North Salem News 03.28.2024

Vol. 9 No. 47 BALANCED ROCK 4 LEISURE 21 OPINION 10 SPORTS 18 Spring Sports Preview pg 18 GO TIGERS! Visit News.HalstonMedia.com for the latest news. MARCH 28 - APRIL 10, 2024 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER How do you eat an elephant? The most common answer is, “One bite at a time.” It’s a dad joke way of saying that any large and time-consuming task can be boiled down to its basics. In other words, to eat something you have to take that first bite. So how do you slow the tidal wave of single-use plastics that’s plaguing the planet? One drop at a time? North Salem artist and environmental activist Chrissanth Greene-Gross recently journeyed to Albany where she took part in a “NY is Not Disposable” rally. The event advocated for the passage of two bills pending in the state Legislature that would tackle plastic pollution, cut back waste going to landfills and incinerators, and require companies to help with recycling costs or to reduce their packaging. It was organized by Beyond Plastics, a nationwide project that is based at Bennington College in Vermont and is led by Professor Judith Enck and national organizing director Alexis Goldsmith. After meeting with legislators, Greene-Gross stood with her daughter, Grayson Bo Gutherie, a flower farmer and freelance designer, at the top of the so-called “Million Dollar Staircase” in the Capitol and unfurled “Plastic Tidal Wave,” a work of art she created with plastic trash generated by her three-person household. As the prime culprit in our throw-away society, plastic doesn’t biodegrade. It can take up to 1,000 years to break down, scientists say. The build-up in the environment kills marine wildlife, such as sea turtles who chow down on plastic bags thinking they’re jellyfish, renders soil useless, poisons groundwater, and can damage the health of both people and animals. Greene-Gross used chicken wire, plumber’s hosing, and clear packing tape to hold all the bits and bobs together before rolling “Tidal Wave” up like “a giant cabbage” and hauling it upstate. “I was surprised at how much stuff we’d accumulated over just six months,” she said. At 30 feet long and 60 inches wide, it made a big splash. Thinking it would be a great teaching tool, Greene-Gross hopes to eventually share the piece with science, art, and civics classes at schools. For now, “Tidal Wave” is on display at the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library. Referencing the AIDS Memorial Quilt, which weighs 54 tons and contains about 48,000 panels dedicated to the more than 100,000 victims of HIV and AIDS, she said she believes visual projects can take abstract concepts and make them real for people. “It’s a really valuable, conscious-raising project. People are shocked when they see the scale of it,” Greene-Gross said of the quilt. Systemic Change Needed Greene-Gross is convinced that finding a solution to plastic pollution is going to take a heck of a lot more than individuals deciding to, say, use reusable water bottles and bags or avoid buying overly packaged groceries such as pre-cut fruits and veggies. Recycling isn’t the whole answer either. “There needs to be a systemic change,” she explained. To be recycled, things can’t be grungy. Most folks don’t take the time to properly clean them, said Greene-Gross who “only just” got her husband to rinse out bottles adequately. Generally, most recyclers accept #1 and #2 plastic. Plastics #3 to #6 are harder to process and some recycling centers don’t take them. Plastic #7 is almost always excluded, so look before you toss something in the recycling bin. According to Greene-Gross, only 5 percent of “pristinely clean #1 and #2 plastics are recycled. Tidal wave North Salem artist tackles plastic problem Chrissanth Greene-Gross and daughter Grayson Bo Gutherie displayed the “Plastic Tidal Wave” at the capitol in Albany. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRISSANTH GREENE-GROSS SEE PLASTIC PAGE 3 Call Us Today For A FREE ESTIMATE! (845)225-9522 • (914)242-PAVE (7283) www.hartshornpaving.com Quality you can DRIVE ON! Residential & Commercial PAVING & ASPHALT SEALING

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March 28 - April 10, 2024 North Salem News – Page 3 And that can happen “two- or three-times max.” It’s not fair, she said, that well-meaning individuals and municipalities have to “jump through these hoops,” when ultimately it’s the responsibility of the folks who make plastic products to complete the loop. “You made this, you take it back,” GreeneGross said, addressing manufacturers. Humans, being human, tend to take “the path of least resistance,” she said. They may hold out sometimes by buying unprocessed or minimally packaged foods, but when they really crave that frozen mac and cheese dinner or want yogurt for breakfast – and the only way it comes is in a plastic tray or cup -- well, they cave. Greene-Gross doesn’t shy away from taking personal responsibility for the environment. You may have seen her biking around town while she seeks out good spots for plein air painting. While she’s pedaling, she’s picking up roadside trash, another subject which she’s spoken passionately about. However, Greene-Gross feels it’s not an individual’s purchasing habits that should matter the most. It’s time for the companies that make plastic products to stand tall, she said. To make the biggest impact on plastic pollution, a circular economy is needed. It’s based on three principles: the elimination of waste and pollution, the circulating of products and materials, and the regeneration of nature. In other words, it would consider every stage of the product’s journey before – and after -- it reaches the user. That won’t be easy, more than 300 million tons of plastic is produced each year, half of it as single-use items such as bottles, grocery bags, straws, baggies, and coffee cups. And it starts with the folks who make the stuff. Single-use plastic constitutes about 40 percent of all plastic waste. “We’re telling our legislators, ‘This is on you to get after the companies that make plastic products.’” Greene-Gross said, adding that things as they now stand are “just not sustainable.” What Bills Call For Proponents say the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act -- together with the Bigger Better Bottle Bill -- could save hundreds of millions in tax dollars each year and reduce the kinds of greenhouse gas emissions that are driving the climate crisis. The landmark legislation was introduced by Environmental Conservation chairs Sen. Pete Harckham (D-Lewisboro) and Assemblymember Deborah Glick (D-Manhattan) and co-sponsored by Assemblyman Chris Burdick (DBedford). It would require companies with a net annual income of more than $1 million that sell products in New York to reduce their single-use plastic packaging by 10 percent of weight within three years, 20 percent by five years, 30 percent by eight years, 40 percent by 10 years, and 50 percent by 12 years. Packaging that remains must be reusable or reach a 70 percent recycling rate. It would also require packaging makers to eliminate toxic chemicals from their products, create and/or maintain reusable and refill facilities, and support municipal recycling programs. There will also be specific standards for post-consumer recycled material for packaging. Glass should be at least 35 percent post-consumer recycled content, paper carry out bags should be 40 percent, and plastic bags, 20 percent. According to Harckham, the recycling rate for the entire country was estimated in 2021 to be between 5-6 percent. New Yorkers understand, he said, that it’s important to reduce waste of any kind by reusing and recycling, but the current system is “not meeting our environmental demands.” Local governments, meanwhile, continue to struggle with recycling costs and infrastructure, the senator said, pointing to increased taxes and the “significantly limited materials that can be collected.” Once the law is approved, plastic producers will have six months to come up with a plan. The Bigger Better Bottle Bill, sponsored by Sen. Rachel May (D-48th District), would expand the state’s 40-yearold container deposit law to include non-carbonated beverages, wine, and liquor. It would also raise the deposit from a nickel to a dime. Backers argue that these changes would spur job growth, cut back on litter, and bolster recycling rates because more consumers would be likely to return their bottles for the higher deposit refund. It could help the thousands of lowincome New Yorkers who make a living by salvaging bottles and cans. “Our individual choices are so minimal; this really requires massive change,” Greene-Gross said. “Are these bills perfect? No, but we have to keep on it.” She is urging folks to reach out to state Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (518 455-3791, [email protected]) and state Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (518 455-2585, [email protected]) to demand that they do everything possible to bring the bills to the floor for a vote “this spring!” PLASTIC FROM PAGE 1 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER It takes a community to build a budget, says North Salem’s schools chief, Dr. Duncan Wilson. Thanking the Board of Education on Wednesday, March 6 for the “opportunity” to make his first-ever presentation on the annual spending plan, Wilson noted that, traditionally, it’s the superintendent’s job to “lead off the process and then introduce specialists along the way before making final recommendations.” There will be ample room for “questions and dialogue” while members of the district’s leadership team present their work, he said. That evening, those included Barbara Briganti, the district’s interim assistant superintendent for business, and North Salem Middle/High School Principal Vince DeGrandi and Pequenakonck Elementary School Principal Dr. Roy Martin. Making the second set of presentations on Wednesday, March 13 were Deputy Superintendent Dr. Adam VanDerStuyf, who outlined special education and pupil personnel services; Dr. Julio Vazquez, director of instruction and human resources, on curriculum and human resources; and Ramon Santos, EduTek operations manager and member of the district’s technology department team, on technology. Presentations on buildings and grounds, athletics, and technology were scheduled for Wednesday, March 27. Briganti, who had previously been the district’s assistant superintendent for business administration, has stepped in for Eric Stark, who resigned as director of business administration in February. North Salem is among hundreds of school districts in New York bracing for cuts in Foundation Aid from the state due to proposed changes to the program’s formula sought by Gov. Kathy Hochul in her proposed 2024-2025 state budget. Because of these new challenges, this current budget season will definitely require all hands on deck. Wilson’s taking a “looking back to look ahead approach” to setting priorities as the district navigates these choppy fiscal waters. Looking back, those were: low class size, mental health and social emotional wellbeing, safety and security, and facilities planning. Looking ahead, they include continuing to spend responsibly, maintain programs and opportunities for all students, making plans to facilities that go beyond a year, and focusing on innovations that aren’t “dependent on levy growth.” “I know innovation is important. I know one of my charges is to understand and help plot out a path for the future, but we have to acknowledge that, from a population perspective, North Salem is not growing,” said Wilson, adding that one of the challenges the district faces is finding ways to innovate and grow “without necessarily simply relying on hiring.” While the district has ways of controlling its spending, it is also controlled by the amount of revenue it has. Spending minus revenue equals the tax levy, Wilson explained before revealing the numbers. He is proposing a 2024-2025 budget of $50,536,389, which represents an increase of 2.44 percent over the current $49,332,136 spending plan. That minus projected revenues -- such as aid, tuition, and sales taxes -- of $7,195,385, leaves $42,341,004 to be raised through the tax levy. This represents a $1,223,060, or 2.90 percent, increase over the current levy. “Yes, I’m acknowledging this is the first time you’ve seen the spending over $50 million. Remember revenue also includes state aid,” Wilson said. The levy is limited by the socalled state tax cap. After adjustments and exclusions, the maximum allowable (without an override, or supermajority vote) was 2.69 percent in 2023-2024. The district only went to 2.57 percent. In fiscal year 2024-2025, the max is 2.90 percent, and North Salem is going for 2.90 percent. “Given the unexpected cut in (state) aid of over $200,000, we feel we need to keep these numbers where they are, so we can maintain all of our priorities,” Wilson said, saying the the district has and “will continue to keep budget to budget spending under control.” Between fiscal years 2020-2021 and 2024-2025, spending increases ranged from a high of 4.24 percent (attributable to a large increase in state aid) to a low of 2.11 percent. Taken all together, the average increase amounted to 2.87 percent. During that same five-year period, the average levy hike was 2.2 percent, with the lowest being 2.07 percent and the highest (the latest proposed), 2.90 percent. The superintendent also made note of the district’s “interesting” Budget process moves forward Voters to decide on pair of propositions in May One proposition would use a 16- year bond to fund the $715,000 renovation of the water treatment plant at Pequenakonck Elementary School. NORTH SALEM CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT SEE BUDGET PAGE 5

