Exciting Evening for Six Village Police Officers Bronxville School
Transcription
Exciting Evening for Six Village Police Officers Bronxville School
Come One Come All ... Premier Gala Event 7 Operation Prom Award Recipients 10 com December 2013 -- Volume 9 -- Issue 12Complimentary Exciting Evening for Six Village Police Officers ries, 1) Youth; 2) Family Services; “This is one of my favorite 3) Health and 4) nights, with six Police Officers Senior Services,” being sworn in, orchestrated by Rohr noted. Lieutenant Richard Bunyan and Mayor Marour Police Liaison, Trustee Anne vin reported that W. Poorman,” Bronxville Mayor new legislation Mary C. Marvin stated at the will save resiBoard of Trustees meeting on dents $130,000 Monday, November 4. in United Water Poorman administered the hydrant mainOath of Office to new officers tenance fees, as Cheryl Jarosz and Jason Kaiser; costs will be now promoted Detectives William spread among Carroll; Dennis Karaman; Serall users. “I atgeants Nicholas De Young and tended a ChamErik Van der Leeuw. ber of Commerce Beginning the meeting, meeting, where Jeffrey Rohr, President Commuwe discussed renity Fund of Bronxville, Eastvitalizing the chester and Tuckahoe, appealed Business district, for support. “Each year we reviewing Vilannounce our Fall Campaign. Left to right: Bronxville Police Lieutenant Richard Bunyan; Trustee Anne W. Poorman; Police Officer Cheryl Jarosz lage Codes to Community Fund plays an intesee if they would 1919 when we found that taxes and volunteers impede opening new businesses. Also, we are gral role in the quality of life, making this Vilwere not enough. There are four basic categolage a safer place to live. We were organized in looking to maximize parking space times,” MarBy Stephen E. Lipken vin added. Village Administrator Harold Porr III introduced legislation limiting parking on west side of Pondfield Road b e t w e e n Reformed Church and f r o n t i n g Bolton Gardens to two hours, which Bronxville-Eastchester-Tuckahoe was approved. Community President Jeffrey Rohr Pending legislation during earlier Work Session addressed regulating restaurant grease traps, as improperly disposed grease clogs Pondfield Road pipes that must be cleaned by Zonzini Pipeline Services, New Rochelle at a cost of $5,000 each time with displacement of parked cars. Bronxville School Foundation Sponsors “Redefining Rigor” Initiative The impact of globalization and technology on teaching and learning, as well as the adoption of the Common Core Learning Standards by New York State, is prompting Bronxville School faculty members to review and refine the school’s definition of academic rigor. During a professional development conference in October, high school teachers worked with a consultant from Project Zero to craft inquiry questions that will guide a portion of this review. Project Zero, a research group at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, conducts research on critical and creative thinking, teaching for deep understanding within each of the academic disciplines, and creating communities of reflective, independent learners. Middle and elementary school teachers have been working since the beginning of the year with consultants in mathematics and English Dr. Denise Lutter (left) and Mrs. Denise Flood language arts to embed Common Core requirements within their unit designs and lesson plans. The consultant work in all three schools is being funded by a grant from the Bronxville School Foundation, allowing the school to contract with highly qualified consultants as it addresses these important issues. The district’s mathematics consultants include an expert in the Singapore Mathematics curriculum that is being introduced this year in the elementary school, and a consultant who has received specialized training in the new mathematics Common Core requirements. Representatives from the well-regarded LitLife community are working with the entire staff to identify ways of fostering Common Core connections across the curriculum. “Our ultimate goal is for students to learn to use their knowledge to address multi-dimensional issues and to understand and solve problems in a global and complex society. We want them to develop a genuine sense of purpose for learning,” stated Dr. Denise Lutter, Bronxville School Professional Development Coordinator. In early November two consultants visited the Bronxville School. The first consultant gave a presentation to the elementary school teachers on developing local assessments that are linked to the school’s revised goals for English Language Arts, and will work with two grade level teams. The second consultant spoke to the middle and high school faculties on Interdisciplinary Connections across the Common Core Learning Standards and will then work with the Foreign Language Department on instructional strategies and the middle school faculty on crecontinued on page 5 Visit www.thebronxvillebulletin.com for all your community’s news and event information! PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID WHITE PLAINS, NY PERMIT 5121 Publisher Edward Shapiro Associate Publisher Diane Shapiro Art Director Cynthia Pena Bronxville Historical Conservancy to be Exclusive Sponsor for the Eastchester 350th Anniversary Celebration’s K-12 Educational Program Judy Unis and Bill Dowling, cochairs of the Bronxville Historical Conservancy, have announced that $10,000 will be used as funding in support of the Eastchester 350th Anniversary Celebration’s K-12 Educational Program next year. In 2014, students in every school in Eastchester, Tuckahoe and Bronxville -- public as well as parochial and private -- will have an opportunity to learn some local history: that the town’s roots go back to the Eastchester Covenant of 1665; that the marble quarries drew many early European immigrant workers and their families to the town; that world renowned artists, authors and celebrities have lived here; that the first president of the United States to serve as a Boy Scout Home page of www.eastchester350.org did so here; and that the town has been home to four Congressional Medal of Honor winners, as well as countless brave soling committee approached each of the public diers who served in all the country’s wars. school districts last year to solicit administrative In addition to exploring these topics, the and faculty support and asked the Bronxville town’s youngsters will be challenged to select a Historical Conservancy if that organization history project of their own. They will be asked would provide funding as exclusive sponsor for to produce an essay, an artistic composition, a the K-12 Educational Program. film or video, a poem, a drama or a mixed-meDr. Robert Wein, former co-chair of the dia piece focused on this rich past, dependent Conservancy and Eastchester 350th Anniversaon the avenues for achievement offered in their ry committee member said, “When we learned own schools. Older middle and high school the scope of the project designed by Dick Forstudents may wish to develop research subjects liano (current Town Historian and retired Eastinto scholarly papers that will reveal even more chester Middle School teacher), I was delighted of the town’s unsung history. to present this to the Conservancy as a project To support these endeavors, the steerworthy of being funded.” After due diligence from the group’s Proj- Kitchens•Baths•Wall Units And now, CLOSETS too! - FREE - Consultation at our showroom Kitchen-Insider.blogspot.com Closets • Home Offices Home Entertainment Units Remodeling & Custom Refacing As seen in Consumer Reports © SHOWROOM Mon-Fri • 9a-6p Sat • 10a-5p And by apointment. 401 Ward Ave. Mamaroneck Licenses: West: WC05441-H93 NYC: 1250632 • CT: 554525 Bathrooms & Fine Cabinetry 914-777-0437 www.DreamWorkKitchens.com Paul & Liz Bookbinder Visit with us and get a FREE Remodeling Idea CD! 2 • December 2013 bronxvillebulletin ects Committee the board enthusiastically approved the sponsorship. The three town public school superintendents quickly indicated their support. Each appointed a district liaison for the 350th Anniversary Celebration, and an individual school faculty member was also selected to work within the various faculties. Town historian Forliano has reached out to the four other local elementary schools in the community and expressed his appreciation for their enthusiastic endorsement. “With our eastchester350.org website launched, teachers and students have many resources right at their fingertips,” said Forliano. “We have published this program online so that parents as well as teachers will have the opportunity to assist their children while enriching their own understanding of Eastchester, Tuckahoe and Bronxville’s past.” All local organizations are encouraged to submit their group’s particular history and keep the town’s birthday in mind when planning their own 2014 events. These histories and announcements can be posted on the new website. The steering committee reserves the right to edit and upload all website materials. Residents may contact individual steering committee members or use the email Eastchester350@eastchester.org. Although costs have been kept to a minimum, all the community programs require financial support. Contributions to Eastchester 350th Anniversary, Inc. are tax deductible, since the group is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Checks may be mailed to Eastchester 350th Anniversary, Inc., 40 Mill Rd., Eastchester, NY 10709. Kyle Swanson, BHS Senior, Named to All-State Band Flautist and piccolo player Kyle Swanson, a Bronxville High School senior, has been named to the 2013 AllState Symphonic Band. The announcement came from the New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA), which sponsors the All-State Conference each year for high school juniors and seniors. The 2013 Conference will take place December 5-8 in Rochester, New York, with concerts in the Eastman Theatre. Sharon Slote, director of the Bronxville Middle and High School Bands, says that Swanson “plays both the flute and piccolo with astounding technical prowess. His preparations for performances and auditions alike are far beyond those of a typical high school student. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with Kyle for the last six-plus years. I will miss him and all he has to offer musically when he attends college next year.” Over 6,500 sophomores and juniors throughout the state auditioned for All-State at their local NYSSMA solo festivals last spring, performing solos Kyle Swanson and sight-reading before adjudicators. Approximately 900 students were chosen to perform in one of eight vocal and instrumental ensembles at the Conference. The last two Bronxville High School Band members selected for All-State honors were flautist Holly Rudd in 2008 and clarinetist John Devlin in 2002. Rudd is now a first-year graduate student in flute performance at the New England Conservatory; Devlin is a doctoral student in orchestral conducting at the University of Maryland School of Music. www.thebronxvillebulletin.com From the Mayor’s Office By Mayor Mary Marvin As you read this, you may have just colored in your paper ballot circles for election for various County, Town and judicial offices as well as a record six New York State Constitutional Amendments. (As a caution, the Amendments were on the flip side of the absentee ballot and very easy to miss.) As point of reference, the electronic scanner paper ballots are here to stay per New York State Law. The only exception is the upcoming March Village election which qualified for a one year extension on lever machine use. In 2010, New York actually became the last State to switch to electronic voting in compliance with Federal law. In my opinion, the “new” technology seems like a step backward from the admittedly 19th century technology of the lever machine to a system that requires poll workers to copy voters’ information by hand from one piece of paper to another. Top on the ballot will be voting for a County Executive of Westchester. Named after the City of Chester, England, Westchester was founded in 1683 and encompasses 500 square miles and 45 municipalities. According to the 2010 Census, Westchester has 949,113 residents, approximately 254,000 of which belong to the Democratic Party and 134,000 are registered Republicans. The Office of County Executive was created in 1937 when voters approved a new County charter giving Westchester County an executive branch to complement the legislative County Board of Legislators. Since its inception, the County Executive seat has been held by eight men, six Republicans and two Democrats. The County Executive is elected at large in the General Election held the year following the Presidential election. The term of office is four years and no one can serve for more than three consecutive four year terms. The current County Executive’s salary is $160,760. To run for the office, an individual has to be a citizen of the County for a minimum of five years prior. Compensation is fixed by the County Board of Legislators. The County Executive is the Chief Executive and Administrative Officer of Westchester County and some of his/her main duties include the supervision of the administrative services and departments of the County; presentation of an annual budget to the County Board and communication of a general