few houses down our road. e thing is, even if you drive to a “better” walk destination, there’s a 50/50 chance he’ll get out of the car, look at you, look at the car, look at you, look at the car...For reasons only known to his sweet but not overly logical brain, he ain’t gonna take no walk in this place on this day. Back in the car. As a result, I’ve taken him all over the area for walks. And not always in the obvious places like parks and the bike path. We’ve done many a circuit downtown, trudged up and down the roads around Mahopac Point and Lake MacGregor, circumnavigated Lakeview Elementary, and seen the back of every shopping center you can name. at’s right: He won’t go for a walk in my neighborhood, but he’s happy to sni around yours. I would complain, but his stubbornness has been an opportunity to see parts of Mahopac I would have otherwise missed. And because Hudson is also a friendly and handsome fellow, it’s not unusual for people to stop and say hi and and ask his breed (English Setter and Brittany Spaniel, we think). Reporting for Mahopac News has been like exploring with my friend Hudson, except much more interesting. It’s taking me in unexpected directions and showing me many di erent sides of my own hometown. I’m discovering stories in places I drove past as a mere resident. It’s introducing me to new people and giving me a new sense of community. Hearing their stories—YOUR stories—has been the best part of the journey so far. I’m very thankful for the people who’ve reached out with support, advice--and a few corrections too. I’m looking forward to getting to know you, and maybe even helping you discover new things about your town—our hometown. Please feel free to reach out at menasche@ halstonmedia.com. And if you see Hudson and me walking around your ‘hood, don’t hesitate to say hello. But do me a favor and don’t tell him he’s cute. He already gets enough attention. New steps on familiar ground Happily Ever After PHOTO COURTESY OF AMY MENASCHÉ Hudson poses with Mahopac News editor, Emile Menasché
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 9 The only way to prevent mass shootings, individual shootings and gun suicides is to keep deadly firearms out of the hands of those who would use them. Though mass killers frequently have different motives, their profiles are often the same. Most are male, many are young and few are old. All are struggling with mental health problems of one kind or another. Happy, well-adjusted people don’t murder innocents at random or kill themselves. Some mass killers are warped by racism, anti-Semitism or are xenophobic. Others are misogynistic or overwhelmed by their free-floating hate and resentments. Many are full of rage, hold significant personal grievances or are in the midst of having paranoid delusions. Looking back, seldom was the incentive a killer had completely hidden from view. In almost every case, the killer was still able to obtain the guns and ammunition - legally or not - with relative ease. There are about 400 million firearms in the U.S., and a population of approximately 250 million adults over the age of 18. Anyone determined to have a gun in this country will find some way to get one. Last June, after several high-profile mass shootings and a sustained rise in gun violence, President Biden signed into law the first gun safety legislation passed in decades. Yet, the new act still fails to ban any high-impact weapons, especially those designed for use in war. It does, however, provide some money for crisisintervention programs; “encourages” red-flag laws that allow for the confiscation of weapons from dangerous people; and “incrementally” tightens background checks for gun purchases from arms dealers. Yes, you can buy an assault rifle or any other gun you want - including an unlimited amount of ammunition – in most states in this country more easily and anonymously than if you wanted to buy a car. Much of America, it seems, has grown inured to the plight of those lost to gun violence. Deaths are mourned, but it’s an empty gesture, not accompanied by any real effort to prevent more suffering. According to a study in the journal, “Health Affairs,” guns are the primary reason the United States has become the most dangerous of wealthy nations to be born into. Adding fuel to the fire, last year, the Supreme Court declared New York’s Sullivan Act - one of the most restrictive gun laws in the country – unconstitutional. The Sullivan Act sharply limited people’s ability to own weapons and carry them outside of their homes. This action by the Supreme Court upended the way New York had regulated firearms, just at a time when we are continuing to experience more and more mass killings. It’s quite surreal that - given today’s times - six conservative, Republicanappointed justices of the Supreme Court would think it a good idea to have even more people of questionable moral turpitude walking our streets with a six-gun strapped to their side. In the wake of this unending run of senseless mass murders, I asked several people I ran into over the past week or so – those willing to talk to me openly about their feelings – about how often, if ever, they thought about the possibility of a shooting incident occurring in their daily lives. Though their responses were not surprising, all were disturbing. A few young women spoke to me about feeling apprehensive at school and that they frequently talk about where they would hide if somebody started shooting. A local high school teacher told me that when one of her male students is particularly unhappy with a grade, or becomes visibly upset in class, her heart begins to pound uncontrollably. A mother tries, unsuccessfully, not to think about the dangers when dropping her kids off at community events. “But it’s always there,” she said. A rabbi told me he thinks about it every time he’s up at the lectern and the door in the back of the sanctuary opens in the middle of a service. The commuters I talked to told me they felt uneasy, especially after a major incident occurs, and have become much more cognizant of the people near them. Waiting for a train at Croton-Harmon, a retired cop showed me a holstered pistol he had tucked into his belt. He was quick to say he was an expert marksman, but worried that if there was an event and more than one person started shooting, he might not be able to correctly identify the perpetrator. A friend of mine, who lives just over the border in Greenwich, told me that he and his wife went to the Ridgefield Playhouse a while back. “The theater was packed. I thought I’d see some cops managing traffic or some guards checking as you entered the theater. Nothing. This mass shooting epidemic has infected my mind.” And every time it happens, attention is paid, prayers are said, and we think: Now things will surely change. Guns, guns and more guns BERNIE KOSBERG HERE AND NOW! *Restrictions apply. AMAZING IS COMBINING GREAT CARE WITH CONVENIENCE. Many of our offices accept most insurance and have same-day, early and late appointments, and some even offer weekend availability. Or, if you can’t make it in, we offer video visits.* Make an appointment at nyp.org/medicalgroups NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Group Hudson Valley Billing#: Labor: Proofreading: OOP: Tracking#: Client: Brand: Product: Media: Caption: Artist: Previous: Bleed: Trim: Safety: Viewing: Gutter: Scale: Final Size SS1211226 HN1210181 HN1177367 None NYP210_M02 NewYork Presbyterian None None NYP_1211226_03_NSP_LighHairTeen_V2_F.tif 979 ppi CMYK World_Class_Doctors_Columbia_WeillCornell_MS-2line_cmyk_ko.ai NYP_StayAmazing_horizontal_cmyk.ai Please contact Orlann Capazorio at 212.886.4100 with any questions regarding these materials. This advertisement was prepared by Havas Worldwide NY at 200 Hudson Street, New York, NY 10013. Cyan Magenta Yellow Black GT America (Medium, Compressed Black, Black; OpenType) None Johnny.Ho Jimmy.Choi None 9.5" x 6.05" None None None None 9.5"w x 6.05"h Studio Manager Proofreader Print Producer Account Executive Art Director Copywriter H. WEINTRAUB/M. 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PAGE 10 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Nestled in a lush green hideaway of Yorktown Heights amidst tall evergreens and nature’s beauty, sits The Country House, recently named a Best Assisted Living community by U.S. News & World Report. We invite you in to tour and learn more about how our services can benefit you or your loved one. Call 914-249-9144. Experience the Best THE Country House in westchester 2000 Baldwin Road · Yorktown Heights · www.thecountryhouseinwestchester.com LIC # 800-F-007 When my brother asks me to babysit his dog, Pip, I occasionally take her hiking along the Adirondack pipeline. We start at Airport Park in Mahopac and work our way north, past Putnam Golf Course, eventually crossing Bullet Hole Road. e trail passes near Austin Road School. A lot of the lands in that section of Mahopac were once used for farming. In my meanderings, I have come across rusted out farm machinery from over a century ago and, remarkably, a 7-foot tall hand carved granite pillar that appears to have once been part of a gate. Surprisingly, some of the farmland has never fully reverted back to woodland. e lands are thick with wild rose, autumn olive, locust saplings and plenty of wildlife, which is the reason Pip likes it so much up there. We’ve crossed paths with nearly every kind of wild animal found in these parts, including some not ordinarily sighted -- especially during the day. For example, the great horned owl. When I see a “lost cat” poster, my heart sinks and I think of the great horned owl, lethal creature of the night. Yet there was one in the middle of the day sitting placidly in the crook of an oak tree, possibly hunting, possibly out early enjoying the sunshine. Maybe he was communing with the owl god. Initially, I mistook him for a bobcat because great horned owls have ears. I’ve seen bobcats out there, too. ey don’t seem very much afraid of Pip or me, and I’m reminded that the woods belong to the wild creatures. I’m only a guest. On the other hand, Pip reverts. When we pass the par 3 green at Putnam, unless I tell her to stay, Pip runs to the green if she sees golfers. She’s probably looking for my brother. Toward the middle of last November, the temperature in the 40s, we were surprised to see a foursome by the green. I let Pip run to them. ey were young guys and seemed easy going enough. Pip checked them out and then made a beeline for a swampy patch of tall weeds. e guys in the foursome stopped to watch her. eir mouths were open. Pip is a specimen, a ne example of terrier ferocity when she’s on the muscle. I called her sharply. She emerged from the swamp plastered in mud. She then trotted past the amused golfers and plopped down in a shallow pond in front of the green. Pip is a dunker. She surfaced from the pond covered in black bilge from the tip of her beagle tail to the top of her fetching Jack Russel head. If I didn’t know it was her, I wouldn’t have recognized her. Bemused is how I would describe the four young fellas’ reaction to Pip’s little wallow. But then one of the guys looked at me and said, “ ere’s something wrong with that dog.” Pip understands English, some Spanish and even a few words of Portuguese. Practically the only thing she doesn’t understand is humans. I’m only guessing, but I’d say the fella who thought that something was wrong with Pip has a vision of a dog who regularly visits the groomer, who smells of lilac and maybe has a pretty bow wrapped around its neck. at’s great. Anyone who takes a dog into their home and loves it deserves the highest accolades. But that dude’s remark made me mad. Plus, he looked at me as if I’d just escaped from somewhere. (To be fair, I’d just stepped out of the woods and may have looked a little swampy myself.) Pip was standing next to me, dripping water and mud. I considered throwing the guy (with Pip’s help, of course) into the pond. It would have made a good story and de nitely a better column. But I forgave the misguided fellow instead. I forgave him because I know that his problem is a modern-day problem, part of the age we live in. He’s afraid of dirt. When I was in parochial school, after learning that cleanliness was close to Godliness, I started taking three showers a day. Trust me, cleanliness is not close to Godliness. We humans emerged from the same swampy conditions that Pip embraces and, before being evicted, we lived in a garden. Allow me, then, to say that God loves dirty dogs as much as He does clean ones. Furthermore, I think the same holds true for humans. Wouldn’t you know it, I’d just vacuumed and scrubbed the inside of my car. I do it once a year when it’s time for inspection. Pip, still damp and swampy, jumped in my lap and showered me with a barrage of germy kisses. e face can be washed, the clothes brushed, but I’m afraid the dusty remains of the day are with us forever. A dirty column LORENZO GARO OF HUMAN INTEREST
