Mahopac News 03.25.21

VOL. 12 NO. 7 Visit TapIntoMahopac.net for the latest news. THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

Mahopac man facing
federal charges in
Capitol riot

BY BOB DUMAS In the complaint, a conversation

EDITOR between the informant and Balles-

teros on Instagram is described. e

A Mahopac man is facing federal informant asks Ballesteros if he had

charges for allegedly taking part in “stormed the Capitol,” and he re-

the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol sponds, “Put my foot in that door”

building. and “Made my stand.”

e charges were initially led on Ballesteros tells the informant that

Jan. 20 but sealed. ey were unsealed he had posted a video of the riot but

last week when Robert Ballesteros, then “took it down.” He said he had

27, turned himself in to the FBI of- video of the woman, Ashli Babbitt,

ces in Rye on Monday, March 15. who was shot and killed, allegedly by

According to documents led in a U.S. Capitol police o cer, during

federal district court for the District the riot. “She was shot for nothing,”

of Columbia, an anonymous source he writes.

purporting to be an acquaintance of Five people died, including a Cap-

Ballesteros tipped o FBI Special itol police o cer, during the insur- EGG-citement

Agent Kevin Larkin that Ballesteros rection that attempted to interrupt returns to Mahopac!

had posted an Instagram video of Congress as they met to certify Presi- Jacqueline, 3, and Kira Mazzella, 2, get ready to take part
in the Recreation and Park Department’s annual Easter
himself inside the Capitol building dent Joe Biden’s election victory. Egg Hunt at Sycamore Park last Saturday. After a
year o due to the pandemic, the hunt returned
during the riot while wearing a black Ballesteros now faces charges of this year much to the delight of Mahopac
children. For more pictures, see the cen-
mask. knowingly entering and remaining terspread on pages 16 and 17.

on restricted grounds without lawful

authority and/or engaging in disor-

derly conduct within proximity to a

restricted building to impede o cial

functions.

Robert Ballesteros

PHOTO COURTESY OF FBI

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PAGE 2 MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

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THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 MAHOPAC NEWS PAGE 3

Stocking the St. John’s pantry shelves

e pandemic has been rough taking in-person donations, so parking lot. Leo Club, as cars stopped by to said.
on food pantries everywhere and the only way they can keep their e “drive-through food drop o groceries and monetary e councilman said they re-
the one at St. John’s the Evan- pantry shelves stocked and help donations. Lombardi said the
gelist Church in Mahopac has families in need is through food drive” was sponsored by Coun- event was a great success. ceived about $1,000 in cash and
been no exception. For safety drives like the one held on Sat- cilman Frank Lombardi, who gift card donations and around
reasons, the church has stopped urday, March 20 in the church had the help of a squad of vol- “We had a steady stream of $4,000 to $5,000 worth of food
unteers, including the Mahopac cars come through all day,” he products.

From left, volunteers Harry Gorman, Michael O’Brien, Barbara Reitz, Councilman Frank The Leos unload the cars as they come through.
Lombardi, Jim Rathschmitt and Danielle Whitmarsh

The Leo Club’s Aunchalee O’Brien accepts a donation.

Frank Lombardi, Danielle Whitmarsh and Michael McDonald with the
Mahopac Leo volunteers.

PHOTOS: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL

Bill Dinger, Alaina Kelly and Marc Pandolis help sort the donations.

Volunteer Emily Pontillo carries a bag of grocery donations to the pantry.

PAGE 4 MAHOPAC NEWS MAHOPAC MUSINGS THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

The Staff Mahopac Library mahopaclibrary.org, or call 845- Johnny Carson, Carol Burnett, Programs of the Putnam Arts
Events 628-2009, ext. 135. Gilda Radner, and Jerry Seinfeld. Council are supported, in part,
EDITORIAL TEAM A History of TV Comedy is event is held via Zoom; with public funds from Putnam
BOB DUMAS
Speed Cube for Beginners ursday, April 1, 6:30 p.m. registration with a valid email ad- County.
EDITOR: 845-208-0774
[email protected] Wednesday, March 31, 7 p.m. From Milton Berle to David dress is required. Register online Tree and Shrub
BRIAN MARSCHHAUSER Speed Cube for Beginners (adult Letterman: A History of TV at www.mahopaclibrary.org, or
SPORTS EDITOR: 914-302-5628
[email protected] program). Learn about the basics Comedy. is presentation, of- call 845-628-2009, ext. 100. Seedling Sale
of solving 3x3 puzzle cubes. Each fered by Brian Rose, will survey
ADVERTISING TEAM Putnam County Soil and Water
PAUL FORHAN MHS Track Hoursperson registered will be able to the extraordinary landscape of
pick up one puzzle cube begin- American TV comedy, examin- Conservation District and Cornell
(914) 806-3951
[email protected] ning March 31. Zoom link will ing how comedy changed from Due to the need to maintain Cooperative Extension Putnam

BRUCE HELLER be sent one day prior to the event. the vaudeville shtick of Milton social distance during both the County o er Putnam County’s
(914) 486-7608
[email protected] If you have any questions about Berle and the slapstick artistry school day and after school ath- 2021 Annual Tree and Shrub

LISA KAIN this program please contact Amy of Lucille Ball to the social satire letic team practices, the MHS Seedling Sale. is year, with every
(201) 317-1139
[email protected] Schapiro at 845-628-2009, ext. of “Saturday Night Live” and the track will be open to the public on order placed, we are o ering a free
CORINNE STANTON
(914) 760-7009 152, or by emailing aschapiro@ self-re exive absurdities of David weeknights from 8 p.m. to 9:30 common milkweed seed packet.
[email protected]
mahopaclibrary.org. Letterman and “ e Simpsons.” p.m., mornings from 5:30 a.m. to Our plant selection and the milk-
JAY GUSSAK
(914) 299-4541 Earth Day Bingo From the earliest days of televi- 7 a.m. and on weekends. e track weed seed packet will help the
[email protected]
JENNIFER CONNELLY April 1-30 For grades K-5. Pick sion, making people laugh was one will be closed during all school monarch butter y survive. Go to
(917) 446-7757
[email protected] up an Earth Day Bingo Card at the central goals of TV program- athletic events. putnamcountyny.com/keepput-
SHELLEY KILCOYNE
(914) 924-9122 PAC Featured Artistthe Library’s Youth Services Desk. mers. Successful radio formats like namgreen to see all that is available
[email protected] this year and consider making a
GABRIELLE BILIK Choose ve of the Earth Day ac- the sitcom and the comedy/variety
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/DESIGNER tivities mark them on your bingo show moved to television in the of The Month contribution to a healthier planet
[email protected] card. Bring your card back to the late 1940s, joined a few years later by planting a tree.For additional