statement of the finances and affairs of County government to the County Board at a minimum of once a year. The County Executive does have a veto power as well as the right to appoint the head of every County department and office, subject to confirmation by the County Board. In a strange twist of fate, because many Westchester residents are choosing not to affiliate with either the Republican or Democratic parties, the Independence Party has taken on unprecedented influence. The party was first formed in the 1990’s by Ross Perot, and in New York, spearheaded by Tom Golisano. Though, less than 4% of County voters belong to this party, many unaffiliated or independent voters think this is their line on which to vote. The small change in word ending from Independen(ce) to an Independen(t) has translated into a party to be reckoned with. Representing approximately 50,000 people in Bronxville and Yonkers, Bronxville’s representative on the County Board of Elections is also up for election. A County Legislator serves for a two year term. A key power of the County Board concerns finances, appropriating funds, approving the budget and levying taxes. The Board has seventeen members, 10 of which are Democrats and 7 Republicans. The current base salary is $49,200. Currently, Village taxpayers contribute www.shorelinepub.com $8,116,374 as our share of the County budget. Next on the ballot for election is the County District Attorney. Bronxville resident Janet DiFiore is running for her second four year term and is unopposed. County-wide voting requires the election of a County Clerk. The duties of this office include managing all of the County land records, overseeing the licensing of plumbers and electricians, facilitating the passport application process and naturalization of new citizens. Continuing down the ballot will be the election of an Eastchester Town Supervisor. The office is up for election every two years with no term limits and a current salary of $98,093. As Chief Executive Office of the Town, the Supervisor directs day-to-day operations and coordinates the activity of Town Department heads. The Supervisor proposes policies and projects for consideration by the Town Board. As a Town Board member, the Supervisor’s vote has the same weight as those of the other four Board members. The Supervisor acts as Treasurer of the Town, works with the Town budget officer to prepare the initial draft of the Town budget and is the only authorized signature for payroll and Town checks. Two Town Board seats are also up for election for a two year term. The current representatives are running unopposed. Bronxville Village elections are the third Tuesday in March of 2014. I urge all of you to exercise your right to vote as turnout will be a huge factor in the final tallies. In doing my research last week on Westchester County political offices, I had a wonderful moment of “accidental learning” as I stumbled upon articles about the County itself. We have a very interesting and storied home. From the historical perspective, Westchester was home to many luminaries. Before his rout at the Battle of White Plains in 1776, Washington stayed at the Elijah Miller House which still stands on Virginia Road in North White Plains and when the yellow fever epidemic hit Philadelphia, our second President, John Adams, was forced to leave and came to live with his daughter on Route 22 in Mount Vernon. Founding Father John Jay was raised in Rye, matriculated at King’s College (Columbia) at age 14 and went on to be Governor, co-author of the Federalist Papers and first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court before retiring to a homestead in Bedford. After winning the popular vote but losing the Presidential election of 1876 to Rutherford B. Hayes, continued on page 5 bronxvillebulletin December 2013 • 3 Astorino Proposes 2014 Budget with No Increase in County Tax Levy County Executive Robert P. Astorino released a proposed Westchester County budget for 2014 without any increase in the county tax levy – marking the fourth year in a row that Astorino has submitted a balanced budget that preserves essential services without increasing taxes. “This budget shows once again that government – just like the taxpayers who pay the bills must County Executive Robert P. Astorino do – can live within its means,” Astorino said. “Over the past three years, we have made coffers. This is up from the $382 million expecttough but necessary decisions to bring spending ed in 2013, or four percent. under control and as a result the county’s finanThe budget proposal also benefits from emcial picture and ability to deliver services today ployee contributions to health care that Astoand in the future are much improved.” rino put into effect for nonunion management In addition to holding the line on taxes, and has negotiated with seven of the county’s other key elements in the budget are also esseneight employee unions. For 2014, the county’s tially flat. health care bill for active employees is projected • The proposed budget of almost $1.74 billion to be $95 million, but the cost will be reduced by represents an increase in spending of less $4 million in employee contributions. than 1 percent from the previous year. Astorino noted that the county’s largest • Headcount is also up less than 1 percent, a union, the Civil Service Employees Association, net increase of 6 positions in the operating has still not agreed to a contract with health-care budget from the previous year. contributions. Astorino renewed his call to them • The fund balance is also being held flat as to negotiate a contract with these contributions. Astorino continues his practice of not usEmployee compensation continues to be ing this commonly called “rainy day fund,” one of the county’s biggest costs. The average which sets aside money for emergencies, to salary of a county worker is $76,414. A private pay for day-to-day operations. sector employee working in Westchester makes • The parent share for subsidized day care is an average salary of $65,185, according to the also being held flat at 27 percent, which still most recent figures from the state Department remains well below the level of 33 percent of Labor. When fringe benefits are added, compaid by families in New York City. pensation for the average county worker jumps “Our departments continue to manage evto $120,170. ery dollar as if it were their own,” Astorino said. As a result of a number of structural Astorino’s proposed budget now goes to changes, such as having employees contribute the county Board of Legislators, which has until to health care and replacing retiring workers Dec. 27 to adopt a final spending plan. with new hires who come at lower salaries and On the revenue side, the budget benefits make higher pension contributions, the county from growth in the sales tax. The sales tax is prohas been able to put the brakes on spiraling emjected to generate $398 million for the county’s ployee costs. 2014 Golf E-Z Reservations Through March 7, E-Z Reserve tee times will be available to new golfers or past golfers who may want a new time or day. These E-Z Reserve times will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and are limited to one tee time per weekend day. The E-Z Reserve program enables golfers with a valid Westchester County Park Pass to block out a starting tee time for a series of weeks. A non-refundable pre-registration fee of $350 per player is due at preregistration and payable by cash, check or Visa, MasterCard or American Express. As a bonus for pre-registering, the 2014 E-Z Reserve season is increased from 25 to 30 weeks of play, beginning March 29 and ending October 18. After this pre-registration period, remaining E-Z Reserve tee times will only be available at golf courses beginning the first day of play in 2014. These tee times will be sold for a $250 per player fee for 25 weeks, beginning April 12 and ending September 28. 4 • December 2013 The date of golf course openings for the 2014 season will be announced. The courses are Dunwoodie and Sprain Lake in Yonkers, Hudson Hills in Ossining, Maple Moor in White Plains, Mohansic in Yorktown Heights and Saxon Woods in Scarsdale. E-Z Reserve applications will be available at all courses. Applications are also available with complete rules and regulations at golf.westchester. com. bronxvillebulletin For example, the county saves $62,000 each time it replaces a retiring correction officer with 20 years of experience with a new hire. “This is what my ‘jobs for savings’ call for the last four years has been all about,” Astorino said. “Our county workers do a terrific job. The problem is they are very expensive. So together, labor and management sat down to work out contracts that are fair to our workers and fair to our taxpayers.” With Westchester County residents facing the highest property taxes in the United States, Astorino said raising taxes continues not to be an option. Since taking office, Astorino has cut county spending by five percent and the county property tax levy has been reduced by 2 percent. County taxes make up about 15-20 percent of a typical property tax bill. The remaining taxes are levied by local governments and special districts (15-20 percent), and school districts (60-70 percent). Other budget highlights include: • The property tax levy remains at $548.4 million. This is the actual amount that the county collects in property taxes. While the levy remains constant, the effect on property owners can vary from community to community based on different assessment practices. Property taxes represent 32 percent of the county’s total revenues. • State and federal aid is projected to increase $13 million from 2013. • Mortgage tax is projected at $19.8 million, an increase from the $14.1 million budgeted in 2013 and the $17.2 million now projected for the current year. • Pension costs continue to rise for county employees. Astorino is proposing that the county once again take advantage of a state law that allows the county to amortize some of its pension costs. For 2014, the maximum amount would be $28 million, but this number can be adjusted downward depending on economic trends of the year. The total pension bill for 2014 is $96 million. • The cost of Medicaid, the federal and state mandated program that provides medical care for the poor, will be about $223 million, similar to 2013. The net cost to taxpayers will be $214 million due to added federal reimbursement. The state government will reimburse the county for all costs of admin- istering the program, instead of taking over the administration. • Day care spending is budgeted at $32 million, up almost $2 million from this current year. The parent share of non-mandated day care will remain at 27 percent, lower than in many other counties in the state including New York City. The average number of monthly applications is currently at the highest it has been at in four years. • There are no cuts to Bee-Line buses, and fares will not be raised. • The safety net for the counties most needy will be preserved though a Social Services budget of more than $559 million, the same as in 2013. • Playland will remain open in 2014. Astorino is hoping that the Board of Legislators will act soon on his proposal to turn operations over to Sustainable Playland Inc., a Ryebased not-for-profit. If the BOL does not act, Playland will continue to be operated by the county’s Parks Department at a loss. • All county parks and nature centers will remain open. A related capital project will begin the process of renovating the closed Sprain Ridge Park Pool in Yonkers. • Astorino continues to provide funding for various community resources. Among these are the following: ArtsWestchester, $1.25 million; Westchester Library System, $1 million; Cornell Cooperative Extension, $800,000; Hudson River Museum, $700,000; Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, $585,000. • There is a new “outreach initiatives” category that will provide $1.3 million to about 30 organizations that provide services for elder abuse prevention, domestic violence prevention eviction prevention, senior services and youth programs. A separate capital budget for 2014 has also been submitted, which reflects the Astorino administration’s commitment to maintaining vital public infrastructure and promoting economic growth. The total capital budget proposed for 2014 is $275 million, an increase of $87 million from 2013. Projects proposed include improvements to bridges, roads, sewers, water districts and the county airport, as well as technology upgrades and renovations to parks. Groom Spots Celebrates Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting Costume Party Groom Spot held its ribbon cutting ceremony in late October. Owner Julie Zwisdak and boyfriend Larry Van Nostrand were joined by family and friends to celebrate the grand opening of Groom Spot. Tuckahoe’s Mayor Ecklond introduced the ceremony and welcomed the new dog grooming salon to the town. “The community has been very welcoming, and there are many wonderful dogs in the neighborhood,” said Ms. Zwisdak. The salon is currently open and booking appointments. Dog owners can rest assured that their beloved pooches will be in good hands. The salon owners have been grooming full time since 2007 and are very Julie Zwisdak, Larry Van Nostrand, Mayor Ecklond cut the