Page 4 – North Salem News North Salem News USPS #22110 Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2024 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Tom Walogorsky Editor: 914-302-5830 [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky (845) 661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director/Photographer [email protected] DESIGNERS Noah Elder Bri Agosta Haven Elder Jacob Elder EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines North Salem News Deadline The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for North Salem News is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected] Online Follow Us Periodicals Postage Paid at Somers, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Salem News at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 BALANCED ROCK March 28 - April 10, 2024 Town of North Salem www.northsalemny.org Employment Opportunity Town of North Salem is seeking one (1) individual for a part-time position as Assistant Building Inspector. Responsibilities will include reviewing plans and specifications submitted with building permit applications; inspecting existing buildings and structures, new building construction and building repairs to enforce the provisions of the local building code, the zoning and plumbing ordinances and the Multiple Residence Law. A detailed job description can be found on the town website. Please send resume and cover letter to Janine Kourakos at [email protected] or by mail to 266 Titicus Road, North Salem NY 10560 by April 5, 2024. Town Board Meetings North Salem Town Board will hold their regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 7 p.m. at the Town Meeting Hall at 66 June Road and via Zoom as allowed by New York State. All meetings are subject to rescheduling upon adequate notice, as circumstances require. Croton Falls Community Church 628 Route 22 in Croton Falls Easter Celebrations Sunday, March 31 The church will begin Easter celebrations with an 8 a.m. Sunrise Service at the Cat Ridge Cemetery. Cat Ridge was the location of the first Baptist church in North Salem in 1798, and the foundation of the original building is visible. A Festival Easter Service will then take place at 10:30 a.m. in the church in Croton Falls.  An Easter Garden with waterfall and stream are the centerpiece for the decor of the church, along with a ribbon sculpture suspended from the ceiling. All are welcome. Celebrating Warren Lucas and Peter Kamenstein Saturday, April 6, at 5 p.m. Hosted by the North Salem Republican Committee. Join in to celebrate Warren Lucas’ 15 years of service as Town Supervisor and Peter Kamenstein entering his 15th year as Deputy Supervisor. Enjoy food and wine, as the NSRTC and our local officials honor them. Sponsors welcome! Please email [email protected] for details. Location will be provided following RSVP. North Salem Republican Town Committee www.northsalemrepublican. com Embracing Civic Duty: Senior Scholarship for College The NSRTC is proud to announce their 2nd annual High School Senior College Scholarship, honoring the legacy of Wayne Outhouse through the “Be Like Wayne: Reflecting on the Legacy of Wayne Outhouse - Civics Lesson Essay.” With a deadline of May 1, this scholarship presents an invaluable opportunity for graduating seniors to delve into the essence of community service and civic engagement. The essay prompt, “What It Means to Serve Your Community: Lessons in Civics,” invites applicants to explore the fundamental principles of citizenship and the profound impact of active participation in local affairs. In 500 words or less, students are encouraged to reflect on the SEE ROCK PAGE 22 LOCATIONS: Baldwin Place • 44 Route 118 • (845) 628-7900 Croton Falls • 1 Center St • (914) 769-3206 Find out why Joe Ferone of Proper Service needs to be YOUR Go-To Automotive Service Center! YOUR FAMILY CAR CARE CENTER For over 100 years of combined auto experience, Joe Ferone and his sta of Proper Service have been serving the community, creating relationships and building a remarkable company with an amazing team JOE FERONE, owner of employees!

March 28 - April 10, 2024 North Salem News – Page 5 PUBLIC DOCUMENT | OFFICIAL BUSINESS | Paid for by official funds authorized by the House of Representatives. lawler.house.gov/services WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE 1013 Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC 20515(202) 225-6506 PEARL RIVER OFFICE One Blue Hill Plaza, Third Floor, P.O. Box 1645, Pearl River, NY 10965 (845) 201-2060 CARMEL OFFICE 60 McAlpin Avenue, Mahopac, NY 10541 (845) 743-7130 January 31, 2024 House passes bipartisan tax bill that would expand child tax credit CONGRESSMAN MIKE LAWLER Fighting to deliver tax relief to Hudson Valley families. Congressman Lawler voted to pass a bipartisan increase to child tax credit Congressman Lawler is taking on both parties to deliver even more tax relief Congressman Lawler has consistently been a leader in the House pushing members of both parties to provide much-needed tax relief to Hudson Valley families. Installation to existing gas lines Safety check On-site tank requirement assessment New customer pricing Automatic delivery Budget payment plans Web portal and mobile app for easy account management 24/7/365 emergency service 1-800-PROPANE Mention Code: 3822 *Offer expires 4/30/2024. Tank installation special applies to standard installation of above-ground tank. Offer applies to new residential customers with a fuel service agreement, subject to credit approval. Customer is responsible for the removal of competitor’s tank. Not to be combined with any other offer or discount. Other restrictions may apply. Valid at participating location only. Call for details. LIMITED TIME OFFER 1-800-776-7263 SWITCH & SAVE! New Suburban Propane automatic delivery customers receive*: FREE PLUS tax setup. Tax rates are set by towns. North Salem serves four towns (itself, Somers, Southeast, and Carmel) in two counties: Westchester and Putnam. Final assessment rolls aren’t set until the summer. The budget will be recapped on April 10. The board is scheduled to adopt the plan on Tuesday, April 16. There will be a public hearing on May 8 and the budget vote and trustee elections are May 21. There are two seats up for grabs. They are currently occupied by Paul Giamundo and Brian Lange. Giamundo confirmed that he will be seeking re-election in May. Lange couldn’t be reached before press time. Enrollment So how does the budget relate to enrollment? This year, the district had a total of 978 students. It expects that figure to drop to 968 in 2024-2025. (In 2009-2010, it was 1,343) There is expected to be a slight uptick in enrollment on the elementary school level, from 446 in 2023-24 to 474 in 2024-2025. It isn’t impacting class sizes or increasing the need for staff, Wilson said, adding: “We’ve had many years of four sections of kindergarten. That’s been the gold standard.” The middle school’s enrollment is projected to be 212 in 2024-2025, down about three students from the current numbers. Enrollment at the high school is expected to drop to 282 the coming school year from the current 302. Why? Because the largest class of students – 90 – is currently in the 12th grade. “It’s the first time we’ve seen such a large class drop off without a large class replacing it, Wilson explained. Meanwhile two relatively small classes are making their way through the middle school/ high school. That’s the current sixth grade with 61 students and the 11th grade with 57. From kindergarten through 12th grade, most classes fall within the 70 to 80 students range, he said. The eternal question is: “Why are costs going up when enrollment is going down?” Inflation. Everything costs more. Also, in this past year the district settled two contracts with clerical and custodial staff. Salaries and benefits are going up. Piece of the Pie Of course, no budget presentation would be complete without a pie chart. “It’s an important reminder that so much of our costs are salaries and benefits. Contractually derived, they will grow as contracts grow and they’re not something we can control. Also, salaries are connected to programming. So when we try to save money by cutting positions, we’d probably be cutting opportunities for students as well,” Wilson noted. Expenditure-wise, salaries at 53.91 percent and benefits at 23.58 percent make up the biggest piece. The remaining is carved up into contractual, supplies, 6.55 percent); BOCES, 2.35 percent; transfer to special aid, 0.17 percent; special education, 5.90 percent; transportation, 0.89 percent; technology, 2.01 percent; debt service, 4.58 percent; equipment, percentage not shown on chart. Propositions Besides the budget, voters will be asked to approve two propositions. The first would use a 16-year bond to fund a $715,000 renovation of the water treatment plant at Pequenakonck Elementary School. Last year, the district completed the Middle/High School water system upgrade. All drinking water now flows through 12 new granular activated carbon and greensand filters that work together to remove perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), and minerals such as iron and manganese, from the campus’s well water. The underground water storage tank was cleaned and disinfected and new fittings and pipes installed. The maximum cost of the proposed PQ project would be set at $1.4 million, of which the district already has $691,162 available. That leaves $715,000 to be raised through taxes. According to Wilson, the project has been “many years in the making” and was initially developed as a middle school/ high school project that was funded through the district’s capital reserves. “We need clean water at PQ. It’s part of the life of the school for drinking water, for food preparation, for gardens, for everything,” he said, explaining that significant changes in the county Board of Health’s standards required testing for PFOS/PFOA, known as “forever chemicals” because they’re nearly indestructible. Tests revealed the need to “significantly expand the scope of the project,” Wilson said. It took more than three years to make it through the county Board of Health’s permitting process, said Wilson, arguing that delaying funding would risk losing these approvals, lead to cost increases down the line, and force the district to start from scratch. If the proposition passes, work on the new PQ water plant will commence over the upcoming summer break. The second proposition would allow the district to spend $513,016 through a five-year bond to replace buses and vans that have traveled more than 200,000 miles and are approaching the end of their 15-year lifespan, modernize the transportation fleet’s security and communications systems, and to buy labor-saving groundskeeping equipment. Of that amount, $100,000 will be invested in new security technology such as radios, cameras, and GPS systems, in all district buses and vans. The goal is to “improve safety and response time.” The new grounds equipment will allow workers to operate on sloped areas, significantly decreasing mowing time and freeing them up to complete other BUDGET FROM PAGE 3 SEE BUDGET PAGE 22

