The Somers Record 05.20.21

Vol. 11 No. 5 Visit TapIntoSomers.net for the latest news. Thursday, May 20, 2021

Bus strikes pole in Lincolndale Graduation,
prom to
BY CAROL REIF be held at
STAFF WRITER Primrose

A school bus accident in Somers sent nine people to the Elementary

hospital with non-life-threatening injuries on the afternoon of BY CAROL REIF
STAFF WRITER
Friday, May 14.
Somers High School won’t be holding
Van D was transporting students from the Somers Interme- commencement exercises at the Je erson
Valley Mall this year.
diate School around 3:19 p.m. when the crash occurred.
Like many other schools across the na-
e bus had been traveling down Orange Drive, a steep tion dealing with pandemic challenges last
spring, SHS had to quickly come up with
street in the hamlet of Lincolndale, when it reportedly passed creative solutions if it didn’t want to post-
pone or cancel the milestone ceremony.
its scheduled stop and, swinging to the left onto Lake Shore
Graduation 2021 is still di erent, but
Drive North, struck a utility pole, one witness said. it’s moving a bit closer to normal.

Steven Kosarin, a resident of nearby Hickory Road, said he School o cials were excited to con rm
last week that both graduation and prom
heard the crash and ran over to the scene. will be held under a tent on the grounds of
Primrose Elementary School on Route 139.
Had the bus not hit the pole, it might have gone into Lake
In order to keep within the current lim-
Lincolndale, he said. its on outdoor events, the district plans to

It looked to Kosarin that the driver had done “a fantastic job” SEE GRADATION PAGE 26

keeping the bus upright.

Besides the driver, there were six children and two monitors

aboard. All the passengers were taken to local hospitals for ob-

servation and evaluation. PHOTO COURTESY OF SOMERS VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
eir injuries reportedly involved cuts and bruises and, as of The aftermath of the crash on Lake Shore Drive North.

6:30 p.m., all had been cleared to go home.

State troopers and Somers police responded to the scene cies. e Somers Fire Department and EMS units were able to

as did school Superintendent Dr. Raymond Blanch, schools clear the scene by 6:30 p.m.

Transportation Chief Nate Spence, and the district’s assistant A sobriety test given to the driver was negative, the district

Superintendent for Business, Chris Platania. said.

Mutual aid was provided by local and surrounding EMS and e cause of the accident remains under investigation, and au-

re units, according to Somers Fire Chief Jon Mackey Friday. thorities are considering the possibility of a brake malfunction.

A MCI (Mass Casualty Incident) was declared bringing mu- e parents of the students involved were noti ed and all

tual aid ambulances from numerous surrounding EMS agen- other protocols were followed, the district said.

The Somers Central School District held the 2021-2022 budget vote and Board of Education election on Tuesday, May 18
after press time for The Somers Record. Please visit TapIntoSomers.net for updated voting results.

Sales Vice President | Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker

Much Admired & Perfectly Sited! Cell: 914.714.0090
This dramatic and sophisticated country home offers gracious living and spectacular
reservoir views. 5 BR/4.2 BA (all en suite) sited on 2.61 landscaped acres just moments [email protected] | hopemazzola.com
to town, train, park, schools, highways. This iconic home is an absolute private retreat
with opportunity for the most elaborate or intimate gatherings. $1,250,000 95 Katonah Ave | Katonah NY 10536

BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 35
CLASSIFIEDS
ELEPHANT’S TRUNK 34
LEGAL NOTICES
LEISURE 4
OPINION
SPORTS 34

25 HONORING SERVICE

10 Peace O cer
20 Memorial Day

pg 18-19

Page 2 – The Somers Record Thursday, May 20, 2021

Come Discover

Custom
Townhomes

•
Model Homes Open

Wednesday to
Sunday 10AM-5PM

•
Take a
Virtual Tour
on Our Website

Brian Kearney www.HiddenMeadowSomers.com
HiddenMeadowTownhomes
Associate Real Estate Broker

(914) 419 - 2279

Thursday, May 20, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 3

Police Chief Michael Driscoll retires

Law enforcement veteran served Somers for 35 years

BY CAROL REIF ter the ceremony that many of the

STAFF WRITER folks were there for him too.

Driscoll became a police o cer

Mike Driscoll really didn’t want around 1962, the year that Presi-

a fuss made over his retirement as dent John F. Kennedy created the

Chief of the Somers Police De- rst “Peace O cers Memorial

partment. Day”and “National Police Week.”

He got a well-deserved one any- Kennedy wanted to recognize

way. police o cers as people who had

Last Friday, May 14, the 55-year rendered a dedicated service to

law enforcement veteran,dozens of their communities.

his brothers and sisters in blue (ac- e word “community” is espe-

tive and retired), town o cials, and cially important, Driscoll said in

others gathered in front of Town his speech Friday.

Hall to solemnly mark Peace Of- “Lately there has been talk of

cers Memorial Day. police tactics, and police training, Chief Driscoll’s retirement
ends a 55-year career.
e event, observed in conjunc- and police cameras, and police

tion with National Police Week, is reform. As we talk about those PHOTO: CAROL REIF
held each May in honor of federal, things, I think it’s important to re-

state, and local o cers killed or member that police o cers aren’t

disabled in the line of duty. just anonymous badge numbers,” wait for backup, but to immedi- department; gets us equipment; ting others before themselves,” it

ere were speeches, a red, he said, adding: “ ey are human ately try to stop the threat. ink gets us vests. When we get a new read.

white,and blue wreath-laying,bag- beings. ey are no more, and no about that for a moment. O cers vehicle, he gets it all rigged up. e town wished Driscoll a

pipes playing, the singing of “God less, than anyone else.” are being asked to sacri ce them- So his contribution to the town is “wonderful, happy, and healthy

