North Salem News 07.06.2023

NORTH SALEM’S ONLY WEEKLY NEWSPAPER MAILED TO EVERY HOME AND BUSINESS. VOL. 9 NO. 18 Visit TapIntoNorthSalem.net for the latest news. THURSDAY, JULY 6, 2023 BALANCED ROCK 4 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE 23 CLASSIFIEDS 22 LEGAL NOTICES 21 LEISURE 16 OPINION 8 North Salem Student Sendoff pg 12 SO LONG! BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER Walter Cronkite famously closed his nightly TV newscasts by intoning, “And that’s the way it is.” Outgoing schools Superintendent Dr. Ken Freeston, who grew up watching the venerable CBS anchor, invoked that trademark valediction recently at his final appearance before the North Salem Board of Education. “Every superintendent’s report I’ve given, I’ve ended with “That’s all I have,” he told trustees, fellow administrators, and the public Tuesday, June 20, adding that, as of that particular moment, “Metaphorically and in reality, that IS all I have.” Freeston took on the top role in 2007. Prior to that he was schools superintendent in both Ridgefield and Redding, Conn. When he announced his pending retirement last year, Freeston noted that by 2023 he would have spent a halfcentury in public service. “I wish you great success with your new leadership and I know you’re going to continue to do great things,” Freeston told fellow educators. (Dr. Duncan Wilson, former assistant superintendent with the Ardsley Union Free School District, is now at the helm. Voters just re-elected Kurt Guldan as trustee and elected Carolyn Aversano, who served on the board from 2013 to 2015, one of those years as its president.) Also officially departing that night was BOE president Andrew Brown, who has retired after putting in an impressive 18 years. A town police officer, he was highly invested in school matters even before becoming a trustee. In fact, it was his desire to see better school athletic facilities – specifically a turf field – that spurred him to run, Brown recalled. Pointing to the just-opened Tiger Stadium and recently approved districtwide safety and security upgrades, Brown praised Freeston’s leadership and the efforts of all those involved in seeing them through to fruition. “I’m very proud of that field,” he said, adding of the second big project: “In my heart of hearts, I know the children are safe.” Bringing up the 1,600 board meetings he estimates he attended over the course of his career as an educator, Freeston noted that UConn basketball legend Jim Calhoun had coached 1,200 games. Farewell, Dr. Freeston North Salem superintendent retires FILE PHOTO Freeston being sworn in by Board of Education president Andrew Brown in 2007. ‘I wish you great success with your new leadership and I know you’re going to continue to do great things.’ Dr. Ken Freeston SEE FREESTON PAGE 7 • Gravel • Topsoil • Mulches • Sweet Peet • Unilock Pavers BEDFORD GRAVEL & LANDSCAPE SUPPLY 27 Norm Ave., Mt. Kisco (next to Kohl’s) www.bedfordgravel.com 914-241-3851 • Sand • Stonedust • Item #4 • Drainage Pipe • Flagstone • Fieldstone • Belgian Block • Cobblestones • Wallstone • Fire Pits • Stepping Stones • Soil/Fill

Page 2 – North Salem News Thursday, July 6, 2023 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 What steps have you taken to protect your life savings from the cost of long term care? CALL NEW YORK’S ELDER LAW TEAM 914.948.1500 BY SOPHIA CASELNOVA STAFF WRITER In the early afternoon of June 29, first responders were notified of the crash of a single manned aircraft at the Shrub Oak International School. The first call regarding the incident was made to the Yorktown Police Department at 12:09 p.m., according to Chief Robert Noble. The notification came from a member of the public who reported that the “small plane had crashed.” The pilot, the plane’s sole occupant, is a 66-year-old resident of Tuckahoe, NY who was flying from the Westchester County Airport in White Plains to the Orange County Airport in Montgomery, NY.  The crash has been attributed to mechanical difficulties which affected the plane’s ability  to maintain or gain altitude. The pilot was attempting to fly the single engine Cessna back to Westchester County Airport when the mechanical issues began, making it necessary to find a safe place to make a hard landing. He was conscious, alert, and suffered only minor injuries, according to police.  The pilot’s identity has been withheld by officials at this time. Members of the Yorktown Police Department responded within minutes and recommended placing the school on lockout. A fuel leak coming from the plane resulted in Mohegan Lake Professional and Volunteer Fire Department being dispatched.  Mohegan Lake Volunteer Ambulance Corps and Empress Paramedics were also dispatched to treat the pilot.   The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)  and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) were both notified of the plane crash. Investigators of the Yorktown Police Department verified with the Westchester County Airport and the FAA that the flight was scheduled. Investigators determined that there was “no criminality or anything suspicious” associated with the hard landing.  The scene was turned over to Chief Eade and the Lake Mohegan Professional Firefighters for the overall removal of the aircraft and the overseeing of the fuel leak remediation efforts. The Westchester Department of Emergency Services, Westchester County Department of Public Safety and New York State Troopers also assisted at the scene.  Lifting the school lockout was suggested to the staff at the Shrub Oak International School. “It was a decent ending to what could’ve been a tragic situation,” said Town Supervisor Tom Diana. “It was a small single engine plane experiencing problems in the air and the pilot notified tower control that he was having difficulties with the aircraft and was looking for a large field to land. That field became the front field of the International School. I want to thank and acknowledge all of our first responders who arrived immediately on scene.” The pilot was transported to Westchester Medical Center for observation and treatment for his injuries. According to police, further investigation into this incident will be turned over to the NTSB and FAA.  Plane makes hard landing in Westchester CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS The plane had been headed for Orange County Airport. Mechanical issues forced the Cessna to make a hard landing on June 29.

BY LAUREN CANAVAN CONTRIBUTING WRITER Pop superstar Taylor Swift has been on a touring tear, filling stadiums across the United States on her record-breaking Eras Tour. The singer-songwriter has crafted her performances to display both musical and visual glimpses into the various stages of her career thus far. Yorktown resident Grace DelVecchio is the ultimate “Swiftie.” According to her mother, Theresa, the spunky 12-year-old is constantly asking her parents to play Swift’s music at home. Grace, who has Down syndrome, also loves to share her love for the artist at Mildred E. Strang Middle School. Speech Language Pathologist Jenn Sparano first found out she had a fellow fan in her classroom when Grace mentioned Swift during a “get to know you” activity. This past Christmas, Grace’s father Michael made her dreams come true by snagging tickets to not one, but two of Swift’s concerts at MetLife Stadium on May 26 and 28. However, Sparano decided to take things one step further, striving to arrange a meet and greet between Grace and the GrammyWinner. “I started reaching out to different background dancers. I was emailing the Taylor Swift PR team. I was messaging Taylor Swift. But I obviously didn’t hear back from anyone,” she explained. Nonetheless, she kept trying. She also found out that she and Grace would be attending the same concert on May 28. After posting about Grace in a Facebook group, a reporter from The New York Post offered to cover the story. The article was published Saturday the 27th, but despite the influx of positive support, nothing had been confirmed. “We went to the concert, just excited that we were going to the concert thinking, ‘Oh, it didn’t happen.’ But there was still an awesome article that came out about Grace,” said Sparano. About midway through the concert, Grace and Michael were approached by security guards who began ushering Grace to the edge of the stage. Theresa’s phone began to blow up with texts from Michael, but soon their communication was cut off. One of the guards had taken Michael’s phone to film what was about to unfold. Waiting in the parking lot, Theresa was on the edge of her seat. “I literally was just sitting there waiting, and I hear all the screams and you know, I’ve been stalking the Eras Tour. So, I knew what was going on,” she said. “Then, next thing you know, I’m literally getting messages from like a dozen people being like, ‘Oh my God, was that Grace?’” she continued. As Grace reached her final destination, Swift began to sing. Per concert tradition, every time Swift performs her song “22,” she skips down the runway and gifts her signature black fedora to a fan. On May 28, in front of a crowd of roughly 70,000 people, Grace was that special fan. “I was shaking, I was so nervous to see her. It made me feel special,” recalled Grace. Swift crowned Grace with a smile. The stadium erupted in cheers. Upon seeing Grace on the jumbotron, Sparano burst into tears. “I think this whole story can show that, despite what differences you may have, we all have things in common. And that someone who has been through a lot can overcome so much and have such an amazing moment,” she said. “I think the awesome thing to see was after she got the hat, she didn’t take it off. She wore it the entire concert,” said Michael. Grace was ecstatic to find fellow Swifties asking her for photos and congratulating her on the way out of the stadium. Still on cloud nine, she returned back to school to find an equally as large outpour of love and support from her community. Principal of Yorktown High School, Joseph DeGennaro even tweeted about Grace’s once-in-alifetime moment. Grace keeps the valuable hat– which inside reads “Love, Taylor,” in a shadow box. Her family plans on making a display with the hat and other memorabilia from the night. Grace will turn 13 this summer, and enjoy a Taylor Swift-themed party, as the number is known to be a lucky one for the singer. YORKTOWN MIDDLE-SCHOOLER CROWNED ‘ULTIMATE SWIFTIE’ BY TAYLOR SWIFT HERSELF 12-year-old Grace DelVecchio attended the concert of a lifetime at MetLife Stadium. Taylor Swift gifts her signature black fedora to one lucky fan during each performance. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALYSSA RASP Grace’s father Michael made his daughter’s dreams come true by scoring tickets to the Eras Tour. Your Neighbor Thursday, July 6, 2023 North Salem News – Page 3