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 11 Contact ANTHONY J. ENEA, ESQ. Managing Member • Fluent in Italian 914.948.1500 WHITE PLAINS • SOMERS • WWW.ESSLAWFIRM.COM • Asset Protection • Elder Law • Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care) • Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) • Wills, Trusts & Estates Past Chair of Elder Law Section of NYS Bar Association “Super Lawyer” In Elder Law for 16 consecutive years Do you know what steps you can take to avoid your estate going to probate? CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 By now, some of you may have noticed that I am a health coach. And I suspect you may have questions about that. Before I became a coach, I too was unsure what a health coach or life or transformation coach could do for people. In fact, I went into the eld with a lot of mental resistance, because part of my brain had pictures of sunny, half-ditzy California health coach babes pushing their juices and vegan diets on everyone. Not that there is anything wrong with that. But it is not me. So what is a coach? I recently came across a beautiful de nition of a coach that I would like to share. A coach is the person who mentors you on your Heroes’ Journey. So what’s a Heroes’ Journey? e expression was popularized by Joseph Campbell in his book, “ e Hero with a ousand Faces.” It’s the journey of transformation that the hero embarks on as he steps out onto the pathway that will transform his life by challenging him in unique ways. He will meet this challenge with an innate skillset that reveals his core self to himself. And this changes his life forever and for the good. is narrative appears in most religions, cultures and myths. While everyone has the possibility of a heroes’ journey in their life, not everyone meets the challenge head on or heeds the call. Not everyone succeeds at it, unfortunately. One problem is that you don’t know in advance what your challenge will be. You may have been preparing for a life in one eld and then your whole reality bottoms out and you end up somewhere completely di erent with a new skillset required. e life you believe you want and that you may have prepared yourself for is not always the life that will help reveal your core-essence to yourself and allow your best innate qualities to stand out. is is perplexing to us poor humans, but it’s part of the human condition. Let me provide a personal example here. Years ago, I was working on my academic career when I began to su er from an auto-immune condition. Knowing nothing about health at the time, I simply got worse and worse. Finally, it caused me to drop out of the academic world because I didn’t have the energy to pursue the job market on top of teaching and writing. At the time, I felt lost, unmoored, unsure and like a failure. You can imagine, it was not a happy time in my life. Years later, I nally grokked that the conventional medical world didn’t have solutions for me and my overall health was degenerating. Only at that point did I begin to look into diet changes and other modalities. Slowly, over time, I realized that I liked learning about healing methods. And I loved applying my knowledge to help others heal as well. Eventually it turned into a passion. I became a health coach because I had discovered a passion for helping others get healthier more quickly and directly than I had. But had someone asked me at the very beginning if this was something I had an interest in, I would have said no. Unequivocally no. Now, looking back, I regard this period of time as a gift that set me on a course where many other gifts could come to fruition. And health coaching is just one layer of the transformation in me that this journey set o . But my example is only an illustration. is is not a unique pathway. Many people nd that the unrolling of their life provides the answer to the riddle, “what was it all about.” ey nd their true selves in the midst of the puzzle. And that is where coaching comes in. A good coach has walked their own fraught path. ey can help you navigate through the fog and the confusion and the moments that feel becalmed, when nothing at all seems to be happening in your life. ose are the moments you are stuck. And what a good coach will do is help you learn to take your health back into your own hands or help you nd your own answers about your life. With this mentoring, it will be easier for you to step into the transformations in your life that you want to make, so your true self shines through. Mara Schi ren, PhD, is a Writer, Certi ed Functional Medicine Health Coach, Certi ed Integrative Psychiatric Educator and Certi ed Peak Performance Coach. You can reach her at MSchi ren. [email protected]. What is a coach anyway? MARA SCHIFFREN LIFE, HEALTH, POLITICS
PAGE 12 – MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 RED MILLS Convenience Center 575 Route 6N, Mahopac Falls • 845-628-9745 Mahopac Teachers, Students, School & Bus Garage Employees Buy One Egg Sandwich, Get 2nd HALF OFF Buy Lunch Sandwich, Get a Soda or Coffee FREE We have your grab and go items! Happy Hour Coffee Check out our Coffee of the Month! Any Size 3-7pm Firewood Bundles Purchase your box of Coffee to go! Warm Up with Winter Breakfast Special Bacon egg & cheese Sausage egg & cheese and Ham egg & cheese $4.49 bacon egg cheese & hash browns $5.49 Try our Coffee Flavors of the Season! Come see our vintage candy shop Mahopac Teachers, Students, School & Bus Garage Employees Cold weather accessories! Salt and windshield wiper fluid. We have over 100 helium balloon choices! We Have a large selection of valentine Gifts! Happy Valentines Day! Dear Dr. Linda, Over the years you wrote about Groundhog Day, which occurs every year on Feb.2. I love those traditions. I know they’re silly, but I still wait for them because it makes me think about spring. is year my children are nally old enough to understand why Groundhog Day exists. Is it possible to write about it again this year, so I can share the information with them? anks so much, Love Groundhog Day Mom Dear Love Groundhog Day Mom, As I said in the past, despite those who look down their noses at old traditions that are not scienti cally proven, there is nothing wrong with it if —as an adult— you are capable of knowing and separating fact from ction while preserving the fun of the ction. When your children are of age, they too will understand the di erence, and continue family traditions based on old folklore. e practice is not only fun, but has long-term bene ts. It’s been shown that family traditions keep generations connected, reinforcing a sense of belonging for children. e need to belong is one of the most basic needs of human development. As a result, children who practice and then later continue family traditions appear to be emotionally healthier. When children know what to expect, they feel more secure. It provides order in their lives, which, in turn, reduces stress for them and the adults around them. Shared family traditions, like looking to see if the groundhog sees his shadow, involve storytelling — which is bene cial for the young and old brains. Storytelling requires digging into long-term memories and experiences, sharing cultural information and tales, and putting them into a sequence of events. is is a wonderful strategy for children to use when studying for tests. Children who are exposed to listening to stories from their parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles pick up this strategy and can use them in their everyday learning. Telling your children and grandchildren the groundhog story every year can help them on a variety of levels. As you read this story, think about all the parts of the brain children will be using. Groundhog Day is a tradition in many cities in the United States and Canada as well. It seems that this tradition began in Germany in the 1800s with a Pennsylvania Dutch superstition. If a groundhog saw its shadow after coming out of its den on Feb. 2 (which meant it was a clear day), it would go back to its den, knowing there would be six more weeks of winter. If it didn’t see its shadow, which meant it was a cloudy day, spring would come early. Of course, there’s no relationship at all between a groundhog’s experience and the arrival of spring. (What if the groundhog lives in the Southern Hemisphere where it’s hot on Feb. 2? What if a groundhog in Pennsylvania sees its shadow, but one in Florida doesn’t?) e question is why intelligent adults who understand the di erence between fact and ction still fall back on ctional family traditions. Because, as children, the traditions gave them a sense of security. Since no one knows what will happen in the future, continuing these traditions brings back that warm feeling they felt at the time it all began. ey feel safer, more con dent and more secure. Happy Groundhog Day, Dr. Linda Dr. Linda Silbert has a weekly Education Q&A column in Halston Media’s community newspapers. Submit questions using the contact form at StrongLearning.com. It’s Groundhog Day...again DR. LINDA SILBERT STRONG LEARNING
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 13 PRESENTED & HOSTED BY: Sarah Altberg, Memory Care Director, Maplewood at Danbury, 22 Hospital Avenue, Danbury, CT 06810 Are you searching for answers regarding your loved one’s well-being? Join us for a series of events and learn about: • Memory impairment and the impact associated with the disease • How to connect with your loved one • The importance of managing caregiver stress RSVP For one or multiple events to Diana Lopes at [email protected] or 203.744.8444. This event is open to the public. Complimentary refreshments provided. THURSDAYS 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM FEBRUARY 9TH Communication FEBRUARY 16TH Challenging Behaviors FEBRUARY 23RD Safety at Home DEMENTIA BOOT CAMP Exclusively for Adult Children & Loved Ones BEST OF SENIOR LIVING 2022 22 Hospital Avenue | Danbury, Connecticut | 203.744.8444 | MaplewoodAtDanbury.com Put mascot up for a referendum Dear Editor, Mahopac Indians…..Chiefs…. Warriors….Mudhens? The name is truly irrelevant, as long as it is chosen to honor, not deride, and that the majority wants it to represent. The current process to name, and the outright bullying that has ensued from Albany via our latest superintendent (is this No. 9?) is very relevant. When the NFL did this to the Washington Redskins, the courts sided with the Redskins, not the NFL. It was the NFL that pushed sponsors to withhold “money,” and that is what prompted the change. It took awhile to figure out, but now the “bureaucratic tyrannical machine” has its weapon to force change: Money, our money….tyrannical bullies to the end for sure. Simply put, a special election should be held and the entire town should vote on whether or not to change the name, as it is taxpayers, not the school that have the final say. It should not be a “committee”….that is what and how tyrannical systems operate and should be avoided in a democracy at all costs. If the people in our town know all the facts and then vote to change it, then change it under a special referendum or as a question in the next election. What most worries the “bureaucratic tyrannical machine” isn’t the name (they could care less), it is the power to push you around. The money is the vehicle to do that. To that end, what they are really worried about is Universal School Choice. Arizona has implemented this, and it is wildly successful and popular. Hence, the “bureaucratic tyrannical machine” hates it, as it empowers parents and it reduces the ability of “money” to wield power and policy. Choice is what we are all about as a people. We shouldn’t let them take it from us with a special selected “committee.” If the school board, superintendent or whoever doesn’t embrace the will of the town, then it is time for a new board, new superintendent and new leadership. If we have to change leadership 50 more times until we get it right, then so be it. Stop trying to force an agenda by using our own money against us without us having a vote. This is clearly a referendum issue, and all should have their vote. –James Scarangella Mahopac resident for 20 years LETTER Editorial Submissions Press releases and photos should be submitted to Mahopac News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissions can be emailed to mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Mahopac News, 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned.