PRODUCTION TEAM Library by April 30 and receive by the medium’s own innovation, e Putnam Arts Council is information, contact Lauri Taylor,
TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL
a special Earth Day prize. We’d the late night comedy talk show. bringing back the ever so popu- district manager, Putnam County
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
PHOTOGRAPHER also love to see your Earth Day For the next seven decades, these lar series: Featured Artist of e Soil and Water Conservation Dis-

[email protected] creations – send a photo to chil- three formats dominated the air- Month. trict at Lauri.taylor@putnamcoun-
CHRISTINA ROSE
ART DIRECTOR/ [email protected]. For waves, led by brilliant comedians e Series begins in conjunc- tyny.gov or 845-878-7918.

DIGITAL PRODUCTION MANAGER further information visit www. such as Sid Caesar, Jackie Gleason, tion with PAC’s Virtual Members’ Westchester
[email protected] Exhibit which opened on March

EXECUTIVE TEAM 20 and will run through April 18 Children’s Assn.
BRETT FREEMAN on PAC’s website: Advocacy Breakfast
CEO & PUBLISHER
845-208-8151 https://www.putnamartscoun-

[email protected] cil.com. Inclusion in the Series is

Deadlines a bene t of membership and is by Westchester Children’s As-

MAHOPAC NEWS DEADLINE invitation. sociation’s annual 2021 Advocacy
THE DEADLINE FOR ADVERTISEMENTS
e rst artist to be featured Breakfast entitled “A Teachable
AND EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS FOR
is long-time PAC member Joan Moment: Ensuring Equity Dur-
MAHOPAC NEWS IS THE THURSDAY
BEFORE THE NEXT PUBLICATION DATE. Gillman Smith, whose collages, ing the Pandemic and Beyond”

FOR MORE INFORMATION, mixed media pieces, and paintings will be held on March 31, 9 a.m.
CALL BOB DUMAS AT
have been shown extensively in via Zoom with speakers Con-
845-208-0774 OR EMAIL
[email protected]. New York, Connecticut, and New gressman Jamaal Bowman, 16th

Subscribe Jersey, in addition to being in pri- Congressional District, and Dr.

TO REQUEST MAHOPAC NEWS vate collections. Lester Young Jr., chancellor of
WEEKLY DELIVERY, CALL 845-208-8503 OR
EMAIL [email protected]. As Featured Artist of the the New York State Board of Re-
SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE COMPLIMENTARY FOR
RESIDENTS AND BUSINESSES IN THE TOWN. Month ve of Joan’s extraordinary gents. Admission is open to the
OUT OF TOWN MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS ARE
$150 PER YEAR FOR FIRST CLASS MAIL. collages using mixed media tech- public particularly parents, grand-

PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID AT niques will be exhibited. Joan’s parents, and caregivers, who are
MAHOPAC, NY AND AT
work will also be on display in the encouraged to attend. e event
ADDITIONAL MAILING OFFICES.
foyer of the Putnam Arts Council. is free with registration at www.
POSTMASTER:
SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO In the coming months PAC wca4kids.org/advocacybreakfast

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THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 MAHOPAC NEWS PAGE 5

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PAGE 6 MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

Town awarded grants for
electric car charging stations

BY BOB DUMAS plan together,we should start look-

EDITOR ing toward a greener environment ‘As we put the
and I thought this would be a great

e town has received four opportunity to get ourselves some new Master Plan
grants totaling $52,272 to install charging stations for electric vehi- together, we should
four electric-car charging stations cles. You are seeing more and more

throughout the community. of them on the streets.” start looking

e funds come from the Mu- Each charging station will cost toward a greener
nicipal Zero-Emission Vehicle $13,068 and have the capacity to
environment...’
(ZEV) Infrastructure Grant Pro- charge two cars simultaneously.

gram and were obtained by the Two stations are slated to be in- Councilman
Bob Schanil
town’s grant-writing company, stalled in Mahopac—one at Town

Millennial Strategies. Hall and another at the municipal

e Multi-State ZEV Memo- parking lot that will be construct- PHOTO COURTESY OF SONS OF THE AMERICAN LEGION

randum of Understanding aims to ed on South Lake Boulevard later Happy 90th
birthday, Thelma!
put 3.3 million ZEVs on the roads this year. e other two will be in-
elma Barlow celebrated her 90th birthday on St. Pat-
of participating states by 2025. e stalled in the Carmel Hamlet, one power (400 and 415 volts) to op- rick’s Day (March 17) at the American Legion Hall. elma
is one of the Legion’s biggest supporters and always attends
state Department of Environmen- in the vicinity of Vink Drive and erate, so that will play a role in the Sons of the American Legion’s monthly breakfast on
the rst Sunday of every month. She has been involved with
tal Conservation (DEC) said Car- the other on Seminary Hill Road, determining where they will be the Legion and local scouting troops for nearly 50 years.

mel’s charging stations will con- though their exact locations have installed. Here, she poses with her friends at the Legion Hall as
they celebrate her birthday.
tribute to the state goal of reducing yet to be determined. “Electric cars are the future,”

greenhouse-gas emissions by 40 “We will have to gure out ex- Schmitt said. “I think GM and

percent by 2030. actly where we have to put them,” Ford are going to transition to all-

Councilman Bob Schanil, who Schanil said.“We don’t have many electric vehicles by 2035, so you

was the Town Board’s liaison to town parking lots in the Hamlet.” are going to see these charging

the charging station project, said Schanil said the town will have stations more and more. It’s good

that grant money became scarce to gure exactly what engineering we are getting ahead of it when

during the pandemic, but the ZEV challenges it will face when decid- there is funding for it.”

Infrastructure Grant Program was ing where to set up the charging “It’s a step in the right direc-

one that remained available. stations in the Hamlet. tion,” Schanil added. “I’m glad we

“So, I looked into it,” Schanil Supervisor Ken Schmitt said got the award, and the community

said. “As we put the new master the stations will need three-phase can bene t from it.”

THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 MAHOPAC NEWS PAGE 7

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PAGE 8 MAHOPAC NEWS THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

Local Democratic pols call Byrne receives
for Cuomo to step down Community Champion
Award from Irish Echo
BY BOB DUMAS sponsibilities of the o ce.”
EDITOR State Sen. Pete Harckham, who once Assemblyman Kevin Byrne joined 39
other honorees to participate in the Irish
Two area elected Democratic o cials served in the Cuomo administration (as- Echo’s 40 Under 40 transatlantic virtual
joined the call for Gov. Andrew Cuomo sistant director of the O ce of Commu- awards ceremony. is recognition is for
to resign in the wake of the sexual ha- nity Renewal), also said it was time for 40 Irish and Irish Americans who have
rassment and COVID/nursing home the governor to step down. distinguished themselves in their re-
scandals that have plagued him over the spective elds of work before reaching
past several weeks. “Right now, the governance of New the age of 40.
York State is su ering from compro-
U.S. Representative Sean Patrick Ma- mised leadership that is under investi- In addition to being honored as part
loney said last week that the allegations gation,” he said. “Instead of focusing on of the Irish Echo’s 40 Under 40, Byrne
of sexual misconduct describe something important business, like safeguarding was bestowed with the additional honor
that no one should ever have to deal with residents from COVID-19 and restoring of receiving the Irish Echo’s Communi-
– especially in the workplace. our economy, our executive is using pre- ty Champion Award, sponsored by the
cious time and state resources to refute Ancient Order of Hibernians National
“Women deserve to be heard. ere serious allegations about misreporting President Danny O’Connell.
needs to be a full and fair investiga- nursing homes deaths during the coro-
tion,” he said. “But I have made my own navirus pandemic and sexual assault and “It is an honor to be not only included Kevin Byrne
judgment. e victims of sexual assault harassment from numerous women. I in the Irish Echo’s 40 Under 40 but to
concern me more than politics or other strongly condemn sexual assault and ha- also receive the Community Cham- Order of Hibernians for sponsoring this
narrow considerations, and I believe Gov. rassment, and I stand with the women pion Award,” said Byrne. “My Irish incredible award. I’d also like to thank
Cuomo must step aside. making these allegations. heritage is something I have never been my fellow 40 Under 40 for all their hard
shy about. I am incredibly proud to be work and dedication in their respective
“Right now, 20 million New Yorkers “To ensure stability and con dence on Irish. I have been a proud member of industries.”
need a governor who is laser-focused on every level in our state government, it is the American Irish Legislators Society Founded in 1928, e Irish Echo is
getting our state and our people through time for Gov. Cuomo to, at a minimum, of New York State, Emeralds of Putnam the largest circulation within the Irish
this pandemic,” Maloney added. “Vic- step aside, and allow Lt. Gov. Hochul to County, Friendly Sons of Saint Patrick American weekly newspaper, with a
tory is in sight and New Yorkers deserve take over,” he added. of Putnam County, and as a bagpiper, 50-state subscription base.
a governor dedicated solely to ensuring a founding member of the Stephen P. Byrne represents New York’s 94th As-
that we crush COVID-19 as quickly and Harckham said Cuomo’s resignation Driscoll Memorial Pipe Band. I’d like sembly District, which includes portions
e ciently as possible. would allow the state government to to thank the Irish Echo and the Ancient of Putnam and Westchester counties.
continue its time-sensitive work on the
Maloney said he had con dence in Lt. upcoming budget and pending legisla-
Gov. Kathy Hochul, saying she was “fully tion and allow “due process to move for-
capable of assuming the duties and re- ward.”

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THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 MAHOPAC NEWS PAGE 9

Some COVID guidelines relax as vaccination ramps up

COVID-19 vaccination is progressing. PHOTO COURTESY COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH. they are exposed again during the three-
With three vaccines now available, more month period following recovery.
doses being manufactured, and more and County Executive MaryEllen Odell gets her COVID vaccine—setting the tone for saying
more individuals becoming vaccine-eligi- “yes” to vaccination and continuing a safe reopening. Public Health nurse Jeanette Nesheiwat reminded people that wear-
ble, New York State has vaccinated nearly Baldanza administers the shot at the Lakeview Plaza in Brewster. ing a mask in public whether one is fully
a quarter of its population, according to vaccinated or not, remains important,
the NYS COVID-19 vaccine tracker vaccinate them. Putnam County is ready after travelling to New York from out of even as the CDC last week relaxed rules
dashboard which is updated daily, based to do what it takes to put this pandemic state. Fully vaccinated individuals must for those fully vaccinated socializing in-
on data collected in the New York State behind us.” have received their nal shot no more doors with others also fully vaccinated.
Immunization Information System (NY- than three months prior to their return
SIIS). Last week the governor announced to New York. e state also allows those “Fully vaccinated means two weeks
new plans starting April 1 that would who were sick with COVID, but have has passed since your single-dose shot or
In Putnam County, the health depart- eliminate all quarantine requirements fully recovered, to avoid quarantine if since your last dose of a two-dose series,”
ment has held 23 vaccination clinics and for domestic travelers to New York, lift- explained Nesheiwat. “ is is because it
NYSIIS numbers show 26.4 percent of ing the executive order he directed nine can take about two weeks for COVID
residents have received at least one dose months ago.
of a coronavirus vaccine. Last week New ghting antibodies to o er maximum
Yorkers 60 years of age and older joined “In order for this plan to work,” said protection.”
the vaccine eligibility list, and on March Dr. Michael Nesheiwat, county health
17, the list expands to include those non- commissioner, “it is crucial for these Mask use and basic safety precautions
pro t workers, public employees, and es- travelers to continue to self-monitor for must remain in e ect because current data
sential in-person building service workers symptoms for 14 days and to self-isolate is limited on how e ective the vaccines
who provide public-facing services. if symptoms occur.” are at reducing transmission, how long
protection lasts and what protection the
Speeding the vaccination process fur- Other requirements that remain in- current vaccines have against the variants
ther is an increasing exibility in what clude visitors or returning New Yorkers that are emerging. Vaccine studies were
populations each provider may vaccinate, completing a traveler form. e governor focused on safety and e cacy, rather than
with a move toward allowing all provid- has stated that failure to do this can result reducing transmission. Subsequent stud-
ers to be able to vaccinate any eligible in a ne. No written guidance from the ies are only now beginning to shed light
New Yorker. One exception remaining is =state Department of Health has been is- on the potential for reduced transmission.
that pharmacies will focus on those over sued on this announced update.
the age of 60 and teachers. “One thing we are quite certain of,”
Until April 1, the state health depart- Nesheiwat added, “is how highly e ective
What does this all mean and when ment guidance from March 10 remains the current vaccines are at preventing se-
will life return to what was once normal? in e ect. is guidance allows fully vac- vere COVID which helps tremendously
Many people are asking these questions; cinated individuals to avoid quarantine with hospitalization rates and fatalities.
unfortunately, the answer is “not quite We just can’t let up quite yet.”
yet,” according to both federal and local
health o cials. e good news is that Article courtesy of Putnam County
Putnam County has the capacity to vac- Department of Health
cinate more residents than its weekly al-
lotment thus far.