Page 4 – North Salem News Thursday, July 6, 2023 North Salem News USPS #22110 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 North Salem News Deadline The deadline for advertisements and editorial submissions for North Salem News is the Thursday before the next publication date. For more information, call Tom Walogorsky at 914-302-5830 or email [email protected] Online Follow Us Periodicals Postage Paid at Somers, NY and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to North Salem News at 118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER A Bronx man has been arrested in connection with a domestic dispute that turned violent in Somers, state police said. Raymond L. Laudo, 66, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with first-degree burglary, a class B felony; second-degree assault and second-degree strangulation, both class D felonies; and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon and second-degree menacing, both class A misdemeanors. State troopers as well as Somers and North Salem police officers were dispatched to a private residence on Summit Circle on June 13 to investigate a reported domestic dispute involving a gun. They found Laudo suffering from a gunshot wound to the arm. The home’s resident had been hit on the head by a metal pipe, police said. Both men were taken to Westchester Medical Center where they were treated for non-life-threatening injuries and released. State police said an investigation determined that Laudo “had forcibly entered the residence and violently assaulted the victim.” “The victim then fired one round from a .22-caliber rifle in self-defense,” they added. Local police had previously reported that the two men were brothers and that the incident was isolated and had posed no danger to the public. Laudo was arraigned in the Town of Somers Court and released on $25,000 bail. He is scheduled to reappear in court on July 17. Arrest made in Somers shooting Bronx man faces strangulation, weapons charges The Schoolhouse Theater (MIS)UNDERSTANDING MAMMY: THE HATTIE MCDANIEL STORY July 14 through 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.theschoolhouse theater.org Ruth Keeler Memorial Library The library is open for browsing, computer use, and reading! Please visit www.ruthkeeler memoriallibrary.org for more information. Most programs are in person or on ZOOM. Send an email if you want to participate to keeler [email protected]. When you email, a link will be sent to click on, including a password to enter. BAGELS & BOOKS DISCUSSION GROUP Thursday, July 6, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. “Northanger Abbey” by Jane Austen. This book discussion group meets on the first Thursday of the month at 10:30 in the library. It is free, open to all, newcomers are welcome and there will be copies of the books at the library. Books are chosen by the group and the discussions are fun. BACKYARD CONCERT: GOAT RODEO Monday, July 10, from 6 to 7 p.m. Born 15 years ago in a North Salem farmhouse, Goat Rodeo plays improvisational rock n’ roll flavored with blues, country, and folk. The vibe is easy, the groove is hypnotic, and the tunes are drawn from the Great Americana songbook — from Dylan and the Dead to CSNY and the Stones, with a few tasty originals as well. Founding members (and longtime North Salemites) Eric Pooley (gtr, voc) and Dave Span (drums, voc) kick up dust with Tom Casciato (gtr, keys,voc), Susan Kane (gtr, voc), Marshall Messer (harp, voc) and Michael Principe (bass, voc). HISTORY BOOK GROUP Tuesday, July 11, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. “Autumn in the Heavenly Kingdom: China, the West and the Epic Story of the Taiping Civil War” by Stephen Platt. The History Book group will be reading three books in July, August and September on the origins of Modern China. This group meets on the second Tuesday of the month at the library at 7 p.m.. It is free, open to anyone, requires no registration and welcomes newcomers. The are copies of the books for you to borrow at the library. MINDFUL MEDITATION WITH COLLEEN CASALE Monday, July 17, from 12 to 12:30 p.m. These sessions are held by Zoom on the second Monday of the month. Contact the library to get a Zoom link. You do not need to attend all the sessions. Meditation can help with focus and concentration. Relaxing the body and mind can strengthen the immune system, reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and help with sleep and mood. Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden 28 Deveau Road www.hammondmuseum.org SARAH CORBIN PHOTOGRAPHER: BENEFIT AUCTION July 5 - 19 In connection with the current exhibition Sarah Corbin Photographer: A Tribute at the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden, now on view through July 15, all photographs by Sarah Corbin in the exhibition, as well as additional works, BALANCED ROCK SEE ROCK PAGE 5 914.455.2158 SpirelliElectric.com • [email protected] Specializing in residential & commercial services. 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Thursday, July 6, 2023 North Salem News – Page 5 SUMMER OPEN HOUSE Maplewood at Danbury is excited to share our beautiful community with you. Come experience our boutique style living. We offer on-site nursing, seasonally inspired dining, a robust engagement calendar, and much more. Stop by for a guided tour and take home a taste of Maplewood. Enjoy a delicious take-home dinner for two on July 18th, and take-home lunch for two on July 22nd. 22 Hospital Avenue | Danbury, Connecticut | 203.744.8444 | MaplewoodAtDanbury.com RSVP By July 16th to Jennifer Burke-James at [email protected] or call 203.744.8444. TUESDAY, JULY 18TH | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM SATURDAY, JULY 22ND | 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM ASK ABOUT OUR SUMMER SPECIAL! will be sold in an online sale at iGavel Auctions.  Bidding will open on July 5 and continue until July 19. Professor George Corbin, Sarah’s husband, has generously agreed to donate all proceeds from the sale to Pegasus Therapeutic Riding and the Hammond Museum. The auction can be found at: www.igavelauctions. com/auctions/sarah-corbin-photographer-benefit-auction SPECIAL CELEBRATORY COCKTAIL RECEPTION: SADDLE UP AND BID! Friday, July 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. To be held at Pegasus Therapeutic Riding at 310 Peach Lake Road in Brewster. Cocktail hour will begin at Pegasus Therapeutic Riding’s lovely farm at 6pm, followed by an illustrated talk by Sarah’s husband George about their travels to and the horses of the Camargue in southern France. Drinks and small bites will be served, and Chick’s Candy Store will provide musical enjoyment to the evening. Dress is “farm chic.” Free Summer Music Series Wednesdays, thru July 28, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The Cultural Arts Coalition in Brewster presents the Third Annual Brewster Summer Music Series. The series is FREE to all and will be held outdoors at the gazebo in Southeast Veterans Park, Morningthorpe & Railroad Avenues. Bring the family, lawn chairs and a picnic to enjoy local bands and acoustic opening acts Wednesday evenings. There are no rain dates. Visit Brewster MusicFestival.com for complete details and performance schedule. North Salem Democratic Committee VOLUNTEERS WANTED There are a few open seats on the town committee and the Democrats would love to have some new volunteers come forward. It’s a great way to meet new people and be involved in who and what shapes our community. If, on the other hand, you may be interested in serving on a town committee or board, we suggest you keep an eye on the town’s website, northsalemny. org, and send an inquiry to the town clerk, mhlushko@north salemny.org. Vacancies are listed on the town website. Contact us at PO Box 525, North Salem, NY 10560 or northsalem [email protected] North Salem Republican Town Committee VOLUNTEERS WANTED The North Salem Republican Town Committee is looking for volunteers. If you cannot volunteer your time, please consider a donation to our committee. If you believe in the conservative cause and want to support our efforts, consider mailing a donation via check or money order to: North Salem Republican Town Committee (NSRTC), PO Box 289 North Salem, NY 10560. Follow us daily on Facebook to keep up with Republican issues at @North Salem Republicans. If you want to get involved in our committee or want to participate in other town volunteer efforts, email us at north [email protected], and also visit our website for more information at www.north salemrepublican.com NORTH SALEM REPUBLICAN SOCIAL CLUB The North Salem Republican Club will be hosting get togethers for coffee, pastries and informal conversation in North Salem on Saturday mornings twice monthly. Please only bring your willingness to relax and speak freely with like minded individuals. RSVP’s only! Please RSVP via email with full name to [email protected], and you will then be provided with the Saturday morning time and location. Looking forward to seeing you soon. Westchester Female Flag Football Registration is open for Summer Female Flag Football under the lights! Westchester Female Flag Football, powered by Gridiron Partners, offers a A number of North Salem students have been recognized for their academic achievements at colleges across the country! Dean’s List ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY Ruthie Witmer Ian Woloshyn Celebrating our scholars! ROCK FROM PAGE 4 SEE ROCK PAGE 20

Page 6 – North Salem News Thursday, July 6, 2023 To celebrate America’s founding this month, the NSRTC will have a contest with a question a day for 30 days. For the next three weeks, there will be 10 questions in each issue of the paper. The contest is open to all North Salem residents, and prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. Please email answers to [email protected]. This weeks questions are: 1. The Battle of Bunker Hill was fought on A. Bunker Hill B. Breeds Hill C. Pork Chop Hill D. None of the above 2. When Ben Franklin walked out of the Constitutional Convention, a woman asked him “what kind of government have you given us?” Ben Franklin replied, “a ____ if you can keep it.” A. Democracy B. Confederation C. Republic D. None of the above 3. In which case did the Supreme Court give itself the right to override one of the other two branches of government? A. Dred Scott decision B. Madison v. Marbury C. Brown v. Board of Education D. None of the above 4. Vermont because the ____ state to ratify the constitution A. 4th B. 6th C. 8th D. None of the above 5. The 4thAmendment to the Constitution was influenced by events surrounding A. General Warrants - Writs  of Assistance issued by the English King B. Requirement that all official documents had stamps which raised money for the Crown. C. Tax placed on Tea. D. None of the above 6. Federalists were Founders who supported a strong central government. Which founder was not a Federalist? A Thomas Jefferson B. Alexander Hamilton C. James Madison D. John Jay 7. The Connecticut Compromise at the constitutional convention reconciled the Virginia plan and the New Jersey plan. This gave us: A. The Senate and House of Representatives B. The Bill of Rights C. Four-year Presidential terms D. None of the above 8. The Federalist Papers were articles and essays in support of the new Constitution A. True B. False 9. The constitutional convention was held in secret. A. True B. False 10. Massachusetts, Virginia, and New York wanted to make ratification of the Constitution contingent upon the addition of a Bill of Rights. 17 amendments were drawn up by A. Henry Clay B. John Adams C. James Madison D. None of the above Article provided by North Salem Republican Town Committee. Nation’s Founding Trivia Contest NORTH SALEM REPUBLICAN TOWN COMMITTEE BY CAROL REIF STAFF WRITER One person was injured when a car ran off the road in Somers and snapped a utility pole in two, local first responders said. The accident occurred around 8:46 a.m. on June 28 on Amawalk Road. The patient was taken to a local hospital by Somers EMS. Units were at the scene for about two hours. Somers accident hospitalizes one, severs pole PHOTO COURTESY OF SVFD A car ran off Amawalk Road and snapped a utility pole in half. TICKS ARE HERE. MOSQUITOS CAN BE DEADLY! CALL TODAY! ANTS • TERMITES • TICKS • MOSQUITOES SQUIRRELS • RACCOONS • BATS • MICE RATS • WASPS • BEES SPIDERS • MOLES • SKUNKS • BEDBUGS NEW SERVICE ONLY - ALL PEST AND WILDLIFE DON’T LIVE WITH ANY CRAWLING PESTS THIS SPRING & SUMMER. WE “ELIMINATE ‘EM! SpCB23 TERMITE ELIMINATION OR RODENT/BAT EXCLUSION We Carry A Complete Line of BioGuard Pool Treatments