PAGE 14 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Mahopac Middle School was packed with Einsteins on Jan. 20 and 21 as students presented their projects for the Middle School’s annual STEAM Festival, a program that integrates science, technology, engineering, art and math. With help from high school student mentors (some disguised as that above-mentioned wildhaired guy who developed the theory of relativity), middle school students created projects ranging from balloon-powered cars to sport-drink analysis to the e ects of UV rays, the properties of gluten, the perfect marshmallow and much more. Open to the public on Jan. 21, the fair drew a record Saturday crowd, with over 850 people taking part as participants and visitors. e middle school’s halls were lled with art and fun activities, while two gyms housed an incredible array of student experiments and projects. Prizes were awarded in categories based on scienti c discipline (biology, chemistry, earth/space science, engineering/technology, and physics/mathematics), as well as for the best projects in each grade. In grade 6, Mia Bally, Ava Guzzo and Peyton Wines tasted victory for their project “Proportionality of the Perfect Marshmallow.” Second prize went to Maddy Bucci and Milena Stepinac for “Gluten Free vs. All-Purpose Flour... What’s Better?” ere was a tie for third between the teams of Logan Buehl, Logan Viggiano and Liam Mortimer (“Radiation, What Is our Everyday Exposure to Radiation in our Homes?”) and Cole Brandstetter, Gianni Madera, and Sean Carson (“How Do Video Games A ect Our Body?”). In seventh grade, Mia Ryan and Cara O’Halloran charged to the win with “What Battery Makes the Best Motor?” Maximus Colon and Justin Hernandez earned second place with “ e Balloon Powered Car,” while Aoife Sexton’s “How E ective Are Antibacterial Hand Soaps at Removing Bacteria?” took third prize. Eighth grade saw a tie for the top spot between budding chemists Eileen Bergerson (“Green Energy: Salt and Power”) and Ella Biolchini (“What Energy Drink Is Best?”). e team of Saoirse McGregor, Kayleigh Pontillo, and Olivia Brady took second place with “Study Busters,” while Justin Cabuhat, omas Baron, and Ryan Meyers nished third with “How Do Motion Sensor Bars Work and How Can We Replicate em?” For more photos and a complete list of winners, visit tapinto. net/towns/mahopac/articles/mahopac-middle-schoolers-excel-atsteam-fair. Environmental club president Maxine V (grade 11) shows a display about invasive species. Middle schoolers get creative with science, tech, engineering, art and math STEAM Full Ahead Science and math teacher Brianna Sayegh dons a lab coat Tour Your Future At The Tech Center at Yorktown For Middle and High School Students February 13th and 14th 8:00am-10:00am and 12:00pm-2:00pm • Visit over 40 programs within our career academies • Learn about opportunities to earn high school academic credits, college credits, and national technical certifications • Please see your home school counselor for further information and a permission slip. Information Contact: Samantha Vredenburgh at 914.248.2427 or [email protected] (845) 621-1000 Independent & Family Owned Since 1977 CALL ALBANO FOR AN QUOTE INSURANCE AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS Ella Biolchini (grade 8)
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 15 Aoife Sexton (grade 8) Einstein in the house: (from left) High school mentors Shane W. and Liam S. (both grade 11), middle school Italian teacher Andrea D’Aprile, and fi fthgrader Sienna L The Mahopac Middle School gym was packed for the STEAM Fair awards ceremony on Jan 21. Middle school students created art depicting rural New York PHOTOS: KATHY CUOMO Eileen Bergerson (grade 8) From left: Margaret Fox, Kelly Kischak (both STEAM fair advisors), Superintendent Christine Tona, Principal Tom Cozzocrea, and MHS student Aalyaan Ali Marin Ljimic (grade 7) www.summertrailsdaycamp.com 914.245.1776 CURRENTLY HIRING STAFF! 17 Miller Rd. Mahopac 845-621-1222 RooneyOrtho.com Rooney Orthodontics Children & Adults
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Sports PAGE 18 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER Going into the game on Saturday, Jan. 28, Mahopac Hockey stood 2-12 and falling behind 4-1 to Fox Lane was actually worse than it sounded. “How could we be losing this bad,” lamented Christian Martirano. “We have beaten them before.” But the inexplicability of the bad start was warranted, and at the buzzer, his brother put words to his team’s final explanation. “It’s great to get the win. I’m pretty pumped,” said Jonny Martirano after the 12-9 victory. Nonetheless, the game began with a flash. Zack Soderberg scooped up the puck for a breakaway, and after Gavin McKee made the save, Mikey D’Elia stuffed in the rebound at 16:09. Mahopac appeared up to the task anyway. Alex Wanner made his way down the left with a defender hot on his heels and beat Christian Valente on the short side for the first of five goals on the afternoon. Unfortunately, Fox Lane had the next three. Soderberg scored two more, Hank Herron notched one, and the prospect of another long afternoon loomed. On the other hand, the Indians kept grinding and pressure led to Mikey Toole being sent off on a roughing call at 9:34. Jonny Martirano got off the first good shot, and then, his brother went to work. Picking up the puck in center ice, Christian Martirano stick-handled into the zone and put a wrist shot past Valente at 8:31. Their sticks thus sharpened, Mahopac drew another penalty at 8:20, and the Martirano’s were far from done. Jonny came down the left, pulled up at the goal line and made a quick cut in front. Valente biting, the older brother had his opening and made it a 4-3 game at 7:58. There was no letting up either. Mahopac was on the power play only 51 seconds later, and the shots kept coming. The successful penalty kill didn’t offer a respite, though. Ryan Danahy set up behind the net, drew in the defense, and Jonny Martirano was free on the right for the tying goal at 1:24. Back on their heels, Fox Lane got no pause out of intermission. 39 seconds into the period, Christian Martirano took an assist from Ross Silver, and Mahopac had the lead. The next goal came in increments of seconds too. At 14:59, Jonny Martirano passed cross-ice to Wanner for the sixth goal, and the day’s offensive efficiency had the high scorer reveling in the strides the team has made. “We started off slow, but as the season has gone on, we kept practicing. We got better, and everyone is working together,” said Wanner. “It’s just a fun time.” Fox Lane was not above killing the party, though. Henry Della Penna raced into the zone, stopped on a dime at the goal line and passed back for D’Elia. The Fox made the most of the drop and beat McKee with 39 seconds left in the second. A 6-5 game into the third, the Foxes were now strutting, and the power play opportunity struck midnight on the Mahopac revelry. Toole got the puck at the point, and at 11:51, he put a slap shot past McKee. Only temporary, Wanner especially was having no part of it. “We started down the ice, working with each other, and my captain Jonny (Martirano) made the pass to me. So teamwork - that’s all it is,” said Wanner of the go-ahead goal. 11:25 remaining, Wanner was soon reinforcing the point. He picked up Christian Martirano’s pass from behind, and the goal at 9:59 had Jonny fulfilling his duties as attentive big brother. Playing together a long time, said the senior, “Christian and Alex have really good chemistry.” Joseph Golia then made it 9-6 from Jonny Martirano, and 7:38 to kill didn’t seem so tall an order. But Fox Lane kept coming. Ryan Goldstein scored at 7:29, and after Wanner got a tip in at 6:10 and Luke Reis went unassisted at 4:29, Fox Lane still refused to give in. Toole scored at 4:02 and 3:09 to make it an 11-9 game. So now it was McKee’s turn. “He stopped a breakaway, and the time before, he came out and took away the angle,” said Head Coach Tim Donaghy. The goalie also stood tall on a Toole blast at 1:40 that went right off the mask. “That’s why they pay thousands of dollars for the helmet,” assured the coach. Of course, Donaghy was proud his goalie didn’t recoil after taking the brunt, and Jonny Martirano paid his goalie props by putting in the empty netter to ice the game. Just the third win, Donaghy saw no reason to simply assign the season to a number. “They are clicking on all the things we have been working on, and we are seeing the benefits on the ice,” he concluded. Mahopac overcomes tough start 12-9 victory over Fox Lane PHOTOS: RICH MONETTI Alex Wanner Ryan Danahy Jonny Martirano Christian Martirano HOCKEY
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 SPORTS MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 19 Hosted at the high school last Sunday (1/29), the 2023 Mahopac Wrestling Youth Tournament brought together the best of Section 1’s future varsity wrestlers to battle it out in the Mighty Might (2016-2018), Bantum (2014-2015), Intermediate (2012-2013), Novice (2010-2011), and Schoolboy (2008- 2009) divisions. e top three in each bracket won individual medals. e previous day (1/28), Mahopac’s varsity wrestling team hosted the Caruso Memorial Tournament and placed second. Pace Zeiler (110 lbs.), Joe Ramirez (118 lbs.), and Chris Morris (152 lbs.) won their divisions, and the Indians ended the day with 10 total place nishers. Mahopac hosts Youth Tournament Indians fi nish second in varsity tourney PHOTOS: WHIT ANDERSON WRESTLING Law Offices of Joseph J. Tock 963 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 TOCKLAW.COM • 845-628-8080 CRIMINAL DEFENSE/DWI • PERSONAL INJURY REAL ESTATE • BUSINESS LAW • WILLS, TRUSTS, ESTATES, PROBATE Joe and his staff are AMAZING!! They stay on top of everything and communicate with you all the way. You won’t find a better law firm when in need of representation. ~T.D. ‘
PAGE 20 – MAHOPAC NEWS SPORTS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 PHOTOS: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL The team is all smiles after a very successful meet. Kaitlyn Palange executes her beam dismount. Lexie Castrataro fi nishes happy with her beam routine. Lia Graap GYMNASTICS Mahopac Gymnastics stepped up in a big way last Thursday (1/26) to win their Senior Night meet. Hosted at Dynamic Gymnastics, the Indians tallied 170.200 total points to place fi rst over Wappingers (165.850) and Edgemont (112.050). Kaitlyn Palange (35.15) took home the top overall score by placing second in three events (Bars, Beam, Floor). Lexie Castrataro (34.75) fi nished right behind her teammate, winning both the Vault and Beam. Kelsie Thimm (32.85) and Lia Dimase (32.80) got the Indians crucial points with their placing. “The team really rose to tonight’s challenge,” said Coach Vin Collins. “It was our Senior Night and we wanted to give the seniors something to remember. They lead by example.” “Kaitlyn has really been coming on these past several competitions,” Collins added. “Lia had another terrifi c meet on Bars and Beam. Lexie has been getting stronger as the season progresses as well. Kelsie’s Vaults are getting better every time out. Overall, another great team effort!” Moves to 9-3 ‘Pac rises to the challenge on Senior Night Keira Callahan shows a little attitude in her beam routine.