Bless America”led by Somers PBA Most of the police o cers selves. And it’s happening. It’s im- noteworthy as well. So Richie, best retirement” with his wife, erese;

president Robert Matuszewski, Driscoll has worked with have portant to recognize that.” of luck,”Morrissey said. their ve sons, and grandchildren.

and even an aerial salute by a West- something in common — “the Driscoll himself had been in- “ ey’re both great; they’re go- After more than a half-century

chester County Police Department simple desire to help people.” jured in the line of duty. Morrissey ing to be missed,”said Councilman in law enforcement, just when

helicopter. “Police o cers should be hum- referred to that incident at the Tom Garrity. Driscoll was, he joked with a re-

Driscoll himself spoke poi- ble public servants. at is the job,” Town Board’s ursday, May 13 “Big shoes to ll,” Morrissey porter last week, “getting the hang

gnantly of the importance of rec- he said. meeting. Driscoll worked for the agreed. of it,” he’s seizing the chance to

ognizing the daily personal sacri- e oath that they take to pro- NYPD in the South Bronx for 20 At the memorial Friday, Driscoll spend more time with family, espe-

ces and dedication of all police tect the public means that they years before retiring and later tak- thanked all the o cers who had cially the grandkids.

o cers. are putting themselves sel essly in ing a job with Somers police in served with, and supported, him He said he also plans to relax,

It was evident from all the hand- harm’s way, he said, referring to the 1986, 35 years ago. and “made this a great depart- enjoy hobbies such as gardening

shakes, salutes, good wishes, and rise in “active shooter”situations. “He comes to Somers — small, ment.” and reading, and do all the little

posing for pictures before and af- “ e protocol today is not to little town — he’s going to be the He then asked for a moment of spur-of-the-moment things he

part-time police o cer and winds silence for late o cers PO Larry and erese couldn’t before.

up in an incident where he tackles Hermann, Lt. Robert Stanton, PO Driscoll de nitely won’t miss

a guy with a ri e (cracking a rib in Ron Freeman, PO Walter Altvater, always missing holidays and those

the process),”he said. and Sgt. Al Stipo. middle-of-the-night calls, but he

“So he brought his street skills His own contributions to public expects to pine for his colleagues,

from the Bronx up to little old safety did not go unnoticed Friday. who he says are “a ne bunch of

Somers, and he’s been serving us Morrissey, thanking Driscoll men and women.”

ever since.” for having his back during the last ey are, he added, dedicated

Driscoll, who will “forever be eight years, read a proclamation to serving the “citizens of Somers,

known for that action,” has been that described the outgoing chief ’s especially those who can’t take care

“taking that same initiative pro- “exemplary service to our commu- of themselves” such as the isolated,

tecting this town ever since.” nity by professionally leading his disabled, or elderly.

“So Mike, you’re going to be o cers in order to ensure safety In typically modest fashion,

missed,”the supervisor added. and protect the lives of residents all Driscoll thinks he didn’t do any-

e Town Board ursday also while sacri cing their own lives.” thing any other police o cer

recognized the pending retirement e town “is fortunate to em- wouldn’t do.

of Sgt. Richard Barker, who joined ploy wonderful and hard-working “I did my job. Did the best I

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOM FOLTIN the department in 1988. police o cers, those who are the could. Got a paycheck. at’s the
Chief Michael Driscoll, along with wife Therese and sons Michael,
Eugene, Joseph, Thomas, and James. “We call him Sarge now. He’s a backbone of our community serv- way it is,”he said,adding:“ e next

wheeler and dealer for our police ing to keep us from harm and put- person will make it better.”

Cyber Ransom
Doesn’t Just Happen

to Pipelines!

Gary Forbes Chris Radding HOME, AUTO, BUSINESS, LIFE & HEALTH Call us today
914-232-7750 • www.forbesinsurance.com to learn how
The Forbes Insurance Team to protect your

business!

Page 4 – The Somers Record ELEPHANT’S TRUNK Thursday, May 20, 2021

Somers Lions Club to win $30,000 in Big Bucks or a email Vicki Durso at shsptsas- ties: speci c learning disabilities
2021 Bucking Bronco Sport, pro- [email protected] (SpLD), speech and language
The Staff
SOMERS CARES vided by Park Ford of Mahopac. Hebrew disorders, emotional/behavioral
EDITORIAL TEAM disorders, ASD or ADHD) chil-
TOM WALOGORSKY Who cares about Somers? We Tickets are available through any
EDITOR: 914-302-5830
[email protected] do, and so do you. It shows. Even Somers Lion or on our website Congregation of dren are struggling to imagine
in its beginning stage, the Somers www.somerslionsclub.org Somers how their gifted and challenged
ADVERTISING TEAM Cares initiative has helped several Tickets are $100 each or 3 for children will succeed throughout
PAUL FORHAN
families in Somers who have been $250. Proceeds from the ra e will their Bar/Bat/B Mitzvah jour-
(914) 806-3951
[email protected] hit hard by the pandemic. is new be given to local families in need, neys and during the ceremony.

BRUCE HELLER initiative that has two main goals. Friends of Karen, Blythedale ESSENCE OF SHABBAT You and your child are invited
(914) 486-7608
[email protected] e rst is to locate and assist lo- Children’s Hospital, and other lo- Saturday, May 22, from 10 - 11 to a FREE Zoom discussion with