Thursday, July 6, 2023 North Salem News – Page 7 “Not that being your superintendent is in any way analogous to his getting a national championship,” he joked, drawing chuckles. “But, you know, we’ve worked well together for 16 years.” During that time, the board has only had 17 trustees and four or five presidents, a rate of turnover that’s far less than some districts, according to Freeston. “That continuity of leadership by elected officials has really let the administrative team do some wonderful things together,” he said. Noting that Mary Rhuda has been indispensable as a district clerk for the past 15 years, Freeston urged her never to retire, pleading, “Stay here. The team needs you.” After having gotten stuck in traffic for over an hour on I-84 on his way to work that morning, Freeston arrived to find Rhuda standing in his parking spot so late-arriving parents wouldn’t snag it. Now, that’s dedication! He made it just in time to see former Pequenakonck Elementary School fifth graders march in for their “moving-up” ceremony. Reflecting on serendipity and the passing of time, Freeston said he always finds the annual rite very touching. “So much is ahead for those kids as they come to this campus, the middle school/ high school. Then, all of a sudden, life goes by and you’re 50 years old and you’re retired. I don’t mean that to be a downer; it’s just that it goes fast.” A good friend recently asked Freeston to list the five people who had most inspired him. “I got to eight pretty quickly and couldn’t reduce it to five,” he said, letting out a sigh before urging folks to ask themselves if they’re living their lives and making decisions in a way that will earn them a spot on someone else’s “Top Five.” Fellow administrators and board members also shared reminiscences both humorous and poignant, expressed gratitude, and offered both men good luck in their future endeavors. Adam  VanDerStuyf  weighed in first. “Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence is consistent. You both have left your mark here far, far into the future,” the director of pupil/ personnel services told Freeston and Brown. “And to take your words Ken, the two of you are both very inspiring.” Julio Vazquez, director of instruction and human resources, credited Freeston and the BOE’s guidance for the administrative team’s successes. “We are where we are because of all the work we’re doing. We appreciate you,” he said. Eric Stark, the district’s new director of business administration, joked: “Continuing on with the love fest, I’ve been at the table the shortest amount of time, but it didn’t take long to be able to understand the support the administration has from both the board and the superintendent. (North Salem) is a great place to be.” Dr. John Sieverding, director of facilities, said he was grateful for the way Freeston trusted administrators enough not to micromanage them and also for the expertise provided by BOE members over the years. Having worked in other school districts, he knows that’s “not typical.” FILE PHOTOS Dr. Freeston became North Salem’s superintendent in 2007. PHOTO COURTESY OF NSCSD Dr. Ken Freeston with Dr. Julio Vazquez, Dr. Adam VanDerStuyf, Dr. Joannes Sieverding, and Principal Vince DiGrandi. Dr. Freeston certifying the NSHS Class of 2019 FREESTON FROM PAGE 1 SEE FREESTON PAGE 18 (mis)Understanding Mammy The Hattie McDaniel Story July 14 -30 By Joan Ross Sorkin Directed by Seret Scott Starring Multi Award Winning TINA FABRIQUE Tickets at: theSchoolhouseTheater.org A Westchester Premiere! A One Woman Play with Music “...a heart-breaking story of stardom and struggle in America” BOX UP YOUR GOODIES. We are accepting auction quality items, small furniture, collectibles, garden & hand tools, jewelry, and white elephant treasures. DROP OFFS AT ST. JAMES: 296 Titicus Road, North Salem. Wednesdays: 7-9pm and Saturdays: 9am-noon FOR MORE DETAILS: 914-669-5563 / [email protected] PLEASE ONLY DONATE ITEMS IN GOOD CONDITION. No large furniture, couches, electronics or appliances. SATURDAY / JULY 29TH / 10AM–3PM DONATE YOUR TREASURES! SAVE THE DATE WITH OUR: BOUTIQUE, SILENT AUCTION, QUILT RAFFLE, WHITE ELEPHANT, COUNTRY KITCHEN & BBQ GRILL LIVE AUCTION ST. JAMES 64TH AUCTION VIEWING: 10-11AM LIVE AUCTION UNDER THE TENT: 11AM-1PM ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH 296 Titicus Road, North Salem, NY 10560 914-669-5563 • www.stjamesns.com SUNDAY SERVICE 10 AM & Community Fest

118 N. BEDFORD ROAD, SUITE 100 MOUNT KISCO, NY 10549 ©2023 HALSTON MEDIA, LLC Brett Freeman, Publisher Tom Walogorsky, Editor Tabitha Pearson Marshall, Creative Director Editorial Office: 914-302-5830 [email protected] Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of North Salem News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail to [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5830. Opinion Page 8 – North Salem News Thursday, July 6, 2023 I was in a rehab center for two months. Every morning, at 9, it was off to the gym for physical therapy. Ahh, the memories. The gym was kind of what you’d expect, except without the backboards and baskets. It looked more like something designed for a gymnastics team. There were parallel bars, stationary bikes, weights and barbells, and steps. There were also a lot of old people in there. That was the first thing I noticed. I looked around the room and wondered what the heck I was doing there with all these very senior citizens. Then one day— this was early in the rehab process and before my prosthetic leg had arrived—I was sitting in the gym in my wheelchair waiting for my PT when I heard one of the other patients whisper while gesturing toward me and my stump, “When I’m feeling sorry for myself, I have to remember that at least I’m not like him. At least I have both my legs.” I was shocked and confused. Was I a role model, an inspiration, or just a cautionary tale? I had been wringing my hands at being placed in this rehab gym, which appeared to be heaven’s green room, with all these seniors, and meanwhile, they were looking back at me with pity. One wall in the gym was all windows, with pretty views of the courtyard. It was also a way for us shut-ins to know what the weather was like out there. One day it was rainy and stormy out—kind of gloomy. It also happened to be Monday. “Rainy days and Mondays always get me now,” remarked a patient behind me to her physical therapist, who looked to be in her mid-20s. “Do you remember that song, dear?” The PT looked puzzled. “No. It was a song?” “Oh, yes. It was very popular. Very popular. It was done by the... um. I can’t remember who sang that.” The two bandied back and forth trying to figure out who did that song until I couldn’t take it any longer. “It was the Carpenters!” I sighed loudly without looking back at them. “The bloody Carpenters.” “Oh, yes! The Carpenters!” the other patient cried with delight. The PT shrugged. “Carpenters? Huh.” Now, I was no Carpenters fan, but every sentient being walking around in the ’70s knew, “Rainy Days and Mondays.” I guess my whole point of all this is that growing old is weird. Growing old is better than the alternative, but it is still weird. Despite all my maladies (I think there is an entire chapter on me in “Grey’s Anatomy”), I don’t really feel old, which is why I was taken aback at being placed in a gym full of geezers. But I knew who The Carpenters were, which, unfortunately, is irrefutable proof that I am a card-carrying golden oldie. Further evidence of my advanced chronological progression is the rapid demise of the musical heroes of my generation—Tom Petty, Prince, David Crosby, and Eddie Van Halen, just to name a few. They are dropping like flies... movie stars and sports heroes too! Jim Brown recently passed. Over the weekend, SNY was showing a repeat of last year’s New York Mets Old-Timers Game. There were a bunch of guys from the 1986 championship team and many of them looked really fragile. But those guys are my age, so it can’t be true. But I suppose this is just how it works. Out with the old and in with the new. Those “Help, I’ve fallen and can’t get up” commercials aren’t as funny as they used to be. So, as we Baby Boomers begin to fade away, I cannot help but wonder what the generations on deck will do with their turn at bat. It seems outgoing generations and incoming generations always eye each other warily. I know my father’s generation (the “Greatest Generation”) regarded us Boomers as dirty hippies who hated America and listened to subversive music. Now, we Boomers cast a jaundiced eye toward millennials and Gen Xers because they are overly groomed, use essential oils, wear man buns and skinny jeans... and don’t even get me started on their “music.” But one difference I do see is that we, as Boomers, were interested in what happened before us, both historically and culturally. Today’s younger generation seems oblivious to what happened before them, and they like it that way. I wasn’t a fan of the big band music my parents liked, but it tweaked my curiosity. I learned about it; I knew who all the big players were. If you go on YouTube, you will find something known as “reaction” videos—basically kids in their 20s listening to music from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s for the first time. Here are some of the comments I’ve heard. “The Eagles? I know the Philadelphia Eagles. Never knew there was a band called Eagles.” “Growing up, it was always Beatles, Beatles, Beatles. I thought it was just a bunch of hype. But I can see now why people liked them.” “Today, we are going to listen to some Moody Blues. I think that means we are going to get some hardcore blues.” (After hearing a J. Geils song with lots of harmonica...) “I don’t know what that sound was, that instrument. It was all throughout the whole song. It was annoying.” It boggles my mind they’ve managed to spend more than two decades on this planet and have yet to even become aware of these artists. How does that happen?? I mean, you don’t have to be a fan, or even like the music, but how do they escape it totally? I heard one millennial say they had never seen a black-and-white movie and had no plans to. That means he will never see “Casablanca,” “On the Waterfront,” “Psycho” or any “Twilight Zone” episodes. I find that so sad. I don’t want to prattle on. I don’t want to be the cranky old man shouting, “You kids get off my lawn!” But I do want to say that just because something is old doesn’t mean it doesn’t have value. I have a lot more to say on this subject, but I have to go. I have 11 prescriptions I need to go take. Then I need a nap. Old and in the way BOB DUMAS OUT OF MY HEAD Happily Ever After