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 SPORTS MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 21 FILE PHOTO: SKIP PEARLMAN Jake Couzens led the Indians in scoring at last week’s Friend’s vs. Cancer Tournament. FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM @MAHOPACSOCCER FOR THE LATEST NEWS! For More info visit mahopacsoccer.com KINDERGARTEN SOCCER...$60* IN-HOUSE 1ST-9TH GRADE...$100* STARTING APRIL 15th Coaches and volunteers needed at all levels Season set to start on April 15 for K-9th Grades Registration for Pre-K, Summer Camp & Travel Tryouts Coming Soon! MAHOPAC SOCCER SPRING REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! MAHOPAC SOCCER SPRING REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! *early bird pricing ends 2/14, registration closes 3/17 BY SKIP PEARLMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER Mahopac’s boys basketball team played a strong game in beating Clarkstown North, 49- 44, last Friday night (1/27) in the opening round of the Friends vs. Cancer Tournament at the Barack Obama School of Social Justice in Yonkers. Mahopac went on to fall to Briarcli in a 64-63 nail-biter in Saturday’s (1/28) championship game. Saturday against the Bears, Jake Couzens led the Indians with 15 points, and Connor Ferrieri and Dan Dedvukaj each had 11 in a game that was close throughout. “We played a really good game,” Indians coach Matt Calabro said. “We were in control, and composed throughout, and we led until the fourth quarter.” “But we gave up some urries, and they hit a couple of shots in big spots,” Calabro went on. “ at was a tough loss for us, we played good basketball all weekend, we played well enough to come away with a championship.” Calabro liked what he saw from his players. “Dan and Connor gave us a good mix. If we can continue that, and our starters can play well at the same time, we can be a dangerous team at the end of the year. John Kearney also gave us some good minutes, and Liam Scanlon has played well.” One night earlier in the opening round against North, the Indians led 28-20 at halftime. Couzens had 13 to lead the Indians, Scanlan added 12 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, and Ferrieri added 11 points. “North is a tough team, and they have some good players,” Calabro said. “But our guys came out and played well throughout.” Couzens and Scanlon were named to the All-Tournament team. Mahopac also dropped a 59-41 decision the prior Tuesday evening (1/24) at Yorktown High School, with Scanlon’s ninepoint, eight-rebound e ort leading the ‘Pac. Joey Koch had six points, ve rebounds, three steals and a pair of blocks, and Danny Koch added four points. “Yorktown is a very good team, and they dominated us from the opening tip,” Calabro said. “Credit to them, they really attacked us, and put us on our heels, and we ended up in far too deep of a hole to climb out of.” e Indians were scheduled to host RCK Wednesday (2/1) at 6 p.m., and visit Arlington Friday (2/3) at 6 p.m. ‘Pac boys take down North Edged by Bears in Friends vs. Cancer Tournament title game BOYS BASKETBALL
PAGE 22 – MAHOPAC NEWS LEISURE THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 CLUES ACROSS 1. Shed tears 5. Luxury jewelry designer 10. Goddess of wisdom 12. Convert into a particular form 14. Working-class people 16. It borders Canada (abbr.) 18. A princess can detect its presence 19. Red-brown sea bream 20. Defunct retail empire 22. Vase 23. Demeter’s equivalent 25. Monetary unit of the Maldives 26. French and Belgian river 27. Small amount 28. High schoolers’ test 30. Animal’s foot 31. Some is red 33. Per __: each 35. Swedish jazz pop duo 37. Plate for Eucharist 38. Train line 40. Russian pop duo 41. Stake 42. Plant by scattering 44. Female sibling 45. City of Angels hoopsters (abbr.) 48. Popular cookie brand 50. Group of Niger-Congo languages 52. A team’s best pitcher 53. Vomits 55. 19th letter of Greek alphabet 56. Men’s fashion accessory 57. Its capital is Pierre (abbr.) 58. Expensive cut of steak 63. Popular James Cameron film 65. A __: relating to knowledge gleaned from deduction 66. Kids’ snow toys 67. Flip side to yin CLUES DOWN 1. Global public health agency 2. Snake-like fish 3. Midway between northeast and east 4. Dabbed 5. TV show 6. Folk singer DiFranco 7. Canadian flyers 8. Of the dowry 9. Commercial 10. The act of imitating 11. Equipment used to broadcast radio or TV signals 13. Lands of an emir 15. Swiss river 17. Island 18. Monetary unit of Afghanistan 21. One who surrenders under agreed conditions 23. Garfield is one 24. A baglike structure in a plant or animal 27. Small boats used in the Black Sea 29. Small savory Spanish dishes 32. Body part 34. Touch lightly 35. Popular grilled foods on a stick 36. __ Hess: oil company 39. Antelope with a reddish coat 40. Pharaoh of Lower Egypt 43. Pink Floyd’s Roger 44. Short and thick 46. Small, sac-like cavities 47. Performer __-Lo 49. Entrails of animal used as food 51. __ King Cole, musician 54. Where construction is done 59. Chap 60. Investment vehicle 61. Often mixed with tonic 62. Holiday beverage egg __ 64. Against 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 Hello readers! I hope you had a great January and were able to include live music in life. February may be a short month, but that doesn’t make it any less exciting. We have romance to talk about! Music is the language of love! What could be more loving than a scrumptious dining experience, toasting your Valentine with a glass of champagne and enjoying romantic music in an intimate setting? Jazz on Main in Mt. Kisco will provide you with two chances to experience that! e jazz dinner club will host two passionate Valentine’s Dinner Shows in February! On Saturday, Feb. 11, Italian vocalist Vanessa Racci’s Quartet entertains for two sets at 7 and 9 p.m. On Valentine’s Day, Tuesday, Feb 14, jazz vocalist Beatrix Malnic and her band performs Falando de amor (speaking of love) at 7 p.m. Venue owners, musicians and event planners, if you have live music events to share for March 2023, tell me about it at jacque@wbutter y.net. I’d like to include you in the listing below. For a detailed listing of local live music events, visit HearIt ere.com. ELMSFORD Live Music at Carmine’s, 7 Old Road, 914-345-2605 Weekend nights, the deli turns down the lights to host live music, delicious food and a fun time dancing. Who’s been? e February band line up can be found on Facebook @ LiveMusicAtCarmines. MOHEGAN LAKE Dog Haus Biergarten, 3137 E Main St., Cortlandt Town Center, 845-915-4287 ursday night acoustic music at 7 p.m. Bands perform Friday and Saturday nights from 8-11 p.m. MT KISCO Jazz on Main, 37 S. Moger Ave., 914-730-2399 A high-energy performance by Seth Kibel on Saturday, Feb. 4, at 7 p.m. Seth presents Klezmer & Swing Songs of Snark & Despair, wowing audiences on saxophone, clarinet and ute! His YouTube videos are fantastic! PLEASANTVILLE e Garage at Lucy’s, 446 Bedford Road, 914-747-4740 Local rock celebrity Pete Donnelly and his “Band of Special Guests” return Feb. 9th and March 16 to host his monthly residency. If you recognize Pete from e Figgs, NRBQ or Soul Asylum, you will certainly recognize his special guests! PURDYS Westchester Bluegrass Club, 33 Lake Way Clubhouse On Saturday, Feb. 4, Grant Gordy & Joe K Walsh are the featured act at 8 p.m. ere is an open mic performance at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. YORKTOWN HEIGHTS Mohansic Grill, 1500 Baldwin Road, 914-962-9300 ere is a full lineup of live music starting at 7:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday in February. My friends, e Fat City Rockers, are performing a special show Saturday, the Feb. 4, called “A Day the Music Died Night” featuring special guests. ere are fantastic bands scheduled all month every weekend. Jacque Roche is a freelance writer, content contributor to several local publications, as well as editor and music blogger for HearIt ere.com. Archived broadcasts of her 2016- 2020 radio shows can be heard streaming on Mixcloud.com. Jacque’s Spin on Music for February! JACQUE’S S PIN O N M USI C JACQUE’S S PIN O N M USI C
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 23 Joe Ferone OWNER FORMERLY A Qualified Auto Repair Car Care Center For over 20 years, Joe Ferone of Proper Service has been serving the community, creating relationships, and building a remarkable company with an amazing team of employees! Find out why Joe Ferone of Proper Service needs to be YOUR Go-To Automotive Service Center! LOCATIONS: Baldwin Place • 44 Route 118 • (845) 628-7900 Croton Falls • 1 Center St • (914) 769-3206 White Plains • 105 Fulton Street • (914) 428-7185 Visit us at www.ProperService.com Your Family Car Care Center! FINANCING AVAILABLE WITH APPROVED CREDIT Call today and receive a FREE SHOWER PACKAGE PLUS $1600 OFF With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445 1-855-916-5473 recruitment and retention of volunteer re and ambulance services. “For years, our volunteer re- ghters and EMS personnel have been saddled with New York’s crushing tax burden,” said Rep. Michael Lawler. “Bill A.10155-A provides critical relief to our rst responder heroes, and I strongly encourage the Putnam County Legislature and all municipalities within Putnam to pass this true 10% property tax break for the folks who put their lives on the line for our communities each and every day.” “ is isn’t traditionally thought of as a public safety issue, but it is. Providing this tax deduction is just another incentive in retaining a strong volunteer re and ambulance corps,” said Paul Jonke, Chairman of the Putnam County Legislature. “We’re committed to ensuring our volunteer rst responders can receive whatever compensation we can give them. I thank County Executive Byrne for his support of this legislation, and for sponsoring the law that made it possible when he was an Assemblyman.” “Ensuring this tax exemption for volunteer ambulance workers and re ghters becomes law in Putnam County is one of our top priorities this year,” said Toni Addonizio, County Legislator and Rules Committee Chair. “ ese individuals are generous with both their time and livelihoods and I encourage my colleagues in the legislature to support this measure.” is new law replaces previously enacted legislation by former State Assemblyman Will Stephens Jr. in 2002 that provided a similar tax break. While New York State’s Department of Taxation and Finance allowed the county to o er the tax exemption, the old legislation was rendered obsolete due to the increase in census population of Putnam County. Article provided by the o ce of the Putnam County Executive TAX FROM PAGE 4 Rental arrears help Volunteer residents of Putnam Progressives, in partnership with the Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, can help local tenants with rent debt, or in “rental arrears,” get money from New York’s ERAP (Emergency Rental Assistance Program). ese volunteers will be at the Gilead Presbyterian Church, 9 Church St., Carmel, from 1 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays and from 1 to 5 p.m. Mondays. Renters from Putnam County are encouraged to come; volunteers can check your quali cations for money aid and apply you for rent relief. To be able to apply, please bring papers which show your (1) personal identity; (2) rental amount; (3) residency; (4) income; and, if you have one, (5) Social Security number. You can also apply for utility aid. If you want this, then also bring a utility bill. Questions? Please call a rent relief volunteer at 817- 382-7549 or 845-418-5740. Mahopac Library seeks Trustee candidates Mahopac Public Library will host three information sessions for Mahopac residents who would like to consider serving on its Board of Trustees. Meet virtually or at the Library to learn about the rewards and responsibilities of serving as a trustee, and get to know the current trustees and library director. e two remaining sessions will be held onsite at the library from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, and from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 7. Interested individuals are asked to register online at mahopaclibrary.org, or call 845-628-2009, ext. 100, to register by phone. e community is at the heart of the library, and its mission and goals are intended to serve the diverse interests and needs of its constituents. If you have questions, or would like additional information, contact Michele Capozzella at 845- 628-2009, ext. 107 MUSINGS FROM PAGE 2 Advertise With Us When you advertise with Mahopac News, you are reaching thousands of households and businesses throughout Mahopac, Mahopac Falls and portions of Carmel. To advertise or to place a classifi ed, call Brett Freeman at 845- 208-8151 or email [email protected].
