Yorktown News 07.20.2023

Officials seek federal aid for storm damage Underhill Farm project approved VOL. 12 NO. 20 THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 19 CLASSIFIEDS 18 LEGAL NOTICES 18 LEISURE 17 OBITUARIES 6 OPINION 8 SPORTS 16 TOWN GREEN 2 Hart Library Corner pg 7 BOOK IT! Visit TapIntoYorktown.net for the latest news. Summer is a special time in Yorktown! Whether the community is enjoying an outdoor movie under the stars, a day at the lake, or a good oldfashioned barbecue, there is never a shortage of things to do in our town! Read more about the summertime happenings in Yorktown on page 10! Summer in Yorktown The community enjoyed an evening under the stars at the first Summer Movie Night. PHOTO: SOPHIA CASELNOVA BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER After numerous meetings and much discussion within the community, the Underhill Farm project was approved on July 17. The Planning Board adopted a resolution approving the site plan, special use permit, stormwater pollution prevention plan, and tree permit for the mixed-use development slated for the 13.8 acre property at 370 Underhill Avenue; the former Soundview Preparatory School. The Underhill Farm Project proposes a mixed-use development that includes 80 condominium units, 48 townhouses, a 32- unit 55+ senior restricted condominium building, a mixed-use building consisting of 68 apartments, and a 15,600 square foot retail and office space. In addition to the housing developments, renovation and road improvements for the intersection of Route 118 and Underhill Avenue have also been proposed. The project is being handled by developers Unicorn Contracting Corporation. The board also adopted a Negative Declaration on the environmental effects of the project. Despite the project’s site plan approval, further plans in the project still have to be submitted to the board, including use of the mansion on the property. The Planning Board will serve as the lead agency in this project. State and local leaders join in bipartisan push for help BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER In the wake of last week’s massive flooding throughout the Hudson Valley, a bipartisan group of state and local officials is urging the federal government to help with what is expected to be a long and costly recovery effort.  While estimates are still being assessed, officials believe recovery costs will be in the millions. “Our families, small businesses, and municipalities are suffering and they need help now,” said Congressman Mike Lawler said in a July 14 release. “Our first responders, local municipalities, and state agencies have been heroically working around the clock, but it’s time for the federal government to provide the necessary relief and resources to ensure we rebuild promptly and properly.” Republican Lawler sent a letter to President Joe Biden, co-signed by Democrat Pat Ryan (NY-18), following state and local state of emergency declarations. The letter is part of a bipartisan effort to get the federal government to help the region recover from what some are calling “unprecedented” storm damage. On Sunday, a bipartisan coalition including state senators Pete Harckham and Rob Rolison and assemblymembers Matt Slater, Dana Levenberg, and Anil Beephan wrote to Biden to highlight destruction to infrastructure, including potentially health-hazardous damage to public water and sewer systems. LOCAL AND STATE DECLARATIONS On July 10, Yorktown Supervisor  Tom Diana declared a state of emergency and held a press conference at Town Hall, joined by Lawler, County Legislator Vedat Gashi, Levenberg, Slater, police Chief Robert Noble, and other town officials. SEE STORM PAGE 3 By online or mail-in rebate on a set of 4 select Goodyear® or Kelly® tires when you use the Goodyear Credit Card. Paid by Goodyear Visa® Prepaid Card or Virtual Card on purchases made 7/1 through 9/30/23 GET UP TO $150 BACK OZZY'S GOODYEAR AUTO CLINIC REBATE OFFER #230022 $39.95 OIL CHANGE INCLUDES: Conventional Motor oil wit filter, FREE tire rotation, FREE 12-point Safety Inspection OZZY’S GOODYEAR AUTO CLINIC With this coupon. Most Vehicles. Not valid with other offers or prior services. Expires 9/30/23 Go to localflavor.com for more coupons. GOOD TOWARD Any Service Repair Of $150O or More Excludes tires. Exp. 9/30/23 OZZY'S AUTO CLINIC "IT AIN'T JUST OZZY'S AUTO CLINIC and DISCOUNT TIRE TIRES" 914-739-3333 • www.ozzystireandauto.com 47 Dayton Lane, Peekskill (Beach Shopping Center) "BEST TIRES.. BEST PRICES.. BEST SERVICE..” OZZY BUCKS Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-6, Sat 7:30-5 & Sun 9:30-3

PAGE 2 – YORKTOWN NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Periodicals Postage Paid at Somers, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Yorktown News at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 (ISSN 2329-8693) Published Weekly by Halston Media, LLC at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 Halston Media, LLC The Staff EDITORIAL TEAM Tom Walogorsky Editor: 914-302-5830 [email protected] Emile Menasche Sports Editor [email protected] ADVERTISING TEAM Paul Forhan (914) 806-3951 [email protected] Bruce Heller (914) 486-7608 [email protected] Lisa Kain (201) 317-1139 [email protected] Corinne Stanton (914) 760-7009 [email protected] Jay Gussak (914) 299-4541 [email protected] Pam Zacotinsky 845-661-0748 [email protected] PRODUCTION TEAM Tabitha Pearson Marshall Creative Director/Photographer [email protected] Noah Elder Designer Bri Agosta Designer Haven Elder Designer EXECUTIVE TEAM Brett Freeman CEO & Publisher 845-208-8151 [email protected] Deadlines Yorktown News The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for Yorktown News is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected]. Subscribe To request Yorktown News weekly delivery, call 845-208-8503 or email [email protected]. Subscriptions are complimentary for residents and businesses in the town. Out of town mail subscriptions are $150 per year for First Class Mail. Your Family Car Care Center! LOCATIONS: Baldwin Place • 44 Route 118 • (845) 628-7900 Croton Falls • 1 Center St • (914) 769-3206 Visit us at www.ProperService.com For over 100 years of combined auto experience, Joe Ferone and his sta of Proper Service have been serving the community, creating releationships, and building a remarkable company with an amazing team of employees! Find out why Joe Ferone of Proper Service needs to be YOUR Go-To Automotive Service Center! Yorktown Lions Club SUMMER CONCERT SCHEDULE To be held at Jack DeVito Veterans Memorial Field at 6 p.m. July 23: Back to the Garden 1969, A Tribute to Woodstock Aug. 6: RockSteady Dance Band Aug. 20: Group De Jour Aug. 27: Military Tribute Concert with Jessica Lynn - Concert will start at 5 p.m. with special guests Alyssa Martin and The Golden Apple Chorus Yorkville Sports Association FREE OPEN PLAY Sundays, from 8:30 to 10 a.m. Free open play get togethers, including softball, for seniors (50 plus) every Sunday. To be held all summer long at Shrub Oak Memorial Park, located at 3800 Sunnyside Street in Shrub Oak. For more information, contact info@ ysaleagues.com Yorktown Repair Cafe Saturday, July 22, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Volunteer repair coaches are available to help people make all possible repairs free of charge.  Lamps, small appliances, bikes, clocks, fabrics, toys, wooden items, crockery, jewelry, computers, and electronics are welcome (limit 2 items).  Advance registration reduces wait time. Go to  www. repaircafehv.org/yorktown for info and link to SignUp form. To be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 3830 Gomer Street in Yorktown Heights. Support Connection TEAM SPIRIT CAMPAIGN Sunday, Oct. 1 Support Connection announces the launch of the “Team Spirit” campaign for their  2023 Annual Support-A-Walk. This year’s Walk will take place in FDR Park in Yorktown Heights, and in communities nationwide!  Support Connection is based in Yorktown Heights, but their toll-free and web services allow for a nationwide reach. Whether showing your support locally or from afar, you can participate in the Support-A-Walk wherever you are! The  Support-A-Walk  is held to bring attention to the needs of people affected by breast, ovarian, or any gynecological cancer  and to raise funds for Support Connection’s free cancer support programs and services for those living with these diseases. Since the organization was founded in 1996, many thousands of people locally and across the country have received help from Support Connection. The Team Spirit Campaign encourages friends, family members, co-workers, neighbors to “team up” for the Support-AWalk. Teams are groups of people who decide to participate together in any way they wish. Team activities can include seeking donations, planning fundraising activities, inviting others to participate, spreading the word about the Walk. Teams can create their own t-shirts and signs or banners to share their stories and express their inspiration for participating. Team members can live close to one another or far away. Those who can’t all be in one place can make plans to walk at the same time in different locations. It’s a great opportunity to connect with loved ones to work for a common cause. Team Spirit Awards will be presented as part of this campaign. Awards will go to: The top 3 Teams for amount raised; The top 3 Teams for number of donors; The most creative Team sign or banner. To learn more about the Support-A-Walk, or to make a donation, call 914-962-6402 or visit  www.supportconnection. org/support-a-walk TOWN GREEN SEE GREEN PAGE 5