LISA KAIN cal people in need of short term cal charities. e winner will be a.m. panelists Melissa Sornik, LCSW,
(201) 317-1139
[email protected] nancial assistance. Anyone with drawn Sunday, September 5. e community is invited to journalist Gia Miller, and Rabbi
CORINNE STANTON
(914) 760-7009 Somers High Schoolneed can apply for a Somers Cares an inspiring Shabbat event. Par- Shoshana Leis of Hebrew Con-
[email protected] ticipants will enjoy a new, creative gregation of Somers, all 2e par-
Grant via a simple form. All ap-
JAY GUSSAK plications are reviewed and veri ed PTSA and contemplative Jewish Re- ents. RSVP to ravshosh@gmail.
(914) 299-4541 by a caring and discreet committee. newal Shabbat morning practice, com for Zoom link.
[email protected]
JENNIFER CONNELLY If you or someone you know needs highlighting the essential prayers The Somers Library
(917) 446-7757 help, let us know. Go to www. SCHOLARSHIP DRIVE and Torah reading. e service
[email protected]
SHELLEY KILCOYNE somerslionsclub.org to apply. e e Somers High School will be led by the musical team of
(914) 924-9122
[email protected] second way to help is to partner PTSA is currently accepting Rabbi Shoshana Leis and Rabbi ese events are all virtual.
GABRIELLE BILIK
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/DESIGNER with us. You can join forces with donations to their Scholarship Ben Newman. Email ravshosh@ Please register on the online cal-
[email protected]
the Somers Lions to make Somers Fund. Each year, the SHS PTSA gmail.com for the Zoom link. endar at www.somerslibrary.org
PRODUCTION TEAM
TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL Cares bigger and better. For more awards up to three $1,000 schol- in order to have access to these

CREATIVE DIRECTOR information on how you can join arships to graduating seniors. ZOOM DISCUSSION programs. You will receive an in-
PHOTOGRAPHER
us, email Lion Gary Forbes at gary. ese  scholarships are intended Sunday, May 23, from 5:30 - 7 vitation prior to the start of the
[email protected]
CHRISTINA ROSE [email protected] to recognize volunteer service to p.m. webinar. e programs are fund-
ART DIRECTOR/
SHS and the community. Any Many parents of twice excep- ed by e Friends of the Library.
DIGITAL PRODUCTION MANAGER
[email protected] CHARITY RAFFLE donation amount is appreciated. tional 2e (gifted, and also at least

EXECUTIVE TEAM Get your tickets for the chance For more information, please one of the following disabili- NAVIGATING THROUGH
BRETT FREEMAN
CEO & PUBLISHER SMARTPHONES TEEN TECH
845-208-8151
FOR SENIORS
[email protected]
ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES. Saturday,May 22,from 10:30-
Deadlines 11:30 a.m.
Tech Support for Senior Citi-
THE SOMERS RECORD DEADLINE zens is presented by e Somers
THE DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISEMENTS
EXPERT HELP. Tech Teens Sean Kim, Nicholas
AND EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS FOR Maurantonio and Jay Wilkinson.
e team will be helping senior
SOMERS RECORD IS THE THURSDAY citizens through this webinar pre-
BEFORE THE NEXT PUBLICATION DATE.
sentation in collaboration with
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
CALL TOM WALOGORSKYR AT the Somers Library. ey will ad-
914-302-5830 OR EMAIL
[email protected]. dress issues and questions about

Subscribe using Smartphones submitted by

TO REQUEST THE SOMERS RECORD participants ahead of the webinar.
WEEKLY DELIVERY, CALL 845-208-8503
OR EMAIL [email protected]. Important: In order to focus on
SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE COMPLIMENTARY FOR
RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES IN THE TOWN. the issues that participants are
OUT OF TOWN MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE
$150 PER YEAR FOR FIRST CLASS MAIL. most interested in learning about,

PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT we urge you to submit questions
SOMERS, NY AND AT
prior to the webinar at www.si-
ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
POSTMASTER: tenotes.wixsite.com/techteens

SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO (please submit your questions by
THE SOMERS RECORD AT
lling in the form located under
118 N. BEDFORD ROAD
SUITE 100 the Tech Support tab on this

MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 website). Registration is required;

(ISSN 2330-1597) please register on our online
PUBLISHED WEEKLY BY
HALSTON MEDIA, LLC AT events calendar at www.somer-
118 N. BEDFORD ROAD
slibrary.org or call the library at
SUITE 100
MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 232-5717. You will receive an
©2021 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC
• EXCEPTIONAL SELECTION OF HIGH QUALITY TILE & MOSAICS email prior to the meeting with a
Zoom invitation.

• KITCHEN & BATH CABINETS STOCK & CUSTOM VIRTUAL POETRY READING
• COUNTER TOPS: QUARTZ, GRANITE & MARBLE WE THE POETS POETRY

• SHOWER DOORS & MEDICINE CABINETS GROUP
Saturday, June 12, 10 a.m. - 12

• DESIGN SERVICE AVAILABLE p.m.
Please join We the Poets, a

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY poetry group facilitated by ea
Schiller and sponsored by the
361 Route 6 • Mahopac, New York Somers Library, for our annual
poetry reading. We the Poets

845-628-4100 has been a vibrant poetry writing
group at the library since 2015.

www.samsceramic.com All participants have varied po-
etic voices in their poems as well
No Need To Pick Up & Carry Your Own Tile, WE DO IT ALL! as important messages and ways
of sharing their life experiences.

DELIVERY AVAILABLE SEE TRUNK PAGE 35

Thursday, May 20, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 5

Does Selling Make Sense?

Five Questions You Should Ask When
Considering Selling Your Home.

Today's housing market presents considerable opportunities 4. How is the housing supply in your neighborhood?
for both sellers and homebuyers. The demand for homes is Demand for homes is high and there are currently not
high and now that prices are stabilizing, and in many cases enough sellers for potential buyers. Have you noticed there
increasing, across much of the country, it may be the right is only a spattering of for sale signs in your neighborhood?
time to consider taking advantage of the market and selling And more importantly - have you noticed how quickly those
your home. While potential homebuyers are aware of the sale pending signs are posted? With fewer homes on the
positive impact of historically attractive low interest rates, market, there is more competition for yours, which could
we're seeing many sellers who are confused and concerned mean more offers and potentially more money.
whether now is indeed the right time to put their home on
the market. If this is the fence that you're sitting on, here are 5. Are interest rates attractive? A low interest rate means
five questions to help you decide if now is the right time to lower mortgage payments on your next home, even if it is in
make a move: the same price range.