Thursday, July 6, 2023 OPINION North Salem News – Page 9 FOR ALL YOUR PLUMBING, HOT WATER HEATER & GAS NEEDS 59 Years of Excellence Putnam & Westchester County’s Premier Plumbing Professionals Since 1964 719 Rte. 6, Mahopac, NY 10541 • 845.628.3924 • beeandjay.com TAKE $25 OFF YOUR NEXT SERVICE CALL! VALID ON CALLS OVER 1 HOUR. EXPIRES 8/31/23 Happy Summer! FUNERAL PREARRANGEMENT Both pre-payment and no-payment options Serving all Faiths since 1858 Cremations and Burials DANIEL B. McMANUS ~ Proprietor BRUCE E. REISDORF ~ Licensed Manager JOSEPH M. McMANUS ~ Director RONALD P. CERASO ~ Director www.clarkassociatesfuneralhome.com 4 Woods Bridge Road, Katonah • (914) 232-3033 • Only 1/4 mile from 684 exit 6. • Only 1 block from the Katonah Railroad station. • Less than 60 minutes from N.Y. City. • Parking facilities for over 100 cars • Monuments & inscriptions available. Rarely does a good story come along that involves so many of my hot button issues (bipartisan cooperation, civics education, political polarization, and improving civil discourse). It started with a phone call last September out of the blue, which I first thought was a wrong number. The woman on the other end thought she was calling the local Republican party. My number apparently was on an old web page from a decade ago when I was the local chair. Her name was Dr. Jennifer Ladon, and she was a social studies teacher and the chair of the department at Byram Hills High School. She was looking for a few people involved with politics or advocacy to participate in a discussion with her class about voter participation, which was one segment of a three-year Global Scholars program. I told her that, although she had dialed a wrong number, she may have the right guy. I was a former and perhaps future elected official and had experience running campaigns. As an added bonus, I am Byram Hills alumni, having graduated there just after the stone age, so it gave me an opportunity to visit the school again for the first time since graduation. The class was fun. Each participant was interviewed by three separate panels of students who had clearly done their homework. They asked good questions. I must admit I was a little nervous, but they went easy on me. In December, I got a follow-up email from Sophie Dockswell letting me know that she and two classmates, Allie Waxman, and Anastasia Byrnes, were doing a Changemaker project on political polarization, partly because of my comments on the topic in my September interview. They wanted to conduct another thorough interview as part of their project, and I accepted their invitation to participate in a Zoom call about their initiative. Last week, Sophie followed up with an email update on the project and a thank you along with her partners. They had created a pitch deck and videos about their work, built a website, designed lesson plans and taught a class to middle schoolers. Along the way, they persuaded a panel of judges and donors to contribute funds to the project so they could do outreach to build interest in their work. Their approach to teaching a class about civil discourse and polarization was clever. They asked general questions like, “is social media a very negative platform that increases teen anxiety and depression?” Or, “do girls face more peer pressure than boys?” Or, “is math the most important subject in school?” By keeping it out of the realm of politics, since most eighth-graders aren’t politically engaged, they could focus on how to have a meaningful discussion civilly with give and take from all participants. Only at the end of the class did they talk about some of the causes of political polarization and how to combat it and why it is important to develop norms to combat it. One of the participants said, “They kept the conversation in control and helped us understand each other. I really liked the one about taking winning off the table. A debate/discussion should be about understanding, not winning.” Their “Pleasant Politics Party” was selected as one of 10 finalists from across the country and after participating in a meeting with all the other finalists, donors and judges, they were selected the winner. Deservedly so. With the sometimes-negative chatter about the next generation, it was heartening to get a glimpse of what the future holds. If these three young women are representative of the level of engagement, empathy and thoughtfulness of their generation, our future is bright and filled with hope. The ‘Pleasant Politics’ party SUBMITTED The future looks bright with Allie Waxman, Anastasia Byrnes and Sophie Dockswell DON SCOTT IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Page 10 – North Salem News OPINION Thursday, July 6, 2023 Pip is a small dog, about one-third Jack Russel terrier, one-third beagle. Whatever else her ancestry, your guess is as good as mine. Her brown and white speckled ears are soft as silk purses and remain her most puppyish feature. She is almost 8. I tease her mercilessly. I kiss her. She knows I love her and bears me no grudge. “Look, Pip, roses are falling from the sky!” They are on my shoulders, my hands, everywhere. What shall we do with all these roses? Pip looks up at the dawn-filled sky. She can’t see them, but her eyes are two beautiful roses. The further we walk, the more I feel everyday life slipping away, being replaced by a force more constant and pure. Meanwhile, Pip discovers the world through her nose. She’s like a child, excited and running after every new scent, yet when I call her, she’s obedient. She’s my brother’s dog and, should I fail to bring Pip home to him, should I lose her, it’d be best for me to leave the country. The spell of daybreak is broken by the cries of a woman in distress. Pip, as is her habit, runs toward danger. “Pip, be careful, there may be a bear!” It’s not a bear, just a teenager talking on her phone. She’s with an elderly black dog, who takes two lively steps in Pip’s direction and then remembers he’s old. When we are out of earshot, I holler to Pip that phones remind me of her tail. She’s not listening. She’s thinking of the old dog, and so am I. Pip doesn’t know that her eyelashes are now as white as Santa Claus’ beard and that her muzzle is keeping pace. Her eyes still sparkle, but I can’t tell if they are sad, or if I am foreseeing my own grief. I have forgotten Pip. We have come to the majestic white oak, my tree. I touch its bark and gaze upward at its luminous canopy. I might as well be inside a cathedral. The worshipers are mostly birds and squirrels, the stained glass a show of twinkling, translucent leaves; spires are topmost branches relentlessly reaching for the sun. Here, in this outdoor church, I find faith without asking and religion without stultifying dogma. “Pip, if you can’t go to Heaven, I don’t want to go,” I holler, as if she understands every word.   In parochial school, I wrote a letter to the pope requesting a change in the rule. I gave it to one of the priests at St. John’s, who assured me that he would do his best to make sure the pope got it. I’m still waiting for the decree to change. Can you imagine all the people up there calling their dogs? I think that we will be surprised to see how many more dogs than people there are in Heaven. An object of unknown origin has settled near to where we sit. Pip sees it, but since it’s not something she can hunt, she ignores it. But I am transfixed. Whatever it is, a sacred vessel, a tiny UFO, it’s beautiful. I haven’t been smoking anything. I’m having a hallucination, though. Something on the ground is changing shapes, going from golden red to golden green, creating itself anew, each image more astonishing than the last.   It doesn’t take long for a puff of wind to reveal that my golden revelation is merely a tattered red balloon, brought to life by a chorus line of dancing shadows. Yet when these hallucinations happen, I am encouraged rather than disappointed. A small piece of balloon has been transformed into the Sistine Chapel. And all I had to do was go for a walk in the woods with Pip and not all the way to Italy. When we get to within about a half mile of where I’m parked, Pip bolts. In her younger years, she did this because she didn’t want to go home. She wanted to stay and hunt. I sometimes had to wait an hour or more, but these days I find her waiting for me.  She wants to go home to my brother. Pip will greet Philip as if she hasn’t seen him in four years, not four hours, her tail wagging so furiously that she sprinkles water. And then she will ask for and receive a treat. After that, she will trot to her chair and look out the window. Then she will sleep for hours. At 6 o’clock, every day is dinner. I suspect that the day will come when she’s not even interested in going with me. I can just see her expression: Leave me alone, dude, I’ve chased enough rabbits for six lifetimes.  Pip, dear little friend, so full of humor and humility, what have we done to you?  Adventures with Pip LORENZO GARO OF HUMAN INTEREST Shortly after we built a beach house in Rhode Island, the Foxwoods Casino opened in nearby Connecticut. So, one warm summer evening, my husband Al and I decided to go check it out. We had always loved to play cards. There were lively poker games after holiday dinners and down at my in-laws’ beach house in the summer. We sometimes would play until the wee hours of the morning. If pennies were not readily available, my motherin law, Mary, would go to the kitchen cupboard for a brand new bag of beans. None of us were too happy when all that she could find were navy beans, too white and small, but kidney beans were just perfect. My kids could hold their own in a poker game by age 8, and Lynn was particularly good at bluffing, which kept us all in A visit to the casino MARILYN A. PELLINI MUSINGS: PAST AND PRESENT SEE PELLINI PAGE 11