According to Highway Superintendent Dave Paganelli, the preliminary estimates of expenditures total approximately $2 million in the Town of Yorktown.  Amongst this damage is a culvert on Old Crompond Road which will remain closed indefinitely until it can be repaired. There is an eight-inch high pressure gas main strapped to the culvert, resulting in Paganelli working closely with Con Edison representatives for continuous monitoring for leaks at the site. It is predicted that the culvert will be closed for several months, according to Paganelli. The same day, Gov. Kathy Hochul also declared a state of emergency for 44 counties, including Westchester. It will be in effect until Wednesday, Aug. 9.  In her declaration, Hochul said “affected local governments are unable to respond adequately” to the disaster, produced by the heavy rains of July 9. Hochul also activated the State Comprehensive Emergency Management and authorized state agencies, as well as the American Red Cross, to assist affected local individuals and governments. On July 12, Hochul warned the public to be aware of potential price increases in response to the aftermath of the extreme weather event and said that the emergency declaration triggered price-gouging laws.  “It is unconscionable for retailers to inflate prices as New Yorkers reel from the devastating impacts of the severe weather events across the state,” Hochul said. “As communities continue to recover from extreme flooding, I urge all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and aware of potential scammers. We will continue to do everything in our power to hold accountable bad actors who seek to take advantage of consumers in their time of need.” Hochul said a merchant might be “price gouging” when goods and services that are necessary for the safety, health, and welfare of the public see “unconscionably excessive” price increases. Also on July 12, Hochul deployed the Department of Financial Services (DFS) to provide assistance to residents and small business owners who have questions regarding insurance and how they can claim through the National Flood Insurance Program. On July 13, there was onsite support in Stony Point, and on July 14, there was onsite support in Highland Falls. Individuals can also call the DFS Disaster Hotline at 800-339- 1759 with questions. “The magnitude of destruction in the Hudson Valley from the recent storm, which I witnessed firsthand, has left residents and business owners with pressing questions about their property damages and possible avenues for assistance,” said Harckham. “The Department of Financial Services’ presence in Stony Point [last] week is much appreciated, especially with so many people needing to access available resources and establish a path forward to recovery and normal life. Gov. Hochul’s swift response to this crippling storm is commendable—we are all hard at work with recovery efforts—and I continue to be grateful to the first responders and municipal officials for their critical roles in the emergency management as well.” Hochul requested a disaster declaration from President Biden on July 14. Other local officials have since written letters to Biden to express their support in the declaration and to reinforce the needs of the municipalities that have been affected by the weather.  Lawler and Ryan’s July 14 letter to Biden called on him to immediately act on New York’s request for a major disaster declaration in response to the damage sustained across the Hudson Valley. In addition to property damage, the storm led to at least one fatality when an Orange County woman was swept away in a torrent.  Their letter highlighted that the Hudson Valley experienced as much as 8 inches of rain that washed away homes and businesses. It also noted the washedout roads, new sinkholes, and compromised culverts throughout Westchester County that will need “extensive repairs.”  “It’s time for the federal government to step up and deliver the resources needed for a successful recovery and rebuilding efforts,” Ryan said, noting the dangerous conditions faced by first responders and repair crews. “The days and months ahead will be difficult, but we will continue working and pushing alongside our partners in local, state, and federal government to deliver relief for Hudson Valley families and begin to rebuild our community.” In their own July 16 letter to Biden, the bipartisan coalition of state Senate and Assembly members said that businesses remained closed and noted that lake communities were especially hard hit. “Nearly every municipality I represent is grappling with the aftermath of the record rain we experienced,” Slater said. “Federal assistance and funding are pivotal to assist our municipalities, property owners, and businesses. The faster President Biden approves the request the sooner our communities and neighbors can rebuild.” With more heavy rains coming after the July 9 storm, Yorktown has seen more flash flood warnings and road closures over the last week. Residents can register for Nixle alerts to be notified of flood warnings, road closures, and other emergency notifications at local.nixle.com/register/ THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 3 PHOTO: COURTESY OF YORKTOWN POLICE DEPARTMENT Old Yorktown Road/Barger St. Old Crompond Road Culvert; closed indefinitely until it can be replaced PHOTO: COURTESY OF DAVE PAGANELLI BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER A 12-inch water main split on July 16, leaving part of Route 35 (Saw Mill River Road) closed until around 10 a.m. the next day. The break took place around 1 p.m. Route 35 was closed from Quaker Church Road to Greenwood Street while repair work was being done.  According to an alert released by officials, the initial break disturbed the water to a large area of Yorktown. The Yorktown Water Department and the Department of Transportation worked throughout the night to repair the broken main. The alert also stated that homes shouldn’t have experienced interruptions to their water service while the repair work was being completed. Water main break closes Route 35 STORM FROM PAGE 1 Law Office Of andres d. GiL, PLLC Honor, Integrity, Compassion, and Dignity Call Us Today At (845) 940-1110 ADG-LAW.com 973 Route 22, Suite 3, Brewster New York State Certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Business TRUST & ESTATES • WILLS • ELDER LAW • REAL ESTATE LAW OFFICE OF ANDRES D. GIL, PLLC Honor, Integrity, Compassion, and Dignity Call us today at (845) 940-1110 Scan here to visit my website