PAGE 24 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Are coyotes getting too close for comfort? e question is timely in light at of least two recent dangerous encounters between humans and coyotes in the area. A North Salem women was bitten -- and her walking companion nearly was -- by what authorities believe was a rabid coyote. It ed after the attack and was never found. Infected mammals usually die within a week to 10 days of becoming sick. Coyotes are not strictly nocturnal, so if one is spotted during the day, it doesn’t necessarily mean that there’s something wrong. ey are most active at dawn or dusk. However, healthy coyotes are usually shy around humans. Coyotes with no fear of humans may be sick and dangerous. Other signs of rabies include appearing disoriented or excessively wobbly. Because they are explorers, opportunists, and can cope, if not thrive, in almost any environment – including cities -- coyotes can be found in every state in America, except Hawaii. Coyotes may look doglike, sometimes display doglike behaviors, and even contain a bit of dog DNA, but they are de nitely not the domesticated type and should be respected for the wild creatures they are, according to Dana Goin of the Wolf Conservation Center in South Salem. e Ruth Keeler Memorial Library in North Salem recently hosted Goin’s “Coexisting with Coyotes,” a live webinar jampacked with scienti c information and myth-busting revelations. It aimed to demystify coyotes and clear up common misconceptions. “We don’t want people to be fearful about being outdoors,” Goin explained. SOME BASICS e adult eastern coyote is four to ve feet from snout to tail and weighs between 20 to 45 pounds. Its coat can be tawny brown, with some black or grey fur. Its ears are large and pointy, its tail u y and carried straight down, and its legs are long. Comparatively, house cats generally tip the scales at between eight to 10 pounds; the average Labrador Retriever weighs between 55 to 80 pounds, and the gray wolf between 70 to 145 if male and between 60 to 100 if female. According to the New York State Department of Conservation, “Eastern coyotes ... are larger in size (about 40 pounds, on average) than coyotes west of the Mississippi.” While classi ed as carnivores, coyotes have a more omnivorous diet. eir favorite chow consists of mice, rats, squirrels and rabbits, but they’ll munch on fruits and veggies and won’t turn up their noses at human garbage. ey do scavenge for venison, but don’t take deer down unless they’re wounded or weak. ey eat fawns. Cats are on the menu too, so Goin advises keeping them indoors. Coyotes mark their territory, or advertise their mating status, by leaving a scent. ey communicate through body language much like other canines. is includes holding their ears and tail in certain ways, making eye contact, and baring their teeth. Vocalizing is their most famous form of communication. ose eerie howls, yips and barks are just their way to touch base with faraway pack members. When coyotes hunt, Goin said it’s usually individually or “maybe as a pair” because their prey is so small. “If they hunted as a group, there’s not going to be a whole lot Coyote attack spurs safety concerns How to avoid confl ict with wild canines WINTER WILDLIFE: BY JEAN BEAUFORT (PUBLIC DOMAIN) An Eastern coyote enjoys a snack in the snow. SEE COYOTE PAGE 25 For today, retirement and every moment in between. Michael A. Bucci Financial Advisor Tier 4 Planning A financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. 203.302.6744 41 W. Putnam Ave. Greenwich, CT 06830 [email protected] Tier4planning.com CA Insurance #0M83870 The Confident Retirement approach is not a guarantee of future financial results. The initial Confident Retirement conversation provides an overview of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC., a registered investment adviser. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (05/19) Confident Retirement approach Tier 4 planning isn’t about getting a new 403(b) or buying financial products. It’s about becoming educated and empowered around the events and decisions in your personal financial life. It’s about being prepared. Maybe it’s time. Call me today for your initial Confident Retirement conversation. 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
to share. They’re also likely to scare their prey away because they’re going to be making more noise,” she explained. One common misconception is that coyotes howl when making a kill. “Usually, when they’re howling, it’s them reuniting with family. So what you’re hearing is a party. Everyone’s just yelling ‘Hey, it’s great to see you!,’ things like that,” Goin said. The time of year factors into coyote sightings. January through March is mating season. Pups are born from March to April and reared from May to August. Born blind, deaf and unable to regulate body temperature, they stick like glue to mom for the first four to six weeks of life. Once they have teeth and can eat solid food, they start taking little jaunts outside the den. “If you’re seeing them at that point, they often are pretty much about to leave the area,” Goin said. October to December is “dispersal” season. Young adults go out to search for a mate. Coyotes are territorial and don’t take kindly to trespassers, so it’s a vulnerable time for these adolescent lonely hearts. That’s why they stick closer to areas where humans live. MYTH-CONCEPTIONS The coywolf. Some folks still insist that coyotes here are 50 percent wolf. No gray wolf populations have been confirmed in New York, although one or two outliers have been reported upstate. Wolves once roamed most of North America, but they were brought to the brink of extinction by government-backed hunting programs in the 19th and 20th centuries. That ecological void prompted coyotes to expand their range eastward. Some of those pioneers may have bred with straggling wolf survivors, Goin said, adding that this isn’t happening any longer. However, the eastern version has retained some wolf DNA. That’s why it’s the largest coyote subspecies. A Stony Brook University study found that the 400 animals sampled were genetically 64 to 81 percent coyote, and an “admixture” of gray wolf (13 percent), eastern wolf (3 percent), and dog (10 percent). “The reality is, it would be, in terms of the ecosystem, very helpful if coyotes were taking down larger animals such as white-tail deer, because in the absence of wolves, there’s now a major imbalance,” she said. This doesn’t mean coywolves don’t exist at all. Visitors to the WCC learn about the critically endangered red wolf, of which it has 10 in its recovery program. A small pod of red wolves has been reintroduced in North Carolina. Hybridization is happening there, which can be “a major challenge to the recovery of the species,” Goin said. KEYS TO COEXISTENCE Don’t feed coyotes, intentionally or unintentionally. Causing animals to congregate where they normally wouldn’t spreads disease, increases conflicts, and decreases their survivability. Clean up garbage, bird seed and fallen fruit. These attract birds, squirrels, and other coyote prey species. Don’t leave pet food outside. Remove water sources. Secure compost piles. Don’t leave pets outside unsupervised. Enclosed yards create a false sense of security. Coyotes can jump six-foot fences or dig underneath. A “sighting” means a coyote has been seen or heard. “It’s just a reminder that coyotes are always around and we should be aware of that,” Goin said. An “encounter” happens when a coyote follows or approaches a person with or without pets. Not to worry if the coyote enters your yard if no one’s present; it’s probably just passing through. But if you’re, say, barbecuing with a bunch of folks and Wile E. pops up, Goin warns “that shows a little bit more boldness.” Types of “conflict” differ as well. It’s tragic when coyotes injure or kill pets or stray animals, but not unnatural. “Coyotes are not walking around with wildlife identification books in their pockets. They just see a prey-sized animal and they are just trying to survive,” Goin explained. It’s not common, but a coyote might also attack an attended pet. Again, that’s a predatory reaction. Big dogs aren’t good prey; they have sharp teeth and will fight back. Little pooches are more vulnerable. A “provoked” attack is when a coyote bites a human who is feeding it, approaching its pups, or intervening in a pet attack. Some folks report being unnerved by being “escorted” or followed by the animals. Goin said it just means they got too close to something the coyote’s protecting, like a den. It’s like the critter saying: “Move THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 25 COYOTE FROM PAGE 24 SEE COYOTE PAGE 26 Immediate Opening F Fallsburg Central School High School Principal EOE The Fallsburg CSD is looking for a Junior Senior High School Principal to provide instructional leadership to students, staff, and community members. He/she will lead innovative programs that result in attainment of the district’s vision, achievement of school/district goals and improve student achievement. Salary $135,000 - $145,000 NYS SAS or SBL Certification Required Please forward resume & Fallsburg’s application (located at fallsburgcsd.net) by Feb 10th To [email protected] Attn: HS Principal Search BOCES_2x2 Fallsburg 4.crtr - Page 1 - Composite Securities offered through Cantella & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Cantella and Co., Inc. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. 2022 was a CRAZY YEAR! 845-628-5400 SFGtaxes.com | [email protected] 824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 We can help make your taxes less crazy.