Page 6 – North Salem News March 28 - April 10, 2024 BY SANDY LINDSEY OF THE EPOCH TIMES NEWSWIRE Spring is not only a time to get back in the garden with cool season crops, but depending on your gardening zone and the seasonal temperatures, it may be the only time to grow plants such as broccoli, cauliflower, and many lettuces before the arrival of peak summer heat. Some hearty plants, such as kale and Brussels sprouts, can even withstand an unexpected frost, but it’s best to be cautious. Some ways to extend the season include covering the soil with black plastic to warm it faster. Planting in a raised bed can also provide a few days’ or weeks’ head start, as the ambient air temperature will raise the above-ground soil temperature faster than the ground temp. Unexpected frosts do occur, so consider having some season extenders on hand just in case. These can range from floating row covers to a milk jug with the bottom cut out to create a free version of the traditional glass bell jar garden cloche. Be sure to tie the milk jug handle to a stake or otherwise secure it from blowing away in spring winds. Take off the cap during the day to prevent overheating and cap at night for snuggly protection. And whatever barrier is chosen, keep the leaves from touching the cover, or else the plant could freeze. March and April Faves Fifty degrees Fahrenheit is a magic number when it comes to early spring vegetables. Lettuce, mustard greens, Swiss chard, kale, collards, beets, carrots, turnips, cabbage, spinach, kohlrabi, cauliflower, onions, radish, and celery, to name just a few, can all be direct-seeded once the soil is above 50 degrees F. In fact, some vegetables even require a cooler temperature of 50 to 70 degrees F for best germination. The soil temperature should not be confused with air temperature. To get an accurate reading, an inexpensive soil probe can be purchased online, but an old kitchen thermometer that shows both hot and cold will also do the trick. Why an old thermometer? No one wants to spear a thermometer into a roast after it’s been in the ground. To get a further jumpstart on the process, seeds can be started six to eight weeks prior to planting out or purchased as seedlings from the local garden center. This works for many plants, including broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, peas, and spinach. However, root crops such as radish, beets, turnips, kohlrabi, and carrots prefer direct sowing, due to having a taproot that doesn’t like to be disturbed. Be sure to loosen the soil, as hard or compacted soil will stunt their growth. Avoid walking on wet soil, as this can lead to unintentional compaction. Speaking of wet soil, if the soil is too wet, seeds will rot, so it’s better to wait a few days to plant. If birds are showing an interest in the seeds or seedlings, consider using a row cover or milk jug cloche until the plants get larger. Speed Harvesting Depending on the variety, some spring radishes can be eaten in as little as 25 days, with the majority of them taking no longer than 40 days. The leaves of green onions can be added to cooking starting at roughly 30 days. Lettuce can be cut (and come again for more leaves) starting at roughly 45 days, as can spinach. Beets and broccoli can be ready in as little as 50 days or shortly thereafter, with some varieties of cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kohlrabi, and peas coming in at about 55 to 60 days. In the case of peas, in particular, harvest often to encourage more pod formation. These short timeframes allow for succession planting—particularly for root crops that are one-and-done. Radish is an excellent example, since new sowings can be made every two weeks until summer to ensure a continuous supply. Double Duty Companion planting can help maximize valuable garden (or raised bed or container) real estate while keeping pests away. The simplest way to start is with layers—combining a skyward-growing crop with root vegetables. One example is radishes or beets planted with shallowrooted lettuce. Not only will this combo make the most of the space, watering, and fertilizing, but root crops break up soil as the y g r o w, resulting in better aeration and water penetration, while the shallow roots of the lettuce won’t affect radish or beet growth. Onion sets planted amongst greens will have similar benefits. Another pair of spring “buddies” are peas vining up a trellis or other support, interplanted amongst greens. The lowgrowing plants shade and cool the pea roots, and help keep weeds down. The peas in turn add organic nitrogen to the soil, leading to lusher lettuce, spinach, and so forth. Always Thinking Ahead Once the garden is up and running, it’s time to start thinking about pre-sprouting late spring and summer crops indoors. Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and summer squash are cheaper when started from seed, which also allows for a much larger Ready, set, spring! The best garden vegetables for an early start SEE GARDEN PAGE 8

Spring is a time of year when change is in the air. Trees are budding, plants are flowering, and homes laden with dark or heavy fabrics and clutter could use some lightening up. Spring cleaning projects are popular this time of year as residents take inventory of their living spaces and aim to declutter, clean and increase efficiency. Some people find the prospect of getting organized overwhelming. Here are some tips that can help anyone master spring cleaning. • Create a plan. Make a checklist and establish a cleaning plan of attack. Focus on areas that are not regularly cleaned, as they probably need a little attention. • Assemble your cleaning kit. Spring cleaning can be slowed down considerably if you don’t have all of your equipment at the ready. Items to have on hand include an all-purpose cleaner, concentrated cleaner, microfiber cloths, paper towels, mop, vacuum, dusters, and a squeegee. Adjust your equipment based on the task at hand. • Curate your cleaning playlist. Create a playlist with songs that will get you moving and motivated to clean. • Work from top to bottom. Work efficiently by cleaning shelves, ceiling fans and other elevated items first, as dust and debris will trickle down and need to be cleaned next. • Purchase or rent a carpet cleaner. According to the experts at Clean That Up, carpets help filter indoor air by trapping debris and allergens. By deep cleaning carpets, homeowners can improve the indoor air quality of their homes. Use a carpet cleaner on a warm, dry day so that windows can be opened and cross breezes will help dry the damp rug. • Clean windows. Wash windows inside and out and utilize their screens to help brighten indoors spaces. • Deep clean the kitchen. Clean out and disinfect the refrigerator by wiping it down with warm water and baking soda or a vinegar-and-water solution. While in the kitchen, set the oven to the self-clean function so it becomes cleaner as well. • Homeowners also can focus on cleaning curtains (including shower curtains), steam-cleaning upholstery, removing clutter from closets, cleaning out the dryer vent and duct tubing, wiping inside kitchen drawers, and vacuuming under beds and other furniture. Spring cleaning can bring the revitalizing nature of this beloved time of year into your home. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. March 28 - April 10, 2024 North Salem News – Page 7 Spring cleaning tips and tricks Egg hunts are a traditional component of many people’s Easter celebrations. Children often delight in searching for eggs around the house or in the backyard. Egg hunts are so popular that they have become a component of many town-sponsored festivities. In fact, the White House hosts its annual Easter Egg Roll each year. There are many ways to make Easter egg hunts more enjoyable and productive for participants of all ages. Try these “eggcellent” ideas. • Designate a clear hunting area. Young children can grow frustrated searching for eggs in large areas. Set parameters for the search area that are manageable depending on the ages of the children participating. If you’ll be in a large yard or field, tape off the search area perimeter. • Vary the prizes. Candy, candy and more candy seems to be the name of the game on Easter. But too many sweets can lead to stomach aches for young Hop on these tips for a great Easter egg hunt SEE EGG HUNT PAGE 9 SPRING

Page 8 – North Salem News March 28 - April 10, 2024 selection than is normally available locally. Green Savvy Gardeners are some of the most innovative people on the planet. Here are some examples of their wonderfully budget-friendly tips and tricks. Newspaper Seed Pots: The ultimate biodegradable planter that can be set out directly in the garden, seed pots made from newspaper or other recyclable paper, allow for easy transplanting without disturbing a seedling’s roots, just like a peat pot, but without the cost. Tube Guides: Tiny seeds planted directly in the garden can easily be washed away by rain or even gentle watering. The solution is to cut up a toilet paper or paper towel tube into three-inch sections. Press halfway into the soil, and sow two seeds inside each (one is a spare) to keep them in the same general area until they sprout and root. DIY Seed Tape: Another way to sow small seeds is via a seed tape, but that’s an unnecessary expense. Instead, take a roll of twoply toilet paper, place the seeds on it at even intervals, fold over, and mist lightly with water to hold the seeds in place while planting. Millions of people embrace opportunities to get back in their gardens each spring, and they might be reaping more rewards from that activity than they realize. According to the American Institute of Stress, gardening sparks a level of creativity among enthusiasts, and that can help to alleviate stress by lowering levels of the hormone cortisol. In addition, authors of a 2022 study published in the journal Urban Forestry & Urban Greening concluded that gardening during the COVID-19 pandemic helped people cope with coronavirus-related stress through outdoor activity.  This article is from Metro Creative Connection. GARDEN FROM PAGE 6 Gardening offers more than a day in the sun We Carry A Complete Line of BioGuard Pool Treatments MY SEASONS REALTY LLC RICHARD DUTRA [email protected] PUTNAMREALESTATE.NET Serving Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess and Beyond Licensed Real Estate Broker 914-714-5609 SPRING