“What we have achieved so far would
have been unthinkable a year ago,” said
County Executive MaryEllen Odell, who
recently received her vaccination and urg-
es others to say “yes” when it is their turn.
Odell has been vocal about her push at
the state level for more vaccines and more
leeway in determining essential workers.

“For months, our men and women in
the highway department, the depart-
ment of motor vehicles and other public
arenas have been asked to stand-by and
wait their turn,” Odell said. “Our public
facing workers deserve to be prioritized
and we are thankful the state has nally
permitted our local health department to

MUSINGS teers lmed and narrated a hike of Putnam
County’s Fred Dill Wildlife Sanctuary.
FROM PAGE 4

ese walking trails are right in the heart

is year’s speakers are timely as West- of Carmel, and easy to access. In this short

chester Children’s Association (WCA) video, Master Gardener Volunteers intro-

continues to push for greater support for re- duce you to local history, natural resources,

mote learning challenges faced by children, and the invasive plants that threaten those

parents, and caregivers during the pandemic resources. You’ll see where to park and nd

while looking ahead for more permanent, the trailhead,learn about the man for whom

systemic changes. the park is named, and enjoy the beauty of

For more information about WCA visit Putnam County’s forests. We welcome you

www.wca4kids.org. to enjoy this curated hike experience.

Virtual Guided Hike Community and government partners
include the Putnam County Soil & Water

Conservation District, Parks Department,

Cornell Cooperative Extension Mas- County Historian, and the Putnam His-

ter Gardener Volunteers present their rst tory Museum. You can nd this and other

virtual guided hike! While they cancelled videos, on Cornell Cooperative Extension

an in-person hike early in the year due to of Putnam’s YouTube channel at youtu.be/

the pandemic, Master Gardener Volun- gqPV0kNnPQs.

PAGE 10 MAHOPAC NEWS Opinion THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

e Republican hypocrisy Mask mania

HERE is closely identi ed with Democratic Party LIFE, bly, possibly be allowed to spend their
AND values. But there is the reputation of the party HEALTH, July 4th barbecuing outside with a
NOW! to uphold. POLITICS small group of people. Don’t tell Joe,
but my extended family and I did
BERNIE Cuomo continues to have great in uence. MARA that already last year. And since none
KOSBERG at makes the decision by party leaders to call SCHIFFREN of us were ill, none of us got ill as a
for his removal quite di cult. On the other result, even without wearing masks.
Over the years, several readers, and even hand, not to demand that he resign would be Last week, it suddenly became
a fellow opinionist, have accused me enormously hypocritical. Integrity and good news that President Biden and Does it not strike you, as it would
of incessantly dumping on Republi- governance must be judged more important his team were releasing illegals strike just about anyone with basic
can lawmakers and Republican Party loyalists, than tribal loyalty. with COVID and others untested reasoning skills, that these promulga-
while refusing to acknowledge the malfeasance Name one time in the recent past that for COVID into the interior of tions are thoroughly at odds with
of Democrats who oat in the same boat. Republicans have demonstrated that they have the country. Also, terrorists on the each other?
the courage and determination to act ethically. wanted list are also being left alone
Well, it appears that Andrew Cuomo, our ey supported Donald Trump, knowing he to enter the country, but I will circle On the one hand, it’s the complete
formerly esteemed governor, has sat in the had been accused of rape and multiple sexual back to that at a later point. infantilization of the citizenry—
saddle of power for one term too long, and his assaults; they have openly and emphatically many of whom, by the way, have not
past—riddled with accusations and allega- embraced and encouraged white supremacists; ese facts had been reported for risen to the occasion and are continu-
tions— is fast catching up to him and setting they have sought to disenfranchise millions of a while, but Corporate Media only ing to live in deep fear and hanging
his reputation on re. voters in numerous elections; and they have decided to give it some exposure last on by their ngernails tostatements
now set out on a nationwide campaign to sup- week when the crisis on the border, like these, and on the other hand,
Cuomo may be able to hang on to his press voting in Black communities. entirely of Joe Biden’s making, sud- complete insouciance for illegals
stallion and ride out the mounting scandals A signi cant number of Republican law- denly became too big to hide any coming across the border into the
involving multiple complaints of sexual harass- makers and party leaders still push the “Big more. country and what havoc they might
ment and the coverup of nursing home deaths Lie”about a stolen election; and that insurrec- cause. e fact is in many corners of
due to COVID-19, but Democratic Party tionists who invaded the Capitol on January Now think about that a moment. social media, merely mentioning this
leaders and Democratic o ce holders—with 6th were in ltrated by Antifa. What does Biden and his admin- would likely cause the progressives
whom I heartily agree—have heard enough Don’t expect Republican leaders other than istration gain from spreading vectors to turn this around and say that any
and are making a concerted e ort to dump Mitt Romney and a small number of 17 Sena- of the very illness that has kept much concern about “illegals spreading
him. tors and congresspeople who have put their of the country locked down for the disease” is racist.
careers on the line to demand their compatri- last year into the population at large,
Numerous New York State Senate and ots ever tell the truth. without making any kind of provision Meanwhile, the o cials down in
Assembly Democrats have called for Cuomo Republicans promote themselves as the for sick people illegally crossing the Washington keep telling us to stay
to resign. More than two dozen members of party of personal responsibility, of righteous- border? Instead, he is allowing them masked even after you are vaccinated,
New York’s congressional delegation, including ness, of law and order. Really? In conversations to travel to border states. In fact, his and the vaccine takes full e ect.
high pro le reps Jerry Nadler and Alexandria I’ve had with GOP stalwarts—those willing to administration is ying them to other Keep on social distancing no matter
Ocasio-Cortez, and Sen. Chuck Schumer, the share their opinions—they come across to me states, in many cases, without the what. You are supposed to act like
majority leader, and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, as whiners: “We was robbed.” ey continue to cooperation of the state government. nothing has changed.
have demanded Cuomo step down immedi- wallow in self-pity, even as they go to the bank ere are absolutely no federal rules
ately. President Biden has also chimed in, not to cash their $1,400 American Recovery Act put in place to slow the spread of As Sen. Rand Paul, who is a medi-
only saying that he believed Mr. Cuomo must checks. One even told me, soon after Biden COVID from these people crossing cal doctor, pointed out to Dr. Fauci
resign if investigators con rm the accusers’ won the election, that he’ll never root for an into the USA illegally. Why not have at a Senate hearing last week, “You’ve
claims, but that Cuomo should be prosecuted American again in the Olympics. them get tested and those who are ill been vaccinated, and you parade
if, in fact, a crime was committed. Democrats have long embraced multi-racial kept in quarantine hostels along the around in two masks for show...
democracy. Why not? What’s the downside? border for fourteen days? What is You’re defying everything we know
For a political party to remain trustworthy Democrats believe that government can the rush to get masses of people from about immunity by telling people to
and retain the con dence of the electorate, it be and must be a force for good. Why not? other countries into the USA just wear masks who have been vacci-
must be willing and capable of holding itself What’s the downside? now after a year of lockdown? nated.”
morally and ethically accountable. In the case Based on present performance, there is only Do they want more illness and
against Cuomo, the Democratic Party has one party that is suited to govern in a constitu- lockdown? Dr. Fauci wearing two masks in
done just that—quickly and e ciently. ent-based, multi-racial democracy. And there is public presumably is setting a good
only one party that holds itself accountable and is is the same President Biden example of what he wants people to
Leaders of the party have judged the verac- demands self-control from its elected o cials. who last week also assured the be doing. But why?
ity of Cuomo’s accusers, evaluated the evidence It is surely not the Republican Party, which has American people if they were very,
presented, and considered the severity of his deteriorated and become a persistent defender very good and wore their masks and Why is there this fear after vac-
wrongdoings. Uppermost in their minds, of and apologist for sexual violence, racism, socially distanced every day and all cination and with 30 percent of the
I would presume, is the fact that Andrew insurrection, and chronic lying. got vaccinated, that they might possi- populace who had COVID also im-
Cuomo has been a highly respected leader of mune from antibodies? You simply
his party for many, many years and, therefore, cannot close o a major country for
years, the way some of these people