Ribbon concerned with providing a safe and comforting environment. The staff of Groom Spot consists of two gentle and certified dog groomers, who have had pets their whole life. They provide quality service and care to suit the needs of their canine customers and their owners. For more information visit www.groomspot.com. To schedule a grooming appointment, call 914-826-5240. www.thebronxvillebulletin.com From the Mayor’s Office continued from page 3 Democratic New York Governor Samuel J. Tilden retired to a Yonkers estate, Greystone, a 30 room stone villa including the gardens of the now Untermeyer Park. Third Vice President, Aaron Burr, often tried cases at St. Paul’s Church in Mount Vernon and when Colonel of the Continental Army, took command of the forces in White Plains. Horace Greeley, founder of the New York Tribune and the Republican Party as well as a Presidential candidate against Ulysses S. Grant in 1872, was a Chappaqua resident and has been immortalized as a namesake of a local high school. John Peter Zenger wrote an article about an Eastchester town election that heavily criticized the New York Governor and resulted in a trial for “seditious libel”. The result in favor of Zenger led to the enshrining of freedom of the press in the Bill of Rights. In the more recent past, a Mount Vernon native, Lt. Ira Palm, led a raid on Adolph Hitler’s Munich apartment in 1945. Though Hitler was not there, Lt. Palm returned home with a gold plated pistol bearing the letters AH. Among the County’s many firsts include an elevator company, Otis in Yonkers; the first self-made female millionaire, hair care maven Madame C. J. Walker of Irvington; America’s oldest golf club, St. Andrew’s founded in 1899 and the first synthetic plastic made, Bakelite, in Yonkers. In 1912, an inquisitive college student from Yonkers, Edwin Armstrong, invented FM radio and the year prior a Dominican nun named Mother Mary Alphonsa founded the first home for terminal cancer patients. Born Rose Hawthorne, she was the daughter of American novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne and when she opened a second home in Unionville, the town was renamed Hawthorne in her honor. Tuckahoe Marble was used to build The New York Public Library, the Federal Reserve Bank on Wall Street, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument. Painter Norman Rockwell lived in New Rochelle from 1913 to 1939 and painted many of his famous Saturday Evening Post covers while in residence. Westchester’s highest point at 982 feet is in Mountain Lake Park in North Salem and our oldest building dates to 1667 and is still in use as a library for the Rye Historical Society. Westchester is home to over 50 parks and 18,000 acres of green space, the largest being Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, five times the size of Central Park. Howard Stern started his radio career as a disc jockey in Briarcliff Manor, and Beatles wives, Yoko Ono and Linda McCarthy, both lived in Scarsdale and attended Sarah Lawrence College. One of Scarsdale’s more infamous residents was FBI agent Robert Hanssen who sold State secrets and began his treason while living in Scarsdale in the late 1970’s. Aussie actor Mel Gibson was actually a Peekskill resident until the age of 12. A tunnel in the shuttered Memorial Field on Sanford Boulevard in Mount Vernon was used to film the iconic “Mean Joe Greene” Coke commercials so popular in the early 1980’s. Even though we are home of the cocktail, because legend has it that American soldiers in Elmsford often stole tail feathers from Tory-owned chickens before heading to O’Brien’s for a few beverages and the tavern’s barmaid began to decorate the potables with the plumage thus birthing the cocktail, Crain’s New York Business says we are New York’s slimmest, fittest County for our low rates of obesity, inactivity and diabetes. We truly live in a fascinating county! This past fall the Village planted over twenty street trees including red maples, lindens and pears, but given that we lost over 100 during the past two years of storms, we are clearly playing catch up. Unfortunately, this number does not even take into account the many lost on private property due to storms or disease or sadly healthy ones removed for expansion or remodeling. “Street” trees serve architectural and engineering functions beyond the aesthetic value. They enhance building design, reduce glare and reflection, screen unsightly areas, muffle urban noise and reduce the “heat island effect” caused by pavement and commercial buildings. As an added plus, urban trees grow in value as they age while most other municipal assets including roads and sewers decline in value. Trees on private property produce even greater monetary value. Studies have demonstrated that 10 to 23 percent of the value of a residence is based on its tree stock. A municipality also captures some of this monetary value as enhanced property values increase assessed values and the resulting tax base. Trees also provide important symbolic links with the past and are important often simply be- Bronxville School Foundation Sponsors “Redefining Rigor” Initiative continued from page 1 ating a common rubric for guiding students as they complete writing assignments. Denise Flood, Professional Development Policy Board Chairperson for the Bronxville School, has already begun to incorporate new instructional strategy in the Latin IV curriculum. In her class, students studied the myth of Ovid in the original Latin and then traced how these myths have transformed over time in various media. “The goal is for students to understand that the themes of classical mythology are universal and have enduring relevance in today’s society. The project allows students to make meaningful connections across disciplines,” stated Mrs. Flood. In addition to providing funding for consultants, the Foundation grant monies will be used to offer a Summer Symposium during which educators in the Tri-State area can explore, share and refine their instructional strategies and definitions of “academic rigor.” Funding curriculum development and professional learning is becoming increasingly difficult given the current economic conditions. “I am grateful to the Bronxville School Foundation,” said Dr. Lutter, “for its efforts to ensure that faculty members have the opportunity to engage in the research and development work which underpins the district’s high standards for academic rigor.” Article written by Joella Lykouretzos and Helena McSherry, Members of PR Committee, The Bronxville School Foundation. Photo courtesy Helena McSherry Local Resident Participates in College Dance Club Performance cause they have lived through eras with which we have few other connections left. They also positively alter our environment by moderating climate, improving air quality, harboring wildlife, preserving soil and conserving water. As example: • Tree roots hold soil in place, slow run-off and combat erosion. • Leafy trees catch precipitation before it reaches the ground, allowing some to drip and evaporate thereby reducing run-off and erosion. • Leaf litter creates an environment for earthworms and other organisms that help maintain soil quality. • Trees reduce the heat intensity of the greenhouse effect by maintaining low levels of carbon dioxide. • Trees also remove gaseous pollutants from the air by absorption of particulates such as ozone sulphur dioxide and PAN, the chemical component of smog. • Trees also shield people from ultra-violet rays, reducing UV-B exposure by about 50%. Trees are especially important on playgrounds where children spend hours outdoors. • The net cooling effect of just one young healthy tree is equivalent to 10 room size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day. Well placed trees on a property can cut air conditioning cost by 10% to 15% as well as indirectly cutting the carbon dioxide emissions from cooling units. • Rows of trees, even small conifers, reduce wind speed up to 85% and a good windbreak can save up to 25% of winter heating costs. Selecting a tree that will thrive in a given set of site conditions is the key to long term tree survival. Before selecting a tree for planting, many factors should be considered: the soil conditions, exposure to sun and wind, human activity near the tree site, drainage, space constraints and hardiness zone. The tree must also have adequate space to grow to maturity both above and below ground. Of particular importance in Bronxville is a tree’s proximity to power lines. Con Edison has the absolute right to trim trees into the infamous “V” shape to expose their wires. The Bronxville Historical Conservancy has embarked on a project to delineate native plant and tree species best suited for the various topographical differences in Village neighborhoods. The end product will be a very useful, long term guide for successful planting in the Village. If you spot a distressed or dead tree or notice a public location that merits a tree, please email Village Hall at dpw@vobny.com and we will put the location on our list for remediation. HAVE A BETTER VACATION Our experienced advisors can get you the best value and exclusive offers you can’t find yourself. Call GRAMATAN TRAVEL Vacation Specialists 914.337.1333 www.luxurytravelservice.com Save Time. Make One Call. Have the Time of Your Life. Keira Vollandt, a freshman at Connecticut College and resident of Bronxville, took part in “A Dancer’s Dozen,” the Dance Club’s fall performance, held Oct. 31, Nov. 1 & 2 at the Martha Myers Dance Studio at Connecticut College. The concert featured works choreographed and performed by students. Students danced to music by Christina Aguilera, Nicki Minaj, Ludwig van Beethoven, Bing Crosby, Louis Armstrong and other greats. Vollandt was a 2013 graduate of Horace Mann School. www.shorelinepub.com bronxvillebulletin December 2013 • 5 December 2013 Calendar of Events The New York Botanical Garden, Fordham Road, Bronx will feature the “Holiday Train Show” until January 12, 2014 featuring over 20 large scale model railway trains and trolleys and activities. Visit nybg.org for complete listings or call 718-817-8700. Celebrate Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights during Free Arts Day at the Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Avenue, Pelham on Sunday, December 8 from 1:30-3:30pm. For more information about this free program, call 738-2525 or visit www. pelhamartcenter.org. The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum will offer the upcoming program: December 6 from 11:30 to 2pm – Holiday Luncheon , rsvp required; December 6 from 5:30 to 8:30pm – Holiday First Friday! With the Metropolitones, registration required; December 7 from 10am to 1pm – Annual Holiday Family Day: A Storybook Christmas, registration required; December 14 from 6 to 8pm – Holiday Candlelight Tours and Victorian Carolers; December 21 from 2:30 to 4:30pm – Birding at Bartow. To register for any of these events call 718-885-1461. For details about these and more events, visit www.bpmm.org or email info@bpmm.org. Westchester Italian Cultural Center, One Generoso Pope Place, Tuckahoe will hold the following: Presepio Napoletano – a rich cultural and spiritual tradition that portrays a bustling village located at the base of Mount Vesuvius. The landscape is handcrafted in wood, cork and paper mache. The figures are made of terra cotta, hemp and wire many of which stand more than a foot tall on view through January 11. December 7 at 10:30am -- Genealogy Series: Locating Italian Documents, presented by Toni McKeen. Must register in advance and prepay. December 7 at 2pm -- Family Program: Buon Natale: Presepio Workshop, creating your unique nativity set to take home to enjoy for the holidays. A holiday reception will conclude the program. A program for all ages! Children under age 5 must be accompanied by a parent. Adult participation must be with a child. Must register in advance and prepay. December 10 at 6:30pm -Cooking Class: Dolci delle Feste, a hands on class with Chef Franca D’Amico who will teach you how to prepare some of the most delicious holiday desserts. For a detailed description of what will be made please visit our website wiccny. org. Must register in advance and pre- 6 • December 2013 Master storyteller Jonathan Kruk brings to life Charles Dickens’ classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge re-telling “A Christmas Carol” in the historic, candlelit interior of the circa 1685 Old Dutch Church in Sleepy Hollow on Nov. 29-30, Dec. 7, 14 and 21, and Dec. 22 at 3:30, 4:45 an 6pm. A “Holiday Open House” provides a cozy, storybook setting to toast the season from 4 to 8m on Dec. 7, 14 and 21 at Philipsburg Manor, 381 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow. For information and tickets to both events: 914-366-6900, www.hudsonvalley.org. Light Up the Town Tree-Lighting & Family Shopping Stroll - Friday, December 6, 6:00 - 9:00 pm. The tree-lighting ceremony begins at 6:00 pm at the corner of Park Pl. and Kraft Ave. in Bronxville, featuring a visit from Santa and a performance of a capella carols by SHA! Capella -- the group of Bronxville students, whose talents led them to perform at Madison Square Garden. The ceremony will conclude by 6:30 pm; stores will stay open till 9:00 pm, providing various shopping enticements, such as