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Foxwoods was just beginning to catch on, and to entice people to come, they would offer many perks and did whatever they could to lure you to the tables. Back then, you could actually play blackjack for only $3 a hand. Upon entering the casino, Al and I easily found high stakes tables, but we were not true gamblers; just there to have some fun. When a seat opened at the $3 table, Al offered it to me, and then he began to wander around to find a seat for himself. The table I sat down at was not like any I had seen before, although I had only been in a couple of casinos previously. There was a two-inch wide white ring on the table, and in addition to placing their regular bet, many people were also putting a white chip on the strip just in front of them. I asked the man next to me what this was all about, and he explained that if you were dealt a seven, you would get your chip back plus three more. Sort of two bets at once. Sounded good to me and cheap enough. I put my white chip down and promptly won with a seven. The next hand was the same. This was fun, I was thinking! I kept looking around the casino floor hoping Al would come back so I could explain this new game to him. That’s when I was dealt back to back sevens. Again, I questioned the kind fellow next to me by innocently asking if I was supposed to split those? “Absolutely not,” was his answer; you just won $50. Al was still nowhere to be seen when it happened a second time – two back to back sevens and another $50. Finally Al did appear and whispered in my ear, “Whose chips are all of those?” “Mine,” I exclaimed. While I was trying to concentrate on the game, I was also trying to tell Al about the betting of the white chips. As he contemplated this whole scenario, I was dealt three sevens. I turned to my partner in crime and asked, “ Do you think this means anything?” “Yeah lady, you just won $500,” he said rather sarcastically. Being unaccustomed to winning at casinos and procedures, I asked the dealer if I was permitted to leave the game now. “Of course,” he said, and I handed him a few chips and the same to my mentor sitting beside me. I left there with $556. I was actually scared to walk to the car, but Al laughed during the walk in the parking lot, not believing my luck. Certainly there were many very big winners that evening, but to me this was a small fortune. The next day we went over to Newport for lunch, and the found money was burning a hole in my pocket. When we went into the scrimshander’s shop, I bought one of his hand woven pocketbooks, and have enjoyed it for many years. I would never have splurged if it had not been for my extraordinary win. PELLINI FROM PAGE 10 I venture to guess that our most underrated human quality is imagination. I have always been in awe of individuals who can imagine the unimaginable and, in the process, excel in the art of visualization. Victor Frankl immediately comes to mind. In his inspiring book, “Man’s Search for Meaning,” Frankl demonstrates how visualization can aid our search for life’s meaning. Taking nothing away from Dr. Frankl, I must confess my favorite genius in the arena of imagination is Albert Einstein. Einstein’s journey to fame began when he was 16, when he imagined what it would be like to ride a light beam. A decade later, he had what has been labeled “a miracle year,” when he laid the foundations for the two great advances of 20th century physics: relativity and quantum theory. Einstein had an ability like no one else to piece together the nature of the world in his mind and then cement his vision into mathematical language. The results of his genius are everywhere today. Photoelectric cells and lasers, nuclear power and fiber optics, space travel and let’s not forget, semiconductors, all trace back to Einstein’s theories. Incredible. Yet Einstein’s beginnings were not that glamorous. He worked as a patent examiner. Only in his spare time could he “play” with his true loves: physics and mathematics. Can you imagine his friend’s surprise when he received a letter from the young Einstein promising “four papers?” These “papers” did not consist of mere idle ramblings. They were revolutionary documents, which would forever change the face of physics. The first paper dealt with radiation and the properties of light. The second paper described the true size of atoms. The third paper explained the jittery motion of microscopic particles in liquid. The fourth paper, which concerned electrodynamics and moving bodies, employed a modification of the theory of space and time. Although he had promised four papers, during that same year, he produced a fifth paper, which posited a relationship between energy and mass. Yes, I am referring to his famous formula E=mc 2.   Einstein and the power of imagination JAMES MARTORANO MY PERSPECTIVE SEE MARTORANO PAGE 14

Page 12 North Salem News – T The Tigers were finally able to play on North Salem PHOTO COURTESY OF NSCSD The district welcomed the NSHS Class of 2027 at the eighth-grade moving up ceremony. Students danced the night away at prom on June 8! PHOTO COURTESY OF DAN GALLO PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO: WHIT ANDERSON Our Tiger teams gave us plenty of highlights this year! North Salem School Sendoff! As our students bid farewell and begin summer vacation, we take one last look back at another eventful year in North Salem schools! PHOTO COURTESY OF NSCSD Fifth-graders at PQ celebrated the end of their elementary education in June. PHOTO COURTESY OF CHRIS GOULD The girls track & field team won the league championship for the second time in school history! North Salem welcomed new School Resource Officer Jessica Griesinger earlier this year. PHOTO COURTESY OF NSCSD PHOTO: TABITHA PEARSON MARSHALL The North Salem High School Class of 2023 graduated on June 21.

Thursday, July 6, 2023 Page 13 PHOTO: WHIT ANDERSON ’s new turf field! The Golden Stage Society presented “Chicago: Teen Edition” in March. PHOTO COURTESY OF SKYLAR BENDER Rosie Binette competed at Bristol Mountain at the 2023 NYSPHAA Skiing Championships. PHOTO COURTESY OF JP JURADO PHOTO: TOM WALOGORSKY The North Salem High School band performing during the Memorial Day ceremony. PHOTO: WHIT ANDERSON Athletic Director Denise Kiernan cutting the ribbon at Tiger Stadium. PHOTO COURTESY OF NSCSD The Thespian Society of North Salem hosted a “Clue in the Quad” mystery night in March. PHOTO COURTESY OF NSCSD Famous figures made appearances at the 6th grade “Hall of History” event.

Page 14 – North Salem News OPINION Thursday, July 6, 2023 Einstein was a master at coming up with theories not from the lab, but from his mind. Of course, to confirm their validity, they had to withstand experimental verification. For Einstein, that important step came in 1919 when an eclipse absolutely proved one of his most important principles. But my question about Einstein has always been: how on earth could anyone create these theories in the first place? Then I read about the research at McMaster University that was performed on his brain after his death. Their study revealed that his brain had an immense parietal lobe. In fact, it measured 15% wider than that of a normal human. There is a neighboring region in our brains called the parietal operculum, which is missing completely in his brain. Part of Einstein’s brain grew (presumably during childhood) abnormally large and took up the space, which would have been occupied by another part of the brain.  It is not surprising that the super-enlarged part of Einstein’s brain (parietal) is the one that researchers associate with mathematical thought, visual special cognition, and the imagery of movement. He, more than any scientist in history, is known for using visual imagination to arrive at his theories. Striking examples of his use of extraordinary imagination were his two famous questions: what would it be like if space time were curved? And what would it be like to ride on a ray of light? You may have wondered about the part of the brain, his parietal operculum, that was crowded out by his parietal lobe. That part is normally associated with speech development. We know that Einstein, for all his brilliance, didn’t start speaking until 3 years old. As a child, he had so much difficulty speaking that he would repeat sentences constantly. In addition, when he was 16, he failed several language exams. He would be the first to admit that he thought visually rather than verbally. But his successes are not merely the result of a brain abnormality. He was not only a brilliant thinker, but also a person truly in love with learning. His achievements were a direct consequence of his willingness to question conventional MARTORANO FROM PAGE 11 SEE MARTORANO PAGE 15 The summer is a great time to crack open a book and lose yourself in a world of someone else’s making, a place so magical that you never want to come back. That is, until a lifeguard blows a screeching whistle right in your ear at somebody in the pool. DON’T SIT ON THE ROPES! By the way, a pool is the ONLY place where it’s not dangerous to sit on a rope. I have my favorite types of music, I’m very picky about films and I only seem to watch television from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. But fiction is my chance to get a glimpse of any other culture, gender or social class, at any period of history, and I take full advantage of it every day. My awe of the talent of the novelist is boundless.  I’m an avid reader, you might say a voracious reader, because it would be faster for me to actually eat the book than to read it. I’m a slow reader. If I started “War and Peace” in high school, I would still be on the first part of the book, and I’d be thinking to myself, WOW, when is there going to be peace around here? I have my favorites of course. John Steinbeck can bring you to the depths of despair, and what seems hopeless often represents a choice, a set of possibilities that people navigate either well or poorly. After reading a chapter, doing the dishes doesn’t seem quite so bad. If you come over and I have exceptionally clean flatware, you can thank John Steinbeck. Anne Tyler is another one of my favorites. Her protagonists, which she insists are not her, sometimes undergo weighty struggles in ordinary situations that are revealed in anecdotal details and amusing dialogue. She makes adversity fun, as it certainly should be. Larry McMurtry has a vast range that not many other writers can boast. He can take you from Texas to Montana on a cattle drive, or maybe you’ll be stuck your whole life in Anarene, but by the end of the book you’ll have traveled just as far. Toni Morrison will give you some perspective and empathy. Herman Wouk, Gore Vidal and James A. Michener will drop you off in a foreign location or period of history, and pick you up later when you’re a little smarter. History is much easier to grasp when there’s not a test at the end. Maybe you want a fun summer escape. Ellmore Leonard is your guy. He’s written so many great crime stories that if you read a few, you’ll start thinking like a criminal, perhaps leading to a life in politics. 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He challenged authority at every turn while always marveling at the mysteries that others brushed off as mundane. When he was near his death, he was asked what schools should emphasize. “In teaching history,” he said, “there should be extreme discussion of personalities who benefited mankind through independence of character and judgment.” Independence of character and judgment fit him to a tee. He was in a real sense, a loner, comfortable with not conforming. His thinking was always independent, driven by an imagination that had no bounds. He had an imprudent nature, which made him shy away from nationalism, militarism and anything that resembled a herd mentality.   He did not believe in a personal deity. He has been quoted ad nauseum as saying, “God doesn’t play dice with the universe.” But his vision of a God is far different than the one that believers would have preferred. For example, while most people held up miracles as proof of a deity, Einstein felt that it was precisely the absence of miracles that reflected divinity. He believed in what he called Spinoza’s God, finding divinity in the harmony of all that exists.  You may wonder why in 2023 I am writing about Albert Einstein. In a time when untruths often take center stage, remembering truth seekers like Einstein is more important than ever. His life set an example both in science and in public policy. He embraced morality and politics based on respect for free minds, free spirits and free individuals. Tyranny repulsed him. He held out tolerance as a necessary condition for a creative society. Before he left us, he offered this advice: “The search for truth and knowledge is one of the finest attributes of man… though often it is most loudly voiced by those who strive for it the least.” In an age of intolerance and misinformation, we would do well to heed his counsel.  MARTORANO FROM PAGE 14 necessary. Teachers and parents always tell you when you’re growing up that you can be anything you want to be, but that’s not true, is it? I can’t be a Black slave or a teen-aged girl or a Russian spy (If I was a Russian spy I certainly wouldn’t tell YOU about it, nor if I was a teen-aged girl for that matter). But within the pages of a book, if you can dream it, you can live it, if only for a moment. Maybe you’re tired of being an astronaut and you always wanted to be a minimum-wage food service worker. You can read “The Jungle” by Upton Sinclair and toil in the unsanitary conditions you’ve longed for.   Here are a few books that I loved, and if you’re not familiar with them, you can thank me later (and don’t listen to an audio book and think you’ve read them): “The Shipping News;” “Cold Sassy Tree;” “Empire Falls;” “Lincoln;” “Billy Bathgate;” “King Rat;” “Brazil;” “An American Tragedy;” “Rules of Civility;” “Prep;” “Less;” “Jazz:” “Don’t Stop the Carnival;” there are so many more I could write a book just of titles. You can let me know your list. A good novel requires a certain commitment of time, longer than just, say, skimming through some classified documents to see if there’s any juicy secrets you can share with your friends. But for that time, you will be amply rewarded. You’ll find out about things you never realized you didn’t know existed. You’ll learn them not by somebody telling them to you, but absorbing them by accident through the eyes of characters lovingly and painstakingly created. I like to think that writing would be similar to what I do, if my words had meaning and made sense. I curled up with a good book last night, maybe for too long, because this morning my hair looks a little weird.  Say hello at [email protected]. MELEN FROM PAGE 14 Letters and Op-Ed Policy Letters to the editor and op-ed submissions may be edited. The views and opinions expressed in letters and op-eds are not necessarily those of North Salem News or its affiliates. Submissions must include a phone number and address for verification. Not all letters and op-eds will necessarily be published. Letters and op-eds which cannot be verified or are anonymous will not be published. Please send your submissions to the editor by e-mail at [email protected]. For more information, call the editor at 914-302-5830.