PAGE 4 – YORKTOWN NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Former U.S. Rep. Mondaire Jones has announced a bid to reclaim his old seat in the 17th Congressional District from first-term U.S. Rep. Mike Lawler, a Rockland County Republican. He is seeking the Democratic nod along with MaryAnn Carr, a former Bedford supervisor and councilwoman, and Bedford resident Elizabeth Gereghty, the former owner of a small business who gave up her seat on the Katonah-Lewisboro Board of Education in June. Jones was among those affected when the state redrew district lines in 2022. He ended up in the same district as former U.S. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney, who was then chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. Maloney, who had represented the 18th District, chose instead to run in the newly configured 17th District. In 2022, he was unseated by Lawler by a narrow 1.2 percent margin. The 17th is reportedly considered one of the most competitive in the country, with Republicans hoping to hang onto it, and Democrats hoping to regain it. Jones had been elected to the former 17th CD in 2020. The seat had been held by U.S. Rep Nita Lowey, who had later announced she wasn’t going to run for re-election. The district now covers Putnam and Rockland counties, a part of Westchester County, and a small piece of Dutchess County. Rather than run against Maloney, the outspoken progressive pivoted to the 10th Congressional District in New York City. He lost the primary to Daniel Goldman, a former federal prosecutor who went on to win the general election. An attorney and Harvard Law School grad, Jones was born in Nyack and grew up in Section 8 housing in Spring Valley. He now lives in Sleepy Hollow. His legal career experience includes working with the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Legal Policy – during Barack Obama’s tenure -- and as an attorney with the Westchester County Law Department. While in the U.S. House, he served on various committee including Ethics, Judiciary, and Education and the Workforce. Jones made history as one of the first openly gay Black congressmen. Mondaire Jones announces Congressional bid BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER Assault: June 23, 12:17 p.m. - Arrested a 51-year-old Yorktown man after responding to an alleged domestic abuse call. The defendant allegedly applied pressure to the neck of the victim which obstructed her breathing and blurred her vision. He also allegedly punched the victim in the head and face, resulting in bruising. He was arrested at the scene and was brought to YPD for processing. Judge Raniolo issued a Temporary Order of Protection and the defendant was remanded to Westchester County Jail. He was due to appear in Yorktown Court on July 11. DWI: July 2, 6:53 a.m. - Arrested an 18-year-old Peekskill resident after responding to a motor vehicle accident on Granite Springs Road. Three officers were dispatched to the report of the accident and found four individuals standing around the “heavily damaged vehicle” when they arrived on scene, one of whom was the driver. After investigation, officers found that the defendant operated the vehicle while intoxicated, unlicensed, as well as at unreasonable speeds and drove over hazard markings. The defendant was arrested and brought to YPD for processing. At YPD, it was determined that the driver had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) over .08%; the legal limit. The driver was issued tickets and had a court date at Yorktown Justice Court on July 13 for the charges of driving while intoxicated, unlicensed operation, driving over hazard markings, speed not reasonable and prudent, and driving with a BAC over .08%. Petit Larceny: July 4, 3:14 a.m. - Arrested a 54-year-old Yorktown man after receiving a report of petit larceny. An officer responded to the call and found that the defendant had allegedly stolen a key fob, a gas key, and house keys from the victim. The defendant was placed under arrest and was arraigned by Judge Raniolo. He was due back in court July 13. Grand Larceny: July 5, 8 p.m. - Arrested a 17-year-old resident of Yorktown. On July 1, YPD received report of larceny that took place on May 30 where a wallet containing four credit cards was stolen from a locket at 24 Hour Fitness. Following the theft, purchases were made with the cards. On July 5, the defendant went to YPD with a parent and admitted to taking the wallet. They were issued a Juvenile Appearance Ticket and was due to appear in the Youth Part of the Westchester County Superior Court on July 13. 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THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 5 The Schoolhouse Theater (MIS)UNDERSTANDING MAMMY: THE HATTIE MCDANIEL STORY Through July 30 “A heartbreaking story of stardom and struggle in America.” Starring multi-award winner Tina Fabrique in a one woman play with music. To purchase tickets, visit www.theschool housetheater.org Organic Yard Waste Facility Is Open Yorktown’s Organic Yard Waste Facility, 2200 Greenwood St., Yorktown Heights The town of Yorktown has “closed the loop on recycling” with the collection, processing, and giving-back of organic yard waste. The Organic Yard Waste Facility is available, without charge, to Yorktown residents delivering organic yard waste in vehicles without commercial license plates. Proof of residency is required. In addition, residents can help themselves to wood chips. This facility is also the depot for biodegradable paper leaf bags, branches, logs, and Christmas trees collected by Yorktown’s Refuse and Recycling, Parks, and Highway departments. Yorktown Grange 2023 YORKTOWN GRANGE FAIR September 8, 9, and 10 Save the dates! The 2023 Yorktown Grange Fair is stacked full of a variety of entertainment ready to delight at “Your Hometown Fair!” All around the fairgrounds and on the main stage, entertainers, musicians, and wacky contests will fill the weekend with fun for all ages. With family friendly acts, party bands, interactive activities, and a little country — the Grange Fair is the place to be. Circolo da Vinci Circolo da Vinci, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization founded in 1982 by local Italian and Italian-American residents. Their mission is to project and highlight the many positive contributions of Italians and their culture. In addition, the organization hopes to preserve the customs and culture of Italian A number of Yorktown students have been recognized for their academic achievements at colleges across the country! Graduations MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY Augustus Aryee WESTERN NEW ENGLAND UNIVERSITY Meaghan Brady Dean’s List COASTAL CAROLINA UNIVERSITY Elizabeth Fagan Maya Glynn PACE UNIVERSITY Jacqueline DeMarco WESTERN NEW ENGLAND UNIVERSITY Liam McDonald COLLEGE OF THE HOLY CROSS Anna Brown Timothy O’Callaghan Matthew Rae True Blue Student-Athlete Award HARTWICK COLLEGE Christopher Kenney Celebrating our scholars! GREEN FROM PAGE 2 SEE GREEN PAGE 6 PUBLIC DOCUMENT | OFFICIAL BUSINESS | Paid for by official funds authorized by the House of Representatives. Congressman Mike Lawler fought for – and won – passage of the bipartisan Fiscal Responsibility Act, which: March 13, 2023, Op-Ed NY Rep. Mike Lawler: Social Security and Medicare must be preserved H SAVES American taxpayers $2.1 trillion1 and caps spending at 1% over the next six years H PROTECTS Social Security and Medicare and increases funding for veterans and their families H BLOCKS $5 trillion in new taxes that targeted Hudson Valley working families and seniors H STRENGTHENS work requirements for able bodied adults without dependents to get federal benefits HUDSON VALLEY OFFICE One Blue Hill Plaza Third Floor P.O. Box 1645 Pearl River, NY 10965 (845) 201-2060 WASHINGTON, DC OFFICE 1013 Longworth House Office Building Washington, DC 20515 (202) 225-6506 lawler.house.gov/services Rep. Lawler is proving that Democrats and Republicans can work together to solve problems. (Source: 1. https://www.crfb.org/blogs/ how-much-would-fiscal-responsibility-act-save) H Congressman Lawler loves speaking with constituents about his bipartisan work with Republicans and Democrats to protect Social Security and Medicare. Lawler Franked Ad 5.65x4.91.indd 1 7/7/23 5:11 PM 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! 10% OFF Service Calls When You Present this Ad First Time Customers Only Light up your summer • Outdoor Lighting • Smart Home Setup • Electric Car Chargers • GENERATORS AND ALL OF YOUR ELECTRIC NEEDS! Progressive Animal Hospital What is the most common mismanaged condition that you see? THE ITCHY DOG! Is your pet... scratching • licking • chewing feet or having chronic skin infections? Stop treating the symptoms and find out the underlying cause with a simple blood test. Get your pet feeling better and stop the frequent trips to the vet. INDEPENDENTLY OWNED and OPERATED 268 route 202 l somers, ny 10589 914.248.6220 l progressive-vet.com Voted “Best of Somers” 2020-2023

PAGE 6 – YORKTOWN NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Excellence in Vision Care From Our Family To Yours Eye Exams Available At All Locations Most Insurance Accepted! Prescriptions Filled Contact Lenses Raymond Opticians raymondopticians.com Jefferson Valley (914) 245-1222 Mahopac/Baldwin Place (914) 621-7700 Carmel(845) 228-5800 Somers(914) 277-5656 Find other locations at 3656 Lee Road, Jefferson Valley (914) 245-1222 Pictured at the JV Office: Raymond Kolkmann Jr, Dr. Jennifer Marques, Raymond Kolkmann, Dr. Mary Lynn Schettini, Christopher Fernandes PICK-UP & DELIVERY AVAILABLE WE SERVICE ALL BRANDS OF PORTABLE GENERATORS 845-225-3503 * LAWN MOWERS * CHAIN SAWS * TRIMMERS * TRACTORS * GENERATORS * MOTORCYCLES * ATV’S * AND MORE! FACTORY-TRAINED SERVICE TECHNICIANS EAST ROAD MOTORS 58 CAROLAN RD. EAST • CARMEL, NY www.EASTROADMOTORS.com Richard Craig Mongero On Saturday, June 10, 2023, at 2:54 a.m., Richard “Rick” Mongero passed away peacefully in Wilmington, NC at New Hanover Regional Medical center. He was 80 years old. The cause of death was serious health complications from pneumonia that ultimately led to a life ending stroke. He was surrounded with his loving family by his side.  Those who knew Rick would say he lived his life to the absolute fullest – never a dull moment. He put family first, loved fast cars, and was the life of the party. Although a fiercely competitive and talented athlete, he also was a loyal and committed friend – the guy we all could count on in a time of need. Rick was a man of his word.  Rick grew up in Yorktown Heights, NY, the son of Alfred “Al” and Florence “Flo” Mongero (both deceased).  The brother of John Mongero (deceased - April 30, 2023) and Judy Mongero. Rick attended Yorktown schools.   Upon graduation from high school, he attended one year at Rider University. There he was a member of the men’s soccer team. He then transferred to the University of Miami where he obtained a  business degree in 1965.  He was a proud member of the Pi Kappa Alpha (PIKE)  fraternity and was an integral part of their powerful intramural teams in the early 1960s. Rick was awarded “Intramural Athlete Of The Year” for the entire U of M student body.   After graduation,  he moved back to Yorktown Heights, and in 1965 he married his first wife, Judy Joy, from South Florida. They had two children, Trent and Joy. Rick quickly put his business degree to work opening “The Ale House” in Yorktown, and then “The Thirsty Whale” in Jefferson Valley.  Later, he went into the athletic footwear and apparel business, owning and operating  “Yorktown Athletic” located in the heart of town across from the “Caldor Shopping Center.”  In 1988, he married his second wife, Marie Vengalli, from Lake Mohegan, NY. In the spring of 1990, Marie gave birth to Rick’s third child, Richard John Mongero. INVENTOR Rick and his close friend, Kurt Dorfi, together forever changed the sport of lacrosse.  They invented the curved lacrosse head and were awarded a patent they eventually sold to Warrior Lacrosse, an underdog company battling STX and Brine to survive in a tight niche industry.  Thanks in large part to Rick and Kurt’s patent, Warrior became a booming success and is now a top brand in the lacrosse world. Rick and his brother, John, competed at the top of Yorktown’s Modified Pitch Softball, Flag Football, and Men’s Basketball leagues under the team names: “The Ale House,” “Yorktown Travel,”  and “Yorktown Athletic.” John was an educator and coach in Yorktown Central Schools for 36 years, a mainstay in the Yorktown Parks and Recreation Department, and a member of the “AllCentury Team’’ at Roanoke College in Virginia, where he played college basketball. Throughout the 1970s, Rick coached many youth baseball teams as his son Trent grew up playing sports in the Yorktown Athletic Club (YAC).  In 1996, Rick broke away from his family’s deep roots in Yorktown Heights, NY and moved his immediate family, Marie Mongero and their son Ricky, to Wilmington, NC where he began new chapters in his life’s journey. In Wilmington, he quickly made new friends on the strong southern softball circuit. He played elite level men’s senior softball for many years, traveling the southeast playing and winning tournaments almost every weekend. Rick was a member of the first class of the Wilminton Senior Softball Hall of Fame. This is an honor that he was very proud of and humbled to receive.  In his final years, he spent much time watching his grandson, Taber Mongero, play for the UNCW Seahawks. He was a loving and committed grandfather not only to Taber but also to Kara Thompson, Shelby Hunt, Maris Mongero, and Allison Neal.   In his last year and a half of life, he spent a lot of time caring for his brother, John Mongero. They regularly attended many UNCW’s athletic events. In addition, he and John enjoyed regular weekly meals with his closest softball buddies, George Allen and RB Hunt, in Wilmington, NC. One of his greatest joys was traveling to visit his lifelong friends, especially his best friend since childhood, Mike Ambrose, in Florida.   Rick is survived by his wife Marie Mongero and his children Trent Mongero, Joy (Mongero) Neal, and Ricky Mongero. He is also survived by his sister Judy Santoni Newman and her husband Bob. His grandchildren Taber Mongero, Kara Thompson, Shelby Hunt , Maris Mongero, and Allison Neal. OBITUARIES

THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 7 heritage through informative presentations. Activities include monthly dinner meetings with guest speakers, Bocce tournament, holiday party, Person of the Year/Scholarship Journal, fundraisers, and more. This enables the organization to provide scholarships to area students of Italian descent, as well as awarding excellence in Italian language. Meetings are held on the first Monday of each month at Little Sorrento (3565 Crompound Road in Cortlandt Manner)  at 6:30 p.m. Dinner is $45. All are welcome. RideConnect Rideconnect has volunteers ready to help drive seniors to their medical appointments and assist with shopping. Services are free to seniors residing in Westchester and southern Putnam Counties. To request assistance call (914) 242-7433. Anyone wishing to volunteer for Rideconnect may do so by emailing Marietta Manoni at mmanoni@ fsw.org Library Hours: Monday – Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. Contacts: (914) 245-5262; reference@ yorktownlibrary.org,  yorktownlibrary.org. SUMMER READING FINALE Reserve this summer date - Saturday, August 5th at 5:30 p.m.! Join us to celebrate the end of our Adult Summer Reading Game with our Finale Party! Raffle Prize winners from the game will be announced. Come with your friends and family, pack a picnic and enjoy a Summer Concert on the porch with the Independence Band. We will be collecting donations for the food pantry at First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown. Please bring a non-perishable food item for donation. Don’t miss this feel-good, entertaining show that includes a little bit of everything for everyone. CALENDAR Programming Key: (F) Family (A) Adults (Y) Young Adults (C) Children’s. Please visit the library website (yorktownlibrary.org) calendar page for more information. Please register online except for drop-in programs. FRIDAY, JULY 21 (C) Music and Movement with Lori Cohen. 11 a.m. (A) Mah Jongg (Drop-in). 12:30 – 3:30 p.m. (A/Y) One-on-One Teen Tech Help (Drop-in). 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. SATURDAY, JULY 22 (C) Song and Beat Inc DrumHand Mindfulness. 10:30 a.m. (Y) Fantasy, Sci-fi & Ghosties! Oh My! Writing Workshop. 1 p.m. MONDAY, JULY 24 (A) Mah Jongg (Drop-in). 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. (C) Rock and Roll for Little Ones. Children of All Ages. 10:30 a.m. (Y) Teen Bracelet Making Craft. 3 p.m. (C) PAWS to Read with Zoey. Grades K - 5. 2 p.m. (F) Bird Friendly Gardens (Virtual). 6:30 p.m. TUESDAY, JULY 25 (A) Medicare Counseling. 10 a.m. (C) Mother Goose Time! Ages 1½ - 2½. 10:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m. (A/Y) One-on-One Teen Tech Help (Drop-in). 2 – 4 p.m. (C) All Around the World Stories and Crafts. Grades K - 3. 4 p.m.  (C) Music and Movement with Lori Cohen. 6 p.m. WEDNESDAY, JULY 26 (C) Bouncing Babies. Lapsitting babies birth on up. 10:30 & 11:30 a.m.  (A) Canasta (Drop-in Program). 12:30 p.m.  (C) Family Game Night for Children of All Ages and their Families. 5:30 p.m.  THURSDAY, JULY 27 (A) Quilting & Needlework (Drop-in). 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. (C) Toddler Time. Ages 2½ - 4. 10:30 & 11:30 a.m. (C) Quipu an Incan Knotting Technique. 4:30 p.m.  (A/Y) One-on-One Teen Tech Help (Drop-in). 5 – 7 p.m. (C) Lego Free Build (Dropin). Ages 5 and up. 5:30 p.m. (C) Oil Pastel Workshop. Grade 4 - 6. 6:30 p.m. MOST POPULAR NONFICTION IN JUNE “Spare” by Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex “The Wager” by David Grann “Young Forever” by Mark Hyman “A Fever in the Heartland” by Timothy Egan “Generations” by Jean Twenge HART LIBRARY CORNER Visit the library to get a free copy of “Book Page,” a good resource for book recommendations. It is a monthly magazine that introduces readers to the latest notable books, audiobooks, YA and children’s material, etc. Librarian Amy, who joined Hart’s staff recently, is holding the latest copy. GREEN FROM PAGE 5 ASSISTED LIVING PROGRAM COSTS ARE COVERED BY NYS MEDICAID AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY 3441 Lexington Ave Mohegan Lake, NY 10547 WHERE LUXURY MEETS AFFORDABILITY | (914) 600. 1430 | sentinelalf.com |

118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 Halston Media, LLC Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of Yorktown 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 Brett Freeman, Publisher Tom Walogorsky, Editor Tabitha Pearson Marshall, Creative Director Editorial Office: (914) 302-5830 [email protected] PAGE 8 – YORKTOWN NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 Editor’s Note Town Supervisor Tom Diana, members of the Town Board, and other elected and/or appointed officials, and all candidates for office in our coverage area have a standing invitation to send us a guest column or extended letter. The column or letter can be in response to a critique published on these pages or about any other topic of their choosing. Yorktown News remains an open forum to all parties. Town Board ‘abdicates leadership’ on garbagepickup problem Dear Editor, I am running for Town Supervisor here in Yorktown. I’ve been a small business owner for 25 years, and I raised my kids in the Yorktown school system. I love my community, and I’ve worked to give back through 15 years in Scouting and work to support new businesses in the region. What I don’t love is garbage piling up all over the Town. Garbage pickup in Yorktown is, well, garbage. And unfortunately, our Town Board could have and should have seen this coming. Competitive Carting, the new carting company selected by our board, went bankrupt in 2019 and lost a lucrative garbage contract with Westchester County for allegedly failing to pay their workers’ medical benefits. During the evaluation process, our board knew that Competitive only had two trucks - to do work that their predecessor needed seven trucks to complete. As a small business owner, I need to research and critically evaluate any highdollar decision. If, for example, I entered into a long-term contract with a client I couldn’t have confidence in, it would put my business in jeopardy. The board clearly did not do due diligence - and now, we’re seeing those consequences. Within one week of beginning their work hauling garbage in Yorktown, residents reported that Competitive missed garbage pickups, kept an inscrutable schedule, and that its trucks were breaking down or leaching black fluid throughout the town. Meanwhile, our Town Board was satisfied with Competitive’s assurances that ‘new routes’ would fix the problem. Then Competitive was fined by the Solid Waste Commission for mixing trash and recycling. This not only has obvious and terrible environmental consequences, but it is a brazen act of desperation. It clearly signals a business that is furiously trying to fulfill obligations it cannot. The board, again, did nothing.   Only last week did the board decide to act, and only after Supervisor Diana did not have his garbage picked up. With no notice, Competitive was no longer picking up trash unless it was in 32-gallon bins. I have called for the town to re-evaluate the contract - I, like many residents, have serious concerns that Competitive’s failures over the last seven months have breached it. But the board continues to abdicate leadership. I write here to encourage residents that I share their anger. It seems that this board only responds when the problem gets out of hand. On Nov. 7 this year, an alternative is available. -Jann Mirchandani Candidate for Yorktown Supervisor LETTER Does anyone care about ethics? Our elected Town Board members? The candidates running for local office in November? I’m asking because repeated calls to make our ethics law more transparent, from the Ethics Board, from former members of the Ethics Board, and from residents who have filed complaints with the Ethics Board (full disclosure: including me), have fallen on deaf ears. Silence. All around. From Town Board members, candidates, and even residents. Our Town Board has failed to publicly acknowledge reports of ethical violations sent to them by its own Ethics Board. In so doing, board members have become the arbiters of what the public may or may not know. This is not their role. As residents, we have the right to know when our town officials have violated the ethics law. Why have an ethics law at all if there are no consequences for violating it? Why bother to require town officials to abide by a set of ethical standards if the members of the Town Board are not willing to hold town officials to those standards? At the risk of sounding like a broken record, the secrecy provisions in the ethics law are only part of the problem. They’ve been highlighted in three recent guest columns in this paper: in December, April and May. The more serious problem is the apparent unwillingness of the Town Board and the candidates for local office to even consider the need to amend the law in order to make it transparent. As currently written, the ethics law states that when the Ethics Board investigates an alleged violation of the ethics law, its findings and recommendations must be submitted to the Town Board. The Ethics Board cannot make its findings public. It can’t even tell the person who filed the complaint the outcome of its investigation. While the law doesn’t prohibit the Town Board from making Ethics Board reports public, in practice, it has kept the reports secret — except when one or more board members find it to their advantage to make a report public. Consider these contrasting — and inconsistent — responses to two Ethics Board reports. In 2019, in response to a complaint filed by one Town Board member against another board member of a different political party, the Ethics Board advised the Town Board that one of its members had violated a section of the ethics law. Following the law, in a closed session with all board members present, three Town Board members (representing both political parties) voted to give a verbal warning to their colleague. But one week after the vote was taken, the fourth board member, the one who had filed the complaint, charged his fellow board members with a cover-up. Although he had no problem with the warning vote being taken in closed session, he Silence on need for ethics reform SUSAN SIEGEL GUEST COLUMNIST SEE SIEGEL PAGE 9

THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 OPINION YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 9 called for more transparency and said that Ethics Board reports should be made public. In 2021, the Ethics Board advised the Town Board (that included four members who were on the 2019 board) that a Planning Board member had violated the ethics law. But this time, the Town Board failed to take any action, at least not in public, and the report was kept secret. It was only after the Ethics Board report was leaked to the press that the Planning Board member resigned, telling the press that his resignation had nothing to do with the Ethics Board report. The Town Board did, however, hire an outside attorney (at taxpayer expense) to investigate the source of the leak. Its concern was the leak, not the violation. What, if anything, changed between 2019 and 2021? Why did the councilman who publicly called for transparency in 2019 opt for secrecy just two years later? Was it the nature of the violations? Or the political affiliation of the town officials who violated the ethics law? Or some other reason that justified a clear double standard? It’s been 12 months since the Ethics Board submitted a detailed report to the Town Board with specific language for amending certain sections of the ethics law. And it’s been seven months since its chairman appeared before the Town Board saying he hoped to meet with the board “in a month or so” to go over the changes the Ethics Board had suggested. The Ethics Board is still waiting for that meeting. And where do our local political parties and candidates for local office stand on this issue? In a May guest column that I coauthored with an eight-year former member of the Ethics Board and another resident who interfaced with the Ethics Board, we urged all candidates and both political parties to address the need for ethics reform. Silence. Despite this repeated silence, I’m not ready to throw in the proverbial towel and stop calling for ethics reform. I plan to keep on fighting. And I hope you’ll join me in this fight. The need for transparency, in all aspects of our town government, is an essential part of our democratic society. Here’s a suggestion. When candidates come knocking on your door in the coming weeks seeking your vote, ask them a simple question: If elected, will you propose amendments to bring greater transparency to our ethics law? SIEGEL FROM PAGE 8 When candidates come knocking on your door in the coming weeks seeking your vote, ask them a simple question: If elected, will you propose amendments to bring greater transparency to our ethics law?’ I never liked him. Maybe it’s because I loathe politicians, regardless of party-affiliation, who consistently traffic in angry, hatelaced rhetoric or, worse yet, wage attacks on the institutions underpinning our democracy. But this politician did both…and then some. I confess that my aversion may be somewhat personal. While I was in college and law school, I participated in demonstrations against our involvement in Vietnam. I was, therefore, exactly the type of person who this popular firebrand was referring to when he harangued against “hopeless, hysterical hypochondriacs of history.”    Yet, back in 1972, despite Vice President Spiro Agnew’s sharp tongue and uncompromising edge, his political career seemed to be on the ascent. He, along with President Nixon, had been resoundingly re-elected that November and there was every reason to believe that “Ted” Agnew was soon destined for the presidency. Given the Watergate scandal and Nixon’s precarious position, it seemed entirely possible that Agnew would not even have to wait for the next presidential election. But then the proverbial roof caved in. Cracks initially appeared far removed from the vice president, when local Maryland officials were accused of bribery and corruption. But gradually, as the investigation progressed, Agnew became the prime target. Investigators had unearthed overwhelming evidence that suggested Agnew had been involved in bribery, extortion, and cash payoffs not only while he was county executive and governor of Maryland, but also while he was vice president. When the press somehow got wind of the investigation, the vice president went to work. He knew that the best defense was a strong offense. He called a press conference and went on the attack, claiming that the whole thing was a “witch hunt” designed to enhance the careers of federal prosecutors. He called the allegations against him “damn lies” and said that he had the full support of President Nixon. Behind the scenes, Agnew used all his considerable power to scuttle the investigation. He made numerous The more things change... JAMES MARTORANO MY PERSPECTIVE SEE MARTORANO PAGE 14 Contact ANTHONY J. ENEA, ESQ. Managing Member • Fluent in Italian 914.948.1500 WHITE PLAINS • SOMERS • WWW.ESSLAWFIRM.COM • Asset Protection • Elder Law • Medicaid Applications (Nursing Home/Home Care) • Guardianships (Contested/Non-Contested) • Wills, Trusts & Estates Past Chair of Elder Law Section of NYS Bar Association “Super Lawyer” In Elder Law for 16 consecutive years Do you know what the cost of your long-term care will be if you are not eligible for Medicaid? CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500

PAGE 10 YORKTOWN NEWS – TH It happens here. GreatNorthernCatskills.com Greene County Youth Fair July 27-30 Angelo Canna Park, Cairo Summer in Yorktown! By Sophia Caselnova Staff Writer The 2023 Summer Movie Night series was kicked off on Friday, July 7, with a showing of “Top Gun: Maverick” at the Jack DeVito Veteran’s Memorial Field. Admission to the showing was free and attendees came prepared with snacks, lawn chairs, and blank The this s movie will be will be Summer M Night serie off at Vetera Gabby Ferrante, Francesca Luce, and Lilly Davey Nicolas Valdivieso, Dezi Duncan, and Sandi Duncan Isabe ready Chr the More than 120 parishioners gathered on July 16 for the St. Patrick’s Parish Picnic, one of several events planned to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the parish’s founding in Yorktown.   The Amenn family and friends enjoying the day. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BOB DIPRATO Msgr. Joseph Giandurco joined in the fun on the playground. Knights of Columbus Fr. LaFarge Council #4012 manning the grill at St. Patrick’s Parish Picnic. 125 years of St. Patrick’s! PHOTOS: SOPHIA CASE

HURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 PAGE 11 Service... Integrity... Compassion www.YorktownFuneralhome.com • (914) 962-0700 • [email protected] 945 East Main Street, Yorktown, NY 10588 Family owned and operated We began with a mission to celebrate life and serve families. There is much peace to be found here, and we invite you to find yours. Explore more. Take a tour. Read our story. Share in experiences. One touch of a button sends help fast, 24/7. alone I’m never Life Alert® is always here for me. I’ve fallen and I can’t get up! ® Help at Home with GPS! Help On-the-Go For a FREE brochure call: 1-800-404-9776 Saving a Life EVERY 11 MINUTES Batteries Never Need Charging. kets to get comfortable under the stars. ere are two more free movie nights at the field summer, with the next being on July 28. The e showing on July 28 is to be determined as it e the choice of the kids. The final movie night e on Aug. 25. Movie ies kicks an’s Field el Cross and Caroline Romero y for the movie istina, Victoria, and Brent Staley ready for movie showing BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER An annual day of family-fun took to Mohegan Lake on Saturday, July 15 with fishing derbies, hiking, Thai dancers, rock painting, Chinese floating lanterns, and an outdoor movie. Multiple events took place across the different beaches along the lake. The day was sponsored by the Mohegan Lake Improvement District. There was also a ribbon cutting for the new lake-wide aeration system that was just installed. Mohegan Highlands kids games PHOTOS: COURTESY OF KEN BELFER D.J. Steve got people up and dancing at the Mohegan Colony beach, celebrating Lake Day, the Mohegan Colony’s 100th Anniversary, and the 50th Anniversary of Hip Hop Lake Day! ELNOVA