complimentary refreshments and specials. Come see Santa around Bronxville on Saturday, December 14, from 3:30 to 5:00 pm and Young at Arts caroling on the evening Thursday, December 19! Free-Parking Days – Courtesy of The Village of Bronxville: Saturday, December 14, and Saturday, December 21, from noon to 6:00 pm, at the following locations: Garden Ave. lot, Kraft Ave. lot, Avalon lot, as well as metered spaces on Pondfield Rd., Studio Arcade, Parkway Rd., and Palmer Ave. pay. December 13 at 6:30pm -- Viva Verdi!: Otello by Giuseppe Verdi, a viewing of 1996 performance at the Metropolitan Opera, starring Placido Domingo, Renee Fleming, and James Morris. Conducted by James Levine. The program was made possible by the collaboration of the Bronxville Women’s Club. Must register in advance and prepay. For complete details on these and other events, visit www.wiccny.org or call 771-8700. The Village Lutheran Church, 172 White Plains Road, Bronxville will hold the following: DISTRICT DIACONATE TRAINING for Westchester and the Bronx will continue with a new course offering on Tuesdays, January 7 through February 11 from 7-9:30pm at Village Lutheran Church. The new class is The New Testament – a survey course of the life and teaching of Jesus Christ and the origins and growth of the Christian message within the Apostolic Church. To register or get more information, call Pastor Hartwell at 337-0207, x1022 or e-mail PastorH@vlc-ny.org. The next Good News Christian Coffee House will be held at VLC on December 14, when Frank Rendo will take center stage. A service of lessons and carols, Round-TheTable Carol Sing, Chancel Choir, Youth Choir, Village Bells, Village Brass and string quartet will peform on December 15, at 10:45am. A Service of Lessons and Carols on December 18th at 7pm will feature The Chapel School Select Choir, Chamber Choir and Prep Choir. For more information call 337-0207 or www.vlc-ny.org. The Pelham Art Center, 155 Fifth Avenue, Pelham will hold the following events: CRAFT-TASTIC: An Exhibition and Sale of the Handmade will run through Jan. 4, 2014 with a 15% Member Discount Sale from until December 8. Celebrate Diwali, the Hindu Festival bronxvillebulletin On December 14 from 5 to 8pm, the paper works by Adriana Rostovsky entitled, “Transformations” will open at Recologie, 49 Lawton Street, New Rochelle. For complete details visit recologie.com or call 450-5916. of Lights on December 8 from 1:303:30pm. Celtic and Holiday Classics will be performed on December 15, from 3-4pm by Westchester Harp Ensemble directed by Lois Colin. For complete details visit www.pelhamartcenter.org. The following events are happening at Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial, Route 35, Somers: Holiday Ornament-Making Workshop – Saturday, December 7 – 10:30 a.m. – noon. Make your own unique ornaments with colorful gourds and Bath and Beauty Workshop – Saturday, December 14 – 10:30 a.m. – noon. Make your own bath oils as you learn about herbs, essential oils and aromatherapy. Pre-registration required by calling 886-5108. For additional information, call 864-7268. Muscoot Farm, Route 100, Somers will offer the following programs: Artisan Faire – Tuesday through Sunday, December 3 through 8, noon – 3 p.m. Artists and hand-crafters will showcase their wares in the Main House; Artisans Fair and Wine Tasting Reception – Saturday, December 7, 5 – 7 p.m. Sample a variety of wines and enjoy light food and music as you shop the Artisan Faire; Christmas at Night on the Farm – Saturday, December 14, 5 – 7 p.m. An old-fashioned, magical night with carols, cookies and a tour of the decorated barnyard and Christmas on the Farm – Sunday, December 15, 3 – 5 p.m. Tour the farm house and barnyard all decorated for Christmas, and see a performance by Nappy’s Puppets at 3:30 p.m. Go to westchestergov.com/parks or call 864-7282 for more information. Skeletons, a free art exhibition by Charles McGill, will be on display from January 27 through March 8 on the third floor of the Academic Arts Building at Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Road, Valhalla. McGill’s work merges his passion for golf with a conceptual understanding of found objects. Call 606-7867 for details. The Greenburgh Nature Center, 99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale will offer the following programs: Weekly Fitness Classes for Adults; Yoga Classes on Mondays at 7pm on Jan. 6, 13, 20 and 27 & Fridays at 9am on Jan. 3, 10, 1, 24, and 31; Building a Better Future Now: Redesigning Our Regional Energy and Transportation Structure, and How You Can be Involved on Jan. 8 at 7pm; Weekly Sunday Walks (Teaching Trails) at 11:30am on Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26. For more information on these programs and more, call 723-3470 or visit greenburghnaturecenter.org. gov/sapa for further information. 12 From 1:15 to 2:15pm, a SEPTA Coffee will be held at the Pupil Personnel Office, 18 Franklin Place, Pelham to discuss to discuss the transition process and life after high school hosted Rosemary Matthews (Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services), Lauren Ribeiro (CPSE/CSE Chairperson- Supervisor Elementary Special Education) and Regina Ricci (CSE Chairperson -Curriculum Coordinator Secondary Special Education). RSVP to Sally Tedesco at 738-3434, ext. 3 or stedesco@pelhamschools.org. DECEMBER 7 At 7pm, The Bronxville Women’s Club and The Performing Arts Center of Southern Westchester present the Premiere Gala Event HOLIDAY IN! a new and original holiday-inspired variety show at the Bronxville Women’s Club, 135 Midland Avenue, Bronxville. The evening will be a fundraiser for the BWC’s historic Clubhouse and select local children’s charitable organizations, including Program Reach, Inc. A reception and “Meet the Cast” will follow the program. Because of limited seating, advance paid reservations are recommended. For further information, call 337-3252 or visit www.bronxvillewomensclub.org. 13 From 8:45am to 1pm, The Westchester County Soil and Water Conservation District and Department of Planning will present a half-day seminar titled “Designing Environmentally Sound Landscapes” at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. Registration begins at 8am. It is for site design and development professionals, municipal representatives and homeowners who want to learn how to plan for and design man-made landscapes that improve the quality of the natural environment. The cost of the workshop is $15, which includes continental breakfast, snacks and program materials. Parking at the County Center, located at 198 Central Avenue in White Plains, is $7. Registration by Dec. 9 is required. Call 995-4424 or email kle1@westchestergov.com for more information. 11 At 1pm, St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site, 897 So. Columbus Avenue, Mt. Vernon presents a concert featuring Lois Colin and company performing Harp music for the holidays. Parking and admission are free. Light refreshments served. Call 667-4116 or visit www.nps. 15 At 4pm, Village Lutheran Church & The Chapel School will conduct a German Christmas Service with Rev. Dr. Martin Conkling, featuring lessons and carols at 172 White Plains Road, Bronxville. For more information, call 337-0207 or visit www.vlc-ny.org. www.thebronxvillebulletin.com Sixteen Bronxville High School Students Named to Area All-State Ensembles Come One Come All… Premier Gala Event Left to right: Harry Pyle, Noor Banihashem Ahmad, Rebecca Blanco, Maria Louka, Fallon Raviol, Kylie Regan, Caroline Schetlick, Elizabeth McGough, Kyle Swanson, Hilary Rizzo, John Kim, Jamie Carroll, Henry Anderson. Missing: Spencer Borwick, Morgan Taylor, Kenny Xue. Photo: Donna Devlin for The Bronxville School. Sixteen Bronxville High School students were selected for Area All-State music ensembles by the Westchester County School Music Association (WCSMA) for its 2013 Area All-State Festival Concert held at SUNY Purchase. Selected for the String Orchestra are sophomore violinist Hilary Rizzo, junior cellists Henry Anderson and Morgan Taylor, and senior violinist John Kim. Selected for the Symphony Orchestra are sophomore violinist Fallon Raviol, junior bassist Harry Pyle, and senior violinist Elizabeth McGough. Senior Kyle Swanson will play piccolo in the Symphony Orchestra; he has also been named to the 2013 New York All-State Symphonic Band, which performs in Rochester in December. Selected for the Women’s Chorus are sophomores Noor Banihashem Ahmad (soprano) and Caroline Schetlick (alto) and seniors Rebecca Blanco (alto) and Jamie Carroll (soprano). Selected for the Mixed Chorus are sophomore Maria Louka (soprano), junior Kylie Regan (soprano), and seniors basses Spencer Borwick and Kenny Xue . Blanco and Xue, along with senior bass Chris Landy, will sing with the 2013 All-National Honor Choir in Nashville from October 27-30. Performers were chosen by WCSMA on the basis of auditions at last spring’s New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) Solo Festival. WCSMA, the county arm of NYSSMA, sponsors the Area All-State Festival each year as the equivalent of an all-county festival for Westchester sophomores, juniors and seniors. The Holiday In! cast at rehearsal Holiday In! An original holiday-inspired variety show being held on Saturday, December 7, at 7:00 pm, at the Bronxville Women’s Club, 135 Midland Avenue, Bronxville. The evening will be a fundraiser for the BWC’s historic Clubhouse and select local children’s charitable organizations, including Program Reach, Inc. The show promises to be a classy, sassy, energetic and fun feel-good evening of song, music, dance and more for the entire family to share. A reception and “Meet the Cast” will follow the program. Tax-deductible donations for VIP Seating: $80 per adult; $40 per child under the age of 12; for General Admission: $40 per adult; $20 per child under the age of 12. Checks made to The Bronxville Women’s Club, a 501(c)(3), not-for-profit organization. Because of limited seating, advance paid reservations are recommended. Tickets may be purchased at the BWC and/or The Performing Arts Center of Southern Westchester, 504 Fifth Avenue, Pelham or by writing to BWC, 135 Midland Avenue; Bronxville, NY. 10708. Please enclose a SASE, or tickets will be left at the door. For further information, call 337-3252 or visit www.bronxvillewomensclub.org. Simplicity and Excellence in Northern Italian-Adriatic Cuisine Sound Shore Medical Center is now Montefiore Providing comprehensive healthcare in Westchester. Learn more about Montefiore New Rochelle, Montefiore Mt. Vernon and Schaffer Extended Care Center at: www.montefioreHS.org Please Make Your Holiday Reservations Early. Booking Private Parties. Rated Excellent by Zagat 2013 La Fontanella 115 Wolfs Lane Pelham, NY 10803 914-738-3008 www.lafontanellapelham.com www.shorelinepub.com Ranked among the nation’s Top 50 hospitals in Adult and Pediatric Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Adult and Pediatric Neurology & Neurosurgery, Adult Diabetes & Endocrinology, and Pediatric Nephrology, and recognized as high-performing in 9 additional specialties. bronxvillebulletin December 2013 • 7 Stunning Center Hall Colonial This wonderful four bedroom, three and one-half bath Center Hall Colonial offers over 3,100 square feet of living space. First floor features entry hall, living room with fireplace, large eat-in kitchen opening to a spacious family room with a fireplace. Second floor has a huge master suite with full bath. In addition, there are three large bedrooms with lots of closet space and a hall bath.This house has a recently finished basement with wet bar and full bath. The high ceilings and tasteful décor make it a great place for parties and celebrations! Bronxville PO/ Eastchester.....................................................................................................................$950,000 133 Parkway Road Bronxville, NY 10708 Tel: 914.337.7888 www.houlihanomalley.com Make a Difference Day a Huge Success Support for Seniors, Families, Education, Youth and Health Please give generously to: The Community Fund 17 Sagamore Road, Bronxville, NY 10708 914-337-8808 www.thecommunityfund.org To date, The Community Fund is about halfway to our fundraising goal for FY2013. Our success in achieving that goal will determine the amount of funding we can give to local agencies and programs that support seniors, families, education, youth and health programs in the Bronxville, Eastchester and Tuckahoe communities. Please donate today. 