March 28 - April 10, 2024 North Salem News – Page 9 The interior of a home may be where homeowners and their families spend the majority of their time, and there’s no denying that a well-planned interior goes a long way toward making a house a home. However, the exterior of a home, including its landscaping, can serve as a source of pride and catch the eye of prospective buyers when the home hits the market. It’s easy to walk past a home with an eye-catching exterior and assume the homeowner has a green thumb or has spent lots of time and money working on the landscaping. Though that may be true, oftentimes it’s the simplest strategies that make all the difference. Homeowners can keep these strategies in mind as they look to transform the exterior of their homes. • Dress up the walkway. A longer walkway can give guests a strong first impression of a home and won’t break the bank. Create new planting beds and plant bright plants and flowers along each side of the walkway. If it’s necessary and within budget, lengthen the walkway to create the feel of a more grandiose entryway. • Make things more symmetrical. A messy landscape can give a poor first impression, even if the area features some beautiful plants. In such instances, a little effort to make things more symmetrical, with equal parts grass and vegetation, can create a cleaner, more inviting look. • Mulch your flower and tree beds. Mulch is a relatively inexpensive but effective way to add aesthetic appeal to a landscape. Freshly mulched beds beneath trees and flowers creates a clean and organized look, and the mulch also serves a practical purpose, as it reduces weed growth and helps the soil retain moisture so plants stay healthy and look better throughout the warmer months when rainfall may not be steady or significant. • Plant shade trees. Shade trees can be especially useful when selling a home. The shade provided by trees can shield grass from blistering summer sun, potentially helping it stay green. A lush green lawn appeals to buyers and gives the impression the home has been well maintained. In addition, shade trees can be used to create the look of a backyard oasis. A well-placed bench beneath a large shade tree can entice buyers who want a relaxing spot to enjoy warm summer days outdoors without getting a sunburn. • Consider maintenance. The more exotic an exterior landscape is, the more maintenance it’s likely to require. Lawn and garden enthusiasts may not be turned off by landscape features that require steady maintenance, but homeowners who don’t have much time for such work should keep things simple. A poorly maintained landscape, even if it includes exotic plants and elaborate designs, will adversely affect curb appeal. Another feather in the cap of low-maintenance landscape features is they could prove more appealing to prospective buyers, who may view elaborate, exotic landscaping as a lot of extra work they won’t want to do. Some simple landscaping strategies can help homeowners transform their home exteriors without requiring a significant investment of time or money. Simple landscaping strategies that can transform a home’s exterior Easter celebrants. Instead, mix and match the prizes contained in the eggs. Candy can be in some, money in others, and perhaps small toys in a few eggs. Another clever idea is to mix the egg hunt with charades. Put charade prompts in some eggs so that kids have to act out what they read inside for added fun. • Special privilege egg. Hide one egg that gives the finder the opportunity for a special honor. It may include getting the first slice of the holiday ham or being able to choose a movie that the entire family watches together after dinner. • Label eggs for equity. When there are children across a wide range of ages, label the eggs with the children’s names or utilize a color-coded system to ensure that everyone has an equal shot at finding eggs. • Keep a master list. It can be hard to remember where each egg is hidden, so keep a running list of where they are or take photos with a phone of the hiding spots. This way you’re not left to discover a chocolate-filled egg teeming with ants come summertime. • Make custom baskets. Children will need something to carry their eggs. Prior to the egg hunt, let them decorate bags or baskets with Easter trinkets for custom creations. Easter egg hunts are a time-honored tradition. The opportunities for fun are endless when families plan accordingly. This article is from Metro Creative Connection. EGG HUNT FROM PAGE 7 SPRING #1 Agent CB Katonah / Bedford 2023 Global Luxury Certified | INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT’S ELITE 2023 Top 2% CB Internationally | INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE 2022 Lic Real Estate Salesperson CT & NY Coldwell Banker Realty Direct (914) 393-8361 [email protected] pattyhinkleyrealestate.com Real Estate Done Right! It was such a pleasure working with the sellers during this transaction! 39 Deerfield Rd Katonah 10536 Patty Hinkley Lic Real Estate Salesperson CT & NY Coldwell Banker Realty Direct (914) 393-8361 hklb2023 Closed Volume: $15,868,898 # of Transactions: 42 CT & NY REAL ESTATE Scan to visit my website Follow me on instagram: @pattyhinkley_ realestate PATTY HINKLEY 2023 MARKET STATS Starting 2024 with the sale of 6 Lois Lane Katonah, NY Represented both the seller & buyer. Looking forward to helping you or someone you know with any real estate need you may have in 2024! @pattyhinkley_ realestate SOLD for 50K over asking! Patty Hinkley

118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2024 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC BRETT FREEMAN, PUBLISHER TOM WALOGORSKY, EDITOR TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL, CREATIVE DIRECTOR Editorial Office: 914-302-5830 [email protected] 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 North Salem News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail to [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5830. Opinion Page 10 – North Salem News March 28 - April 10, 2024 Happily Ever After Benjamin Franklin once famously wrote, “be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every new year find you a better man.” Franklin always struck me as a worldly guy and his idea of self-improvement is definitely something to strive for. Plus, he appears on currency. To go head-tohead with our vices, my wife Maggie and I recently embarked on a 21-day sugar detox. I’ll bet Benjamin Franklin never went three weeks without a piece of candy. I don’t consider myself to have much of a sweet tooth. Don’t misunderstand. I enjoy sugary snacks as much as the next person, with a particular penchant for peanut butter pretzels and mint chocolate chip ice cream. (Maggie insists that’s just frozen toothpaste, but no marriage is perfect.) If I can take or leave the cookies and candy, a 21-day sugar detox should be easy, right? Wrong. The problem with three weeks off the sugar wagon is not avoiding the cakes and pies. The real difficulty comes when you realize that sugar is in EVERYTHING. Hidden Figures Don’t believe me? Go have a look at the nutritional information of anything in your cupboard or refrigerator. Sugar molecules are anything ending in “ose” (dextrose, fructose, glucose, lactose, maltose and sucrose). This makes for a lengthy list of “no” foods, including any bread and refined carbohydrates, sauces and condiments, and all types of fruit with natural sugars. Even things like skim milk, peanuts and my beloved Costco rotisserie chicken were now forbidden. Basically, the list of “yes” foods included all meat and fish, vegetables and a handful of “limit foods,” including certain types of beans and one green apple a day. If nothing else, doing a detox for a few weeks is eye-opening to how much sugar is in everything we consume on a daily basis. Battle Plan For anyone who might be inspired by this column to undertake a sugar detox, I can say that your best chance to succeed comes from proper planning. Maggie and I made meal prep and bulk shopping a top priority and were able to set ourselves up for grumpy, Ben Franklin never faced Girl Scout cookies Our eye-opening 21-day sugar detox TOM WALOGORSKY TOM’S TAKE I used to be a felon. I’m not anymore. No need to move to the other side of the street when you see me walking your way. I don’t have a problem talking about it. I’ve been pretty candid—I’ve written about it here in this space and discussed it openly on the Hudson Valley Uncensored podcast. Have you ever had a police officer point a gun at you and tell you to put your hands in the air and not move? I have. And let me tell you, it’s not a lot of fun. You will definitely need new underwear. What these particular officers were concerned about was that I might be growing some plants in my garden of which they did not approve. So, as a punishment, I was made to go sit in a room for 10 weekends and think about what I’d done. Yes—that is a fancy way of saying I was cultivating cannabis sativa (aka marijuana, weed, pot, yadda yadda). Well... actually I wasn’t the one doing the cultivating. That was my entrepreneurial cousin. I was just living there. My full-time job was being a senior editor at a magazine on Wilshire Boulevard in downtown Los Angeles. But the police and the D.A. didn’t make that distinction. (This was 22 years ago, but it feels like yesterday.) So, I was sentenced to 30 days in jail but was allowed to do my time on weekends. You have to pay for that. Like a motel that comes with a psychotic roommate. It was surreal and ridiculous. But at least I was able to keep my job... and my cat. We menaces to society have feelings too, you know. Anyway, after all that was put behind me, I eventually moved back to New York. And as soon as I did that, California legalized recreational marijuana. What had gotten me in so much trouble just a few years prior was now perfectly legal as long as one had the right permits and licenses. (You have to laugh so as not to cry.) In October 2017, I received a letter from the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office. I still have it. It reads, in part, “We believe you may qualify for a reduction or expungement of your felony conviction(s) under Proposition 47.” Proposition 47 was created in the wake of California legalization in order to help folks such as me. So, I wrote to them and sure enough, I qualified. Two of my charges were eventually expunged, and one was reduced to a misdemeanor. However, all the money that I had to spend on things like lawyers, court costs, fines, weekend jail fees, and myriad other crap would not be reimbursed and I was pretty much Weed woes to legal highs My rocky road from felon to free! BOB DUMAS OUT OF MY HEAD SEE WALOGORSKY PAGE 15 SEE DUMASPAGE 14