SEE SCHIFFREN PAGE 11

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THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 OPINION MAHOPAC NEWS PAGE 11

LETTERS SCHIFFREN

What she envisions to take a moment and say not only does Together we have raised a wonderful and FROM PAGE 10
for Mahopac Frank Lombardi have a full-time job, but God-loving family. God has blessed me
in Public Health seem to want
he is also a true leader for all of us. He with three beautiful daughters two of to do.

To the editor, speaks out at the meeting to make sure whom are Hispanic, and one is from the As Rand Paul also pointed
out, “You want to get rid of
What I envision for Mahopac, as per that he has the residents in his best inter- LGBTQ community and all three have vaccine hesitancy? Tell them
they can quit wearing their
the Op Ed, “Be Present, Be Involved”: est. Hispanic partners. mask after they get the vac-
cine. Give them a reward
A bicycle/walking/jogging path ALL the Along with that, on weekends he is out My comments on the podcast were re- instead of telling them that
the nanny state is going to be
way around Lake Mahopac, since current- and about wherever there is a community lating experiences as a 20-year-old who there for three more years and
you’ve got to wear a mask for-
ly reckless drivers driving 40-45 mph (or event. lived in Brooklyn and was working as a ever.” He’s got a point there.

more!) on the 30 mph Lake Boulevard and One thing I did want to point out is how police o cer in Times Square at that time. A year ago, Dr. Fauci was
perfectly familiar with the
6N stretch endanger humans and humans many times this man has sponsored a food During this comedy podcast, there was a longstanding gold standard re-
search that showed masks were
with dogs and humans on bicycles trying drive. He is aware that many people right discussion on experiences relating to the of no use. And said so in pub-
lic. But now he has ipped to
to enjoy those lake views. here in our community need help. Hun- 1980s and how life has changed. two masks. He must know, as
Rand Paul pointed out, there
Regular (how about twice weekly?) lit- ger stops here and Frank has always been I respect people, their race, gender, and is no “science” that supports
that after vaccination. And
ter pick-up starting in the meantime since a big part of seeing that our very own have identity. A great deal of my life is spent that this is “mask theater.” But
he prefers his “noble lie.”
currently it’s hard to enjoy the street-level a place to go to get food for their families. serving the community; as a family we
Mara Schi ren, PhD, is a
experience with all the years-worth of lit- His heart has always been in serving our travel to New York City twice a month writer, Certi ed Functional
Medicine Health Coach,
ter. town and he is honored to do so. to serve the homeless community in the Certi ed Integrative Psychiatric
Educator and Certi ed Peak
And while we are at it—a powerful, Marianne Chaluisan Times Square area where I patrolled as Performance Coach. You can
reach her at healthascent1@
can’t-miss-it anti-litter campaign with Mahopac a police o cer. We minister to them by gmail.co

some arrests/ nes for litterers publicized feeding and clothing them spiritually and

in your newspaper to get the message Hyer responds to physically. is is just one outreach of
across. podcast controversy many that we do.

Margaret Fiore So, you see racism is not part of my
DNA. As a minister, I practice tolerance,
Mahopac

To the editor, acceptance and inclusion.

In praise of Councilman I understand that it has been reported My comments were taken out of con-
Lombardi that my comments on a law enforcement text. It is surprising to see someone judge
comedy podcast in February to some ap- me without knowing the person that I

pear, or are being implied, infer that I am am. I am a man of character, integrity, and

To the editor, a racist. principles.