8 • December 2013 bronxvillebulletin On Saturday, October 26th the Chapel School and Village Lutheran Church participated in Make a Difference Day a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. Millions of volunteers from around the world unite in a common mission to improve the lives of others. This was the second year The Chapel School and Village Lutheran Church participated. Over seventy volunteers came together to make a difference. “The stories told around Make a Difference Day show that anyone - regardless of age, location or resources - can accomplish amazing things when they take on the problems they see in the community. School families, church members, and friends of the community gathered to complete various projects. The Multipurpose Room was transformed into the Make a Difference Headquarters. Service Stations were assembled where volunteers worked together to make toys for animals in shelters, decorate pillowcases for children in hospitals, bake cookies for firefighters, write letters to soldiers overseas and so much more! “We wanted to show how helping others could have a “chain reaction” by reaching out to those in the community.” Kate Porter, The Chapel School Music Teacher for Pre-K through grade 2 and Youth Minister of the Village Lutheran Church, organized the Make a Difference Day. Village Lutheran Church and The Chapel School are located at 172 White Plains Road in Bronxville. For more information about Village Lutheran Church and The Chapel School and its programs, call 914-337-3202 or visit www.thechapelschool.org. www.thebronxvillebulletin.com All Aboard a New Tradition, Holiday The Nutcracker Magical Matinee Sunday December 15th 1:30pm Model Train Show at Lasdon The exciting sights and sounds of holiday Lionel trains, featuring the Polar Express, as well as famous holiday characters, arrive for the first time at Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial, during the Holiday on the Hill event, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 14, 15, 21, 22, 27, 28 and 29. In addition, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be making a special visit on Sunday, Dec. 15, 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for children; proceeds will help fund Lasdon programs. Immediately after Thanksgiving, fresh balsam fir Christmas trees and wreaths will be on sale in an old- fashioned tree lot next to the Garden Shop, which will also sell poinsettias, plants, gifts and refreshments. Lasdon will host a fun-packed holiday show featuring trains running on more than 150 feet of track on a giant eight-foot by 22-foot multi-level layout. There are dozens of tiny buildings and structures in a display that combines fantasy and real train themes, including the Polar Express chugging along to Santa’s Village at the North Pole and highlights of the Metro-North Railroad line from Manhattan to Katonah. Along the way visitors will see famous holiday icons such as Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the Grinch, Charlie Brown and Peanuts characters, Ralphie from A Christmas Story and Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas. The Putnam Humane Society will be there on Saturdays for families wishing to adopt a homeless pet. Proceeds from tree sales will benefit Base Camp Westchester, a non-profit organization aiding homeless veterans in Westchester. The main house will be decorated for the holidays and the Westchester Veterans Museum will feature a new exhibit titled “The Holiday Season during Wartime.” Go to westchestergov.com/parks or call Lasdon at 864-7268. Marathon Effort Raises Money for Scholarships The Picture House announces The Nutcracker Magical Matinee, a special holiday event that will take place on Sunday December 15th at 1:30pm for families and kids of all ages. The cinematic version of New York City Ballet’s classic production brings George Balanchine’s chorography to the big screen. The Nutcrackerwill be presented in the Main Hall, at a special film event trimmed with beautifully costumed ballerinas greeting attendees upon arrival, a live dance performance, photo opportunities and special treats. The Nutcracker movie is the beloved tale of a young girl whose dreams transport her to a fantasy land of Mice Kings and fairytale sweets that come to life. The film features a legendary all-star cast from New York City Ballet, including Darci Kistler and Damian Woetzel as the Sugarplum Fairy and her Cavalier, with a cameo appearance by a young McCauley Culkin as the Nutcracker Prince. Kevin Kline narrates the story. The matinee event will open with a live performance by youth members of Pelham’s Ballet Arts’ dance program, featuring excerpts from The Nutcracker Act II. Dancers in costumes will be available for photo opportunities during intermission. The Picture House is presenting this enchanting matinee event to give young audiences an informal yet authentic theatergoing experience, close to home and at affordable ticket prices. Printed programs with a synopsis of the story, casting and performance notes will be distributed by glittering ballerinas at the door. The Nutcracker film is the same production performed by New York City Ballet each December at Lincoln Center. Tickets for The Nutcracker Magical Matinee are priced at $25 for general admission, $15 for members, and may be purchased online through The Picture House website or at the box office during theater hours. Advance bookings are suggested. The Picture House is dedicated to creating a shared community experience for diverse audiences through film, education programming and unique cultural offerings. Our historically preserved and restored theater offers a unique gathering place dedicated to entertaining, enriching, and inspiring a sense of wonder for all ages. The Picture House 175 Wolfs Lane, Pelham. 738-3161 www.thepicturehouse.org VIENNA BOYS’ CHOIR December 7, 8pm ORPHEUS CHAMBER ORCHESTRA January 26, 3pm GREAT GIFTS from The Center December 8, 3pm Buy one full price ticket & GET A SECOND GARRICK OHLSSON for 50% off GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE! THE CROSSROADS PROJECT Fry Street Quartet February 9, 3pm February 7, 8pm Redeem by phone USE DISCOUNT CODE Left to right: Kristy Levinson, Jack Culaj, Jamie Geier, Rob Gebhart, Jessica Murrer, and Toni Romano. Photo credit: Village Lutheran Church On November 3, 2013, six members of Village Lutheran Church and The Chapel School community ran the ING New York City Marathon on behalf of scholarships for the Chapel School students. The Team Coach and Senior Pastor of the Church and School, Rev. Dr. Robert Hartwell, helped form the charity run several years ago. Speaking about the dedication of the runners, he said, “To commit to a marathon, both physically and with the level of support that each runner must raise, is a testimony to their care for our school and students.” Runner must raise at least $3,000. The school has received gifts and pledges of almost $15,000. Principal of the school, James Dhyne, shared his thankfulness for the gifts received. “Gifts continue to be recorded. Team Chapel did a fantastic job and the money raised will go a long way in meeting the needs of our deserving students.” According to Dhyne, donations are still being received. www.shorelinepub.com 1400 DR. JOHN UPRIGHT CITIZENS BRIGADE TOURING COMPANY or in person at the box office. Box office hours: Tues-Fri noon to 6pm Closed 11/28 & 11/29 February 22, 8pm February 15, 8pm Offer applies to December, January & February Center Series events only. December events must be purchased by Dec 4, January/February by Dec 20. Subject to availability. Does not apply to previously purchased tickets or in combination with other offers. 914-251-6200 KIM KASHKASHIAN February 23, 3pm bronxvillebulletin WWW.ARTSCENTER.ORG AR R EN December 2013 • 9 Students Excel in Cross Country Season Twenty students in the 5th-8th grades at The Chapel School in Bronxville, recently finished up their successful cross country season. Chapel School runners in 5th grade competed in a 1500m run while students in the 6th-8th grade grouping ran 1.2 miles throughout Van Cortlandt Park in the Bronx over a series of four meets. All of the Chapel School runners worked diligently this year to lower their times over the course of the season and saw personal best times at each race. Coaches Kimberly Johnson and Katie Vogt are extremely proud of all of their runners and look forward to an even better season next year. Runners in the 6th-8th grade had much success during the course of the season with the boys’ team earning 1st place at each of the four meets. This race included participants from Westchester, the Bronx and New Jersey. One of The Chapel School’s eighth graders, ended the season with his best time of 6:53.21 and finishing in 1st place at the Columbus Day Invitational. Three seventh graders rounded out the top 10 finishers at this final meet of the season. A Chapel School fifth grader finished in 1st place at all four meets improving his time during the course of the season. At the Columbus Day Invitational, he completed the 1500m run in a season best time of 6:10.02. This was the second year that the school participated in Westchester County’s CYO Cross Country season. The Chapel School is located on 172 White Plains Road in Bronxville. For more information about the Chapel School and its programs, please call 337-3202 or visit the website at www. thechapelschool.org The Chapel School Preschoolers Make New Friends Recently the Chapel School Preschool welcomed eight preschool students from the New York School for the Deaf in White Plains. The two classes from NYSD were joined by their teachers and Principal, Barbara Robinson. Some of the NYSD students were from an auditory-oral class and some from a bilingual (ASL) class. The Chapel School preschoolers were eager to show their guests a great time! The children participated in circle time, show and tell, learned Halloween songs, had snack, and played on the playground. The Chapel School will continue to enjoy their new friendship with The New York School for the Deaf over the course of this school year with several visits. All the children are excited about their next visit in December. The Chapel School’s Preschool Director, Michelle Tween, is thrilled about entering this new partnership. “I look forward to watching the preschoolers socialize and learn from each other. Our students are already learning some sign language so that they can communicate even better with their new friends!” Give the Gift of Relaxation with a Gift Certificate 14 Studio Arcade Bronxville, NY 10708 914.337.9356 www.bronxvillewellness.com 10 • December 2013 bronxvillebulletin Park 143 Bistro Excited to Launch New Expanded Menu Park 143 Bistro is excited to announce the launch of its new expanded dinner menu crafted by Executive Chef Jason Holmberg. While Park 143 Bistro is known for its array of small plate offerings, the innovative menu dramatically increased the number of entrees on the menu. Eight new entrees offer patrons an unparalleled diverse dining adventure. “We love giving people the opportunity to eat an exceptional meal,” said owner Wayne Chessler. “The support of our guests is phenomenal and is the reason we are expanding the menu – to give them more of what they want. And our guests are confirming we have made the right choices.” Tempting new entrees emphasize the flavors of the season include a delicious braised pork shank paired with white beans Long Island Duck and cauliflower in a veal and mustard jus; an exquisite bacon wrapped filet mignon with mild mushrooms and asparagus pork quenched in rosemary sauce; and Long Island Duck with baby brussel sprouts, chanterelles in a gooseberry sauce. The menu still features lengthy small plate selections and new offerings are enticing lamb meatballs in a garlic mint sauce and veal paillard layered over a scallion potato pancake and topped with fennel and herb salad. Executive Chef Jason Holmberg is known to have a passion for artistic and creative expression through exquisite food presentation. Holmberg is also known for pairing various textures and flavors together for superb tastes that unfold with each bite. “We had a great time creating this menu,” stated Holmberg. “We think it is important to continue exploring new territory and adventures in dining.” New American dining and casual elegance combine at Park 143 Bistro. A seasonal menu includes innovative small plates and entrees, featuring savory crepes, homemade pastas, a fresh fish of the day selection and made-to- share classics such as, lager steamed mussels, and jalapeno flavored shrimp and grits; all can be enjoyed in a space carefully crafted to be a glamorous epicurean retreat. Quilted black leather chairs with polished nickel studs reflecting hand blown glass light fixtures casting a dim glow on whimsical zebra print banquettes with red piping are among the details that make this chic Bronxville eatery seem comfortably far away from the everyday. An elevated chef’s table in the back with recessed seating has it own private, quiet atmosphere. Westchester Magazine voted our chef’s table. Lunch is served daily from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., dinner from 3:00 p.m. to closing and Saturday and Sunday brunch from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information visit us online at www.143parkbistro.com. Operation Prom Award Recipients Operation PROM a national non-profit organization has been making dreams come true since 2004 by providing dresses, tuxedos and more to students who otherwise could not afford them. Their help has allowed these deserving students to be a part of the high school rite of passage: Prom. On Saturday, November 9th, the United Hispanic Construction Workers, Inc. sponsored a “Women’s Empowerment” event at the Royal Regency Hotel in Yonkers. The event brought over 250 women together from a variety of different professions and different experiences. The Director, Carmen Tirado-Rodriguez hosted the 2nd annual event, that sponsored tables for women who were domestic violence survivors, breast cancer survivors, and community activists. Among the guests were Operation