PAGE 26 – MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 COYOTE FROM PAGE 25 along. Nothing to see here.” To scare coyotes away, reinforce their natural wariness of people. They start to unlearn that if all their interactions with people are positive – i.e., they’re getting food. Even being neutral ain’t good. If you’re just standing there looking at a coyote and nothing happens, they’re probably going to think you’re not that scary. Make loud noises and BIG motions. Variation is the most effective: Yell, clap, stamp your feet, blow whistles, use pocket-sized air horns. As for killing coyotes, experts say it actually causes population growth. If one or both members of the breeding pair are killed, it disrupts the entire pack. The female might mate with another male and they’ll have a larger litter. Relocating them is not only illegal, but inhumane. Once in unfamiliar territory, the animal faces conflicts with resident coyotes and usually dies trying to get back home. Meanwhile, Coyotes are ecostewards. They help clean up the environment by scavenging. They encourage biodiversity by controlling mesopredators – foxes, skunks, raccoons – that can decimate nesting bird numbers. And their free-to-the-taxpayer rodent control limits the spread of Lyme disease. The best thing to do if you like coyotes? Keep their fear of humans intact. The best thing you can do if you don’t like coyotes? Keep their fear of humans intact. “We want them to remain wild,” Goin said. REQUEST A FREE QUOTE! 877-516-1160 Prepare for power outages with a Generac home standby generator FREE 7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value! Limited Time O er - Call for Details Special Financing Available Subject to Credit Approval *To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. Call for a full list of terms and conditions. STRONG AS STEEL WITH THE ATTRACTIVE LOOK OF VARIOUS ROOF STYLES Upgrade Your Home with a NEW METAL ROOF Guaranteed to Last a Lifetime! From Dimensional Shingles to classic styles reminiscent of Cedar Shake and Spanish Tile, an architectural roo ng system by Erie Metal Roofs can enhance the beauty of your home while protecting your family and property for a lifetime. Call today to schedule your FREE ESTIMATE 1-855-492-6084 Made in the USA New orders only. Does not include material costs. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Minimum purchase required. Other restrictions may apply. This is an advertisement placed on behalf of Erie Construction Mid-West, Inc (“Erie”). Offer terms and conditions may apply and the offer may not be available in your area. Offer expires March 31, 2022. If you call the number provided, you consent to being contacted by telephone, SMS text message, email, pre-recorded messages by Erie or its affiliates and service providers using automated technologies notwithstanding if you are on a DO NOT CALL list or register. Please review our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use on homeservicescompliance.com. All rights reserved. LIMITED TIME OFFER 60%off TAKE AN ADDITIONAL 10% off YOUR INSTALLATION Install for Military, Health Workers and First Responders + Warranty- Limited Lifetime. Transferable to 1 subsequent owner from original purchaser. Terms and conditions apply. Hail up to 2.5”, Appearance of the surface coating beyond normal wear and tear. Limited time offer. Expires 3.31.22 Take advantage of the new 30% Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with PWRcell, Generac’s fully-integrated solar + battery storage system. PWRcell will help you save money on your electric bill and be prepared for utility power outages. Plus it’s compatible with most existing solar arrays. Now’s the Right Time SAVE 30% WITH THE SOLAR TAX CREDIT^ Call to request a free quote! (888) 871-0194 Purchase a PWRcell and Receive a Free Ecobee Smart Thermostat Enhanced – valued at over $189!* *Scan the QR code for promo terms and conditions. ^Consult your tax or legal professional for information regarding eligibility requirements for tax credits. Solar panels sold separately. join Lauren, Colleen and Rick and bring a li� le harmony to your next event! musical vocal group playing an eclec� c mix of favorites, old and new [email protected] 914-248-5135
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PAGE 28 – MAHOPAC NEWS LEGAL NOTICES THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Mahopac News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at [email protected]. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151. from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Call to get your FREE Information Kit 1-855-225-1434 dental50plus.com/nypress Includes the Participating (in GA: Designated) Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Product not available in all states. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO; call 1-800-969-4781 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN); Rider kinds B438/B439 (GA: B439B). 6255 DENTAL Insurance To advertise in Mahopac News, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email freeman@halstonmedia. com. Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Mahopac News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at [email protected]. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151. Sports Deadline The sports deadline for Mahopac News is the Sunday before the next publication date. Varsity coaches should submit results and information by e-mail to sports@ halstonmedia.com. All youth sports and recreational sports items should also be submitted to the same e-mail address by the Thursday before the next publication date. Promote Your Charity Send us a press release at mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com, or give us a call at 845- 208-0774. Photo Submissions Photos submitted to Mahopac News need to be a highresolution image. Images that are submitted at a low resolution cannot be published. Submit photos to Mahopac News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissons can be emailed to mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Mahopac News, Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. Share Your Milestones Let your neighbors know about the special moments in your life, whether it’s a birth, engagement, wedding or anniversary. Send us a photo and announcement at mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Mahopac News, Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. There is no charge for this announcement. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. Letters and Op-Ed Policy Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of Mahopac News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and opeds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at mahopacnews@ halstonmedia.com. For more information, call the editor at 845-208-0774. Editorial Submissions Press releases and photos should be submitted to Mahopac News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissons can be emailed to mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Mahopac News, Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. Contact Us Mahopac News is located at Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. You can contact us at 845-208- 0774 or email mahopacnews@ halstonmedia.com. Mahopac News Fillers Your ad could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. Your business card could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. header: Univers Bold 11pt/12leading body: Franklin Gothic Book reg10pt/11leading paragraph rule top Univers Bold 10pt/11 leading paragraph rule top MN legals specs: STANDING HEAD: Belwe Bd BT, bold, 18pt, C85-M15-K15 HEADER-Univers 57 condensed regular 12/14, all caps, underline, centered BODY-Adobe Caslon pro 10/11 Left Justified, no hyphens LLC FORMATION NOTICE Notice of Formation of Rosslyn Farm LLC. Arts. of Org. filed w/ SSNY 2/23/18. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copies of any process served against LLC to 104 Delancey Road, North Salem, NY 10560. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation of ALPHA BUBBLE GAMMA LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022- 09-16. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Cameron Mayo: 351 W Lake Blvd Mahopac NY 10541. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of J & R signs & more LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022- 11-15. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Joseph Cavarretta Jr.: 89 Baldwin place road Mahopac NY 10541. Purpose: Any lawful purpose LEGAL NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed bids will be received at the Office of the Town Clerk, Town of Carmel, 60 McAlpin, Mahopac, New York 10541, until 11:00 AM on March 23rd, 2023 at which time all bids will be publicly opened, read, and recorded by the Town Clerk for the following: CONTRACT #C269 WATER TANK BUILDING AND CONCRETE REPAIRS CARMEL WATER DISTRICT #9 All bidders must comply with Section 103(a) and 103(d) of the General Municipal Law relating to noncollusive bidding and waiver of immunity against criminal prosecution. Specifications may be obtained at the Office of the Town Clerk, at the above address, beginning February 2nd, 2023 between the hours of 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Copies of Bid Documents may be obtained upon receipt of $50.00 per set; cash, certified check or money order payable to the Town of Carmel, non-refundable. A NON-MANDATORY pre-bid conference will be held on February 14th, 2023 at 9:00 AM, at the Town Hall, 60 McAlpin Avenue, Mahopac, New York 10541. The purpose of the pre-bid conference is to afford the prospective Bidders and interested parties an opportunity to raise questions pertaining to the Bidding and Contract Documents and for the OWNER or its representatives to clarify any points. Bid envelope shall be marked “BID” plus bid title and number. The Town Board of the Town of Carmel reserves the right to reject any and all bids and abandon the proposal or may reject all bids and re-advertise at a future date. By Order of the Town Board of the Town of Carmel Ann Spofford, Town Clerk LEGAL NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that sealed bids will be received at the office of the Town Clerk of the Town of Carmel, Town Hall, 60 McAlpin Avenue, Mahopac, New York until 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, the 16th day of February, 2023 at which time all bids will be opened, publicly read and recorded by the Town Clerk, no less than five (5) days subsequent to publication of this notice in the official newspapers of the Town of Carmel for the following: BITUMINOUS CONCRETE CATCH BASINS AND SUMPS WITH TOPS CRUSHED GRAVEL ALUMINUM CULVERT DRAINAGE PIPE POLYETHYLENE DRAINAGE PIPE STEEL CULVERT DRAINAGE PIPE GRANULAR BASE (ITEM 4) ROAD OILS, CUT BACKS, ETC. RUN OF BANK GRAVEL TREE TRIMMING/FELLING All bidders shall comply with Section l03-a and l03-d of the General Municipal Law relating to non-collusive bidding and waiver of immunity against criminal prosecution. Specifications may be obtained at the office of the Town Clerk at the above address, between the hours of 8:30 A.M. and 4:30 P.M. Monday through Friday. Bid envelopes shall be marked "BID" and identify each item bid. All bids must be submitted on bid form furnished by the Town of Carmel. The Town Board of the Town of Carmel reserves the right to reject any and all bids and re-advertise for new bids at a future date. BY ORDER OF THE TOWN BOARD OF THE TOWN OF CARMEL, ALICE DALY, DEPUTY TOWN CLERK Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Mahopac News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at [email protected]. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151. Sarah Spratt LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/22/2022. Cty: Putnam. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 44 Travis Corners Rd., Garrison, NY 10524. General Purpose A&J Riverdale Realty, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 12/29/2022. Cty: Putnam. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 3 Blueberry Ln., Putnam Valley, NY 10579. General Purpose JK Arts Consulting, LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 5/3/2022. Cty: Putman. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 517 Beach Rd., Mahopac, NY 10541. General Purpose LLC FORMATION NOTIFICATIONS Advertise With Us When you advertise with Mahopac News, you are reaching thousands of households and businesses throughout Mahopac, Mahopac Falls and portions of Carmel. To advertise or to place a classified, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email [email protected]. To advertise in Mahopac News, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email freeman@halstonmedia. com. Advertising Deadline The advertising deadline for Mahopac News is the Thursday before the next publication date. Advertisements can be submitted by you as a camera-ready PDF via email at [email protected]. We also offer our clients a free ad design service. For more information, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151. Sports Deadline The sports deadline for Mahopac News is the Sunday before the next publication date. Varsity coaches should submit results and information by e-mail to sports@ halstonmedia.com. All youth sports and recreational sports items should also be submitted to the same e-mail address by the Thursday before the next publication date. Promote Your Charity Send us a press release at mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com, or give us a call at 845- 208-0774. Photo Submissions Photos submitted to Mahopac News need to be a highresolution image. Images that are submitted at a low resolution cannot be published. Submit photos to Mahopac News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissons can be emailed to mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Mahopac News, Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. Share Your Milestones Let your neighbors know about the special moments in your life, whether it’s a birth, engagement, wedding or anniversary. Send us a photo and announcement at mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Mahopac News, Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. There is no charge for this announcement. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. Letters and Op-Ed Policy Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of Mahopac News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and opeds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at mahopacnews@ halstonmedia.com. For more information, call the editor at 845-208-0774. Editorial Submissions Press releases and photos should be submitted to Mahopac News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissons can be emailed to mahopacnews@halstonmedia. com or mail it to Mahopac News, Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned. Contact Us Mahopac News is located at Bailey Court, 334 Route 202, Unit C1S, Somers, NY 10589. You can contact us at 845-208- 0774 or email mahopacnews@ halstonmedia.com. Mahopac News Fillers Your ad could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. Your business card could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. header: Univers Bold 11pt/12leading body: Franklin Gothic Book reg10pt/11leading paragraph rule top Univers Bold 10pt/11 leading paragraph rule top MN legals specs: STANDING HEAD: Belwe Bd BT, bold, 18pt, C85-M15-K15 HEADER-Univers 57 condensed regular 12/14, all caps, underline, centered BODY-Adobe Caslon pro 10/11 Left Justified, no hyphens LLC FORMATION NOTICE Notice of Formation of Rosslyn Farm LLC. Arts. of Org. filed w/ SSNY 2/23/18. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copies of any process served against LLC to 104 Delancey Road, North Salem, NY 10560. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation of ALPHA BUBBLE GAMMA LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022- 09-16. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Cameron Mayo: 351 W Lake Blvd Mahopac NY 10541. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Qualification of ATT Concepts, LLC. Certificate of Authority filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-01- 04 Office location: Putnam County. Limited Liability Company (LLC) formed in DE on 2023-01-01. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to ATT Concepts, LLC: 16 Mount Ebo Road South Suite 12A-3 Brewster NY 10509 Articles of Organization originally filed with DE Secretary of State (SOS). 16192 Coastal Highway Lewes DE 19958. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. Notice of Formation of J & R signs & more LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2022- 11-15. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Joseph Cavarretta Jr.: 89 Baldwin place road Mahopac NY 10541. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of Croton River Home Inspections LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-01-08. Office location: Putnam County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Michael A. Guedes Jr.: 27 Acorn Rd Brewster NY 10509. Purpose: Any lawful purpose To advertise in Mahopac News, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email [email protected].
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 29 APAR PUBLICITY WITH PERSONALITY PR Public Rela ons For... Businesses | Individuals | Organiza ons | Events Your Message Is Our Mission Leave Your Message Here... (914) 275-6887 | bruceaparpr@ gmail.com BRUCE APAR WHY DO WE ADVERTISE IN HALSTON MEDIA’S LOCAL NEWSPAPERS? TO ADVERTISE WITH US, CALL BRETT FREEMAN AT (845) 208-8151 “We couldn’t imagine our business without it. Halston’s people are fabulous to work with; our advertising in Halston papers has given us considerable name recognition for our office and our agents and has driven traffic to our web site.” ~Zef Camaj Branch Manager / Houlihan Lawrence Yorktown We all want to stay healthy and live independently throughout our retirement years. Unfortunately, that won’t be possible for some of us, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for health-related challenges — such as the need for long-term care. As you may know, long-term care covers a variety of services, ranging from occasional visits from a home health aide to full-time residency in a nursing home. But while these types of care may vary in duration and intensity, they all have one thing in common — they’re expensive. Genworth, an insurance company, reports these median annual costs: • Over $100,000 for a private room in a nursing home • Over $60,000 for the services of a home health aide Furthermore, Medicare typically pays very few of these expenses, which means the burden of payment will likely fall on you — or, even worse, on your adult children if you can’t a ord the care you need. Of course, you could hope that you will avoid these costs simply by not requiring any type of assistance — but the odds aren’t necessarily in your favor. In fact, someone turning 65 today has an almost 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care services in their remaining years, according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. So, how can you protect yourself from the potentially enormous costs of long-term care? You could decide that you’ll pay out of pocket — if so, you’ll need to incorporate into your retirement budget a reasonable estimate of potential long-term care costs, and you may need to make some signi cant changes to your saving and investment plans. And the earlier you begin, the better. Your other option is to purchase some form of long-term care insurance. Essentially, three types of coverage are available: • Traditional long-term care insurance – A traditional long-term care policy covers long-term care expenses in your home or at a nursing facility. But policies will di er in terms of what services are covered and how bene ts are paid. And you may also be able to choose whether you want in ation protection. Also, with some policies, you can deduct the premiums from your state and federal taxes. (Your tax advisor can evaluate a policy you’re considering for potential tax bene ts.) • Hybrid long-term care insurance – In addition to providing coverage for home health care or a nursing home stay, a hybrid long-term care policy also o ers a death bene t, so if you never need long-term care, your family could bene t from the policy’s proceeds. • Life insurance with a long-term care rider – You can nd a life insurance policy that lets you add long-term care coverage through a “rider,” or optional add-on. With this type of policy, you can use some of the death bene t to pay for your long-term care needs. Which policy is best for you? ere’s no one right answer for everyone. A nancial professional can help you evaluate all your options within the context of your overall investment and protection strategies. But keep in mind that all long-term care policies tend to get more expensive as you get older, so if you’re considering this type of coverage, you may want to get started sooner rather than later. is article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones nancial advisor (member SIPC). Tom Casey, CHFC, CEPA, CRPC, AAMS, CRPS, is a licensed securities adviser associated with Edward Jones, located at 163 Route 6 in Mahopac. He can be reached directly at 845-621-8647. Edward Jones is also licensed insurance producer through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P. Could you cope with long-term care costs? Of course, you could hope that you will avoid these costs simply by not requiring any type of assistance — but the odds aren’t necessarily in your favor. -Tom Casey Edward Jones TOM CASEY GUEST CORNER