I wanted to write a few lines about one at is not true. Robert Hyer

of our councilmen, Frank Lombardi. First, let me begin by saying I am a min- Kent

Many people get elected to serve on the ister who loves God and loves people of

board. ey do what is needed for being all races. I have been married to my beau- [Note: Robert Hyer is a candidate for Kent

a part of the Town Board. But I wanted tiful Colombian wife, Lucy, for 20 years. Town Board.]

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PAGE 12 MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

When is a child ready for kindergarten?

STRONG been watching Sydney and felt told to hold their children back struggles are kicking them- about child development.
LEARNING intellectually she’d be ne, but in nursery school for one more selves for not listening. e You can take Sydney to an
socially and emotionally, she’d year. e parents whose child other parents are happy they
DR. LINDA be playing catch up all through made the right decision. education specialist for testing
SILBERT school. Sydney’s birthday is to see if she is ready for kinder-
Dec. 15. e cut o is Dec. 31. It’s a di cult decision to garten. But I would wait until
Dear Dr. Linda, We want her to go to kinder- make, and you shouldn’t take it’s closer to the beginning of
I remember reading your col- garten in September. We think it lightly. Children develop at the school year. Sydney also
she is just ne. Do you think their own pace. e di erence will be evaluated by the school
umn about a year ago. Parents nursery schools do this to keep in development at that age can district before she enters school
who were told their preschool- their enrollment up? Or do you be great. Yes, all parents think in September. is will give
er wasn’t ready for kinder- think the teacher may be right, their children are the smartest you more information.
garten asked you what they and we’re just not listening. and best-looking kids around.
should do. My husband and I If you need to enroll Sydney
didn’t worry because we knew Sydney’s Mom and Dad Years ago, an old-time now in another year of pre-
our daughter would be ready. Dear Sydney’s Mom and Dad, teacher said to me, “every mon- school to ensure that she has
Well, our daughter’s preschool key loves his own peanuts.” She a spot next year, be sure you
teacher just told us she didn’t Many children with birth- was talking about the parents can get your money back if you
think Sydney would be ready days at the end of the year are who thought their child could change your mind. You also
for kindergarten in September. always playing catch up. Yet, do no wrong. I replied that ev- have the option, if the cost isn’t
We asked her how she could many other children do well. I ery monkey better love his own prohibitive, to enroll Sydney
make a statement like that know two second graders who peanuts because if he doesn’t, in a private kindergarten. is
in March. She said that she’s have December birthdays. One who will? will give her a little more time
of them is struggling academi- to mature. is way if she isn’t
cally as well as socially, while After we had a good laugh, ready for rst grade the next
the other one has no problem we agreed that all parents year, she can repeat kindergar-
with school. Both parents were must love their children. ey ten in the public school.
must accept and support their
For today, retirement children, but they also need to Investigate your options
and every moment stand back at times and objec- carefully now, but don’t be sur-
in between. tively evaluate the situation. prised at the progress she may
make just over the next few
Tier 4 planning isn’t about getting a new 403(b) I don’t think the teacher is months. Children grow and
or buying financial products. It’s about becoming recommending that Sydney develop di erently.
educated and empowered around the events should stay in her preschool
and decisions in your personal financial life. It’s for nancial reasons. You need Dr. Linda
about being prepared. Maybe it’s time. to nd out the speci c be-
havior the teacher is referring Dr. Linda is co-author of
Call me today for your initial Confident to that indicates Sydney isn’t “Why Bad Grades Happen
Retirement conversation. ready socially and emotionally. to Good Kids” and director of
Research how children behave Strong Learning Tutoring
Confident Retirement approach socially and emotionally at and SAT/ACT Test Prep.
Sydney’s stage of development. Send your questions to Linda@
Michael A. Bucci 203.302.6744 Talk to your pediatrician and stronglearning.com.
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The Confident Retirement approach is not a guarantee of future financial results. The initial Confident Retirement conversation provides an overview Photo Submissions
of financial planning concepts. You will not receive written analysis and/or recommendations. Photos submitted to Mahopac News need to be a high-resolution
image. Images that are submitted at a low resolution cannot be
Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC., a registered investment adviser. published. Submit photos to Mahopac News by the Thursday
before the next publication date. Submissions can be emailed
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PAGE 13 MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

Shaking in my shoes

tor backing in. Not that I ever quest to nd a local boot wiz- “Geppetto’s!” I announced why he was able to make Pin-

TRACY did that. More than ve times. ard. Fortunately, where I live, when I got home after drop- occhio. You’re getting your fairy

So, one day I woke up and there were a lot of boot repair ping o my boots. tales mixed up. You’re thinking

BECKERMAN looked at my beloved boots shops. Unfortunately, there “What’s Geppetto’s?” asked of the story with the shoemak-

with clear eyes, and exclaimed, were not a lot of good ones. my husband. er and the elves.”

“Yikes!” I read the reviews and stories “Only the premier shoe “ e shoemaker and the

“What’s wrong?” asked my of bootastrophes and sudden repair shop in the city. I mean, elves? Was he married to the

husband. shoe death swam before me. with a name like Geppetto, he Old Woman Who Lived in the

“My boots need a makeover,” One wrong move by a bad has to be great, right?” Shoe?” I wondered.
When I found the boots, I said.
it was love at rst “You can’t just bring them to a shoemaker and, BAM!—your “Why is that?” “No,” he said. “But appar-
boots aren’t made for walking “Because Geppetto was a ently I am.”
anymore. famous shoemaker.”
footwear. shoe repair shop?”

ey were a unicorn, or in this I looked at him aghast. Unwilling to take a chance “No, he wasn’t,” said my hus- For more “Lost in

case, a shoenicorn. e designer “I can’t bring these to just on just a so-so shoe shop, I band. “He was a wood maker.” Midlife,” follow Tracy on

only made one pair in each size any old shoe shop. ese are my started asking around. And “What?” Facebook at facebook.com/

and after each pair was sold, that BBFs!” that’s when I found… “A WOODMAKER. at’s LostinsuburbiaFanPage.

was it. Gone. Dunzo. No-shoe- “BBFs?” CARD$MART & GIFTS
nus, no-more-us. “Best Boots Forever.”
He examined the boots I held
I quickly snapped them up but gingerly in my hands.
realized I was going to have to