PROM Founder & President, Noel D’Allacco, and Operation Louisa McTurner PROM Board Member, Louisa McTurner. D’Allacco and McTurner were surprised to hear their names called during the awards program. “We selected these two women for their entrepreneurial spirit, and for their dedication to their community,” said Carmen Tirado-Rodriguez. Louisa McTurner is the first African-American woman to own a store in Bronxville, “Weezie D. Boutique”, and also has a location in Rye. She received the Entrepreneur Award. “I was in complete shock, and so appreciative of the award,” said McTurner. Noel D’Allacco received the Benevolence Award. “I am grateful to have received the award, and be in the company of so many empowering women,”said D’Allacco. D’Allacco and McTurner met four years ago during a dress collection at Weezie D. Boutique in Bronxville. Carmen Tirado-Rodriguez has been a supporter of both of their efforts. For information about Operation PROM visit www.OperationPROM.org For information about the United Hispanic Construction Workers, Inc. visit www.uhcwinc.org www.thebronxvillebulletin.com Furniture Sharehouse Launches “Sittin’ Round The Table” Project Furniture Sharehouse, Westchester’s Furniture Bank, is launching its “Sittin’ Round the Table” Project this holiday season to draw attention to the importance of basic furniture in the lives of Westchester’s families in need. “There’s nothing that says home like gathering around the table for a holiday meal,” says executive director and founder Kate Bialo of Larchmont. “But it’s easier to give thanks around the table when you have a table -- something so many of us take for granted.” The organization hopes to raise enough money to furnish 25 Westchester families in need this holiday season. “It costs us about $300 to Furnish a Family by giving them the basic furniture they need to make a fresh start,” said Bialo. “We think that if friends and neighbors in Westchester know that there are families in their midst who are living in empty apartments, they’ll pull together to help.” Since opening six years ago, Furniture Sharehouse has provided over 36,000 items of furniture free of charge to more than 7,000 Westchester residents moving out of homeless shelters, escaping domes- tic violence and recovering from personal and natural disasters to help rebuild their lives. Clients are referred by member social service agencies to ensure that the furniture goes only to those who need it the most. The “Sittin’ Round the Table” theme is inspired by a poem written by Westchester poet Bill Scher which was put to music by The Original Blind Boys of Alabama as part of Texas-based CTK Foundation’s 2013 Heart & Soul Grant won by Furniture Sharehouse. To highlight the theme, every client referred by member agencies in November and December will receive a special gift – a package of turkey fixins’ and a CD with the “Sittin “Round the Table” song. To make a monetary contribution and for details on how to donate your gentlyused furniture, visit www.furnituresharehouse.org. and while you’re there, click the link on the home page to hear The Original Blind Boys of Alabama sing about how the families you help will feel when they are “Sittin’ Round the Table” for the holidays. Westchester Senior Hall of Fame Honors 57 Seniors Westchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino has announced that the Hon. Lois Taplin Bronz, the first woman and first African-American to chair Westchester County’s Board of Legislators and a life-long champion for early childhood education, will be the top honoree at the 31st annual Westchester Senior Citizens Hall of Fame on Dec. 6. Bronz is one of 57 seniors from 25 municipalities who will be honored at this year’s Hall of Fame. They will all be inducted at a festive luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Main Ballroom of the Westchester Marriott Hotel in Tarrytown. The Senior Citizens Hall of Fame is a marquee event on Westchester’s calendar every year. “We’re lucky to say that they are our friends and neighbors,” Astorino said. “Their achievements enrich our lives and their spirits inspire us.” This year’s Special Recognition Honorees are Sister St. John Delany of White Plains; Barbara Lisio of Hastings; Andrea Olsen of Yonkers; Dr. Maria A. Pici of West Harrison; and Lucy Schmolka of Armonk. Local recipients include Patricia Dohrenwend and Audrey Fallon from Bronxville, Joan Mooney from New Rochelle, John Cassone from Pelham, and Mary Ann Frusciante from Tuckahoe. www.shorelinepub.com Songcatchers 19th Annual “Concert for Peace” On December 15, 2013 at 4pm, Songcatchers will be holding its 19th annual “Concert for Peace” at the Chapel at the College of New Rochelle, 29 Castle Place, New Rochelle. Songcatchers will perform secular and interfaith carols, songs of peace, and songs of the holidays. This 50 member intergenerational chorus and 15 member instrumental ensemble, performs regularly throughout the year for civic, private, and interfaith events. The children are drawn from both the Choir Camp and the After-School Music Program; many of the adults were once children in the choir themselves. There is no charge for admission but free-will offerings are accepted and CDs will be on sale. For additional information about Songcatchers, please contact Sr. Beth Dowd at 654-1178 or at songcatchers@gmail.com. Holiday Shopping Tips With the holiday shopping season here, the Westchester County Department of Consumer Protection wants to make your holiday shopping a little less stressful this year. “No matter what the price of a gift purchase, it’s important that people make informed purchases,” said County Executive Robert P. Astorino. “Consumers can make life easier on themselves by remembering these holiday shopping tips, whether shopping in a brick and mortar store or using the Internet.” • Comparison shop for the best price; find out all you can about an item before you purchase it. • Know the refund policy of the merchant you are buying from. In a retail store, the refund policy must be posted at the point of sale. • If an advertised sale item is not available, ask for a rain check; you’re entitled to it. • When making purchases, keep your receipts together and organized. Quickly retrieve your credit cards after using them. If you pay by credit card, the credit card company can help you when you have a dispute with a merchant. • Find out the warranty information about a product before you purchase it. It varies from product to product. Sometimes warranties are offered by the merchant as well as the manufacturer and your credit card company. • Online shopping offers may conveniences. However, shop with companies you know, or which have provided good service to people you know. Look for a written description of the company’s refund and exchange policy. When shopping online, make sure the Web site is secure before entering your personal or financial information. Secure Web sites begin with https:// rather than just http://. Contact the Department of Consumer Protection if you are experiencing a problem with a purchase at (914)995-2155, by e-mail at Conpro@westchestergov.com or via the Web at www.westchestergov.com bronxvillebulletin December 2013 • 11 “A Christmas Carol” Coming to Dolores Powers Receives Award Concordia Conservatory More than 85 local students will perform in a holiday production of the musical, A CHRISTMAS CAROL, presented by Concordia Conservatory from December 6-8 at the Schoenfeld Campus Center at Concordia College, Bronxville. All performers and crew members are from the region, hailing from the Bronx, Bronxville, Cos Cob, Eastchester, Larchmont, Mount Vernon, Pelham, New Rochelle, Old Greenwich, Scarsdale, Tuckahoe and Yonkers. This is the 14th annual musical production for the Conservatory, which features children ages 8-18 who complete an audition and interview to participate. The productions are part of the Conservatory’s tuitionfree community outreach program. The yearly musicals are funded through private donations to Concordia Conservatory. A CHRISTMAS CAROL is based on the Charles Dickens’ holiday classic. It centers around Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserable old man who mistreats everyone in his life. Mr. Scrooge is transformed by the spirit of Christmas when he receives a visit from three ghosts on Christmas Eve. The cast and crew are led by stage director Kathleen Suss, music director Greg Suss, with set designer Eric Zoback, lighting designer John Flanagan and Choreographer Jen Littlefield. Marcy Damasco and Sharon Shearon are the production’s producers. Performances Schedule: December 6 4:30pm & 7:00pm December 7 11:00am & 1:30pm December 8 1:00pm & 3:30pm Location: Schoenfeld Campus Center, Concordia College, Bronxville Tickets are $22 for adults and $11 for children/seniors. To purchase tickets and for more information, call 395-4507. Lawrence Hospital Center’s Dolores Powers, PT received a prestigious award for her decades of service caring for patients, providing physical therapy to people in Central America, and for volunteering at an area homeless shelter. Powers, supervisor of inpatient physical therapy at Lawrence, was presented with the Wholeness of Life award for her more than 25 years of selfless service to those in need during a ceremony on October 24th at Lawrence Hospital Center in Bronxville. The program took place during National Pastoral Care Week, a time for institutions to recognize spiritual caregivers in their midst. “We all take so much for granted,” said Powers. “Each and every one of us should be doing whatever we can to help people in need.” Powers was also recognized for her work in El Salvador, where she has been on medical missions with family members. “It was so eye opening to see that basic needs, such as fresh water, immunizations and education, are not available there,” said Powers. Powers has worked at Lawrence’s physical therapy department for more than 25 years, caring for the whole person – patients’ bodies, minds and spirits. “Dolores’ community has long benefited from her faithful volunteer commitment to homeless men at her local shelter,” said Rev. Sim Gardner, director of pastoral care at Lawrence. “We also take pride in her many years of service in Central America through WISH, the medical group that gives free physical therapy to people in need across the globe.” It was the 21st year that the Wholeness of Life award was given out at Lawrence. President and CEO Edward M. Dinan presented the award to Powers during the special ceremony. Healthcare Chaplaincy, which works to further research, education, and the practice of multi-faith spiritual healthcare, co-sponsors Wholeness of Life. During the Wholeness of Life ceremony, Lawrence Hospital Center employees and members of the community said goodbye to Sister Florence Mallon. Mallon left Lawrence on October 11 to return to caring for Bronxville’s St. Joseph’s Church full-time. New Vice President, Executive Director COO of Combs Enterprise to be Keynote at Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital Speaker at 100th Anniversary Gala Montefiore announced the appointment of Presbyterian Healthcare System. He is recogAnthony Alfano as vice president and executive nized for the successful merger integration of director of Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital. NYDH within New York-Presbyterian. Before Montefiore recently opened Montefiore New his recruitment to NYDH, he was on the senior Rochelle and Montefiore Mount Vernon along leadership teams at Brooklyn Hospital Center with Schaffer Extended Care and Saint Vincent’s Catholic Center at the former Sound Medical Center. Alfano’s diShore Health System facilities. verse business portfolio conThe two hospitals will be sists of leadership positions in run as individual institutions, human resources, information each with its own executive technology and general mandirector and leadership team. agement at notable firms such Montefiore will announce the as Reuter Information Technolexecutive director for Monogy, Mobil Corporation and tefiore Mount Vernon when Pfizer. assumption of that role is im“Throughout his hospital minent. career, Anthony has demon“We are committed to strated strong management meeting the unique needs of skills and leadership in partthe neighborhoods we serve,” nering with physician leaders said Steven M. Safyer, MD, to build programs that meet President and CEO of Monlocal needs and build patient tefiore Health Systems and satisfaction,” said Susan Green former long-term resident of Lorenzen, RN, senior vice presNew Rochelle. “Having a local ident, Operations, Montefiore. leader devoted to understand“We are pleased to welcome ing the community and its care him as a member of the Monrequirements will help ensure tefiore family and look forward that we build the programs and to his leadership as we conservices needed to continue tinue to shape our patient care to provide the excellent care Vice President, Executive Director delivery in New Rochelle and New Rochelle and surrounding Anthony Alfano the surrounding communities.” towns deserve.” Alfano holds both a BachPrior to joining Monteelor of Science degree and a fiore, Alfano served as senior vice president Master of Science degree in Administration and chief operating officer at New York Downfrom Long Island University. His appointment town Hospital (NYDH), part of the New York is effective immediately. 