March 28 - April 10, 2024 North Salem News – Page 11 FOCUS ON ELDER LAW Recently, the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) has received a great deal of negative press, as it is a home care program that is being victimized by fraud and abuse by both some of its participants and some of the fiscal intermediaries involved with the program. Clearly, those using the program and participants in its implementation must avoid committing fraud. However, a few bad actors should not dissuade seniors from attempting to use the program. Most seniors are set in their ways: they know what they like and do not like. Thus, bringing someone they don’t know into their home to provide care may be a hurdle and challenge. Thus, if you are facing such a dilemma, eligibility for the CDPAP may be a great option. CDPAP is a New York Medicaid initiative that allows someone who is eligible for the Medicaid home care program (both financially and physically) to hire their own home health aide (caregiver), including members of their family and friends (with the exception of their spouse). The caregiver is paid hourly by Medicaid based on the number of hours the consumer has been approved for by Medicaid. Thus, the child of the person eligible for Medicaid home care can be the caregiver, as well as other family members and/or friends. The consumer (person in need of care) or their representative will be responsible for hiring, firing, training and back up for the caregiver. Of the abovestated requirements placed on the consumer, the most difficult is ensuring that there is back up. If the primary caregiver is unavailable, the consumer cannot call the Managed Long Term Care Provider (MLTC) or Home Care Agency involved and request that an aide be sent. They must arrange for their own backup to provide the care. Additionally, the aide chosen by the consumer does not need to be a certified healthcare provider, nor do they require any training in healthcare. The consumer or their representative can provide the training at the consumer’s home. An additional benefit of using the CDPAP program is that the caregiver is not limited in the services they can provide. For example, if the consumer requires an injection (insulin, et al), the aide can provide said services. They can virtually do all that a registered nurse can do. CDPAP more than anything else provides the consumer with the option of receiving home care from someone they know and trust. The level of familiarity and comfort that awaits both the recipient of the care and their family knowing that a loved one and/or friend is providing the care needed is invaluable. The present allegations that participants and fiscal intermediaries may be committing fraud is not sufficient reason for the consumer to not use the program, legally and ethically. Anthony J. Enea is the managing partner of Enea, Scanlan and Sirignano, LLP of White Plains. He focuses his practice on Wills, Trusts, Estates and Elder Law. Anthony is the Past Chair of the Elder Law and Special Needs Section of the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA), and is the past Chair of the 50+ Section of the NYSBA. He is a Past President and Founding member of the New York Chapter of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA). Anthony is also the Immediate Past President of the Westchester County Bar Foundation and a Past President of the Westchester County Bar Association. He is also fluent in Italian. He can be reached at 914-948-1500 or at [email protected]. Is the CDPAP Program right for you? Bad press should not dissuade seniors from using the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program CDPAP more than anything else provides the consumer with the option of receiving home care from someone they know and trust.’ -Anthony J. Enea, managing partner Enea, Scanlan and Sirignano, LLP ANTHONY J. ENEA GUEST CORNER

Page 12 The Consumer’s Choice for Discount Heating Oil! SAVE WITH OUR LOW C.O.D. PRICES! • No Contracts or Commitments • Oil Burner & A/C Service/Tune-ups • Quality Heating Oil • Senior Citizen & Volume Discounts • Heating, Cooling & Generator Installations • Price Matching (Restrictions apply) Order online at: www.codoil.com CALL US TODAY AND SAVE! 914.737.7769 BUYING845-62WE WILL COWE BUY: Gold • Sterling SJewelry • CoinPaintings • BronClocks • CollectiAntiques • ETItems for saService: 914-669-9679 Auto Sales: 914-485-1195 Fax: 914-669-9685 6 Dingle Ridge Road - North Salem, NY 10560 meccanicshop.com Grinning as they pressed their paintcovered hands to the wall, students left their mark on the school. Some students crouched low, while others stretched tall to find a space for their palms. Friends put their handprints next to each other and promised to remember them long after graduation. A colorful new tree mural fills the hallway walls leading toward Pequenakonck Elementary School’s gym. The vibrant leaves filling the branches comprise hundreds of student and staff handprints in bold shades of green, yellow, copper, and more. “The mural represents how each person is an individual since no two hands look alike, and when we come together, we create a masterpiece,” said paraprofessional Britt Togonon, who envisioned the collaborative project with paraprofessional Lisa Finer. Almost 18 years ago, the pair formed ONE CUB, a partnership that empowers students to make a positive difference through kindness and problemsolving. “I love projects that incorporate the whole school. We all get to have fun together.” Togonon gestured to a pair of overlapping handprints and added, “These two are a mother and son; he’s in fifth grade and she works here.” Seeing students and staff rejoice in making their handprints is immensely rewarding for her. “Yesterday, a student brought her mother over to see the handprint she made.” “We were going to keep it all in solid colors, but the kids asked for ombré blends. That was their idea,” said Togonon. “Incorporating their ideas and hands gives them ownership over the mural.” With help from paraprofessionals Samantha Finer, Lori Vishinski, and Carolyn Schmitt, the ONE CUB team will paint a lasting message on the tree trunk: “We are unique and together we are a masterpiece.” The words encapsulate the mural’s celebration of individual identities collaborating to make an extraordinary community. Article courtesy of North Salem Central School District. Lending a hand! Sam Finer preps the students. PQ students create tree-mendous mural Brit Togonon envisioned the mural project with Lisa Finer. North Salem News – M

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Page 14 – North Salem News OPINION March 28 - April 10, 2024 financially devastated. Just so you know, getting arrested is really expensive. I’m not looking for sympathy, folks. I made my choices and I own up. However... The United States has the highest number of incarcerated people per capita on the planet. Not China. Not Russia. Not Vatican City. Many of them are there on drug charges and a significant number of those are cannabis related. According to The Last Prisoner Project, there were more than half a million cannabis arrests in 2017. It is hard to track exactly how many are in jail because some are in local lockups, others in state prisons, and still others in federal custody. Some are also in jail pre-trial, so do you count them too since they are in jail but not yet convicted? Anyway, Last Prisoner believes there are around 32,000 folks currently serving time for this sort of thing, which is, of course, 32,000 too many. Right now, 38 states allow medically prescribed cannabis, while 24 have legalized its recreational use. I am convinced more states will follow suit if only the federal government would remove it as a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substances Act, which contends that cannabis has a “high potential for abuse, no acceptable medical use...and a lack of accepted safety for use under medical supervision.” Well, as we all know now, NONE OF THAT is true. That’s a combination of wonky 1950s disproven science and good old-fashioned misinformation from lobbying groups that include the alcohol and forestry industries (hemp can do anything a tree can do, only better and without deforestation). Other Schedule 1 drugs include heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and fentanyl. Equating these drugs to cannabis is like comparing a firing squad to skeet shooting. Yes—they both go “bang,” but only one of them ain’t gonna kill you. Sen. Corey Booker (D-NJ) is leading the charge to reschedule cannabis with bipartisan support and President Biden said he would sign off on it, but it seems to have stalled and I am not sure why. When Albany legalized pot a couple of years ago, they gave municipalities the right to opt out and not allow dispensaries in their communities if they so chose. But if they did that, they would not get a slice of the substantial tax revenue. All of the towns in Halston Media’s coverage area opted out. Where I live in Mahopac, they are struggling to find money to fund various important initiatives. Money is so tight in Mahopac that the Town Board actually cut funding to the library in an effort to barely stay under the state’s tax levy cap. Gee... if only we could figure out where to get some more tax revenue. I talked to a few local politicians after they opted out to see if they had done their due diligence and drove up to Massachusetts where the legal dispensaries were thriving and asked their government officials, their law enforcement, and business owners how it had been working for them. Halston Media did, and the answer is “spectacular,” by the way, and they told us they loved it when New Yorkers cross the border into Massachusetts and help them fill their tax treasuries. (By the way, there is a dispensary in Danbury on Mill Plain Road about a football field away from Trader Joe’s. Bet you never even noticed it was there. No unsavory characters are milling about the building. So, next time you are at Joe’s buying some hummus or garlic achaar sauce, also stop by The Botanist and pick up a jar of gummies. Your day will improve.) But instead, at least here in Mahopac, local officials chose to complain about the proliferation of vape/tobacco shops that are now selling weed out of their backrooms. So they have put a moratorium on such businesses. But what they don’t seem to grasp is that they themselves created this whole new black market with their foolish opt-out move. If we had legal dispensaries, then the vape shop’s backroom weed business would dry up pretty fast. I see TikTok videos from time to time where someone with a mic goes out in the street and asks people the simplest of questions... Who fought in the Civil War? From whom did the U.S. gain its independence? What is 77 + 23? What are the four directions on a compass? And people struggle to answer. They have no clue. It’s supposed to be funny but it’s actually kind of sad. America is getting dumber by the second folks... so, please stop getting your info from old reruns of “Reefer Madness.” Instead, come over and hang out with me. I’ll get a bag of Doritos and put on some Pink Floyd. Peace. DUMAS FROM PAGE 10 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 North Salem News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5830. FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HOT WATER HEATER & GAS NEEDS 60 Years of Excellence 719 Rte. 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • 845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com TAKE $50 OFF ANY DEWINTERIZATION— HOSEBIBS, POOL HOUSES AND OUTDOOR SHOWERS INTO ACTION! 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March 28 - April 10, 2024 OPINION North Salem News – Page 15 sugar-free success each week. We would cook mass quantities of vegetables and chicken on Sunday, which would prepare us nicely once the hectic work week began. The detox also challenged us to go outside the box with menu planning and not rely on some of the familiar comfort foods that we all fall back on once life gets busy. I also discovered that casting aside the idea of traditional breakfasts in favor of grilled chicken and veggies was helpful to get me over the longing for my usual bowl of cereal in the morning. Once we got over the hump of the first few days, replacing my normal pretzel rods with mixed nuts for a go-to snack and avoiding late night cravings while working became much easier. Temptation still reared its ugly head from time to time, especially when we attended a minor league hockey game and realized that our options from the snack bar were severely limited. (“I’ll have two delicious bottles of water, please.”) With only a few days remaining, a friend presented me with a box of Girl Scout cookies. He was understandably confused when I politely screamed at him. Nobody said this would be easy. How Sweet It Is The clock ran out on sugar detox just in time for St. Patrick’s Day, and Maggie and I celebrated our success with corned beef and cabbage with a side of her delicious soda bread (with double the sugar in the recipe for good measure). I’ll admit that the next day was a bit of a shock to the digestive system since we followed up three weeks of healthy eating with a feast of sugary carbs and fatty meat. What happened to the good old college days when I could subsist on a diet of pizza and keg beer and bounce back without a problem? Nobody tells you these things about getting older. Things have since evened out in our house, and we have stuck to our plan to follow up the sugar detox with continued healthier (but slightly less strict) eating habits. And I still have yet to break into the Girl Scout cookies. I think Ben Franklin would be proud. Tom Walogorsky thinks $100 could buy a lot of mint chocolate chip ice cream. Contact him at [email protected]. WALOGORSKY FROM PAGE 10 Contact ANTHONY J. ENEA, ESQ. Managing Member • Fluent in Italian 914.948.1500 WHITE PLAINS • SOMERS • WWW.ESSLAWFIRM.COM • Asset Protection • Elder Law • Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care) • Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) • Wills, Trusts & Estates Past Chair of Elder Law Section of NYS Bar Association “Super Lawyer” In Elder Law for 16 consecutive years CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 When did you last update your last will and testament and power of attorney?