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because once they were gone, they I shook my head. arrivals!
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PAGE 14 MAHOPAC NEWS OPINION THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

A shot in the dark

ON we will be able to get together, in that has been there since the had us sit for a while to make e CDC published a list of
ASSIGNMENT person, and have such a conten- Kennedy administration, going sure we didn’t have an abnormal things you still can’t do after re-
tious argument that we storm around and around waving at reaction. Once they realized ceiving your vaccine. I found, for
RICK out in a snit and never speak to you while you’re waiting for that my reaction was as normal instance, that after receiving the
MELÉN each other again. I’ve been wait- your own suitcase to appear. as it was going to get, they not vaccine I still could not play the
ing a whole year for this day. only let us go but encouraged it. piano. What you CAN do is visit
With a little bit of Centrifugal force threw us your grandchildren, even if they
pre-existing asthma, I e Javits Center is a huge o the line in front of a panel are not vaccinated, as long as
was able to schedule convention space, and the whole of nurses, who were running a they are not exhibiting any signs
a coronavirus vaccination for proceedings had the distinct quiz show, and if you answered of being extremely annoying. If
11 p.m. at the Javits Center in the questions correctly, you got you don’t have grandchildren, the
Manhattan. I was so happy I avor of being at the airport. to move on. “Are you feeling sick CDC has said that it is perfectly
could have kissed a stranger, if ere were people dressed today?” One asked. I said, “No, okay to visit theirs.
Governor Cuomo hadn’t already my hair always looks like that.”
beaten me to it. I wasn’t sure in National Guard uniforms, “Do you have any underlying I hear rumblings, and I’m not
how to dress for the vaccination. which made me nervous that conditions?” “No, they’re lying talking about my stomach right
we might be hijacked. But they right there on the top.” “What is now, that there are people out
It was such a fortuitous oc- were very nice, very calm, and your race?” “I am an Earthling.” there that don’t want to get the
casion that I felt I should wear very e cient, moving me and “Are you pregnant?” “No, but the Coronavirus vaccine, so I’d like
a suit and tie, but I settled on my wife from one side of the night is young.” “Are you an es- to have a few words with them
something in between that and sential worker?” “I work for tele- right now. Are you afraid that it
what I usually wear in quaran- oor to the other, where we vision—is there anything more might hurt? It won’t hurt nearly
tine, so the compromise was: followed a maze of ribbon bar- essential than that right now?” as much as me hitting you
clothing. It seems like we’re riers, di erent colored tape on “Do you pass out after shots?” over the head with a ball-peen
getting there. It feels as if soon the oor, and numbered signs to “Only if I have more than eight hammer to knock some sense
get us where we needed to go, of them.” And so forth. We got into you. Are you afraid that it
which looked remarkably like our inoculations, and the nurses doesn’t have decades of track
where we started. I began to feel record for you to pore through
like that one red canvas bag on the data and study? Come on
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824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 again see that I have a pimple
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Securities offered through Cantella & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Cantella and Co., Inc. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. my appearance on the masked
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THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 MAHOPAC NEWS PAGE 15

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EGG-citement returns to

VMLoionlurdtnsoteneyeaPrnsadHtipapileey

Hunter Holden, 4, gives the Ea

Laura and John McGill with Charlie, 3

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RSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 Luke Riccardi, PAGE 17
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PAGE 18 MAHOPAC NEWS SCHOOLS & CAMPS THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021

MHS student receives
photography award

MHS student Hol-

ly Cote has been rec-

ognized with a Scho-

lastic Art & Writing

Award Honorable

Mention for two pho-

tography submissions.

Scholastic Art &

Writing Awards is the

nation’s longest-run-

ning and most presti-

gious scholarship and

recognition program

for young artists and

writers in grades 7–12

and serves as a launch

pad for furthering stu- PHOTO COURTESY OF GEORGIA PANAGI PHOTOGRAPHY.

dents’ future success Culinary couple Shayna Morris and Rob Hanley

by providing them Culinary couple cooks up engagement

with access to schol-

arship programs and photo at BOCES alma mater

workshops, as well

as the ability to have

their work published Holly Cotes “We de nitely knew they had with Gui re and their other Career Shayna and Rob met here.”
and displayed in re- a connection,” said teacher Chef and Technical Education teachers “We are so happy that they chose
Jenn Gui re of Rob Hanley and for an engagement photo shoot in
gional and national Mahopac’s Shayna Morris. e the Culinary building on the BO- to come here for this special occa-
2012 alums of the Hospitality CES campus. sion,” added Chef Michael Toma-
exhibitions. Academy at Putnam | Northern seski.“Our students spend so much
Westchester BOCES reunited “We wanted to have our engage- time with us, and we are so excited
“I’m honored to be recognized by Scholastic Art Award for ment pictures taken here because to see them when they come back.”
it is where we met,” said Morris,
doing something that I love! I look forward to pursuing a degree a Mahopac High School alum. e couple hired photographer
“Plus, we have stayed in touch with Georgia Panagi to take their pho-
in interior design where I can continue my passion for art,” Cole our teachers. ey are phenomenal. tos. Asked about the unusual set-
ting for an engagement shoot, Pan-
said. is place is very special to us.” agi took it in stride.
Hanley, a Hendrick Hudson
High School alum who works as a “My mom works as a chef, so I
line chef at Crabtree Kittle House, am used to the professional-kitch-
and Morris, who is an ophthal- en setting,” she said. “I love that we
mic technician, said that they be- are doing it here—it is so unique.”
gan their relationship in school as
friends; quickly their friendship Uniqueness is something the
grew. couple and the venue share, accord-
“Students who come to our Cu- ing to Morris.
linary program have a lot in com-
mon,” said Chef Suzie-Low Pratt. “We are not like every couple,”
“ ey share a love of food, of cook- she said. “We are di erent, and we
ing, and of serving in the hospital- wanted to have our photos taken in
ity industry, so it makes sense that a place that re ects that.”

