July 2016 - The Hudson Independent

Transcription

July 2016 - The Hudson Independent
[see Pages H1-H8]
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Your Most Trusted Source for Local News and Events
July 2016
Serving Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, Irvington, Scarborough-on-Hudson and Ardsley-on-Hudson
Vol. XI No. 7
Tarrytown Swimming Pool Unlikely to Restoration of
SH Cemetery’s
Open This Summer
Matchless
Photo by: Sunny McLean
by Rick Pezzullo
PRSRT STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
WHITE PLAINS, NY
PERMIT NO. 971
When ground was broken for the Village of Tarrytown’s first municipal swimming pool in 2014, developer Joe Cotter
was hopeful of having the facility ready for
swimmers last summer.
Those plans didn’t pan out, and now it
appears another swimming season will pass
without residents being able to cool off at
Pierson Park near the Hudson River.
Village Administrator Michael Blau explained not only does the six-lane main
pool and 30-foot kiddie pool need approval
from the Westchester County Health Department, but with most area swimming
facilities already up and running, finding New Recreational Facility at Pierson Park is expected to open sometime in July.
lifeguards will be a major undertaking.
“Lifeguards are difficult to come by. If we
don’t have lifeguards we can’t open,” Blau said. “We’re kind of part of his agreement with the village for the Hudson Harbor
behind everybody else. We want to open it as soon as we can.”
luxury residential complex.
What will open sometime in July near the pool at Pierson Park
The village had advertised the building to be ready in June but
Continued on page 2
is the village’s new Recreational Facility, which Cotter also built as some minor, last minute construction de-
They Did It! Students from Hackley, Irvington and Sleepy Hollow graduated in June. For
photos and complete lists of graduates, see pages 14-16.
— Photo by Sunny McLean
Chimes
Planned
by Shelly Robinson and
Robert Kimmel
Hidden away high up in the stone belfry
of the Washington Irving Memorial Chapel
just inside the north gate of Sleepy Hollow
Cemetery is a set of 10 tubular bell tower
chimes installed in 1923. Known for their
fine musical qualities with rich and mellow
tones, guaranteed never to crack or go out
of tune, they are capable of playing over 230
songs, from folk music, to ballads, patriotic
tunes and hymns. Each chime weighs 550
pounds and is fitted with a patented damper
mechanism.
Nestled in the corner of the cemetery’s
front office in the chapel is a small oak table
holding a tiny oak keyboard with 10 original ivory keys. An on-off button is mounted
on a single brass plate on the side of the
table. A cluster of old wires protrudes from
the keyboard and disappears into the chapel
wall.
The power for the chime system is traceable to the chapel basement where a threaded steel conduit goes from the circuit breaker box up through the ceiling. Another steel
conduit comes down from the basement
ceiling and terminates at an original 4x4
junction box from the 1920s. Completing
the rest of the electrical system are obsolete
fuses, motors, bearings, voltmeters, generators and more wires.
Sadly, decades have passed since the Washington Irving chimes have played music for
chapel visitors. The electrical system is in
need of extensive repair. There is a rare opportunity now to restore the chimes to their
original glory and join an elite group of only
about 120 original Deagan chime sets still
functioning in the entire country. Sleepy
Hollow could join that exclusive group and
contribute to music history.
James Logan, superintendent of the
cemetery, estimated that it has been more
than 30 years since the chimes rang out
Continued on page 2
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Tarrytown, Citibank at Odds over Parking Spaces
by Rick Pezzullo
It’s been six months since Citibank closed
its Tarrytown branch on South Broadway
and fenced off 21 metered parking spaces
for public use, and it doesn’t appear those
spaces will be opened up any time soon.
On April 18, the village Board of Trustees
voted to initiate eminent domain proceedings to obtain ownership of the parking
area on Neperan Road, claiming the spaces
served a valuable public purpose. However,
Citibank has challenged the village’s municipal purpose stance in court, contending the loss of the spaces diminishes the
value of the property.
Tarrytown Village Administrator Michael Blau said the village’s response papers
to Citibank’s challenge were due to be filed
by the end of June.
“It was fairly clear that Citibank knew
what the village was doing from the very
beginning,” Blau said. “At this point the
village believes we need the parking, and
parking in the downtown is a valued public
purpose.”
Residents and visitors have been unable to utilize the lot since January 11.
Blau explained the village had similar arrangements to lease the property for parking with Wells Fargo, Wachovia and First
Union prior to Citibank. He noted Tarrytown only paid approximately $10 a
month per parking space in the lot.
“It was very reasonable,” Blau said.
“We’ve had a lot of interest from the
Cemetery
Rec Center
tunes from the belfry. While there have
been discussions about restoration of the
chimes over the past decade, other projects
took precedence, Logan explained. However, the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Historic
Fund, which raises preservation money, has
launched a fund raising effort to restore
the Deagan chimes, and some funds have
already been contributed, according to Logan. While the keyboard would remain, the
system would be automated, he said.
Logan noted the historical aspect of
the chimes, focusing on a metal plaque
above the small keyboard for the chimes
which reads, “Washington Irving Memorial Chimes, Erected in the Chapel of the
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Tarrytown, N.Y.,
A.D. 1923.” (Sleepy Hollow was North Tar-
rytown until it changed its name in 1996.)