Page 16 – North Salem News LEISURE Thursday, July 6, 2023 There are so many reasons to include blueberries in recipes. Not only are they plentiful in supermarkets and at fruit stands, blueberries often perfectly balance the sweet with the tart in flavor. These little berries also are one of the most antioxidant-rich fruits you can find, plus they are very high in fiber. That makes eating blueberries — whether they’re nestled in pancakes or served atop a slice of cheesecake — a little less indulgent. Blueberries are right at home in many different dishes. Blueberries can make salads sing and desserts light up. They’re equally delightful in breakfasts and snacks. “Honey-Laced Blueberry Parfaits” can be enjoyed any time of day. Made with tasty layers of blueberries, yogurt and angel food cake, these parfaits are light, flavorful and refreshing. To tailor them for patriotic celebrations, add a few red berries, such as raspberries or strawberries, to embrace a red, white and blue theme. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of “Cooking Light Fresh Food Superfast” (Oxmoor House) by The Cooking Light Editors. Bountiful blueberries make treats even better Honey-Laced Blueberry Parfaits Yield: 4 servings 1 6-ounce carton French vanilla low-fat yogurt 1 6-ounce carton blueberry low-fat yogurt 1-1/2 cups frozen fat-free whipped topping, thawed 3 cups 1-inch cubed angel food cake 2 cups blueberries 1 tablespoon honey 1/2 cup honey-almond flax cereal, coarsely crushed 1. Combine yogurts in a bowl; gently fold in whipped topping. 2. Layer about 1/3 cup angel food cake, 1/4 cup blueberries and 1/3 cup yogurt mixture in each of four dessert glasses. Repeat procedure once. Drizzle honey evenly over parfaits. Top evenly with cereal. Serve immediately. 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. Stores 6. Worthless entertainment 9. Where scientists work 13. Pretty flower 14. A way to act 15. Double-reed instrument 16. Type of acid 17. Famed astronomer 18. Smooth, shiny fabric 19. Profited from 21. Secret clique 22. Infections 23. Crony 24. Teens go here every day (abbr.) 25. Suitable 28. Fresh Price of __ Air 29. Ancient city of Egypt 31. Basketball move 33. Polished 36. ThereÕs a north and a south 38. Egg of a louse 39. Once-ubiquitous department store 41. Portray precisely 44. Thick piece of something 45. Period between eclipses 46. Indicates near 48. Investment account 49. England, Scotland, N. Ireland, and Wales (abbr.) 51. Beak 52. Void of skill 54. Walked back and forth 56. A display of passion 60. Geological times 61. Type of restaurant 62. Spacious 63. Edible seaweed 64. Utah city 65. Tropical tree 66. Nervous tissue compound 67. Body part 68. Muscles and tendons CLUES DOWN 1. Draw out wool 2. Give someone a job 3. Chemical and ammo manufacturer 4. Footsteps 5. The Palmetto State 6. Books have lots of them 7. Diverse Israeli city 8. It’s mightier than the sword 9. Confines 10. First month of the Jewish ecclesiastical year 11. Idaho’s highest peak 12. Prevents from seeing 14. Determine time 17. Father children 20. Tab on a key ring 21. Dog genus 23. Peter’s last name 25. Request 26. Walk heavily 27. Allowances 29. English football squad 30. Fish-eating aquatic mammals 32. South Pacific island region 34. Unaccounted for 35. Small taste of whiskey 37. Ventilated 40. Helps little firms 42. One of means 43. Fencing swords 47. Inches per minute (abbr.) 49. Turn upside down 50. S. African semi desert 52. Dutch names of Ypres 53. Instruct 55. Oily freshwater fish 56. Italian river 57. Sneaker giant 58. The men who man a ship 59. Some need glasses 61. Body part 65. Indicates position

Thursday, July 6, 2023 LEISURE North Salem 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. Small Eurasian deer 4. Irish county 10. A major division of geological time 11. Broadway actor Lane 12. Canadian province 14. It causes fainting (abbr.) 15. Two 16. A notable one is blue 18. Utter repeatedly 22. Rings 23. Sullies 24. Occurs 26. Publicity 27. Near 28. Tools of a trade 30. Offer in good faith 31. “American Idol” network 34. Garments 36. Soviet Socialist Republic 37. Retired NFL DC Dean 39. Hot meal 40. A type of gin 41. Percussion instrument 42. A $10 bill 48. About ground 50. Medicine man 51. Seedless raisin 52. National capital of Albania 53. Appendage 54. OJ trial judge 55. By the way 56. Bicycle parts 58. Barbie’s friend 59. In a way, stretched 60. Commercials CLUES DOWN 1. Make up for 2. American songbird 3. Pay 4. International organization 5. Engravers 6. Declared as fact 7. Criminal 8. Jewelry 9. Hospital worker (abbr.) 12. Nonsense (slang) 13. Town in Galilee 17. Value 19. Another name 20. Sheep in second year before shearing 21. Town in Surrey, England 25. Appropriate during a time of year 29. Creative output 31. Recesses 32. District in N. Germany 33. Rider of Rohan 35. The official emblem of the German Third Reich 38. One who puts down roots 41. Scribe 43. Painted a bright color 44. Tycoons 45. Actress Thurman 46. Walking accessory 47. Crest of a hill 49. Member of a North American people 56. Type of computer 57. U.S. State (abbr.)