Page 16 – North Salem News OPINION March 28 - April 10, 2024 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah • (914) 232-3033 www.clarkassociatesfuneralhome.com • [email protected] DANIEL B. McMANUS ~ Proprietor • BRUCE E. REISDORF ~ Licensed Manager JOSEPH M. McMANUS ~ Director • RONALD P. CERASO ~ Director • Only 1/4 mile from 684 exit 6. • Only 1 block from the Katonah Railroad Station. • Less than 60 minutes from N.Y. City. • Parking facilities for over 100 cars • Monuments & inscriptions available. FUNERAL PREARRANGEMENT Both pre-payment and no-payment options Serving all Faiths since 1858 • Cremations and Burials 914.455.2158 SpirelliElectric.com • [email protected] Specializing in residential & commercial services. Licenses in Westchester, Putnam CREATING CUSTOMERS FOR LIFE Family Owned—Over 40 Years Experience! $25 OFF Service Calls When You Present This Ad. New Customers Only. Keep the lights on. • GENERATORS • Outdoor Lighting • Smart Home Setup • Electric Car Chargers AND ALL OF YOUR ELECTRIC NEEDS! As someone who has seen firsthand the power of civic engagement and the importance of every voice being heard, I want to talk about something crucial to the health of our democracy: primaries. These are not just preliminary elections but the heartbeat of our democratic process. Growing up in the Jim Crow South, my family fought and bled for this fundamental right that would allow Barack Obama, and even me, to participate in our democracy in an election as a candidate for any office. Primaries are where the conversation starts. They are where diverse candidates step forward with their visions for our future, and we, as voters, get to engage with those ideas and make informed decisions. This is where democracy comes to life, in the exchange of ideas and the robust debate that shapes and strengthens our policies. But primaries are more than just a debate stage. They are a tool for accountability, ensuring our political parties and their leaders remain connected to the people they serve. Despite their importance, the role of primaries in our democratic process is often underappreciated and even threatened. We’ve seen attempts to cancel or diminish their significance in certain states and parties, which not only undermines the democratic process but also erodes public trust in our political institutions. Right here in the Hudson Valley, a region known for its vibrant democratic spirit, a concerning situation is unfolding. A candidate running for office who claims to champion the values of democracy is working to undermine one of its fundamental pillars: the primary process. This individual is pressing local party leaders to rush endorsements, effectively sidelining the voices of party members and voters and attempting to block the opportunity for a primary election. Ironically, someone who claims to stand apart from Washington politics is resorting to tactics that seem all too familiar in the corridors of power. These maneuvers remind us that vigilance is required at all levels of our political system. Democracy thrives on transparency, competition and the active participation of the electorate. Any attempt to bypass these fundamentals should be met with scrutiny and resistance. Moreover, primaries are vital for fostering political participation and engagement among the broader electorate. They spark interest in the political process, encouraging people to register to vote and turn out at the polls. They provide a valuable civic education opportunity, helping voters understand the issues, the candidates, and how our political system works. If we genuinely care about the health of our democracy, we must recognize the essential role of primaries. They are not just a step in the electoral process but the heartbeat of our democratic system. By valuing and protecting primaries, we safeguard the health of our democracy and ensure that it remains responsive to the will of the people. Let’s embrace the spirit of active participation and robust competition that primaries embody, for it is through this engagement that our democracy thrives and endures. MaryAnn Carr is running in the Democrat primary for U.S. Congress in New York’s 17th district, which includes our entire readership area. She previously served as councilwoman and supervisor in the Town of Bedford. The heartbeat of democracy Why primaries matter MARYANN CARR GUEST COLUMNIST A candidate running for office who claims to champion the values of democracy is working to undermine one of its fundamental pillars: the primary process.’ -MaryAnn Carr Candidate for U.S. Congress

March 28 - April 10, 2024 OPINION North Salem News – Page 17 There’s a somewhat common joke about how much money a priest makes: the priesthood might not pay much, but the benefits are eternal! It’s a pretty easy joke to “get”: it’s the hope that, as a priest, I might not have a lot of *stuff* here in this life – I won’t drive the nicest car, have the nicest clothes, go on the nicest vacations, nor have my chance of fame or fortune – but God will reward me for that. What I give up here, I will earn in Heaven. However, this is pretty far from the truth: Heaven is not a wage I will earn simply by putting in my years here of being a man of the cloth. In fact, Heaven is something none of us can earn; from the pope to the pauper, from the holiest nun to the queen of vulgarity, none of us is qualified to get into Heaven by our own merits. Entrance into Heaven is not a wage, it is a gift. Wages and gifts are opposites. Wages are earned, while gifts are given; wages are necessary, gifts are free; wages are demanded by justice, gifts are chosen out of love. Wages are based on a contract, “If you do this, then you will get that,” while a true gift has no strings attached. The reality is we don’t deserve God, His mercy, Heaven or salvation. If we’re being blunt, due to our sinfulness, we really deserve death, pain and suffering. However, on that first Easter Sunday nearly 2,000 years ago, we were freely given the greatest gift of all: eternal life. St. Paul said it well in his Letter to the Romans, “The wage of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23). That’s what makes the Easter celebration so revolutionary: the heart of the Christian claim is that the greatest debt of them all – our sinfulness – has been paid off by the very One to Whom we owed such a debt. We were indebted to God, and yet we were also freed by God. This is not a loan that we must pay back over time, nor a paycheck that is to be earned, but a free gift from the Father through His own Son, Jesus Christ. Not all gifts that are given, however, are used. Just because someone gives me tickets to a New York Yankees game doesn’t mean I actually attended the game, but only that I can attend the game (though feel free to give me such a gift: I’ll use them!) This gift from Jesus is similar: we’ve been gifted entrance into Heaven, but we must accept the invitation and make the proper preparations. This is done by rejecting evil, following the laws Jesus and His Church have given, asking for forgiveness when we stumble, and constantly responding “yes” to His invitation to live a life of closeness to Him. If it seems hard to get into Heaven, we might not be wrong; but we might also be overthinking it. We can think of Jesus’ simple invitation in the Gospels, “Let the children come to Me, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,” and again, “you must acquire the heart of a child to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.” Perhaps the secret to entrance into Heaven really is as simple as being like a child accepting a birthday gift from their parents: a child does nothing to earn his or her birthday gifts except by being born so many years ago. Easter is the time when we have been reborn by Jesus’ Passion, Death and Resurrection: we died with Him, and we rose to a new life with Him. It’s almost like a new birthday! And we have been given the greatest rebirthday gift imaginable. This Easter, let’s remember that we can never earn our way into Heaven, but thankfully we don’t have to earn anything, we just need to accept the gift. Heaven is something I could never earn no matter how hard I try, so – quite literally – thank God He gave it to me. Happy Easter to all of us who got the greatest gift of all time. Fr. Matthew Breslin is a Roman Catholic priest of the Archdiocese of New York, serving as Parochial Vicar of St. Joseph’s Church in Somers and Chaplain of Kennedy Catholic Preparatory School. Easter: A time of free gifts, not earned wages FR. MATTHEW BRESLIN GUEST COLUMNIST Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in the North Salem News Bulletin Board and reach over 3,500 USPS delivered mailing addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! My Community Bulletin Board Honest and Reliable, 30+ years experience. Local Collector/Seller Putnam/Westchester/Orange/Dutchess and more Call or text: 917-699-2496 • email: [email protected] Hope to hear from you! Thanks! BUYING COMIC BOOK COLLECTIONS! TOP PRICES PAID! Increase referrals and name recognition. Advertise in the North Salem News Bulletin Board and reach over 3,500 USPS delivered mailing addresses every week. Call 845-208-8151 today! 845-278-7312 ALL FUEL CO. 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Sports Page 18 – North Salem News BY TOM WALOGORSKY EDITOR With winter in the rearview and spring just ahead, our Tiger teams have a lot for fans to be excited about. We caught up with the coaching staff to learn more about key returning players, meet some new faces, and get ready for a season which will undoubtedly provide plenty of highlights for the North Salem faithful. Go Tigers! Track & Field With a full slate of dual meets and invitationals in the weeks ahead, the Tigers will be off and running led by an experienced core of veterans. Providing leadership will be captains Bella Fryer, Alexia Zamora, Matt Schaub and Connor Quadrini. “We will lean on them to push the pace and show the newer members of the team what it takes to improve and experience the satisfaction you feel in achieving your goals,” said Coach Chris Gould. Bringing additional experience will be Grace Barbarossa, Emma Gautier, Erika Saez, and Freyja Smith, who were all instrumental in bringing home the Tigers’ first league title last year. On the boys team, Sean Canellos, Jack Fryer, Aidan Pena, and Tyler Spar will all be returning to add depth to the roster.  With a stacked and experienced lineup, there will also be some new faces to watch for. Joining the Tigers this spring will be Veronica Benvenuto, Jennifer Killeen, Emma Wallace, Jonathan Alves, Jordan Blauvelt, Aniello Deluca, David Margolin, Jack Roche, Skyler Smith, and Robert Vrabel. “Team and individual goals are being set, so we are ready to pursue these with an understanding that you need to put the work in to get where you want to be,” added Coach Gould.  Baseball Last spring, North Salem’s storied baseball program endured a rare year of disappointment. The Tigers were rebuilding and saw their season end with an 11-1 out-bracket loss to Ardsley. With the dawn of a new season upon us, that early exit is a distant memory and the Tigers look poised to return to form. Leading the charge on the diamond will be a talented core of seniors, including Nate Baer (OF), Reilly Denneen (OF/RHP), Nick Foglia (INF), Peter Guiliano (OF), and David Torres (INF/ RHP).   Bolstering the roster will be returning juniors Lucas Balbino, CJ Casale, and Justin Cuello, sophomores Ryan Denneen and Alex Hoffman, and a crop of freshmen including Jack Braz, Ben Guiliano, Jack Lukse, William Trickel, and Jack Watson. Eighth-grader Jonathan Major will also join the Tiger ranks. At the helm will once again be Coach Rob Gilchrist, who is anticipating good things from his squad as they look to return to form in Class C. “We’re looking forward to having a successful and exciting season,” said Gilchrist. The Tigers were scheduled to open the season on Tuesday, March 26 at home against Blind Brook, after press time for this issue. Softball As the Tigers prepare for a packed schedule, the squad will look to a trio of returning veterans to lead the team on the diamond. Looking to follow up on last year’s standout performances will be Sophia Aqeel (two-time All-Section Honorable Mention), Cora Kennedy (All-Section Honorable Mention), and Rebecca Senatore (All-League). Aqeel has already etched her name into the Tiger record books as North Salem’s all-time hit, RBI, home run, and runs scored leader as she comes into her third varsity season. Ana Brewster, Meghan Ledley, and Chloe Matt will also be returning after making major contributions last season. Rounding out the roster will be Isabella Castellano, Eowyn Keenan, Riannon Perlongo, Mallorca Sierra, and newcomer Claire Herbstriit. “The team has worked hard all off-season to prepare for another juggernaut of a schedule and are looking forward to the challenge,” said Coach Tim Collins. The Tigers were scheduled to open their season on the road against Putnam Valley on Monday, March 25, after press time for this issue. Girls Lacrosse Things couldn’t be looking better for Tigers lacrosse, as the squad brings back a wealth of experience with eight returning starters from last year’s 10-8 season. Leading North Salem into battle will be a quartet of senior captains. Midfielder and Villanova-commit Lili Valletta looks to finish her career with the Tigers in style and build off last year’s All League season. On attack, expect Anna Fetterolf to light up the scoreboard and keep the momentum from last season’s 22 point, All League effort. Anchoring the Tigers on defense will be goalie Maddie Merriman, who impressed last season with 157 saves and 46 ground balls and received All-Section Second Team and All League nods. Rounding out the team’s captains will be returning senior defender/midfielder Brady Ellicott. With solid leadership in place, the Tigers are poised to be a threat on both sides of the ball. Offensively, Junior Taylor Fogle and sophomores Ashley Cindrich and Abby Cassidy will all be returning to their starting roles. Meanwhile, junior Ruby Molina and sophomore Noemi Torres will continue to keep things clamped down on defense. Nicky Berganza will also be seeing more playing time and is a player to watch this season. Joining the Tigers’ ranks will be a trio of freshman, with Alana Cerasoli (midfield), Emma Greenberg (midfield), and Grace Schaeffer (defense) all looking to contribute to the campaign. With a wealth of talent taking the field, Coach Don Merriman is optimistic about his team’s season and the future of lacrosse in North Salem. “We are also excited to be fielding a JV team this year, which is a testament to the growing interest in lacrosse in North Salem,” explained Merriman. “We are playing another challenging schedule and are looking to improve on our overall record, challenge for a league title, and have fun.” The Tigers were scheduled to open their season on the road on Thursday, March 21 against Briarcliff, after press time for this issue. Boys Lacrosse  As the Tigers prepare to begin their campaign, they will do so with a smaller roster that could best be described as lean and mean.  “This season will be an interesting one, adapting to a smaller roster than previous years it’ll be one that prioritizes health, conditioning, and timing,” explained Coach Patrick Busche. “Our athletic skills are undeniable but we need to make sure we are saving our legs in such a demanding sport. Part of that is making sure we are learning more about our strengths and doubling down on them to capitalize when we need to throughout the field.” Leading North Salem on the field will be captains Max Cotrone and Justin Major, who bring both hard-nosed defense and creative offense to the mix. At midfield, Orlando Mulaj and Issac Rouse Spring Sports Preview Tigers ready to roar James Nemeth is looking to build on a standout 8th grade season. PHOTO: TOM WALOGORSKY Anna Fetterolf was a driving force for North Salem’s offense last season. SEE SPRING SPORTS PAGE 19 March 28 - April 10, 2024