1. Have you built equity in your home? Home equity can
be defined as the value of a home, minus the amount of
outstanding debt. Although equity does not generally
develop in the first few years of home ownership, five
or more years of home payments may create significant
unrealized gains. Any equity you may have can be used to
move up to a larger home or as a comfortable nest egg if
you’re nearing retirement and considering downsizing.

2. Has your income or financial situation improved?
You should consider your overall financial situation,
including current and future expenses, in order to make an
educated decision on a price range for a new home. For
example, an increase in salary may allow for an increased
mortgage.

3. Has your lifestyle changed? Lifestyle changes are one of
the most common reasons people choose to move. Starting
or adding to a family may require an extra bedroom or
additional square footage. A desire to live closer to work
or family may provide the motivation for a home in a new
town. Or now may be the time to downsize to a home that
requires less upkeep.

If you’re thinking about selling
contact me today!

Marcie Nolletti

COLDWELL BANKER REALTY

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
NY & CT
338 Route 202 | Somers, NY 10589

Cell: (914) 424-5545

[email protected]
marcienolletti.com

2020 Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are
the registered service marks owned by the Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

Page 6 – The Somers Record Thursday, May 20, 2021

Cannabis public Flora finds
hearing set for smiles

June 10 “Look, she found one!” exclaims a rst-grade

student on the playground at Primrose Elemen-

tary School.

BY CAROL REIF ational marijuana possession,sale,and e children are watching as Flora, an explo-

STAFF WRITER cultivation by adults 21 and older. sives detection dog, goes to work to nd the ob-

Under state law, while consump- jects placed around the playground by her han-

e community will be asked to tion of pot is legal, municipalities can dler, Sergeant Frank Pagliuca of the Westchester

weigh in next month whether Somers still refuse to allow its retail sale. ose County Police Department. e visit and demon-

should forego allowing recreational municipalities that “opt-out” will not stration at Primrose is part of the police depart-

marijuana to be sold in town. share in any tax revenues generated by ment’s community outreach program.

A public hearing on the proposed marijuana sales. “One of the things I love about the job is show-

local law is set for 7 p.m. on ursday, e state has predicted that pot ing what Flora can do. It thrills the children, and

June 10. sales could rake in $350 million in tax they relate her to their dogs at home,” says Pa-

e legislation would amend the revenue and create thousands of new gliuca. ”When they see a dog that actually works PHOTO COURTESY OF SOMERS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
and they understand that a dog can do things that
town code to “opt-out” of retail can- jobs. Flora, an explosives detection dog, and her

nabis dispensaries or on-site con- It could be taxed at 13 percent, are beyond what a human can do, it’s a thrill to handler, Sgt. Frank Pagliuca of the Westchester

sumption — or lounges — under of which 9 percent would go to the me.” County Police Department, share smiles during

Article 14 of the New York State state, 1 percent to counties, and 3 A student in Keri Cash’s class raises her hand. a demonstration of Flora’s investigative skills.

Cannabis Law. percent to municipalities. “My grandfather has two German Shepherds,

It is subject to a permissive referen- Municipalities have until Dec. 31 and they are really good dogs,”she tells Pagliuca.

dum, a procedure which is governed to adopt local “opt-out” laws. ose “German Shepherds are used by police to do Primrose’s School Resource O cer, Brian

by the Municipal Home Rule Law. that take that path can reverse their all sorts of things,” says Pagliuca, “Including ap- Pavletich, arranges the canine unit visits, as

is means that if there is a petition decisions in the future. prehension, narcotics detection, and tracking.” well as the upcoming helicopter landing on the

circulated in town, and enough folks Legalization opponents point Flora is used mostly for safety and security Primrose playground.

sign it, then the legislation would to health and safety concerns, with sweeps, and as a visual deterrent to crime, espe- “ ese kinds of events show a di erent side

have to be presented to the public for some calling marijuana a “gateway cially at Westchester County airport. of policing and allow us to develop relationships

a vote. If adopted, it would take e ect drug.” “Go make her nd something,”a boy pleads. with the kids,” says Pavletich. “You can see how

immediately upon being led with It is still illegal to drive under the Flora races o to a box placed under a basket- happy they are anytime we bring a dog here, or

the state. in uence of marijuana. e new law ball hoop and bounds back to Pagliuca with her a helicopter. Seeing all the smiles is awesome.”

Municipalities are mulling the also requires the state Department of tail wagging wildly.

“opt-out” option in reaction to the Health to come up with ways to de- “See how di erently she acts when she’s done Content provided by Somers Central School

state’s recent legalization of recre- tect recent use. her job?”Pagliuca asks the kids. District.

Celebrating

oFfrFeisxh-eUnp-sU, pTso&ucMh-oUrep!s,

Sign up for a chance to In store or virtual color and design consultations are available.
Ask our professional window design experts about window
WIN A $100 GIFT CARD coverings including blinds, shades, shutters and draperies.

Visit wallauer.com for store locations

Offer valid for 25% off retail coupon only on exterior stain Benjamin Moore Arborcoat at Wallauer retail stores. Product supply may vary from store to store. Subject to availability. Offer cannot be combined with other
offers, discounts, or promotions, or applied toward prior purchases. Retailer reserves the right to terminate, cancel or modify this offer at any time without notice. Offer expires June 5th, 2021 Benjamin Moore & Co.
Benjamin Moore, and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co. 12/19

Our family has been serving yours since 1921 in Westchester, Putnam & Rockland Counties. • SHOP ON LINE, PICK UP IN-STORE • shop.wallauer.com













Thursday, May 20, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 13

1952 Route 6
Carmel, NY

SALES EVENT GOING ON NOW!

OOPPEENNTTHHIISSSSUUNNDDAAYY MMAAYY2233 ffrroomm1111aammttoo44ppmm!!