Page 18 – North Salem News Thursday, July 6, 2023 Securities offered through Cantella & Co., Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Cantella and Co., Inc. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for, tax, legal or accounting advice. You should consult your own tax, legal and accounting advisors before engaging in any transaction. 845-628-5400 SFGtaxes.com | [email protected] 824 Route 6, Suite 4 | Mahopac, NY 10541 from other accountants and tax preparers is our ability to work with you not just on taxes, but on financials, college planning, divorce, retirement planning, changes in life planning... We don’t just process tax forms, we advise on how to handle your income and expenses in the future with personalized recommendations. We help you navigate the tax code, and in the end, help you set sound financial goals. What separates us Saying she was “forever indebted” to Brown and Freeston for Tiger Stadium, Athletics Director Denise Kiernan also cheered the efforts of coaches, studentathletes, and families who helped get the project approved. Fran Havard, the newest trustee, thanked Brown and Freeston for their patience and their responsiveness while she was learning the ropes. “Good luck to both of you,” she said. Trustee  Brandy Keenan thanked Brown and Freeston for having a positive effect on her as a “person as well as a board member.” Brown helped her remember how “amazing a compromise can be when you listen to the other person and realize you’re not really as different as you thought you were,” she said. Keenan admitted that as a newbie (four years ago) she was inexperienced and “scared” but determined “to do stuff.” She thanked Freeston for supporting that journey by giving her enough “space to grow and figure things out” without letting her “get lost.” Trustee and former president  Deborah D’Agostino  said board members and administrators have evolved from somewhat separate entities into a well-oiled team with Freeston’s help. Another difference she noted was that BOE meetings are now streamed in real time and videos are available on the district’s website. “We’ve been able to use technology to bring the community into the board room,” she said, adding: “And so, for all of those changes and all of that growth, I thank you. Gentlemen, it’s truly been a pleasure,” D’Agostino said. Board Vice President  Kurt Guldan spoke up next. “I learned a lot from both of you and I appreciate it and I’m sure I’ll be reaching out with questions,” he said. Trustee  Paul Giamundo  praised Brown for the time and effort he’s put into the turf field project over the years and for continuing to be front and center at many athletic events both here and at home. “You’ve been a dedicated, hardworking school board member. Just exemplary,” he said. Giamundo recalled Freeston’s hiring. “I remember the day we did the interviews. We had six finalists and Ken was No. 3,” he recalled. “That was the order of interviewing, just to be clear,” Freeston interjected good naturedly. The search committee was scheduled to come back the next day to talk to the other candidates. Giamundo told colleagues: “He’s our man. I can’t imagine anybody with a better background, a better presentation.” That night, Giamundo and his wife went out to a restaurant where he ordered the “seafood special,” a culinary mistake he soon rued. Racked with stomach pains the next day, he tried to beg off the second set of interviews but was ordered to “drag himself in, if he had to” by the board president. “I said I’ll be there, but I’m telling you right now, the guy last night, he’s my choice,” Giamundo said, adding that he was pleased by the unanimous vote for Freeston. Admittedly, the road has sometimes been bumpy. “The truth be told, you and I, over the years, we’ve poked each other in the eye a few times, if that’s a nice way to put it,” Giamundo said as Freeston smiled in apparent agreement. Nevertheless, he doesn’t regret his hiring decision one tiny bit. North Salem schools have improved greatly over the last 18 years, and much of that progress is directly due to Freeston’s efforts, Giamundo said, wishing him a “happy retirement” and thanking him for his leadership. Brown had a long list of folks to thank. First, his wife, for “putting up with this,” and second, Rhuda, without whom, he said, his job as trustee couldn’t be done. Brown also had a “confession” and an “apology” to deliver to the athletic director. “When we first met you in the first meeting, I walked in and thought ‘Oh, of course, we hired a woman.’ But you were only talking 10 seconds and I said, ‘This is the one,’” he told Kiernan, praising her as “student-centered.” “You’ve done a fabulous job. I hope you stay here a long time,” he emphasized. Calling out Sieverding for his contributions to the turf field project, Brown said: “It couldn’t have gone any better. I don’t know what would have happened if you weren’t here.” He also praised Stark’s style and flexibility and Vazquez for reminding him of how “complex” life is and that when dealing with people “there’s no easy answers and there’s always something else to the problem.” “To not forget that is very important, so I thank you.” VanDerStuyf he noted for being able to juggle multiple jobs “with a smile.” Then he got to his fellow retiree. “Ken. Thoughtful and purposeful. When I first heard that I thought, ‘Ugh, this is his way to not do anything,’” Brown admitted, drawing a laugh from Freeston and others. “But over the years -- and not very long over the years -- I realized that that was the way to proceed. Not that we’d always wind up with a happy answer, but often we’d end up with an answer that’s well thought-out. It’s the way to go and over time I’ve really come to appreciate that. Thank you for all your efforts.” FREESTON FROM PAGE 7 FILE PHOTO Freeston speaking during a 9/11 remembrance ceremony at the Croton Falls Fire House.

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Page 20 – North Salem News Thursday, July 6, 2023 summer league for adults (Thursday evenings) and youth (Tuesday evenings) from late June through early August at the Somers High School main football turf field. Please visit their website to learn more and register https://clubs. bluesombrero.com/gridiron. Visit them on Instagram and Facebook @gridironpartnersinc Chronic Pain Support Group Research tells us that 50 million Americans live with chronic pain, or pain that lasts most days or every day for three months or more. Of this group, 20 million experience high-impact chronic pain, or pain that interferes with basic functioning and activities of daily living. Pain is the  number one reason  that Americans access the health care system, and costs the nation up to  $635 billion each year in medical treatments, disability payments, and lost productivity. Support groups provide a forum for those with pain to gain support and learn about ways to manage pain and progress from patient to person. This group takes place over Zoom every other week. For more information, please call Ted Bloch at 914-552-6281 or email him at [email protected]. All conversations are kept strictly confidential. Virtual Support Groups Support groups for women with breast and ovarian cancers have been transitioned to virtual platforms. Virtual groups are accessible to women from the comfort of their homes, regardless of where they live. All groups are open to new members as well as past participants. Advance registration is required by calling 914-962-6402 or 800- 532-4290. Support Connection’s Peer Counselors are also available for individual counseling and assistance via phone and email. Call 800-532-4290, or submit an online request at supportconnection.org  Race Amity of Northern Westchester & Putnam MONTHLY MEETING Join in for the monthly discussion, workin to advance cross-racial and cross-cultural amity to impact the public discourse on race. Meetings feature speakers, screenings, and presentations where discussions are aimed at educating one another on who we really are. Visit https://www.eventbrite. com/e/138495877899 to register for this online event. ROCK FROM PAGE 5 Add Value to Your Home We specialize in targeted home improvements — both big and small — to maximize your home’s value, comfort and beauty. • Bathroom Remodeling • Kitchen Remodeling • Durable Vinyl Siding • Room Additions • Add-a-Levels • • Replacement Windows • General Carpentry • Basement Finishing • Painting • Interior Trim • Handy Man • Sero’s Contracting When we’re done, there is nothing left to do. Licensed & Insured • Local References • Brewster, NY • 845-216-1955 • 845-279-6977 • [email protected] BY RICH MONETTI CONTRIBUTING WRITER On Saturday June 24, the Chroma Fine Art Gallery hosted the opening of their month-long exhibit for Katonah’s Edward Giobbi. Ninety-seven years old, the artist’s long resume was succinctly put into words by his local picture framer. “He’s a treasure in the art world,” said Tim Delaney of the Katonah Art & Frame Shop, and the global designation definitely applies.  The 60-year resident has his art on display at locales such as Smithsonian, the Whitney Museum and Galleries all across Europe.  That said, Giobbi’s biggest collection is right at home. “We had to go through several thousand pieces,” said Chroma’s Rita Baunok. A paring down ensued and initially baffled the owner/curator.  “I loved them all,” said Baunok. “I had no idea how to do it.” But eventually the sifting through gave way to a strategy. One aspect sought an echoing of sorts. The multicolored nature of Giobbi’s work could provide a ricochet and the affect intended to surround the senses, she said. From there, Baunok relied on synergy to layout the display.  She identified the similarities of the adjoining pieces so each one connected to the next. Doing justice, Baunok relished an opportunity that hasn’t been seen in a long time. “He stopped gallery exhibits 20 years ago,” she said. “I’m very proud he wanted to show here.” In attendance, Rick Rogers of Beacon was more about there when viewing the art. “He goes to other worlds with these pieces,” said the retired Westchester County Parks employee. On the other hand, just being in orbit doesn’t do justice to the galactic reach of Giobbi’s work, according to Vincent Baldassano.  “I don’t feel outside these paintings, I feel like I’m actually in them,” said the artist, teacher and gallery owner. At the same time, Giobbi’s work doesn’t just speak to the connoisseur “He’s an Art exhibit takes you inside the worlds of Edward Giobbi Giobbi’s work has been displayed at the Smithsonian and the Whitney SEE GIOBBI PAGE 21 Museum.