SPORTS North Salem News – Page 19 SPRING SPORTS FROM PAGE 18 add speed and depth alongside George Naber and offensive captain Dillon Coughlin.  On the other side, senior Abel Berganza will serve as the squad’s defensive captain and Mike Bonelli will look to keep things locked down in goal.  “This team wants to compete, and a roster with one senior this year and a large class of talented rising 8th to 9th graders next season, it is important we establish an identity and process for next year as well,” adds Coach Busche. “This is an important year for the future of North Salem lacrosse, the determination from the athletes will help dictate our direction. Looking forward to a healthy, competitive, and productive season.” The Tigers are set to open their season on the road against Irvington on Wednesday, April 3, at 4:30 p.m. Golf With the weather warming up, North Salem’s golfers are preparing for another season of competition on the links. This year, the Tigers are rejuvenated with interest coming from a fresh pool of players who are new to the sport. Once again, the team will be led by standout James Nemeth. Nemeth will look to build off of his impressive 8th Grade season last year and could represent North Salem in the sectionals when the postseason arrives. Other key players will include senior James Stiehl, who has showed great improvement from last season, and freshman Lucas Virzi and sophomore Aidan Santis who demonstrated promise during competitive matches last spring. “As a young team, we hope to be competitive  in every match this season and use this year as a stepping-stone for the next two to three years and become a contending team in Section 1,” explained Coach Chris Brandt. “This is going to be a special group of players. This group does not like to lose and they all have that inner motivation to become winners and succeed. As a coach, I could not be more excited for this season and our team’s future for our golf program.” Do you know a Tiger that we should feature in an upcoming edition of Athlete Spotlight? Have pictures from a game you would like to share? Let us know at northsalemnews@ halstonmedia.com Peter Guiliano and a core of seniors will lead Tigers baseball this season. PHOTO: WHIT ANDERSON Captain Bella Fryer brings experience and leadership to the Tigers. PHOTO: ROB DIANTONIO Sophia Aqeel looks to continue her recordsetting career with Tigers softball. March 28 - April 10, 2024 SCAN HERE FOR MORE INFO! ENJOY 0 DOWN, 0% FINANCING! ACT NOW BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE! LIMITED TIME OFFER 845-600-8004 | www.bellmech.com Heat pumps are a cleaner & healthier alternative to traditional heating & cooling systems. This all in one system will eliminate your need for fossil fuel and help you save thousands. Learn more about rebates & financing options! EXCLUDES SERVICE CONTRACT • EXP 4/30/24 Coupon must be presented at time of service. Cannot be combined with any other offer. $50 OFF ANY OF OUR SERVICES CALL US TODAY! Keep COOL with REBATES from BELL! SAVE THOUSANDS in Federal, State and Local Incentives on your new HEATPUMP PROJECT

Page 20 – North Salem News SPORTS March 28 - April 10, 2024 BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER After five seasons, John Veteri has stepped down from coaching the combined Brewster/ Yorktown/Somers/North Salem (BYSNS) hockey team. Veteri coached for a total of 13 seasons, starting with the Somers/North Salem (SNS) Sabers modified squad in 2011- 12. He did that for two seasons, and then in 2013-14, he took over as the head varsity coach of the Sabers. “In the 2018-19 season,  we started practicing but ended up not going through with the season due to lack of numbers,” Veteri said. “In 2019-20, that is when the BYSNS merger happened.” Veteri, who teaches adapted physical education at both Pequenakonck Elementary School and North Salem Middle/High School, decided to give up coaching because of his dedication to his family. “I have been blessed with three beautiful children and they are getting to the age where they are involved with sports, activities, and I wanted to be there for them,” Veteri said. “I am grateful  to my wife for the support over the years. I am looking forward to being just dad and then probably coach my kids in whatever sports they choose to play.” Veteri said that the thing he will miss most about coaching is the players. “I really enjoyed getting to know students from multiple schools around the area,” Veteri said. “Being able to bring a group of hockey players together from rival schools in other sports was something special. I am thankful for the support of the athletic directors and the parents over the years.” One of those players is junior captain and defenseman Michael Bonelli, who attends North Salem High School. “I enjoyed his attitude towards the game the most,” said Bonelli, who earned All-League Honorable Mention honors this past season. “His ability to radiate what it meant to be a BYSN, always wanting to win but also being fair, always understanding what his players had going on.” Bonelli said that Veteri was a great inspiration to everyone on and off the ice. “He always had our backs and was always there to help us learn and improve our skills,” said Bonelli, who played two years for Veteri. “He helped us learn life lessons that will contribute to our success in the future, all while being a great guy with lots of stories.” Veteri said that coaching highschool hockey is something he had dreamed of doing since graduating college. “Being able to fulfill my dream only two years after graduating college and then staying for 13 years is a proud moment for myself,” Veteri said. “Coaching highschool hockey wasn’t just about the wins or losses for me. It was about connecting with players and having them learn from their experiences through hockey, to take with them as they graduate and move on into the real world.” For Veteri, there were plenty of moments as coach that he looks fondly back on. “I am proud to be able to coach against some of the best coaches/ teams in New York state, proud of being able to say that my teams were named Howard Kosel Team Sportsmanship award winners multiple times throughout my tenure and to see how the players, parents, and hockey community rallied around me and my family after my father passed away,” Veteri said. “To be able to continue to donate to Blythedale Children’s Hospital over the past two seasons in honor of my father has been my proudest moment of all.” Veteri steps down as coach of BYSNS hockey Veteri started his coaching career with the Somers/North Salem Sabers. PHOTO: SKIP PEARLMAN BY TOM WALOGORSKY EDITOR North Salem’s student-athletes provided fans with another exciting winter season, with highlights including the girls bowling team earning Section One Runner Up honors in the Small School Division, girls basketball playing in the Class C semifinals at the County Center, and runners from the indoor track team competing at the state qualifier meet. The following Tigers were also recognized for their outstanding performances during the winter season. Bowling CJ Casale - Most Improved Player Eowyn Keenan - SI Sportsmanship Award Madeline Killeen - All League, MVP Klye Li - SI Sportsmanship Award Ian Quadrini - MVP Erica Saez - Most Improved Player Rebecca Senatore - All League, MVP Boys Basketball Nate Baer - Most Improved Player Max Cotrone - All League, MVP Luke Loftus - SI Sportsmanship Award Boys Hockey Michael Bonelli - All League Honorable Mention Lucas Salvatore - All League Girls Basketball Ella Dallow - SI Sportsmanship Award Sarafina DiPaola - All League, S1 All Tournament Jaiden Donavan - All Conference, All League, MVP Madelynne Horel - Most Improved Player Girls Hockey Abigail Lehr - All League Indoor Track Zoe Elias - All League 1000M, Most Improved Player Brady Ellicott - All League 4x400M Relay Dean Ellicott - All League 4x400M Relay Isabella Fryer - All League 3000M, 1500M, 4x400M Relay, MVP, SI Sportsmanship Award Jack Fryer - All League 1000M, 4x400M Relay Emma Gautier - All League 4x400M Relay Connor Quadrini - All League 1600M, 4x400M Relay, MVP Matthew Schaub - All League 4x400M Relay, Most Improved Player, Sportsmanship Award Alexia Zamora - All League 4x400M Relay Wrestling Robert Vrabel - All Section, All County, All League Top Tigers! Athletes honored after winter season Last week, the Pickleball Barn was honored to host renowned pickleball instructor, Coach Zorano Tubo! Coach Z and his team travel around the country conducting clinics and teaching pickleball. 70 members of The Pickleball Barn participated in the day-long event, and were fortunate enough to be joined by Gordon Gebert, President of the Pickleball Television Network, CEO of the National Pickleball League, and accomplished keyboardist who has played and toured with Angel, Marty Balin (Jefferson Airplane), Donna Summer, and his onetime “Best friend” Ace Frehley of Kiss. To learn more about Coach Z, visit https://southerntierpickleball.net/ Coach Z comes to the Pickleball Barn PHOTO COURTESY OF JEFF MATUSOW