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Offer terms and 1.855.492.6084 FREE ESTIMATE Expires 6/30/2023 Before After Make the smart and ONLY CHOICE when tackling your roof! This July 4th marked the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg. The anniversary was part of the draw for me to participate as a delegate in a convention of Braver Angels, which was held at Gettysburg College over four days following the holiday. Braver Angels is an organization formed in 2016 in response to the rising political polarization across the country. The first meeting took place in Ohio shortly after the presidential election. Attending were 11 Clinton supporters and 11 Trump supporters dedicated to the mission of bridging the partisan divide and helping depolarize the country. The symbolism of holding the event on the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War where over 50,000 Americans perished, as well as the site of Lincoln’s iconic Gettysburg address, was not lost on the organizers.   This month’s convention was triple the size of the previous gathering, drawing over 750 delegates who were equally divided between “reds” and “blues,” so their message must be catching on. All delegates were required to pick a side in order to participate. It is not your party registration that determines your side, but rather your “tendency” to vote for Democrats or Republicans. One of the group’s founders, David Blankenhorn, referred to the gathering as the largest gathering of reds and blues in equal numbers and on equal footing in this century, which I guess would be hard to disprove.  Adding to the experience was holding the event at Gettysburg College. We were housed in dorms and ate our meals in the dining hall together. The food and facilities have come a long way since I attended college. The Gettysburg campus is beautiful, and it made me nostalgic for my college days, which I did not fully appreciate at the time.  Mealtime between sessions gave opportunities to interact with the other delegates. Everyone wore their name tag with a red or blue lanyard and the state they were representing, which provided a conversational icebreaker when you sought out someone to sit with. I, like most people, sought out an opposite color to sit with. I met a teacher, a priest, a therapist, a retired scientist and a journalist, among others. I also met a couple who were celebrating their anniversary. I’m not sure that would be my wife’s idea of a romantic getaway, but different strokes for different folks.  In addition to plenary sessions with the entire convention in attendance — with speeches, presentations and musical entertainment — there were dozens of smallgroup breakout sessions and workshops with a wide range of topics from a debate about DEI to Christian Nationalism to Toxic Media.  I took part in a workshop on writing op-eds taught by the editor of Newsweek and another on improving your family political conversations taught by a family therapist. I learned that family estrangement, when a family member has cut off communication with the rest of the family, is an epidemic. Those break-ups are often driven by political differences. Braver Angels has trained hundreds of volunteer moderators and facilitators who have conducted thousands of workshops and debates at state and local legislatures, high schools, colleges, senior centers, and libraries centered on providing opportunities to engage A ‘Braver Angels’ visit to Gettysburg DON SCOTT IN CASE YOU MISSED IT SEE SCOTT PAGE 14

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PAGE 14 – YORKTOWN NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 in political discourse with honesty, dignity and respect. The organization seeks to foster a social movement and they seem to be well on their way. Their platform, which was developed at the convention, is titled, “First Principles of the Civic Renewal Movement.” One of the musical groups performing at the event may provide the perfect metaphor of the movement. The group “Gangstagrass” combines rap music with bluegrass. Like peanut butter and banana sandwiches, it sounds like a terrible idea, but it tastes pretty good. They made great music together. If rap and bluegrass can come together, maybe there’s hope for the Braver Angels mission of bringing America together. To learn more, visit braverangels.org. SCOTT FROM PAGE 12 MARTORANO FROM PAGE 9 Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). 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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 Yorktown News YES, I really enjoy Yorktown 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 North Salem News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times attempts to get his former associates to approach the three young federal prosecutors, Barney Skolnik, Tim Baker and Ron Liebman, and get them to back off. He also tried to pressure Elliot Richardson, Nixon’s attorney general, to call off the dogs. But Richardson would have none of it. The existence of the investigation was somehow leaked to the media. Agnew jumped all over it, demanding that the investigators be investigated. Then, as things were heating up, on Sept. 29, 1973, he was invited to address the annual convention of the National Federation of Republican Women. He took that opportunity to raise the temperature by personally attacking the prosecutors by name, saying they were “bad actors” who had “abused their sacred trust and forsaken their professional standards.” He promised to never resign, even if indicted. The crowd loved it. When interviewed, many of the attendees pledged to never abandon their man and accused the Justice Department of having it in for the vice president. Agnew’s attacks on the Justice Department were extremely successful. He turned the public’s gaze away from the mountain of evidence upon which a jury would surely rely and focus instead on what he claimed was malfeasance by the Department of Justice. Without any proof, simply by claiming bad faith, Agnew stirred up public support by suggesting that the young prosecutors were “plotters” attempting a coup. If anything, his popularity increased nationwide. Agnew was represented by Marty London, a truly superb defense attorney. From a legal standpoint, London appreciated that the case was virtually open and shut. There was a mountain of testimonial and physical evidence that would, in front of any jury, seal Agnew’s guilty fate. In addition, London was in possession of a memo which, while insulating a sitting president against criminal charges, did not afford a sitting vice president the same protection. He knew he had to make a move. London arranged a plea negotiation conference which the presiding federal Judge Walter Hoffman insisted on attending. In what I would venture to guess was the most unusual venue for a federal case, the prosecution, the defense, and the judge met at the Old Colony Motel in Alexandria, Va. It was there, between twin motel room beds, that serious negotiations for a plea deal began. The young prosecutors believed that jail time was a must to send a message that this type of corruption would not be tolerated, no matter how powerful the defendant. But the attorney general, Elliot Richardson, believed that, for the good of the country, a guilty plea to a felony, along with a fine and a resignation from office, would suffice. Perhaps in the back of Richardson’s mind was the fact that Nixon’s fate was not yet decided and the last thing the country needed, upon a Nixon resignation, was for Agnew to ascend to the presidency while under the cloud of an indictment. So, the deal was cut that Agnew would resign and plead nolo contendere to one felony charge of tax evasion. The prosecution was, however, allowed to submit to the court and make part of the record, a 40-page summary of all the potential accusations against the vice president. Considering the overwhelming evidence, the prosecutors wanted to ensure that no one could credibly claim this investigation was a “witch hunt.” On Oct. 10, 1973, Agnew submitted his letter of resignation and entered a felony plea, thereby essentially ending his political career. I remember being astounded when, the following day, he addressed the nation and, without a shred of remorse, claimed he could no longer serve as vice president under the circumstances. He resigned “because it was the only way to quickly resolve the situation.” Not only did he fail to take any responsibility but, later in his biography “Go Quietly… or Else,” he claimed that Nixon, through his chief of staff, Alexander Haig, had threatened his life, forcing him to resign. Nowhere in Agnew’s memoir did he ever admit for an instant the wrongdoing which was documented in the prosecutor’s memorandum. He was later sued for statements in his book and forced to retract parts of it and apologize. As for the truth, a confidant, George White, later admitted that, in a moment of candor, the former vice president told him “It’s been going on for a thousand years. What they told you is true.” My college history professor taught me many years ago that although history doesn’t exactly repeat itself, human nature does. It takes courage and integrity to take responsibility for one’s mistakes, attributes that are all too often lacking in our leaders. Yet, in my opinion, it is the only morally defensible course of action. This October, it will be a half century since Agnew’s political demise. Unfortunately, in the end, Agnew set an example, not of contrition and redemption, but rather of a “scorched earth” defense, a practice that corrupt office holders have copied often since then. Revisiting this on its half century anniversary brings to my mind the adage, “the more things change, the more they stay the same.”

THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 15 Presenting Sponsors Major Sponsors In Association With Vendor Opportunities available! Call Ed at 914-393-1447 or go to Yorktownlions.com Interested in becoming a Lion Contact Kelly Slater or Roberta Marro @ [email protected] All Sunday Concerts Start at 6PM at the Jack DeVito Veterans Memorial Field and Gazebo** located behind the Yorktown Community and Cultural Center. The Best in Family Entertainment TM The Foley Group PRINTING • DIRECT MAIL MARKETING SERVICES www.tfgny.com • 914.245.3625 Yorktown Funeral Home Anthony J. Guarino 945 East Main Street Shrub Oak, NY 10588 914.962.0700 yorktownFH.com “Where the Difference is in The Caring” 2023 Major Sponsors Presenting Sponsors Presenting Sponsors Major Sponsors In Association With Vendor Opportunities available! Call Ed at 914-393-1447 or go to Yorktownlions.com Interested in becoming a Lion Contact Kelly Slater or Roberta Marro @ [email protected] All Sunday Concerts Start at 6PM at the Jack DeVito Veterans Memorial Field and Gazebo** located behind the Yorktown Community and Cultural Center. 7/9 Rusty Spur 7/16 The Jersey Tenors 7/23 Back to the Garden 1969, A Tribute to Woodstock 8/6 RockSteady Dance Band 8/20 Group De Jour 8/27 Military Tribute Concert with Jessica Lynn, Special guests Alyssa Martin and The Golden Apple Chorus starts at 5PM Visit Artisan Vendors & Food Trucks The 2023 Summer Concert Series will be dedicated to the Memory of Jake Acara Yorktown Highway Department and Captain Kenneth Sgroi Yorktown Police Department Yorktown Lions Club 2023 Summer Concert Series Our 28th Anniversary at the Jack DeVito Veterans Memorial Park! All Concerts are on Sunday Nights and start at 6PM (except the 8/28 Military Appreciation show which starts at 5PM) If raining, concerts will be held at the Yorktown Stage Theatre Please drop off a non-perishable food item at each concert to be donated to our local food pantries. Interested in becoming a lion? email us at [email protected] www.yorktownlionsclub.com SUBURBAN r W I N E S & S P I R I T S Barry Rost