12 • December 2013 bronxvillebulletin Dia Simms, Chief Operating Officer of Combs Enterprise, is the keynote speaker for The Shiloh Baptist Church’s 100th Anniversary Gala. The gala is scheduled for Friday, December 6, 2013 at Lake Isle Country Club in Eastchester. The signature for this event, “The Year of Promise and Ministry Fulfillment” Gala, will commemorate 100 years of dedicated service and outreach. All proceeds from this gala will be used to expand and fund the church’s ministry programs and community development. “We are excited to recognize the historical occasion that happened in 1913 when Shiloh Baptist Church became an official church,” said Reverend Michael B. Gerald. “The Year of Promise and Ministry Fulfillment” Gala is the stepping stone for Shiloh Baptist Church’s return to our mission to do ministry. This includes focusing on educational needs, transitional housing, job training, entrepreneurship, Dia Simms and spiritual empowerment”. This elegant black tie event will kick off with a social reception at 8:00 PM which features several entrepreneurial vendors, followed by an uplifting and inspirational dinner program, a live band for dancing and a silent auction of many sought after pieces. Additionally, gospel artist and radio host, Lonnie Hunter, will be the master of ceremonies. Parishioners, clergy, elected officials and Westchester’s elite are expected to gather for this momentous occasion which is sure to be a memorable occasion with enjoyment had by all. For more information, contact Pia Cromwell at 914-589-5083 or shilohgala@gmail.com. www.thebronxvillebulletin.com Letter to the Editor We hope that everyone will contribute to The Community Fund of Bronxville, Eastchester and Tuckahoe as it strives to support organizations that provide medical, educational and social services in its communities. Cancer Support Team (CST) is a grateful beneficiary of The Fund’s many years of support for our free nursing, counseling and educational services for those affected by cancer at any stage of the disease. As the only Westchester-based home care program licensed by the New York State Department of Health that is solely cancer focused and that offers services free of charge and without regard to insurance coverage, The Fund’s support is critical to maintaining and enhancing our services. Whether we are assisting an older adult to manage the side effects of treatment or counseling a child who parent has been diagnosed with cancer, CST has counted on The Fund to support the help we offer to enhance the quality of life of community residents. Judith Dobrof, DSW, LCSW, Executive Director Cancer Support Team 2900 Westchester Avenue, Suite 103 Purchase, New York 10577 www.cancersupportteam.org Holiday Bites & Pieces! Ready or not, here it comes! 2014 is upon us, so whether you’ve been naughty or nice its time to make plans with friends and family. If you are planning to go out, here are some dining suggestions for every palate, each offering a good dose of Holiday cheer… CIAO TO ALL FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Zef and the amiable crew at Ciao, 5-7 John Albanese Place, Eastchester (914-779-4646) are marking their 25th Anniversary at their bustling trattoria with generous platters of Italian/American cuisine served with gusto. Open kitchen specialties include: Hot Antipasto for two, three or more; giant Scallops Appetizer; Salmon ala Ciao, with white wine, lemon, capers and asparagus; or Veal Salvaggio. From the grill come such hefty cuts as: Broiled Veal Chop, Black Angus Shell Steak, Sausages Frioli; and Pork Chops. Good crusty pizzas, too. If you have room left, try one of the house made desserts. Cozy, friendly bar. Party facilities. Open 7 days a week. Major credit cards. Free and valet parking. www.ciaoeastchester.com CELEBRATE BIG AT CHIANTI! Chef/proprietor Paul Caputo of Gina Marie’s Chianti, 174 Marbledale Road, Tuckahoe (914-346-8844), operates a bustling ode to Italian-American cuisine served in generous style. Over on one wall in the dining room is inscribed: “chi mangia bene, viva bene” (if you eat well, you live well), and that’s the overriding philosophy here. Chef Caputo has a history of serving big portions of fresh made-to-order food; ‘family style’ some call it. Check out such specialties as: Spiedini ala Romana; his amazing Garlic Bread ala Casa; Zuppa Di Pesce over Capellini; Steak Compagniola; or giant Veal Chop Contadina. There is a major Hamburger on hand, too. Don’t worry; there are always plenty of doggie bags on hand for take home. Complete lunch and dinners available daily. On and off-premise catering. www.ginamarieschianti. com ESCAPE FROM THE HOLIDAY BUSTLE AT ODYSSEY! The Doukas family, proprietors of the popular Eastchester Odyssey Diner, 465 White Plains Road, Eastchester (914-961-8855) on Rt. 22, are marking their 38th Anniversary at this location with an enhancement of the premises, a new catering/party room for up to 80 guests, and updated menus that stress value dining and diversity. It’s a safe-haven from the holiday hustle and bustle outside. A special breakfast menu is served from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. but you can actually order breakfast specialties all day and evening. A 4-course Fixed Price Early Bird Dinner is available Monday thru Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at $16.95. The meal comes with a house bread basket, soup or crisp house salad, a choice of over 25 main courses, house dessert, coffee or tea. Open 7 days. Free parking. HOLIDAY KARAOKE AT SPRING ASIAN! You can have your own Karaoke party while enjoying a flavorful pan-Asian menu. Owner Charlie Kao of Spring Asian Cuisine, 545 Gramatan Ave., Mt. Vernon (914-6992828), will supply the stage and equipment for your group. Spring serves a variety of creative specialties from China, Japan, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam. Tasty selections from the menu include: Thai Tom Yam Soup; house Pu Pu Platter for two; Chicken or Beef with Satay Sauce; Whole Flounder with vegetables; and Sesame Crusted Chilean Sea Bass with black bean sauce. Good Peking Duck too! Take out and catering. Local delivery. Full sushi bar. Open 7 days a week. Municipal parking. Open 7 days. (Morris Gut is a restaurant consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in the greater Westchester area for over 25 years. He may be reached at: 914-235-6591. E-mail: gutreactions@optonline.net) dubrovinik restaur ant JOIN US FOR THE HOLIDAYS! A Taste of Croatia! Proprietor ‘Jerry’ Tomic, his chefs and staff welcome you to their new establishment featuring the historic cuisines of Croatia presented in modern style. A delicious melding of the Adriatic, Italy and the European continent prepared with locally sourced organic ingredients. Multi-level dining rooms, cocktail lounge, seasonal outdoor patio with herb farm and free-standing rotisserie grill, grapevines hugging the brick walls, temperature controlled wine cellar. Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner * Private Parties & Catering Municipal and valet parking Reservations: 914-637-3777 www.dubrovnikny.com 721 MAIN STREET, NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. www.shorelinepub.com Dementia: Food for Thought November was National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. In recognition thereof, I thought I would write about issues of concern for lawyers and clients who may have diminished capacity to understand and execute legal documents. The problem of dementia among seniors is a common concern, and it appears far, far too often. People too often wait to take care of their estate planning until they are no longer able to make complex decisions. Elderly clients are too often frail — both mentally and physically — and are susceptible to financial exploitation or physical abuse by others. At the same time, we see plenty of bright, capable, engaged seniors whose family has decided that they are too old or too frail to make their own decisions. We constantly struggle against marginalization, sequestration, even infantilization of seniors. So we think it’s important to keep in mind that most seniors do NOT have dementia, even though a significant percentage may have problems with memory and reasoning. We also think it’s important to note that even a diagnosis of dementia does not mean an individual cannot make any decisions. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common condition leading to dementia among the elderly, but it is not the only one. Vascular disease (often described as a series of small strokes) is another leading cause, and there are others. One distinguishing characteristic: Alzheimer’s disease may first appear as memory loss (especially short-term memory), while vascular dementia may first appear as impairment of judgment or the inability to make plans. Recently, an older couple, married for fifty years, came to see us for a review and possible revision of their estate plan. They hadn’t been in the office for about five years, and we were delighted to catch up with them. Both husband and wife were engaged in our conversation, both laughed easily, and both remembered all the important details of their lives necessary to handling revision of their estate plans. When we got down to details, the wife could explain why they had come to the office, what changes they were considering, and what effect those changes might have on her (and them). As we finished up our discussion, the husband quietly pushed a pill bottle over for our inspection. It was for a well-known drug usually prescribed to early dementia patients. It took a few moments to figure out how to address the implied statement, but finally we asked: are you showing us this because you worry that your wife is not able to make changes in her estate plan? Because if so, you should have no concerns. She clearly understands the discussion, and it is apparent that she not only agrees with your proposed changes, but even initiates discussion and explains her views. All that was said, of course, to both clients, and without marginalizing the early-dementia patient’s involvement. It is critically important — for their sakes and for our collective humanity — that individuals with dementia be allowed and encouraged to participate in their own planning. After all, the decisions made during the course of estate planning may have a profound impact on the quality of life of the decision-maker and his or her family. While it may be productive to understand the likelihood of dementia in a person, or the typical stages of the condition, it is much more important for professionals to know what is out there, and what to watch for. By having a better understanding of dementia, professionals can serve their clients in the best possible way. For years, we have talked in this column about the importance of taking care of your estate planning sooner rather than later. The potential for dementia at some point in the future is just one of the reasons to act now. While it may force you to confront some difficult issues, you’ll be glad you did. Bernard A. Krooks is managing partner of the law firm Littman Krooks LLP (www.littmankrooks.com; 914-684-2100), with offices in White Plains, Manhattan and Fishkill. He is past president of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. Experience Portugal Portugal, a small but wonderful country does not disappoint its visitors. It is a land of friendly, welcoming people, beautiful landscapes, and historical treasures, fine cuisine, excellent wines, mild weather, beautiful beaches and distinctive islands -- a highly desirable European destination! Lisbon, the capital, is a cultural melting pot o historical and architectural treasures that trace Portugal’s past as a superpower. Strategically located on the route of the ancient mariners, there are several historic quarters which enable tourists to go back in time and experience the beauty and culture of the city. A stone’s throw from Lisbon is Estoril, a coastal region, known by many as the “Portuguese Riviera.” The climate is mild and pleasant all year round. In this stylish area stands Casino Estoril, the largest casino in Europe. This also was the location where Ian Fleming stayed. He wrote the famous book Casino Royale, based on his experiences. Because of the glamour associated with this area, kings and aristocrats relocated here while living in exile. Nearby one can experience the beaches of Cascais along with the bay dominated by its imposing Citadel. The Algarve is the southernmost part of Portugal. Because of its Mediterranean climate, it has become a year round tourist resort destination. There are spectacularly beautiful long golden beaches punctuated by rock formations. Excellent resort hotels, restaurants and casinos are present along this south coast. Here you will also find world class golf courses. Madeira is the sub-tropical island paradise of ancient rainforests, gorges and waterfalls. It is off the coast of mainland Portugal. It is a place where you can find luxury resort/spa sophistication. The capital, Funchal, has a 16th century palace and a city center dominated by 18th century houses and a bustling covered market. Be sure to experience the famous Monte Toboggan run -- a wicker and wooden sled speeding down the hilly