See dealer for details. All rebates included. Leases includes GM loyalty. Must finance with GMF. Must qualify for rebates. Leases are 10k per year with $3998 down, plus 1st
payment, dmv and bank fee due at signing. Must qualify for tier 1 credit. Residuals: Terrain 9144/192412, Acadia 11916/23121 and Sierra 15552/30972. Not responsible for

typographical errors. Vehicle pictures for illustration purposes only. See dealer for details, Restrictions apply. Tax and reg extra. Ends 5/31/21.

Page 14 – The Somers Record OPINION Thursday, May 20, 2021

Modern Lilith, poetry,
comfort—
in any and me
season.
THE Reading poetry is good for
The most e cient way SEASONED the soul. It makes us think and
to heat AND cool CITIZEN feel at the same time. I’ve shared
the rooms you live in, some of my own poems with you
without wasting energy ADRIENNE during our time together and
in the rooms you don’t. KAVELLE today, instead of my usual com-
mentary, I speak as a minstrel
And, with NY utility Poetry is the music of and not as a columnist.
rebates, there has never words. We have William
been a better time to Shakespeare, the ultimate In ancient writings Lilith was
upgrade to a whole-home poet; Robert Frost, whose poetry supposed to be Adam’s rst wife,
heat pump. sings; Ogden Nash, who plays fashioned by God as an equal to
with words and makes us laugh; her companion in the Garden of
Rebate based on system capacity. and Edgar Allen Poe, who gives Eden. Adam, according to lore,
us deep and mysterious poems. rejected her and preferred Eve,
Poets can write in rhyme or in created as a lesser person from
blank verse, but it is the rhythm one of his ribs. Here now is my
of the words that create a poem. poetic version of Lilith. Enjoy!

Lilith stamped her foot
and ew o into the

night.
Adam,
that holier-than-thou

lump of clay,
standing with his thumb in

his mouth
afraid to make waves.

He deserved Eve,
simpering, kowtowing,

frigid Eve.
(Who would have guessed

she had it in her?)

Lilith watched them
trying to hide their

nakedness
from God
and from each other.

She would have taught him
the freedom of equality,

the essence of life in a
pastoral garden.

She was not bent on de-
struction,

only the fellowship of man
and woman

facing the odds togeth-
er.

But he chose what he
thought was the easy way.

Well, that will teach him . . .
and Lilith once again

ew o
To await childhood’s end
and the dawn of reason.

Adrienne Kavelle

© 2020 Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US LLC Contact Us
The Somers Record is located
at 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite
100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549.
You can contact us at 914-302-
5830 or email somersrecord@
halstonmedia.com.





















Thursday, May 20, 2021 LEISURE The Somers Record – Page 25

CLUES ACROSS 22. Glows 55. Nocturnal S. American 14. Forest resident For puzzle solutions, please see
1. Prevents harm to young 25. Measures how quickly a theparamountrehab.com
5. “Losing My Religion” car moves rodent 19. The body needs it
rockers 30. One who has gained
8. Partner to pan wealth 56. Frost 23. Atomic mass unit (abbr.)
11. Cavalry unit 31. Patti Hearst’s captors
13. Peyton’s little brother 32. Extensive landed 57. Ethiopian town 24. Spell
14. Mexican dish property
15. Disseminates info to the 33. Male aristocrat 59. Curved shapes 25. Relaxing place
public 38. For each
16. Set an animal on 41. More fidgety 60. Company that rings 26. Political fundraising tool
17. Canadian flyers 43. Very happy
18. Elongated mouths of 45. A place to store info receipts 27. Make a mistake
anthropods 47. Helps to heal
20. I (German) 49. 12th month (abbr.) 61. Spiritual leader 28. Partner to Adam
21. Opposite of west 50. Broad, shallow craters
62. Sheep native to Sweden 29. Tyrant

63. Cars need it 34. Unit of electrical

64. Partner to relaxation resistance

35. A history of one’s life

CLUES DOWN 36. Actor DiCaprio

1. Scientist’s high-resolution 37. Sea eagle

tool (abbr.) 39. Avoiding being caught

2. Type of school 40. __ de Mornay, actress

3. Formal close (music) 41. Belonging to a thing

4. Transmits high 42. Not us

voltage 44. Motorcars

5. A way to occupy a 45. Capital of Bangladesh

certain area 46. Ancient Greek sophist

6. Draws out 47. Practice boxing

7. His Airness 48. __ Grant, actor

8. Nocturnal rodents 51. Swiss river

9. South American 52. S. Sudan river

plants 53. A bumpkin

10. Homestead 54. One point south of

12. Bland or semiliquid southwest

food 58. Small island (British)

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!

How to find more time to read

Avid readers know that a good book can bene t readers in a unique way. A 2009

be a great escape. In addition to being a study from researchers at the University of

go-to hobby on rainy days and a great way Sussex found that six minutes of reading

to get away from the daily grind, reading before bed reduces stress by 68 percent.

can have a profound impact on mental • Listen to books while commuting.

health. While it takes some getting used to, lis-

A 2013 study published in the journal tening to audiobooks is another way to

Brain Connectivity used MRI scans to indulge in a good book. ough various

measure the e ects of reading on the brain. studies have suggested audiobooks can

e scans showed that reading not only lead to lower levels of reading comprehen-

triggered brain connectivity while read- sion than reading traditional print books,

ing, but also continued to do so for days people with hectic schedules may need

afterward. to give a little to get a little. Professionals

e dawn of a new year is widely seen with long commute times can turn their

as a great time for people to make positive daily drives to and from the o ce into

changes, and many of those are rooted in opportunities to listen to audiobooks. It

personal growth. If that personal growth might not be quite the same as reading a

involves reading more, then the following print book, but it’s still a great way to dive

are some ways people can nd more time into a good story.