PAGE 16 – YORKTOWN NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 BY MIKE SABINI CONTRIBUTING WRITER If you’ve spent any time around local baseball over the years, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered the very personable Sonny Graci. Now in his late 80s, Graci has retired from being Shrub Oak Post 1080 American Legion coach—but he hasn’t given up his passion for the sport. “First of all, I’m 87 years old, that’s one thing, and I couldn’t go out and recruit the kids like I did for all those years,” Graci said of his decision to step down. “I just thought it was time. I had a great run. I love the game.” Graci, who remains director of Senior Baseball with the Shrub Oak Athletic Club, was proud to see the Joe Graci Memorial Tournament, named after his son, take place on June 17 at Peekskill Stadium and June 19 at Walter Panas High School. “We’ve had a tournament for 30 years for my son, who passed away,” Graci said. “We just finished last Sunday, to raise money for kids in hospitals, people that need it, scholarships, etc. I’m going to see if I can keep on doing it. After being out there Saturday and Sunday, I got the itch to go back. I really miss it.” At its end-of-season event in June, the Westchester County Baseball Umpires Association (WCBUA) honored Graci for his years of service to the area’s baseball-playing youth. “I never, ever, expected that, especially from the umpires, but it was great,” Graci said. “I saw I lot of old faces. It really made me feel good.” Shrub Oak Athletic Club president Steve Rosen, who has been an umpire with the WCBUA for 30 years, praised Graci’s dedication to youth sports. “Sonny is a caring guy who has always helped the kids in this area get into college with scholarships,” Rosen said. “This award was long overdue. He is the type of guy who would help anybody. He has been my director of senior baseball for last 45 years and hasn’t been recognized for his contributions, ever. “This was perfect year as he finally has decided to step away from having his team after 45 years and now has his summer to relax after traveling to many tournaments each summer,” Rosen added. “He can now spend time with his family, especially his wife of 66 years, Mickey.” Graci has been fortunate to have players who have gone on to play Major League Baseball. One of them is current Yorktown coach and 2008 Mahopac graduate C.J. Riefenhauser, who pitched for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2014 and 2015. “Sonny was a great coach and even better mentor,” Riefenhauser said. “He was a baseball lifer and knew everyone and has seen it all. Sonny helped me out a ton in my development as a player and even more with my confidence and passion for the game.” Riefenhauser said Graci knows how to find a balance between having a good time and working hard. “He always keep it loose and fun, but when he spoke, you listened,” Riefenhauser said. “Sonny and I were close and he truly was a guy you can ask anything—and he was 100 percent honest.” In addition to coaching, Graci was a long-time scout for Major League teams, with first the Kanas City Royals, then the Arizona Diamondbacks. “I loved going to ballgames and meeting people,” Graci said. “I traveled a lot, all over New York. I met a lot of people.” A first baseman in his playing days, Graci signed with the St. Louis Browns in 1954, the year they moved to Baltimore and became the Orioles. “I just didn’t make it,” said Graci, who still has the signed contract. “When I was signed, there were just eight teams in each league (American and National), for a total of 16 teams. Now there is a total of 30 teams in Major League Baseball. Big difference between then and now.” Graci, who was with the Orioles for one year before he got cut, admits he wishes he did things differently. “I got a shot, my big mistake was instead of signing, I should’ve gone to college. I had a lot of offers to go to college at that time,” Graci said. In retrospect though, going through what he did motivated Graci to make sure that the kids he coached would go to college. “Absolutely,” Graci said. “I got to meet a lot of college coaches and there is a college for every kid.” Graci steps down from coaching Local legend honored by WCBUA PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL ROSEN Dave Greiner, Westchester County Baseball Umpires Association umpire and treasurer, Sonny Graci (white shirt), Steve Rosen (a 30-year WCBUA member), WCBUA president Lou Gaudio (in back), and Fordham head coach Kevin Leighton (who played for Graci) pose with Graci at the 2023 WCBUA dinner. BASEBALL

THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 LEISURE YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 17 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. Commoner 5. Tea leaf 11. They save you a table 14. Submissions 15. Secretly revealed 18. Personification of the sea (Norse) 19. Unreal 21. No seats available 23. Bangladeshi currency 24. Leaders 28. Famed garden 29. Denotes past 30. Not living 32. Midway between south and southeast 33. Small island (British) 35. Woman (French) 36. Wife 39. Two-toed sloth 41. Blood group 42. Soaks 44. Biu-Mandara language of Cameroon 46. Japanese prefecture 47. Place to be during a rock concert 49. Fully grown humans 52. Emaciation 56. Sparkling 58. Fruits you peel 60. Derived from a noun 62. Popular items to grill 63. Port in Yemen CLUES DOWN 1. Before 2. Actress Dunham 3. This (Spanish) 4. Director Peter 5. Dominant 6. English artists’ society (abbr.) 7. NY Giants legend 8. It’s in the ground 9. No No No 10. Pesky insect 12. Danish-American muckraking journalist 13. Kids love to do it 16. Good Gosh! 17. Fakes 20. A citizen of Denmark 22. Mystic syllable 25. Commercial 26. Letter of the Hebrew alphabet 27. Helpers 29. Water (French) 31. Young woman 34. Red-brown sea bream 36. Messenger ribonucleic acid 37. Comprehends 38. Walk with confidence 40. Home of the Flyers 43. Appetizer 45. News organization 48. Source of the Nile 50. A way to march 51. Soluble ribonucleic acid 53. Egyptian bull-god 54. Children’s author Blyton 55. Baseball pitching stat 57. Rude young person 58. Table napkin 59. Monetary unit in Asia 61. One-time AL MVP Vaughn As the dog days of summer press on and people continue to enjoy outdoor gatherings, tasty and cool cocktails reman ideal when entertaining. Blueberries continue to be the stars of summertime shows, and can be the inspiration for your next drink. The following recipe for “Blueberry Lavender Lemonade” from the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council pairs the sophisticated flavor of lavender with tart blueberry in a refreshing concoction that also includes gin. The result is fruity, floral and fragrant. Cool off with a refreshing cocktail Blueberry Lavender Lemonade Cocktail Makes 2 servings Lavender Simple Syrup 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup water 1 tablespoon dried edible lavender flowers 3/4 cup blueberries, divided 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 ounces gin 1 tablespoon lavender simple syrup 1/2 cup club soda 2 sprigs fresh lavender 2 lemon wheels 1. To make the Lavender Simple Syrup: In a small saucepan set over medium-low heat, combine all syrup ingredients and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes or until sugar is dissolved. 2. Remove from heat and let steep for 2 to 3 hours. Strain and set aside. 3. To make the Blueberry Lavender Lemonade Cocktail: In a cocktail shaker, add 2/3 cup blueberries and lemon juice. Muddle berries to release juices. Add gin and lavender simple syrup, and fill with ice. Shake until frosty. 4. Strain through fine-mesh sieve into two ice-filled glasses. Top evenly with soda water. 5. Garnish with remaining blueberries, lavender sprigs and lemon wheels. Tip: Cover and store remaining lavender simple syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