streets. Don’t forget to have a taste of the fortified wine which takes is name from the island. Madeira is often a cruise itinerary port of call. In Portugal, there is a distinctive type of hotel called a Pousada. The historic Pousadas are castles, convents, fortresses or palaces that have been converted into lodging. The conveniences are all modern and high quality. The ambience is, however, unforgettable for you are surrounded by the architecture and design of the historical times. I cannot forget the exquisitely colored tiles which filled the interiors of these buildings. One night in a Pousada is a memory of a lifetime! Likewise, Portugal does not disappoint for its gastronomy. The fish is fresh from the sea and cooked to perfection. Olive oil is a basic cooking ingredient. Finally, if you wish to take a small bit of Portugal back home, there are a variety of traditional crafts. Portugal is noted for its colorful and distinctive local ceramics, tapestries, Madeira embroidery, filigree jewelry and, of course, excellent wines. Written by Patricia Cotti, Eastchester Travel. Barbara Nichauls is the President of Bayside Travel in Larchmont, Gramatan Travel in Bronxville, Eastchester Travel and Earlfield Travel in Larchmont. Licensed Travel Insurance Agent. For a free consultation, call 833-8880 or visit www.luxurytravelservice.com. bronxvillebulletin December 2013 • 13 Kitchen & Bath Insider© – Holiday Kitchen Dreams Most of us spend more time in the kitchen than any other room in our house, and this is especially true throughout the holiday season, when the kitchen becomes the focal point of your home. During this time of year kitchens are not only filled me on this. Wouldn’t it be great to have enough room to prepare next year’s holiday delicacies without bumping into everyone else? And enough storage space for all your spices, as well as places to put away all the dishes, with the immediate family, they’re also cluttered with welcome (and unwelcome) guests as well; helping, visiting, kibitzing, snooping, etc. With all the time spent in the kitchen, and all the people milling around, folks have a tendency to notice what doesn’t work well, in terms of design and function, so it’s no wonder that more people start to think about remodeling during the holidays than any other time of the year. Unless you’re very fortunate, no one is going to buy you a new kitchen for Christmas, Chanukah or Festivus. It’s just not considered a romantic, holiday type gift, but it should be. Nothing says “I love you dear” more than a gorgeous new room to prepare meals for the family? Okay, maybe the “preparing meals” takes some of the romance out of it, but work with glasses and silverware after the shiny, new dishwasher has made them spotless. If a new kitchen is on your holiday gift list, (or you wish it was), you can get the process started by making a “wish list” that includes everything that you would like in your new dream kitchen. Then make another list of what you really must have in case you need to trim things, if budget or space don’t allow everything from the first list. Next step: pick up some kitchen magazines in town or go to www. Houzz.com or www.pinterest.com and look at what other people are doing. When you see something that interests you, tear it out or print it out or save it on your computer so that you can show it to your kitchen designer. It’s easier and safer to show classifieds Antiques • Art • COLLECTIBLES Most cash paid for paintings, antiques, furniture, silver, sculpture, jewelry, books, cameras, records, instruments, coins, watches, gold, comics, sports cards, etc. Please call Aaron at 914-654-1683. Computer Services Advantage Computer Support: We make your computer “people friendly” in your home or office. Instructions * Upgrades * Repairs * Network Support. Call Richard Klein 914-4221798 or 203-781-8672. WRITING -- PUBLIC SPEAKING In-home Tutor, Teens, Adults. Award-winning author. Call Elliot: 646-734-2739, web: www.elliotess man.com 14 • December 2013 ANTIQUES WANTED Free Estimate. Highest cash prices paid. Buying Chinese, Asian, American and European Antiques. Jade, Porcelain, Bronzes, Ivories, Paintings, Furniture, Jewelry, Silver and Judaica. In business for 25 years. NYC Gallery Owner. Please call 917-5095232 or info@HeirloomsNYC.com. Web: www.HeirloomsNYC.com. SHARON GARDENS CEMETERY Selling Lot #35, Section T, four graves in Sharon Gardens Cemetery. Best offer. Call 781-721-2921. PROFESSIONAL IN-HOME TUTORING Math, Earth Science, Chemistry and Physics. SAT, ACT, Regents & AP Exams. Call Michael 646-284-6676. www.pelhamtutor.com COMPANION FOR ELDERLY Intelligent and humorous companion is available for stimulating conversation. Add life to your years! Call 914-667-3867. bronxvillebulletin someone a specific concept rather than trying to explain it, leaving less chance for misinterpretation of what you had in mind. This will ensure that your dream kitchen ends up looking like your dream kitchen and not your designer’s dream kitchen. When the magical, holiday season is over, if someone loved you enough to give you a new kitchen, or you decided to give one to yourself, you’re now ready to begin the actual project. Gather up your lists, your pictures, your iPad, and find a creative designer who understands you and will be able to combine all your ideas into a stunning, functional and affordable new kitchen just for you. But, whether or not you get a new kitchen this season, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all of you a very joyous holiday season and a happy and healthy new year. Paul Bookbinder, M.I.D., C.R., is president of DreamWork Kitchens, Inc. located in Mamaroneck, New York. A Master of Design (Pratt Institute), and E.P.A. Certified Remodeler, he serves on the Advisory Panel of Remodeling Magazine. A member of the National Kitchen & Bath Assoc., he is also a contributor to Do It Yourself magazine. He can be reached for questions at 914-777-0437 or www.dreamworkkitchens.com. SHARON GARDENS CEMETERY 16 graves together or in plots of 4 graves. $6400 a plot. Call 360-459-3572. GRAVE PLOTS FOR SALE Beautiful 8 grave plots in Sharon Gardens, will accept best offer. Call Ira 201-926-5300. SPANISH TUTOR Children, high school students and adults. Classes in your home by experienced native Spanish teacher. Call Leonor @ 914-629-6798 or email spanish4me@gmail.com. web: www.spanish4me.org PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE, WHITE PLAINS, FREE RENT Office space located at 15 Chester Ave. Indv. offices avail., rent $650-850/mth. ea. 2 mths free rent w/signing of 15mth lease. Incls. elec., cleaning, taxes, HVAC, use of conf. rm & kit. Conv. to courts & parking. Avail. immed. Contact 914448-3050; JRS@sperdutocpa.com businesscards Hand out your business card to thousands of Readers each month. $69. per issue. Prepaid only. Just mail us your Business Card and Full Payment and we’ll take care of the rest. Mail to: Shoreline Publishing, 629 Fifth Ave., Suite 213, Pelham, N.Y. 10803 To reserve your ad space for the upcoming January issue of the Bronxville Bulletin or any of our Community Newspapers or County-wide Newspapers call 914-738-7869 today! classifiedadform 7 newspapers over 100,000 readers. 1 price, prepaid $112.00 for 4 lines, additional lines $10.00 per line. Ad runs in 7 papers for 1 month. Make check payable to: Shoreline Publishing, Inc. 629 Fifth Avenue, Suite 213, Pelham, NY 10803 1) ____________________________________________________________________ 2) ____________________________________________________________________ 3) ____________________________________________________________________ 4) ____________________________________________________________________ Name: ________________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________________________________________ City/State/Zip: __________________________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________________________________ www.thebronxvillebulletin.com Holiday Season Model Train Show at Greenburgh Nature Center Fully Insured Since 1980 HOURS: Mon-Fri 8:30-5pm Saturday 9-3pm GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE! All offers expire 12/31/12 421 Fifth Avenue, Pelham, NY 914-738-6705 The Perfect Holiday Gift Ideas! Smart Phone Remote Start Vehicle Remote Start System • Works with compatible remote start systems • Six function icons: Lock, Unlock, Find, Start, Aux 1 and Aux 2 • Compatible apps for iPhone, Blackberry and Android $289.00 Installed Car link ASCL2 Back by popular demand, the GNC is partnering with the Yonkers Model Railroad Club to present a special, nine-day holiday season show entitled “Trains – Your Ticket to the Great Outdoors.” The exhibit will open on Saturday, December 7th, and run through Sunday, December 15th (closed December 13th). Weekday hours are 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (except Fridays, when the Nature Center is closed), and weekend hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This marks the ninth consecutive year that the Nature Center is hosting this exhibit. Designed for train lovers of all ages, the show will feature a special 12- by 18foot display of HO gauge model trains traveling through countryside scenes of natural beauty, modeled on the terrain of upstate New York and New England. HO model railroad scale is 1/87th of the actual size, so a one-foot model railroad car would be 87 feet long in actual size. The display includes special topographic features such as a mountain with a train tunnel and a mining cave tunnel. Other features include a ravine with a train trestle crossing over it, a stream with a train trestle and wooden bridge, a model village, road crossings, and a model replica of the Greenburgh Nature Center. Members of the railroad club will be on hand to talk about the trains and provide opportunities for visitors to examine some of the different kinds of train engines up-close. Members of the club and some of their trains were featured in the Grand Central Terminal 100th Anniversary Celebration this past May. The show is being coordinated by Dr. Paul Greenburg of the Yonkers Model Railroad Club. Dr. Greenburg has designed and constructed some of the models and has been active as a model railroader for more than 50 years. He is a long-time resident of Greenburgh and has traveled by train throughout many parts of the world. Admission fees for this special train show are $10 for adults, $9 for students and seniors, and $8 for children, ages 2-12 www.shorelinepub.com (children under two are free). For GNC members, the event is free. The admission fee includes admission to all of the Nature Center’s exhibits, including the live animal museum. All proceeds from the train show will help support the educational programs of the Nature Center and the Yonkers Model Railroad Club. Special thanks to California Pizza Kitchen, Gymboree, Houlihan-Lawrence, Jake’s Wayback Burgers, Macaroni Kid, NEA Federal Credit Union, SavATree, ShopRite, WFAS, Whole Foods Market Westchester, Town of Greenburgh, Greenburgh Parks and Recreation, and Westchester County Parks for their generous support of this exhibit. The Greenburgh Nature Center is a 33acre woodland preserve with trails, a pond, gardens, a playground, and outdoor animal exhibits, including a birds of prey aviary. Our indoor exhibits include a live animal museum with over 100 specimens, exhibit areas focusing on nature and the environment, a greenhouse with botanical exhibits, and a gift shop. The Center offers programs for groups of all ages on a wide range of environmental topics, camps, adult programs, community events, and birthday parties, either here or at your location. They also have a wide range of volunteering opportunities for all ages and skill levels. The mission of the Greenburgh Nature Center is to offer inspiring, hands-on environmental education experiences, to foster an appreciation of nature, and to promote sustainable practices. The Nature Center is located at 99 Dromore Road, off Central Park Avenue, in Scarsdale, NY. Parking is free, and handicapped parking is available. The Nature Center’s grounds are open daily dawn to dusk throughout the year. The Center’s indoor exhibits are open daily except Fridays and a few holidays, 9:30AM - 4:30PM on weekdays (closed Fridays) and 10AM - 4:30PM on weekends. For more information, visit our website at www.greenburghnaturecenter. org or call 914-723-3470. Starting at with Navigation and Bluetooth built in Replacement rearview mirror comes with built-in Navigation, built-in hands free Bluetooth, as well as a 4.3-inch LED backlit digital monitor with touch screen. Fits most cars. 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This Hi-Def system features, a USB reader, audio/video inputs, 2 wireless headphones, and surround sound. $279.00 Installed $599.00 Installed EMPV7 2 sensor system Parrot Bluetooth Hands Free Car System I-Pod Kit Direct FM Connect Factory Radio Want hands-free phone operation. LCD screen mounted on your dash. Includes Caller ID, voice recognition, 150 names from your phone’s address book for dialing (only works with certain phones). Ck3100LCD $279.99 Installed • • • • • Universal iPod/iPhone Charging Capable 2 Connections Available Static Free FM Mod iS77 $180.00 Installed Buying or Selling a Home? I can help. 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