to get away with a good book. • Turn the television o . Data collected

• Take a book to the gym. Weightlifting from Nielsen in 2018 found that the aver-

and reading might not be a match made in age adult now spends nearly six hours per

heaven, but taking an e-reader along with day watching television, videos on a smart-

you to the treadmill, elliptical or exercise phone or tablet and/or videos on devices

bike can be great way to pass the time connected to their televisions. Adults who

while breaking a sweat. Instead of ring up want to nd more time to read may need

a streaming service during your cardiovas- to just turn o their televisions and devices

cular workout, bring an e-reader and read and spend more time reading than watch-

a book. at can make your workout twice ing videos.

as bene cial because you’ll be working out Reading more can be a great way to

your body and your brain at the same time. grow as a person and that growth can have

• Hit the books before bed. Many people a profound e ect on readers’ overall health.

nd time to read right before going to bed

each night. Reading before bed is a great Content provided by Metro Creative

time to get some reading in, and it also can Connection.

Page 26 – The Somers Record Thursday, May 20, 2021

GRADUATION ians only. However, the district are SHS students. No outside Other senior celebrations You can win
FROM PAGE 1 big and be
plans to “make every e ort” guests will be allowed. e dis- included  a hike and scavenger a winner, no
matter what
to accommodate any families trict will be using prom tables hunt, movie night, tile project,
is is an exciting time of year
hold two smaller commence- that need additional tickets for to make up friend groups. Any time capsule planting, senior for the Somers Lions. 

ment ceremonies on Wednes- stepparents or other guardians. student who is not attending convocation, and community Not only is summer on the
horizon, with the promise of
day, June 23; one from 1-3 p.m. is does not include grand- prom should notify the school car parade. ere is also a sports Memorial Day celebrations in
the very near future, but it is also
and the other from 5-7 p.m. parents, siblings, or other family of their friend groups separately. awards ceremony and a “Names the time of year when we host
our biggest fundraising event.
Rather than splitting the members. “We will do our very best to Project,” where seniors’ names
e Somers Lions Charity Car
class up alphabetically, it has e ceremony will be assure that all student requests are displayed on a digital sign in Ra e is our way to not only
raise money for the charities we
told students they can identify streamed on LocalLive so oth- are met,” SHS Principal Mark front of SHS. support, but to give away BIG
BUCKS! Purchasing a ticket or
up to 10 classmates with whom ers can watch from home. Bayer said. Bayer noted that the district tickets to the car ra e gives you
an opportunity to win $30,000
they’d like to graduate. e senior prom is set for Fri- Prom plans include photo planned to monitor changes in cash or a brand new Buck-
ing Bronco Sport, sponsored
is will ensure that friend day, June 11, starting at 6 p.m. opportunities, dazzling lights, in state Department of Health by Park Ford Mahopac.  Other
monetary prizes are also avail-
pods are assigned to the same at particular teen rite of pas- and a “fantastic” DJ to play the guidelines and would make ad- able.

ceremony. sage was canceled last year. seniors’ favorite songs. ere justments if the current restric- In past years, the car ra e has
been the culminating event of
Each grad will be given two It is only open to SHS se- will also be individually pack- tions are loosened. our Independence Day Block
Party, a huge town celebration
tickets for parents or guard- niors and underclass guests who aged, gourmet meals to chow In a “Tusker Talk” podcast with music, rides, kid’s games,
food trucks and of course, re-
down on. last month, schools Superinten- works.  Unfortunately, due to
Covid-19, we are still unable to
Attendees at either gradu- dent Dr. Raymond Blanch had celebrate in the way that we have
been accustomed to. is does
ation or the prom must pro- remarked that it was “nice” to not change the fact that there
are charities and families in dire
duce either a negative PCR nally be able to discuss more need of our help. 

test taken within 72 hours of normal graduation plans. Amazing organizations such
as BluePath Service Dogs, Bly-
the event, a rapid test within He said he could visualize thedale Children’s Hospital, My
Brother Vinny, Guiding Eyes for
six hours of the event, or proof “our grads walking over from the Blind, Friends of Karen, and
Hudson Valley Make-A-Wish
of full vaccination (within no the high school to Primrose are just a few examples of the
charities that are helped through
less than 14 days of the event). where many started their ca- our car ra e fundraiser.  We
also help local families in need,
is means that seniors or reers with us.” people right here in our home-
town who are struggling quietly
guests who plan to get vac- “It’s getting closer to where to take care of their families, put
food on the table, pay their bills
cinated must do so by Friday, we used to be — not fully, but it or medical expenses, and many
who are su ering silently with
May 28. feels really good,” Blanch added. no other means of support.

What separates us You can help! It’s simple, just
from other accountants and tax preparers is purchase a ticket. You can even
our ability to work with you not just on taxes, get a couple of friends, family
but on financials, college planning, divorce, members or co-workers to go
retirement planning, changes in life planning... in with you on the ticket. Your
generosity helps us to raise valu-
We don’t just process tax forms, we advise on how to able funds.  All proceeds from
handle your income and expenses in the future the ra e go to charity.  Tickets
with personalized recommendations. are available through any Lion
Member or through our web-
We help you navigate the tax code, and in the end, help you site.  We want to thank you in
advance for your support and
set sound financial goals. wish you the best of luck in win-
ning the Big Bucks or the Buck-
845-628-5400 ing Bronco!  e winning tickets
will be drawn on Sunday, Sep-
SFGtaxes.com | [email protected] tember 5.

824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 For more information on who
we are and how we serve, visit
Securities offered through Cantella & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Cantella and Co., Inc. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. www.somerslionsclub.org
This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or

accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction.