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Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918 AUTO DONATIONS EDUCATION/CAREER TRAINING HEALTH HOME IMPROVEMENT TV INTERNET PHONE REAL ESTATE FOR RENT MISCELLANEOUS FINANCE PUZZLE SOLUTIONS FOR THE WEEK OF 7/13/23 NOTICE TO BIDDERS  NOTICE IS HERE GIVEN that sealed proposals will be received by the Town Clerk, Town of Yorktown, Westchester County, NY until 11:00 A.M. on August 7, 2023 at the Town Hall, 363 Underhill Avenue, Yorktown Heights, N.Y. 10598 for Pavement Markings Bid.   Bid specifications may be obtained at the office of the Town Clerk in Said Town Hall or downloaded from the Town’s website at www.yorktownny.org or on BidNet Direct at www.bidnetdirect.com.  All bids are to be returned to the Town Clerk, 363 Underhill Avenue, Yorktown Heights, NY  10598, marked: “Bid:  PAVEMENT MARKINGS.” The Bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail or in the handling of the mail by the employees of the Town of Yorktown.  Whether sent by mail or means of personal delivery, the Bidder assumes the responsibility for having the bids in at the time and the place specified above.  The Superintendent of Highways reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to accept that bid which is deemed most favorable to the interests of the Town of Yorktown.                                                                                      DAVE PAGANELLI  SUPERINTENDENT OF HIGHWAYS  TOWN OF YORKTOWN Hallocks Square LLC, Arts of Org. filed with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 1/3/2023. Cty: Westchester. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 165 Waccabuc Rd., Goldens Bridge, NY 10526. General Purpose Notice of Formation of LGHV, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023-06-06. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Laurent Verard: 51 Bedell Road Katonah NY 10536. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Invisible Fabric, LLC, Art. of Org. filed with SSNY 06/21/23. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail to: Diane Chang 25 Plaza St West #6h Brooklyn, NY 11217 Purpose: all lawful Notice of Formation of The Speech and Language Lady, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 03/09/2023. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of  upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Mary Dent: 2377 Ridge Street   Yorktown Heights NY 10598. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of Royals Entity LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023- 06-01. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Royals Entity LLC: 1199 Underhill Avenue Yorktown Heights NY 10598. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of That Pisces Girl, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023- 04-27. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to SSNY: 70 Virginia Rd 3D White Plains NY 10603. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of Dana Lombardi LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023- 06-29. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Robert C DiLullo: 72 Spy Glass Hill Hopewell Junction NY 12533. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of JMRC Yorktown LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023- 04-10. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to Michael Tsao: 746 Delano Rd Yorktown Heights NY 10598. Purpose: Any lawful purpose Notice of Formation of People Experience Group. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2023- 05-23. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of Limited Liability Company (LLC) upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY should mail process to SSNY: 51 Mayflower Ln Katonah NY 10536. Purpose: Any lawful purpose PUBLIC NOTICE  WHEREAS, pursuant to General Municipal Law §6-g, the Yorktown Heights Fire District, Town of Yorktown, County of Westchester, State of New York, did establish the Apparatus Reserve Fund for the Acquisition of Fire Apparatus and Equipment, a capital reserve fund to finance the cost of acquisition and refurbishment of all types of firematic equipment, and,  WHEREAS, the Yorktown Heights Fire District, under the obligation and authority to acquire apparatus for the extinguishment and prevention of fires and for the purpose of emergency rescue (Town Law §176.13), has determined that there is a need to acquire such apparatus, and  WHEREAS, the Yorktown Heights Fire District has received a proposal from Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC, to acquire a stainless steel pumper apparatus pursuant to a contract with the Houston-Galveston Area Council (“H-GAC”), consistent with the District’s authority under General Municipal Law §103(16), and  WHEREAS, the Yorktown Heights Fire District has determined that acquiring said apparatus from Seagrave Fire Apparatus, LLC through said H-GAC contract will reduce administrative and product costs, increase efficiencies, and deliver the best value to the District, now therefore it is   RESOLVED that the Yorktown Heights Fire District is hereby authorized to expend from the Apparatus Reserve an amount not to exceed $1,260,000.00 for the purchase of a new stainless steel pumper apparatus, and  IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that such expenditure shall be made only upon delivery to and acceptance by the Yorktown Heights Fire District of said apparatus, and   IT IS FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution and this expenditure are subject to a permissive referendum.   PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that the adoption of this Resolution is subject to permissive referendum pursuant to Section 6-g (4) of the General Municipal Law and shall take effect thirty (30) days after its adoption, unless there shall be filed in the interim with the Fire District Secretary a petition signed and acknowledged or approved in the same manner as a Deed to be recorded by resident tax payers of the District owning taxable real property aggregating at least ¼ of the assessed valuation of all taxable real property of the Fire District as such valuations appear on the latest completed assessment of the Town of Yorktown, protesting against such Resolution and requesting that it be submitted to the qualified electors of the Fire District for their approval.  By order of the Commissioners of the Yorktown Heights Fire District.  Jeanmarie Klaus  Secretary  Yorktown Heights Fire District  914-962-5561  To advertise in Yorktown News, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email [email protected].

THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE YORKTOWN NEWS – PAGE 19 NEW YORK HOMEOWNERS: HELP IS AVAILABLE EVEN IF YOU COULD PAY CASH ROOFING | SIDING | WINDOWS | DOORS & MORE! Approved applications will have the work completed by a quality repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs. Contractor License: NY: #2719-h14 888-254-6006 or visit NYProgramFunding.net NEED HELP WITH EXPENSIVE REPAIRS? WE MATCH YOU WITH FUNDING YOU CAN AFFORD. ...but it won’t last! Enrollment is only open during a limited time. Programs, appointments, and installations are first come, first serve. ACT NOW! REQUEST A FREE QUOTE CALL NOW BEFORE THE NEXT POWER OUTAGE (877) 516-1160 Prepare for power outages today WITH A HOME STANDBY GENERATOR $0 MONEY DOWN + LOW MONTHLY PAYMENT OPTIONS Contact a Generac dealer for full terms and conditions *To qualify, consumers must request a quote, purchase, install and activate the generator with a participating dealer. 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Must present offer at time of purchase. CSLB 1082165 NSCB 0082999 0083445 1-855-916-5473 Unfortunately, it has become more common for a child, grandchild or other loved ones to be diagnosed with autism, ADHD, bi-polar, schizophrenia, or for them to suffer from a variety of other diagnosed physical and/or mental disabilities that are severe and chronic. Because of this, the use of a Special Needs Trust (SNT) as a planning tool has become increasingly important and often necessary. When a parent, grandparent or other family member or friend wishes to provide for the needs of a disabled person in either his or her Last Will and Testament or in a Trust within a Last Will, or as a separate document, the vehicle that is most often prepared is a third party SNT. Use of the third party SNT allows the disabled person to continue to receive any federal or state aid and government benefits without the aid or benefits being impacted by the assets and/or income generated by the SNT. Additionally, because a third party SNT (unlike a self-settled SNT) is not funded with the assets of the disabled person (savings/recovery from a suit), but with the assets of a third party (parents/grandparents or others), the Estates Powers & Trusts Law provides that upon the death of the trust beneficiary, the trust assets can be distributed to anyone without the necessity of the trust assets being utilized to pay back the state or federal government for the dollar value of benefits provided to the disabled person. This rule does not apply to a trust funded with the assets of a disabled person (a first party SNT), which must provide for the payback of the benefits paid to the government entity. The assets of, or received by, a disabled person should never be used to fund a third party SNT. Additionally, the spouse of a disabled beneficiary or the parent of a minor disabled beneficiary cannot create and fund an intervivos SNT trust (one created during their lifetime) and get the protections provided by the Estates Powers & Trusts Law. This is because there are spousal and parental obligations of support to their spouse and/or minor child. However, the spouse or parent can fund and create a testamentary trust (one created in their Last Will and Testament) or an inter-vivos SNT, which is not funded until they are deceased. For example, their Last Will and Testament and/or Revocable or Irrevocable Trust provides for a distribution to the SNT upon their demise. A third party SNT can be testamentary, inter-vivos (created during life with the exceptions stated above), revocable and/or irrevocable. There is great flexibility in how the SNT can be drafted. The funds and income generated by the third party SNT can be used on behalf of the disabled individual to supplement and not supplant government benefits such as Medicaid and SSI (Supplemental Social Security Income). In essence, the trust assets can be used to cover expenses that are not intended to be provided for by Medicaid and/or SSI. For example, they can be used to purchase a home for the beneficiary, provide for special therapies, wheelchairs, handicap accessible vans, recreational and cultural experiences (vacations, etc.). Payments made in the form of in-kind distributions for food or shelter will reduce SSI payments as they are considered unearned income. However, payments for goods and services other than food and shelter will not reduce SSI income. There is no limit to the amount that can be used to fund the SNT. Additionally, in spite of the restrictions imposed by statute and SSI regulations, third party SNTs generally give the Trustee(s) the power to make distributions to meet even the basic needs of the beneficiary (food, clothing, and shelter), even if it will diminish the receipt of government benefits. When considering an SNT for a loved one, it is important to thoroughly review the present and potential future needs of the disabled beneficiary. A thorough analysis by a qualified and experienced attorney who is familiar with the array of federal and state benefits that may be available is advisable. Anthony J. Enea is a member 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 can be reached at 914-948-1500 or at www. esslawfirm.com. Importance of a third-party SNT Benefit a disabled loved one without impacting government aid Lunch & Learn Series Held on the last Wednesday of each month, Lunch & Learn programs at Enea, Scanlan and Sirignano, LLP, shed light on a variety of important elder law and estate planning topics. The free educational program, held at the firm’s White Plains location, is open to the public – though space is limited. Those interested are encouraged to register early by calling 914-948- 1500 to reserve their spot. A light lunch and refreshments are included. ANTHONY J. ENEA GUEST CORNER Contact Us Yorktown News is located at 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. You can contact us at 914-302-5628 or email [email protected].

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