Thursday, July 6, 2023 North Salem News – Page 21 artist’s artist,” said Baldassano. In other words, observation is a learning experience that showcases the varied technical aspects of Giobbi’s creations. “These pieces give artists something to study,” said Baldassano.   At the same time, with no one genre or medium defining his work, the implication is clear to artists at any level. Giobbi continues to study and improve. A daily coursework that begins in between the weeds. “I get up, I go outside and work on my vegetable garden,” said Giobbi. Aired out, the artist gets down to his main business and kicks his creativity off by turning on classical music. “It’s like having a conversation that keeps me company,” he said. Then the artistic process feeds into itself. “The idea is to get up and ideas come through working,” Giobbi said. There’s a bigger picture at the heart of his inspiration, though. “Art is not about finding the truth, it’s about finding your truth,” he said. And when located, truth and beauty become synonymous, according to the sage. But he assures that the pinnacle shouldn’t be a destination. “You should always have the hope of doing better because that opens the door for even more improvement,” he said. A sentiment regardless of his age that has no signs of slowing down. “I’ll rest when I die,” he concluded. The Porta di Giobbi exhibit runs through July 16. GIOBBI FROM PAGE 20 TOWN OF NORTH SALEM  BOARD OF APPEALS  PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE  NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Appeals of the Town of North Salem will hold a Public Hearing at the North Salem Town Meeting Hall, 66 June Road, North Salem, NY, and via ZOOM, https://zoom.us/j/7558828866, Meeting ID: 755 882 8866, Dial in:  +1 (929) 205-6099, on Thursday, July 13th, 2023 at 7:30 P.M. or as soon thereafter as the public may be heard to consider the following:  Application BA23-25 of Leslie and Jessie Sharkey, owners of the property located at 4 Peach Lake Drive, North Salem, NY, in an R-1 Zoning District and shown as Sheet 7, Block 1776, Lot 1, House 2 on the Tax Assessment Map, for an area variance to demolish and reconstruct a deck on the west side of the house and to construct porches on the south and east sides of the house per Article V, Section 250-15 and Article XIV, Section 250-79(A) of the Zoning Ordinance of the Town of North Salem (because the non-conforming lot is subject to R-1/2 bulk requirements).  The applicant proposes a rear yard setback of 6 ft. where 35 ft. is required; a combined side yard setback of 14.5 ft./30.5 ft. where 15 ft./40 ft. is required; building coverage of 25.5% where 10% is permitted; and development coverage of 38% where 25% is permitted.  At such hearing all persons will have the opportunity to be heard. A copy of the application may be examined at the Board of Appeals Office, 274 Titicus Rd., North Salem, NY.  Brian Ivanhoe, Chairman  North Salem Board of Appeals  TOWN OF NORTH SALEM  BOARD OF APPEALS  PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE  NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Appeals of the Town of North Salem will hold a Public Hearing at the North Salem Town Meeting Hall, 66 June Road, North Salem, NY, and via ZOOM, https://zoom.us/j/7558828866, Meeting ID: 755 882 8866, Dial in:  +1 (929) 205-6099, on Thursday, July 13th, 2023 at 7:30 P.M. or as soon thereafter as the public may be heard to consider the following:  Application BA23-23 of Lori Folchetti, owner of the property located at 6 Maple Circle Drive, North Salem, NY, in an R-1 Zoning District and shown as Sheet 7, Block 1788, Lot 1, House 3 on the Tax Assessment Map, for an area variance to permit installation of an 18kW standby generator and three(3) propane tanks per Article V, Section 250-15 and Article XIV, Section 250-79(A) of the Zoning Ordinance of the Town of North Salem (because the non-conforming lot is subject to R-1/2 bulk requirements).  The applicant proposes a rear yard setback of 5 ft. for the generator where 35 ft. is required.  At such hearing all persons will have the opportunity to be heard. A copy of the application may be examined at the Board of Appeals Office, 274 Titicus Rd., North Salem, NY.  Brian Ivanhoe, Chairman  North Salem Board of Appeals  TOWN OF NORTH SALEM  BOARD OF APPEALS  PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE  NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Board of Appeals of the Town of North Salem will hold a Public Hearing at the North Salem Town Meeting Hall, 66 June Road, North Salem, NY, and via ZOOM, https://zoom.us/j/7558828866, Meeting ID: 755 882 8866, Dial in:  +1 (929) 205-6099, on Thursday, July 13th, 2023 at 7:30 P.M. or as soon thereafter as the public may be heard to consider the following:  Application BA23-24 of Margaret and Alan Towers, owners of the property located at 14 Old Salem Center Road, North Salem, NY, in an R-4 Zoning District and shown as Sheet 23, Block 1744, Lot 45 on the Tax Assessment Map, for an area variance to permit construction of a 12 ft. x 20 ft. prefabricated one (1) car garage on a crushed stone and railroad tie base per Article V, Section 250-15.  The applicant proposes a combined side yard setback of 12 ft./485.81 ft. where 75 ft./150 ft. is required.  At such hearing all persons will have the opportunity to be heard. A copy of the application may be examined at the Board of Appeals Office, 274 Titicus Rd., North Salem, NY.  Brian Ivanhoe, Chairman  North Salem Board of Appeals  Liquor License Notice is hereby given that a license, Serial Number 1358333, for beer, cider, liquor and wine has been applied for by  721 North Salem LLC d/b/a La Bastide and Cenadou to sell beer, cider, liquor and wine at retail in the restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 721 Titicus Road, North Salem, New York 10560 for on premise consumption.         721 North Salem LLC d/b/a La Bastide and Cenadou 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. 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Page 22 – North Salem News CLASSIFIEDS Thursday, July 6, 2023 Drive Out Breast Cancer: Donate a car today! The benefits of donating your car or boat: Fast Free Pickup - 24hr Response Tax Deduction - Easy To Do! Call 24/7: 855-905-4755 COMPUTER & IT TRAINING PROGRAM! Train ONLINE to get the skills to become a Computer & Help Desk Professional now! Grants and Scholarships available for certain programs for qualified applicants. Call CTI for details! 844-947-0192 (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required. TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 855- 543-6440. (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required. ARE YOU BEHIND $10k OR MORE ON YOUR TAXES? Stop wage & bank levies, liens & audits, unfiled tax returns, payroll issues, & resolve tax debt FAST. Call 888- 869-5361 (Hours: Mon-Fri 7am5pm PST) VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Pills SPECIAL $99.00 FREE Shipping! 100% guaranteed. CALL NOW! 855-413-9574 BATH & SHOWER UPDATES in as little as ONE DAY! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & Military Discounts available. Call: 866-393-3636 Do you need a Roof or Energy Efficient Windows & Help paying for it? YOU MAY QUALIFY THROUGH NEW RELIEF PROGRAMS (800) 944-9393 or visit NYProgramFunding.org to qualify. Approved applications will have the work completed by a repair crew provided by: HOMEOWNER FUNDING. Not affiliated with State or Gov Programs. Use ItchNoMore® shampoo on dogs & cats to relieve secondary dermatits, treat yeast infections, & eliminate doggy odor. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com) BEST SATELLITE TV with 2 Year Price Guarantee! $59.99/mo with 190 channels and 3 months freepremium movie channels! Free next day installation! Call 888-508-5313 DISH TV $64.99 For 190 Channels + $14.95 High Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. Promo Expires 1/31/24. 1-866-595-6967 DIRECTV. New 2-Year Price Guarantee. The most live MLB games this season, 200+ channels and over 45,000 on-demand titles. $84.99/mo for 24 months with CHOICE Package. Some restrictions apply. Call DIRECTV 1-888-534-6918 AUTO DONATIONS BUYING/SELLING Buying diamonds, gold, silver, all fine jewelry and watches, coins, paintings, better furs, complete estates. We simply pay more! Call Barry 914-260-8783 or e-mail [email protected] EDUCATION/CAREER TRAINING HEALTH HOME IMPROVEMENT TV INTERNET PHONE MISCELLANEOUS FINANCE HELP WANTED Bookkeeper & Home Office Support. Mature couple in Lewisboro looking for part-time bookkeeper and home office support, including scheduling, WHY DO WE ADVERTISE IN HALSTON MEDIA’S LOCAL NEWSPAPERS? TO ADVERTISE WITH US, CALL BRETT FREEMAN AT (845) 208-8151 “I like to support local businesses and over the years they have been, by far, the best way to cover the tight knit communities they serve. My ads are seen by thousands and are an integral part of my marketing efforts. The crew at Halston Media is a pleasure to work with.” ~Mike Trinchitella Re/Max Classic Realty 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. Call for a full list of terms and conditions. FREE 7-Year Extended Warranty* – A $695 Value! 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! Your ad could be here. Call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 to find out how. organizing, and errands. $30/ hr. 6-12 hrs/wk flexible schedule. 646-820-5130 Photo Submissions Photos submitted to North Salem News need to be high-resolution. Images that are submitted at a low resolution cannot be published. Submit photos to North Salem News by the Thursday before the next publication date. Submissons can be emailed to northsalemnews@ halstonmedia.com or mail it to North Salem News, 118 N. Bedford Road, Suite 100, Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Send a self-addressed stamped envelope if you’d like your photo returned.

Thursday, July 6, 2023 BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE North Salem News – Page 23 WITH KEN FREEMAN MANAGEMENT Small Business Administration data show that 12.7% of all American businesses fail annually. Only one-third of family-owned businesses survive to the second generation. 49.7% of new businesses fail within five years.   There are many reasons why. One stands out in my mind – inadequate planning for the future. Markets evolve fast these days. Executives need to think hard beyond today, about the market of the future, so they can be ready to win in that future.  It’s hard to project the future, but not thinking deeply about it can be fatal. Recent trends may help. Think about which trends are likely to continue and which you believe may flatten out or reverse. Take advantage of the wealth of data available in the U.S. Census Bureau reports. As a start, you can use that data to project future population age distribution. If your business caters to older people, it’s easy to project the growth of older Americans from those Census Bureau reports.  Consider broad societal trends and how those may impact your industry. Look at what industry experts are projecting. They may not always be right, but they can certainly nourish your own thinking.  In painting your picture of the future market, a handy organizational structure is “the 5 Cs” -- Category, Customers, Channels of distribution, Competition and Capability requirements.   CATEGORY Think hard about what category you are really competing in. For example, if you were the marketing head of Godiva, I’d suggest that you’re not in the candy business, but really in the special occasion gift business, competing against flowers, cologne and other unrelated products.  Of course, sometimes the category is totally clear and defined by its products. Then you need to think about where the category is heading. Is it growing? Shrinking (maybe you need new sales and profit opportunities)? Fragmenting? What segments are growing or emerging? Are new government regulations on the horizon? How about new, emerging technologies? CUSTOMERS Who needs your category? What customer segments do you expect to grow or shrink? What are the needs and expectations of the various segments? How do different customer segments measure value? What will the sales and profit potential be in these different segments? CHANNELS OF DISTRIBUTION How will customers access your category? Will big box store importance dominate? Will smaller specialty stores play a role? What about online? Might your category move through different third party distributors or facilitators such as contractors? Will do-it-yourself be an option? How about different tiers of professional services providers? Will all this differ by customer and category segment? COMPETITION Who will you be competing against? Large, established players? New category entrants? How high or low will barriers to entry be for new competitors? Do you expect substitutes to what constitutes the category today? How will these different competitors compete – on price, on quality, on new technology, on better performing product substitutes? CAPABILITY REQUIREMENTS What will the key capability requirements be to compete effectively in the various product and customer segments? Will product performance differences rule? Or might low cost, enabling low pricing, be key? In what ways will winners have to be superior versus just good enough? Lots to consider. In my next column, we’ll go beyond this picture of the future, and help you decide how to act on this portrait.  Do you want to learn more? Visit www. halstonmedia.com, and fill out the “Get in Touch” form on the home page. Before helping his son found Halston Media, Kenneth Freeman led a global marketing research company. Freeman earned his MBA from Harvard University and has led the marketing departments at major Fortune 500 corporations throughout his career.  Think ahead if you want to win tomorrow Please print your first and last names and address legibly, sign and date (all required to continue receiving your subscription to this newspaper). YES, I wish to receive a FREE 3-year subscription to The Katonah-Lewisboro Times. YES, I really enjoy The Katonah-Lewisboro Times, and I’d like to continue receiving it for 3 years, along with a monetary contribution this year. (Please print legibly.) First (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required) (Required. Please print legibly.) Last (Required) City: State: ZIP: Name: Signature: Email: Snowbird Dates (if applicable): Date: Phone: Address: (Optional) (Optional for TAPinto E-News) Checks payable to Halston Media LLC Please include this form in your envelope. Mail to: P.O. 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Please include the following additional papers as part of this subscription: The Somers Record Mahopac News Yorktown News The Mt. Kisco-Bedford Times The Katonah-Lewisboro times To advertise in North Salem News, call Brett Freeman at 845-208-8151 or email [email protected].

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