Thursday, May 20, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 27

Byrne hosts first “Trailblazing with Byrne” of 2021 in Somers

Assemblyman Kevin Byrne Upcoming Trailblazing with

(R,C,I,SAM,ROS-Mahopac) Byrne and Co ee with Kevin

is pleased to report the suc- events are as follows:

cessful completion of his rst May 22

Trailblazing with Byrne and Co ee with Kevin

Co ee with Kevin event on 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Sunday, May 2. e event gar- Trailblazing with Byrne

nered participation from a wide 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

array of Somers constituents, Tonetta Lake Trailhead

including participation from (Southeast Town Park) 

Tom Garrity, Somers deputy 192-198 Pumphouse Rd.,

town supervisor, and Anthony Brewster NY 10509

Cirieco, Somers town coun- June 5

cilman, in addition to one of Co ee with Kevin

Byrne’s Assembly colleagues 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

from across the Hudson River, Trailblazing with Byrne

Assemblyman Colin Schmitt 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

( R , C , I , LB T, S A M - N e w Mt Hope Rd Trailhead

Windsor). (Across from Mahopac Li-

Byrne met with constituents brary) 

both virtually and in-person PHOTO COURTESY OF THE OFFICE OF ASSEMBLYMAN KEVIN BYRNE Mt. Hope Rd., Mahopac

at the Jilco Window Corpo- Byrne met with constituents at the Jilco Window Corporation in Granite Springs. NY 10541

ration’s parking lot in Gran- June 26

ite Springs for an hour of Q & A, which was also live- “It’s important to keep in contact with our neighbors 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

streamed on YouTube, before taking an hour-long walk about the issues that matter most to them. Fortunately, Co ee with Kevin

along the Empire State Trail in Somers to continue the this type of event provides me an additional opportunity 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

discussion, promote healthy living and take in the natural to safely engage with members of our community both Trailblazing with Byrne

beauty. Topics of discussion included education, election in-person and virtually. Not only did we get the chance 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

law, conservation, infrastructure, executive powers, the to discuss a wide variety of important issues, but we also Yorktown Town Hall Trailhead (Behind the Town

growing list of scandals surrounding Governor Cuomo got some fresh air, exercise and enjoyment from viewing Hall near memorial) 

and more. ose who participated brought value to the the natural beauty along northern Westchester’s portion 363 Underhill Ave., Yorktown Heights NY 10598

conversation while remaining considerate of each other’s of the Empire State Trail. I’d like to thank Jilco Window

space, doing their best to adhere to all current pandemic Corporation for allowing us to use their parking area to Assemblyman Byrne represents NY’s 94th Assembly District, which

restrictions and social distancing requirements. host the beginning of this event. I look forward to doing includes portions of Putnam and Westchester counties. Byrne is the

“ ank you to everyone who participated in our rst similar events in the other towns within the 94th Assem- ranking minority member of the Assembly Committee on Health,

Trailblazing with Byrne event of the year,” said Byrne. bly District.” serves as chair of the Assembly Minority Program Committee.

845.628.3924

719 R7t19eR.O6bUTe,EeM6a•naMdhAjaHoOypP.cAaoCcmN,Y N105Y41 10541
845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com

MMEeMmOoRrIiaAlLDDaAyYSSaAvViInNgGsS

Stay Local

Take $25.00 off

Your Next Service Call

Mention ad for discount. Valid on calls 1+ hours. Valid 5/20/21-6/2/21

*VFaloidroAn lclaYllos u1 hroPurluomr mboirne g• ,CGouaposn, Hexepiaretsin5g/31&/18
Water Treatment Needs

Call Bee 5&7YeJaras oyf EPxcleullemncbeling For
All Your Plumbing, Heating &

Water Treatment Needs

Page 28 – The Somers Record Thursday, May 20, 2021

Israel’s champion of
Women’s Rights to address

Jewish community

Livestream scheduled for May 23

Anat Hoffman wears a new tallit made for Anat Ho man, a renowned advocate of gender equality in Anat a new handmade tallit as a gift, and why not one already
her by Cantor Deborah Katchko-Gray of the State of Israel, is the guest speaker Sunday, May 23, at brown, although with beautiful earthy colors.
Congregation Shir Shalom. 11 a.m., in a livestream hosted by Congregation Shir Shalom
of Westchester and Fair eld Counties (CSS). To receive the “I thought it would be symbolic,” she continued, “that the
Zoom event link, contact o [email protected]. brown stains have been replaced with a tallit sent with love
and admiration for her bravery and conviction that women
Ho man is Executive Director of the Israel Religious Ac- should be able to pray as they wish at our holy Kotel.”
tion Center (IRAC), the legal advocacy arm of the Reform
Movement in Israel, and Board Chair of Women of the Wall. at symbolic gift began a relationship between the two
women that led to Ho man’s May 23 speaking engagement,
Based in Israel, Women of the Wall is a multi-denomina- at the invitation of Shir Shalom.
tional Jewish feminist organization whose goal is to secure the
rights of women to pray at the Western Wall (also called the In her role as head of Israel Religious Action Center, Anat
Kotel) by singing, reading aloud, and wearing religious gar- Ho man has fought and won recognition of Reform and
ments, none of which is tolerated by Israel’s Orthodox Jews. In Conservative conversions by the state, and led the struggle
addition to gender segregation, there are restrictions in Israel against gender segregation in the public domain, including on
on non-Orthodox practices observed by the Conservative and buses and airplanes.
Reform movements.
An Israeli born in Jerusalem, Ho man has dedicated her
After her distress at seeing Ho man’s prayer shawl (tallit) adult life to the Jewish principle of tikkun olam, which liter-
stained by co ee thrown at Ho man’s back, while praying at ally means “repairing the world.”
the Wall, CSS Cantor Deborah Katchko-Gray decided to
knit her a new, brown tallit. She was Israel’s swimming champion (as a teen); served on
Jerusalem’s city council for 14 years as leader of the opposition
“When I saw the co ee-stained tallit,” says the Cantor, who to the ultra-Orthodox administration; and was named Person
has hand-stitched tallitot for 30 years, “I thought I must send of the Year by the newspaper Haaretz, in 2013. She was se-
lected as one of the 50 most in uential Jews by Jerusalem Post
While praying at Jerusalem’s Western Wall, Anat Hoffman’s in 2014, and in 2018 was included among Israel’s top women
tallit was stained by coffee thrown at her back by an opponent activists, by the newspaper Globes.
of women’s rights regarding religious observance.
She has degrees in psychology from UCLA and from Bar-
PHOTO COURTESY OF CONGREGATION SHIR SHALOM Ilan University, in Israel.