Article courtesy of Karen ornton/
PNW BOCES

THURSDAY, MARCH 25, 2021 HEALTH & WELLNESS MAHOPAC NEWS PAGE 19

Fighting to save his heart—and his life

When a military vet faced a heart attack, swift action made the di erence

Eugene Cauvin has never back to school to prepare for a personality and leadership.” way) was completed in little Cauvin said of his job, and the
been good at jumping rope. career in healthcare, earning a Sandel had Cauvin at more than an hour. stress is both palpable and sus-
e night of Oct. 1, 2020, family nurse practitioner degree Northern Westchester Hospi- tained.
however, the t and trim re- from Columbia and a Doctor tal within minutes, and called HINDSIGHT IS 20/20
tired Air Force captain was of Nursing Practice from Pace, ahead to alert the ER, as well “ ere’s a cautionary tale in ALL FOR ADELINE
pleased to discover that he and is currently the associate as Dr. Carl D. Reimers, North- all this,” Cauvin said, and he When Cauvin left the hos-
was “in the zone.” His urs- director of pain management well cardiology service line di- feels it’s important to share. pital, it was with “marching
day mixed martial arts (MMA) and palliative care at Northern rector for Westchester County “Dr. Reimers and his team orders from Dr. Reimers to
class in Mount Kisco was alter- Westchester Hospital (NWH). and the director of NWH’s were superb, and the care I take it easy for a few weeks”
nating between intense bursts He sees a strong connection brand-new state-of-the-art received was second to none, and allow his heart the time
of rope work and burpees, and, between both parts of his life. Cardiac Catheterization Lab, but it’s so important to listen to heal.
oddly enough,“I was doing bet- “Being in the military is which had just opened on Sept. to your body and pay attention “I have a young daughter.
ter than ever before,”recalls Eu- about serving something great- 2. to any symptoms.” Adeline is seven and I adore
gene—until, well, he wasn’t. er than yourself,” Cauvin said. “Time is muscle” when it Cauvin occasionally got her,” Cauvin said. “My prima-
e third time the 6-foot “ e same can be said about comes to matters of the heart, lightheaded in the months ry purpose is to live for her.”
60-something from Pleasant- healthcare. It’s all about taking so once an EKG con rmed leading up to his heart attack. Accordingly, “I’ve corrected
ville sprung to his feet post-bur- care of people; about making a that Cauvin was indeed hav- His energy had been waning so some things in my life and am
pee,“everything came to a halt,” di erence.” And now his col- ing a heart attack, the team he would guzzle energy drinks taking greater control of the
he said. ere was pressure in leagues from NWH were about needed to move quickly. An to keep up. He even experi- things I can control,” he adds.
the center of his chest. Sweat to make a very big di erence angiogram completed within enced pain in the middle of his Daddy-daughter time is, of
pouring o him. He couldn’t in Cauvin’s own life, beginning 25 minutes of the onset of his chest for a few weeks back in course, a top priority.
seem to catch his breath. In- with Dr. Sherri Sandel, associ- symptoms produced digital September. e bottom line is, “I feel
deed, much to his astonish- ate medical director at NWH, images that showed plaque Cauvin attributed his seem- great and I’m healthier now
ment, the guy with the “perfect” who, as luck would have it, was buildup that had ruptured ingly minor issues to stress at than I was before.” And, yes,
blood pressure and low choles- in the same MMA class that and the presence of a clot in work. Palliative care, which fo- for all those wondering, he is
terol, the same one who can get night. Cauvin’s right coronary artery, cuses on relieving and prevent- back to jumping rope.
through an intense kickboxing as well as 90 percent blockage ing the su ering of patients Learn more about ad-
class without a break, was in the TIMING IS EVERYTHING in another artery. A subsequent living with chronic diseases, un- vanced cardiac care in West-
midst of a heart attack. “Dr. Sandel would make a angioplasty (to open the arter- dergoing treatment for curable chester, visit nwh.northwell.
If Cauvin looks familiar it’s good squadron commander ies with the help of a catheter illnesses, or nearing the end of edu/heart.
for good reason: After retir- for ghter pilots,” said an ap- and insert a tiny stainless-steel life, is not easy.
ing from the military, he went preciative Cauvin. “She exudes coiled stent to keep them that “You’re in the trenches,” Article provided by NW

Could You Have A Kidney Stone?

Learn about symptoms, treatment
and prevention…

Ask the Doctor Q. What are the symptoms of a kidney stone? one of three outpatient procedures, depending on
A: You might feel waves of severe pain in your back or the size and location of the stone.
Dr. Warren Bromberg, MD, FACS side below the ribs. Pain might spread to your groin (a) External shock waves to shatter the stone, turning it
Chief, Urology Division and lower abdomen. Nausea, vomiting and blood in to smaller stones that can then pass on their own.
Co-Director, Institute for Robotic and the urine are possible. If you experience extreme pain, (b) Inserting a small telescope to laser the stone into
Minimally Invasive Surgery vomiting, or fever, go to an urgent care facility, or your tiny fragments.
Northern Westchester Hospital hospital ER. Otherwise, have your symptoms evaluated (c) If the stone is very large, a telescope is passed directly
by your primary care physician. into the kidney through ones back to fragment and
Learn more about Dr. Bromberg, remove the stone.
visit nwh.northwell.edu/ Q: What actually is a kidney stone?
bromberg A: A stone is rock-like material formed within the Q: Can I help prevent kidney stones from forming?
kidney. Most stones have a calcium component, and are A: Yes, however, once a kidney stone is removed, if a
caused by inadequate uid intake, an overabundance person does not change his or her diet or uid intake,
of calories, and excessive salt intake. Stones with a there’s a 70 percent chance another will form. Help
uric acid component are caused by an excessive meat prevent calcium stones by remaining well-hydrated.
intake. When a stone passes out of the kidney and Avoid consuming large amounts of dark leafy
enters the ureter, the tube becomes blocked, urine vegetables, peanuts, Vitamin C tablets and chocolate.
backs up, the kidney swells and pain results. To avoid forming a uric acid-type stone, limit meat,
including red meat, chicken or sh.
Q: What are my treatment options?
A: A small stone may “pass” from your body naturally. Did you know?
If necessary, your physician can provide medication
for pain and nausea and allow natural passage of the Once a kidney stone is removed, if a person
stone. Uric acid stones can sometimes be dissolved
with medication. A large stone blocking a kidney, or does not change his or her diet or uid intake,
a stone associated with an infection, can be life-
threatening and must be treated urgently. For stones there’s a 70 percent chance another will form.
that cannot pass on their own, a urologist may advise