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THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2023 MAHOPAC NEWS – PAGE 31 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. to keep sending you Mahopac News for FREE. The post office charges us more without it. Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to The Katonah-Lewisboro Times. YES, I really enjoy The Katonah-Lewisboro Times, and I’d like to continue receiving it for 3 years, along with a monetary contribution this year. (Please print legibly.) First (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required. Please print legibly.) 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YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to Mahopac News YES, I really enjoy Mahopac News and I’d like to continue receiving it for 3 years, along with a monetary contribution this year. (Please print legibly.) First (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required. Please print legibly.) Last (Required) City: State: ZIP: Name: Signature: Email: Snowbird Dates (if applicable): Date: Phone: Address: (Optional) (Optional for TAPinto E-News) Checks payable to Halston Media LLC. Please include this form in your envelope. Please Include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: North Salem News The Somers Record Yorktown News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro Times Mail to: P.O. Box 864 Mahopac, NY 10541 While we need your Full Support to keep this newspaper strong, we include the option for Basic Support because we don’t want financial reasons to get in the way of our readers receiving this newspaper. Basic Support vs. Full Support Basic Support Full Support $100 $50 $20 other OR Visit www.HalstonSubscribe.com OR Visit www.HalstonSubscribe.com Don’t Miss a Week of Mahopac News. Please Re-Subscribe Today! THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2022 VOL. 13 NO. 39 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 31 CLASSIFIEDS 30 LEGAL NOTICES 28 LEISURE 24 MAHOPAC MUSINGS 2 OPINION 10 SPORTS 20 Our 15 Minutes of Fame Explained pg 10 PUBLISHER’S MEMO Visit TapIntoMahopac.net for the latest news. BY BOB DUMAS EDITOR Christina and Lee Vataj, former nance and pharmaceutical executives, opened Countryside Kitchen in Mahopac 14 years ago. During that time, the funky little diner has developed a loyal Hudson Valley-wide following for its unique selection of avoredpancake combinations and generous portions. e restaurant has now o - cially obtained long sought-after national attention. Earlier this year, the Cooking Channel came to Mahopac to lm an episode of its popular “Man vs. Food” show featuring the restaurant, and now the episode, which has already aired, will be reprised later this month. On the show, host Casey Webb samples popular menu items, including the restaurant’s famous “Holy Cannoli Pancake.” “Casey Webb’s food frenzy takes him to New York’s Hudson Valley for...an Italian dessert for breakfast,” the Cooking Channel said in a press release. Lee Vataj said the show’s producers were looking to feature eateries from the Hudson Valley and came across Countryside Kitchen via a typical Google search. “We repeatedly popped as No. 1 and they continually scouted us,” he said. “Sharp Productions (the show’s producers) called us to see if we wanted to do the show.” Vataj said they were thrilled to be invited on the show, especially in the wake of the pandemic, a time during which so many restaurants struggled. “It was great,” he said. “We have been open for 14 years and we have really busted our butts to get here and to be recognized on a national level is great. It’s very humbling.” Vataj said the producers were looking for a more “decadent breakfast” to feature on the show, and Countryside Kitchen’s Holy Cannoli Pancakes t the bill. He said lming took about eight or nine hours, but the restaurant didn’t have to close. e show wanted some regular customers there to interview. “ ey wanted to see the crowd and the ambience,” he said. Vataj said he wasn’t really nervous about being on TV and Webb really enjoyed the cannoli pancakes and other dishes he sampled. “We were just grateful,” he said. “We worked hard to get here with all the challenges we’ve been through.” You can watch the “Man v. Food” episode featuring Countryside Kitchen on the Cooking Channel on ursday, Nov. 24, at 1 p.m. Mahopac restaurant shines on national TV Countryside Kitchen featured on ‘Man v. Food’ Christina Vataj, left, Casey Webb, center, and Lee Vataj, along with the Countryside Kitchen crew PHOTOS COURTESY OF COUNTRYSIDE KITCHEN Watch the episode Cooking Channel on Thursday, Nov. 24, at 1 p.m. Visit the restaurant 493 Route 6, Mahopac Host Casey Webb, second from left, interacts with owner Lee Vataj and staff. Remember, Mahopac News is a weekly paper and went to press before the election results were known. So, check out our website, TAPintoMahopac.net, for the most current developments. 914-282-6440 [email protected] ZACKS RE/MAX Classic Realty Services Provided Property Evaluation | Home Staging High Definition Photography | 3D/Virtual Tours Custom Digital Marketing | Five-Star Service LAWRENCE ZACKS, Winner of the 2021 Circle of Legends Award Questions? Call Lawrence Zacks Today! 914-282-6440 Looking to move? We can help you relocate anywhere in the world! Scan me! Call for a FREE CONSULTATION with the Hudson Valley’s top realtor! Amazing NEW 4 Bedroom Colonial — at the end of a Cul de Sac, part of a 4-Home Subdivision. Beautiful Covered Front Porch. Gorgeous Granite Kitchen w/Stainless Appliances (optional Center Island + Dry Bar w/Upper & Lower Cabinets). Stunning Hardwood Floors throughout. Lovely Large Windows. 9’ Foot Ceilings on Main Floor. Large Family Room with Slider to huge private Patio. Formal Dining Room. Terrific Primary Bedroom (His & Hers Closets, Full Bath + additional Walk-in Closet!). Full Basement. 2-Car Attached Garage... $769,900 NEW CONSTRUCTION IN SOMERS! VOL. 13 NO. 40 THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2022 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 31 CLASSIFIEDS 30 LEGAL NOTICES 28 LEISURE 23 MAHOPAC MUSINGS 2 OBITUARIES 28 OPINION 10 SPORTS 22 Welcome to the new Assemblyman. pg 4 SLATER WINS Visit TapIntoMahopac.net for the latest news. Youngsters honor our These boys are all grandsons of past Mahopac Fire Department Commissioner George Jones: Spencer, 5; Owen, 4; Parker, 3; and Caden, 6. They all came out to honor our nation’s veterans on Nov. 11. PHOTOS: MAUREEN DALY VETERANS Check out our coverage of Veterans Day on Page 3. BY BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER Having run unopposed, Republican Assemblyman Kevin Byrne will become Putnam County’s next county executive. Byrne won with 28,190 votes, which was the equivalent of 99% of votes cast and 69% of ballots cast (30.3% left their ballots blank). “O cially winning this election, securing the support from over 28,000 Putnam voters, is a tremendous honor,” Byrne said. “I remain extremely grateful to the voters for once again placing their faith and trust in me. e amount of support I received has been overwhelming and I am truly honored and humbled to serve as our next Putnam County Executive.” In a speech to a packed room of supporters on election night, Byrne reiterated his commitment to Putnam. As a native son of the county, Byrne told the assembled he was “built and raised to work.” Byrne also rea rmed his campaign promises. “When I said to you we were Byrne pledges ‘bold’ vision for Putnam County Crowley, Jonke and Ellner win seats on the County Legislature BY BRETT FREEMAN PUBLISHER In a local race that garnered national attention, Assemblyman Mike Lawler beat Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) Chair Sean Patrick Maloney to become the next member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York’s 17th Congressional District. A Rockland County resident, Lawler beat Maloney, 140,883 to 137,633, or 50.6% to 49.4%. “I am honored by the opportunity to serve as the next Congressman for the 17th Congressional District,” Lawler said at a Congressman-elect Lawler lays out agenda Assemblyman’s win receives national attention after beating DCCC chair SEE BYRNE PAGE 6 SEE LAWLER PAGE 8 (c)845.803.1241 debbiedemelis.com 338 Route 202 Somers NY 10589 From concept to completion, your home will be uniquely cared for and expertly marketed for a WIN in this STRONG MARKET! ASSOCIATE BROKER Ha angiving! You Deserve the best! Wishing Everyone a From concept to completion, your home will be uniquely cared for and expertly marketed for a WIN in this STRONG MARKET! THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2022 Youngsters honor our VETERANS Check out Youngsters our coverage of Veterans Day on Page 3. In a local race that garnered national attention, Assemblyman Mike Lawler beat Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) Chair Sean Patrick Maloney to become the next member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New York’s 17th Congressional District. A Rockland County resident, Lawler beat Maloney, 140,883 to 137,633, or 50.6% to 49.4%. “I am honored by the opportunity to serve as the next Congressman for the 17th Congressional District,” Lawler said at a Congressman-elect Lawler lays out agenda Assemblyman’s win receives national attention after beating DCCC chair SEE LAWLER PAGE 8 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2022 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 31 CLASSIFIEDS 30 LEGAL NOTICES 28 LEISURE 22 MAHOPAC MUSINGS 4 OPINION 10 SPORTS 20 Fire ghters save Chamber event. pg 16 SANTA! Visit TapIntoMahopac.net for the latest news. BY EMILE MENASCHÉ STAFF REPORTER Mahopac has been known as “Indian Country” for as long as anyone can remember. But the school district’s arrowhead logo, “Indians” nickname and other Native American symbols may become relics of the past before the start of the 2023-2024 school year after a recent directive from the New York State Department of Education. In a memo to districts across the state, Senior Deputy Commissioner Jim Baldwin said schools have until the end of this school year to comply with longstanding rules prohibiting the use of Native American mascots--or face nancial penalties and sta removals. “We are working with our attorney for guidance and waiting State threatens Mahopac schools over ‘Indians’ nickname School board to discuss directive at Dec. 20 work session For people unfamiliar with QR codes, simply use your cell phone camera to scan the QR code, and your cell phone will take you to the survey. Help choose a new team name & mascot Scan the QR code to take our survey • This is Massive Government Overreach and the District Should Ignore the State: 37.5% (48) • There is Nothing O ensive with Use of the Term “Indians,” but We Shouldn’t Risk Losing State Aid: 28.91% (37) • Use of the Term “Indians” is O ensive and it’s About Time the State Issued this Directive: 21.88% (28) • None of the above: • It’s Time to Get With The Times, but this is 7.03% (9) Government Overreach: 4.69% (6) Graph 1: We Asked Our Online Readers Their Thoughts 128 People Responded • This is Massive Government Overreach and the District Should Ignore the State: 37.5% (48) • There is Nothing O ensive with Use of the Term "Indians," but We Shouldn't Risk Losing State Aid: 28.91% (37) • Use of the Term "Indians" is O ensive and it's About Time the State Issued this Directive: 21.88% (28) • None of the above: 7.03% (9) • It's Time to Get With The Times, but this is Government Overreach: 4.69% (6) 37.5% 28.91% 21.88% 7.03% 4.69% VOL. 13 NO. 42 SEE NICKNAME PAGE 7 We Asked Our Online Readers Their Thoughts 128 People Responded 914-282-6440 [email protected] ZACKS RE/MAX Classic Realty Services Provided Property Evaluation | Home Staging High Definition Photography | 3D/Virtual Tours Custom Digital Marketing | Five-Star Service Questions? Call Lawrence Zacks Today! 914-282-6440 Call for a with the Hudson Valley’s top realtor! FREE CONSULTATION Privately Set Colonial in the Mahopac School District! (4 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths.) Spacious rooms throughout. Well maintained w/ Gorgeous Entry & Private Deck. Open Granite Kitchen w/ Counter Seating, Door Out to Deck & Breakfast Area leading to spacious Family Room w/Wood-burning Fireplace. Hardwood Floors throughout. Formal Living Room & Dining Room. Primary Bedroom Suite w/Walk-In Closet + Full Bath complete w/Tub & Separate Shower. Freshly Painted Interior. New Front Door & Shutters. 2-Car Attached Garage... $649,900 LAWRENCE ZACKS, Winner of the 2021 Circle of Legends Award Door Out to Deck & Breakfast Area leading to spacious Family Room w/Wood-burning Fireplace. Hardwood Floors throughout. BEAUTIFUL CENTER HALL COLONIAL! Looking to move? We can help you relocate anywhere in the world! Scan me!
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