CLARK ASSOCIATES RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL
FUNERAL HOME CLEAN-OUTS

Dumpster on Wheels! Driveway Friendly!

Serving all Faiths since 1858 WE SPECIALIZE IN 10-15 YARD
DUMP TRAILER CONTAINERS.
Cremations and Burials

FUNERAL PREARRANGEMENT

Both pre-payment and no-payment options

• Only 1/4 mile from 684 exit 6. • Only 1 block from the Katonah

• Less than 60 minutes from N.Y. City. • Railroad station.

• Parking facilities for over 100 cars. • Monuments & inscriptions available. SAME DAY LABOR
SERVICE AVAILABLE
4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah • (914) 232-3033 WC LICENSED
AND INSURED UPON
REQUEST

www.clarkassociatesfuneralhome.com Michael Procopis

DANIEL B. McMANUS ~ Proprietor BRUCE E. REISDORF ~ Licensed Manager [email protected] • 914-703-2626
JOSEPH M. MCMANUS ~ Director RONALD P. CERASO ~ Director
MARISA A. GIULIANO ~ Director ADNER J. MONTENEGRO-LEE ~ Director FIND US | FOLLOW US

Thursday, May 20, 2021 The Somers Record – Page 29

HOOPS guidelines for participating in a Contact Us
The Somers Record is located at 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You
FROM PAGE 8 high-risk sport. Patrons will be can contact us at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected].

asked to “register” with the Parks

in other settings as well.” and Recreation Department.

Mitchell added that he was not · Players must send an email

“discounting” the severity of the to  [email protected]  with

pandemic, but still felt that town their name, email, and mobile

o cials should not ignore the po- phone number.

tential mental and social impact · e registration system is in-

not having this type of outlet was tended to establish a means of

making on kids. communicating with court users

“ ey are not a resilient as many and to help them “self-regulate.”

think,” he wrote. Repeated non-compliance could

Meanwhile, the Parks Board, result in the courts being closed Russell Girolamo Jr Stephanie Girolamo Burke Jennifer Thorp Gregory Bell

which is made up of volunteers again.

and only acts in an advisory ca- · During the hours in which the

pacity, reportedly became the tar- park is sta ed:

get of attacks on a certain social § e monitoring of the courts

media site. will be done by park sta when

at prompted a response from available and “self-monitoring” as

chairman Kevin Westerman, who, is the case with other areas of the

at the board’s ursday, May 13, park. 

meeting read a lengthy statement § e town may reposition, if Auto | Home | Business | Life
Let us help you protect what’s most important.
clarifying that the board had nev- necessary, surveillance cameras to
914-962-9777 • www.girolamoagency.com
er suggested that it was up to the help parks sta observe activity on

public “to resolve the issue.” the courts.

It had, he insisted, let it be · During o -hours, 3:30 p.m. to

known that if anyone had had an park close:

idea for resolving the hoops prob- § Surveillance video will be

lem, the board would be “happy to used to monitor activity on the

listen and consider.” courts.

“If we had taken the opposite § Somers police will make a few

position, that we would not con- extra drive-bys, speci cally geared

sider suggestions from the public, toward the court usage.

there would be justi able outrage,” · Each day the o -hours video

Westerman said. surveillance captured will be re-

Referencing a Facebook post viewed by either park sta , Parks

(which has now been taken Board members or other volun-

down), Westerman claimed its teers.

“apparently intended purpose”was · Should the surveillance video We prioritize your case,
investigate thoroughly,
to in ame people “who have now capture violations that require ac- and help you make
sound decisions.
written angry letters to the town” tion to be taken, a warning will be

expressing anger that it “expects sent to all registered users.

the public to resolve the issue.” · Repeated refusal to ignore

is is not the rst time, he said, warnings -- or follow health

that issue “people have tried to fo- guidelines -- will result in the

ment outrage by mischaracteriz- courts being closed down tempo-

ing facts.” rarily or, if necessary, longer.

“ is unproductive negative · e “registered users” will be

energy has no place in our com- “somewhat based” on an honor

munity,”Westerman added. system. However, if only a few

Parks Board members voted people register and dozens more

unanimously ursday to recom- continue to show up, the town will

mend to the Town Board that the be forced to consider closing the

rims be returned, not “because courts again.

of the nastiness” but because it e Parks Board acknowl-

“worked the issue, as it works all edged that the unscrupulous

of their issues,” he explained. might provide fake names and

“People volunteer for this board numbers -- and that not every-

because they know that these ser- one will register -- but said it

vices are important to the town is still determined to establish

and we want the parks and facili- “some means of monitoring and We are open and
ready to assist you.
ties to be used as much as they can communicating.”
LAW OFFICES OF JOSEPH J. TOCK
be safely used,” he concluded. It also reminded everyone that
963 Route 6, Mahopac, NY 10541
e proposed solution is: its recommendation is “subject
TOCKLAW.COM • 800-869-8080
· Parks and Recreation will to modi cation or repeal as CO-

post signs at the Reis courts with VID-19 circumstances warrant.”

ELEVATORS • STAIR LIFTS • WHEELCHAIR LIFTS • RAMPS

• Sales • Rentals • Service • Buybacks

StaNyewinantdheRehcoonmdietioynoeduLLifotsve!

Locally Owned & Operated

Visit Our Display Center: 747 Pierce Road, Clifton Park, NY, 12065