March 28 - April 10, 2024 LEISURE North Salem News – Page 21 To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle! For puzzle solutions, please see theparamountrehab.com CLUES ACROSS 1. Helps little firms 4. Political action committee 7. Allowed 12. Olivia Colman played one 15. Open 16. He had a notable lamp 18. Promotional material 19. Domesticated animal 20. Larry and Curly’s buddy 21. The best ever 24. TV network 27. Checked for 30. Dry or withered 31. Expression of annoyance 33. Dash 34. Fifth note of a major scale 35. A secret clique 37. Partner to cheese 39. __ school: where to learn healing 41. City in ancient Syria 42. Gasteyer and de Armas are two 44. Established practice 47. Thanksgiving side dish 48. District in Peru 49. It’s becoming more prevalent 50. State in India 52. Measure of illumination 53. Raised platform 56. Japanese warrior 61. R.L. Stevenson novel 63. Transitory 64. Advanced degree 65. Fiddler crabs CLUES DOWN 1. Prevent from seeing 2. Czech city 3. __ and Andy, TV show 4. A young pig 5. Removed surgically 6. Covered with 7. Chest muscle (slang) 8. Nigerian City 9. Midway between south and east 10. A way to shut 11. Stop playing 12 Marshy places 13. Takes apart 14. Ten cents 17. A gesture of assent 22. Scent 23. Teletypewriter 24. General’s assistant (abbr.) 25. Hillside 26. Taxi driver 28. Semitic Sun god 29. Town in India 32. Traditional rhythmic pattern 36. Fugitives are on the __ 38. Type of dance 40. Two letters, one sound 43. Having a strong, pleasant taste 44. Golf score 45. Mayhem 46. Drenched 51. River in northeastern Asia 54. Drug to treat anxiety (abbr.) 55. Part-time employee 56. A very large body of water 57. Aboriginal people of Japan 58. Millisecond 59. Forearm bone 60. Subway dweller 62. Royal Mail 914.948.1500 This ad is donated by Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 $75 per person includes: 6:30 - 10 pm - Beer & Wine Open Bar 6:30 -7 pm - Appetizers 7 - 8 pm - Buffet dinner, dessert, soda/coffee 8 - 10 pm - 9 Comedians For tickets go to: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/b832fde8-d716-4a4f-af98-c73a84064a2a Or scan the QR code: CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. Sponsorships Available Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 COMEDIAN LINEUP CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers. Fundraiser to benefit people with disabilities Friday, April 12, 2024 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm Travelers Rest, 25 Rte. 100, Ossining, NY 10562 COMEDIAN LINEUP CAREERS Support Solutions is a private non-profit that finds productive employment for individuals with disabilities. We provide on-the-job training and ongoing support services at no cost to our clients, their families or employers.

Page 22 – North Salem News March 28 - April 10, 2024 NO NEWS... 1. Clip the short form on the page 2. Fill out the information. 3. Mail it to P.O. Box 864, Mahopac, NY 10541 4. Or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com 5. Or Scan our QR Code to Subscribe. We need you to subscribe. It’s FREE & It’s Easy! is NOT necessarily good news! # Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to North Salem News YES, I really enjoy North Salem 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 for TAPinto E-News) (Optional) Mail to: P.O. Box 864 Mahopac, NY 10541 While we need your Full Support to keep this newspaper strong, we include the option for Basic Support because we don’t want financial reasons to get in the way of our readers receiving this newspaper. Basic Support vs. Full Support Basic Support Full Support $100 $50 $20 other or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com OR or visit www.halstonsubscribe.com Checks payable to Halston Media LLC. Please include this form in your envelope. Please include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: The Somers Record Mahopac News Yorktown News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times WHY DO WE ADVERTISE IN HALSTON MEDIA’S LOCAL NEWSPAPERS? TO ADVERTISE WITH US, CALL BRETT FREEMAN AT (845) 208-8151 “By promoting our business in Halston’s local newspapers, we have attracted many new customers and it has helped us stay connected to our existing clients. Readers love our monthly specials, and Halston’s staff is always there when we need them.” ~Mary & Ted Kugler Bee & Jay Plumbing & Heating Notice of Formation of Z Ranch NY, LLC.  Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/22/2023.  Office location: Westchester County.  SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.  SSNY should mail process to LLC: 14 South Road, Holmes, New York 12531.  Purpose: any lawful activity FOR SALE FINE, LIKE NEW FURNITURE:  * Empire style Sofa, 76" long  * Round, 5 ft. Dining Table, w leaves  * Wood King Size Bed frame (No matt.)             Sold our House!              914 232 3896   projects “more efficiently.” According to the district, delaying funding for the transportation proposition could result in increased maintenance costs due to an aging fleet, emergency fleet replacement costs, or longer and disrupted student routes, as older vehicles may break down. “This proposition is an investment in the safety, security, and productivity of our transportation and facilities operations,” Wilson said. “It allows us to look down the road consciously and sustainably, rather than reacting to crises with costly emergency repairs and replacements.” According to the district, the two bond propositions are “designed to achieve long-term improvements through sensible fiscal practices.” This means that the district can fund the projects gradually by borrowing smaller sums as required instead of taking on the entire debt upfront. Stay Engaged All budget meetings will be livestreamed on the internet and be available for on-demand viewing. All budget presentations will be posted on the district’s website just before the meetings are held. Questions can be directed to the superintendent’s office via the email address [email protected]. BUDGET FROM PAGE 5 significance of contributing to the betterment of their communities and the enduring value of civic responsibility.  At its core, this scholarship embodies the spirit of Wayne Outhouse, a pillar of our community whose dedication left an indelible mark on North Salem. Through his tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to North Salem, Wayne exemplified the transformative power of grassroots volunteering and the profound difference individuals can make when they embrace their civic duty through active involvement.  By participating in this scholarship opportunity, students have the chance to honor Wayne’s legacy while also furthering their own academic pursuits.  Beyond the financial assistance provided by the scholarship, applicants will gain invaluable insights into the importance of civic involvement and the role they can play in shaping the future of their communities.   Application due by May 1. Two $250 scholarships will be awarded. Submissions can be sent to northsalemrepublicans@ gmail.com. ROCK FROM PAGE 4

March 28 - April 10, 2024 North Salem News – Page 23 In Case You Missed It The stories below were published on our website in-between print editions. Never miss another local story again by visiting News.HalstonMedia.com. Scan the QR codes in the summaries below to read the full story. Scan Here To Get The Top Local News Delivered To Your Inbox Daily. Croton Falls FD Responds for Extraction Rescue Multiple local, county, and state first  responders, including the Croton Falls Fire Department were called into action on March 15 when a car went down a steep embankment near I-684, trapping two people inside. Local Comics Put the ‘Fun’ in CAREERS’ Fundraiser On Friday, April 12, nine of the area’s funniest people will take the stage at Ossining’s Traveler’s Rest for a good cause – to help raise funds for CAREERS Support Solutions’ job placement program for people with disabilities. CAREERS has offices in Valhalla and Carmel Hamlet and helps people all over the area. Department of Health Assistant Commissioner Faces Felony Charges A Westchester County Department of Health Assistant Commissioner and former Lewisboro Town Board member was arrested on March 20 for allegedly failing to disclose more than $95,000 in additional income to the Westchester County Board of Ethics. North Salem Students Create Portraits of Sympathy Four National Art Honor Society members created portraits of Syrian children they would not meet but found a connection through art. The North Salem High School students used only names, ages, favorite colors, and a photograph to paint the beautiful likenesses as gifts for the children.

Page 24 – North Salem News March 28 - April 10, 2024 135 Mahopac Ave, Granite Springs, NY Jilco Window Corp. 914 248-6100 jilcowindow.com Contact Jilco for all your Andersen® Window needs!