An expert restorer of tower chimes, William Pugh of the Top Rung Tower Chime
& Organ Service of Athens, Tennessee,
visited the chapel, assessed the job, and enthusiastically agreed to tackle the restoration
of the chimes. The price tag for the work:
$30,000. Pugh first saw the Sleepy Hollow
chimes during a visit in the late 1980s, and
said “they had been dead for years.”
“Putting the chimes back into their original condition is practical, so they would
be good for decades to come,” Pugh told
The Hudson Independent. He described the
Deagan Tower Chimes Systems as “... the
very best, finest equipment.” Some 440 or
so were built by the J.C. Deagan Company
of Chicago between 1917 and 1958, according to Pugh. He has restored 35 of the
systems.
2 The Hudson Independent
July 2016
Continued from page 1
Chamber and Merchants Council about
when is this going to happen.”
The village has done an appraisal of
the property, and if Tarrytown prevails in
court, Blau said it would purchase it by using fund balance or short-term financing.
Earlier this year, Tarrytown lost some
other metered spaces downtown at the
Family YMCA Tarrytown lot.
Pugh explained that the chimes are not
electronic, but they are electro-mechanical
and an acoustic instrument with no amplification. He said that the cemetery wanted the
restoration to include an automated system
with its 10 chimes playing some 220 tunes
without the use of the keyboard. However,
keeping the keyboard intact would also allow tunes to be played manually. The automated system consists of a perforated roll
mechanism, which, if coupled with a clock,
is programmable to play at a set time.
Initially an employee in a pipe organ factory, Pugh began his own company in 1987,
and said he loves his work. “I consider my
work historic preservation,” which would
be an appropriate description for his potential undertaking at Sleepy Hollow Cemetery
which Pugh called, “an incredible place.”
Continued from page 1
lays pushed the opening back a few weeks.
“We hope we will be (finished) in the
next few weeks,” Blau said.
The facility will feature an exercise studio with state-of-the-art fitness equipment
that will be available to residents through
a membership. Equipment from the pool
will also be stored in the building. The
Parks and Recreation Office will relocate
there and the building will have a conference room.
Blau said memberships are not yet being
accepted for the gym. The rate structure
advertised by the village for one year for
a family plan was $600, $300 for an adult
18 years and over and $150 for seniors.
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Commuter Parking Shift Likely Outcome of Village Station Area Study
by Robert Kimmel
One potential result of Tarrytown’s Station Area Study appears to be the shifting of some commuter parking from west
of the Metro North tracks to the east of
the tracks, regardless of whatever overall
changes take place in the ultimate development of the area.
While no specific recommendations have
yet to emerge from the study, village residents were given an opportunity to comment on three broad alternative approaches, or “scenarios,” for the area’s development
at a public workshop early last month at the
Tarrytown Senior Center.
“A degree of mixed use, residential, commercial, and parking would occur in each
case, varying largely according to the number of commuter parking spaces needed
to offset reductions west of the tracks,”
explained David Aukland, co-chair of the
study’s Steering Committee. He stated that,
“... a goal remains to move as much commuter parking as is practical to the east.”
Panels displayed at the workshop described the three alternatives, which are not
specific proposals from the study, but concepts that could be followed as the committee continues its work. Aukland succinctly
www.thehudsonindependent.com
described the first as “...the waterfront as a
park, mainly more green space;” the second
as “...residential, akin to Hudson Harbor
perhaps, but likely with smaller units,” and
lastly, “...as a destination, year-round with
open space, possibly a small hotel, and some
commercial space with residential above.
Each has its pluses and minuses,” he added.
Among the aspects considered by the
study committee for each of the development concepts are traffic, connectivity to
other parts of the village, particularly Main
Street, tax revenue, and appearance. The
study is also integral to the Tarrytown Economic Development Strategy, which covers
the village in its entirety.
Comments by State Senator Andrea
Stewart-Cousins opened the workshop, after which the project’s consultant, Melissa
Kaplan-Macey discussed the alternative
concepts and outlined improvements that
would likely be forthcoming regardless of
whatever final proposal is made. Among
them is a partially sheltered “commuter
trail” running west of the tracks connecting
Sleepy Hollow’s River Street and the Tarrytown Metro North station. Pedestrian and
bike use would be encouraged to reduce
auto traffic.
The village is also considering promoting
pedestrian use of its Sarah Michaels Park
on Courtland Street by removing the fence
around it. Another area targeted for possible parking spaces is the current Department of Public Works site, and both it and
the Station Plaza could be locations for additional mixed use development, according
to Aukland.
Comments and suggestions by the workshop attendees are among the factors being
considered by the study’s steering committee in forming a specific proposal for the
station area to be presented to the village’s
Board of Trustees this coming September.
After the presentations, a question and
answer session moderated by Trustee Tom
Butler gave the attendees an opportunity to
gather further information from the consultants and Steering Committee members.
The Steering Committee members were
appointed by the Village Board of Trustees and include Aukland, Co-Chair Joan
Raiselis, Village Administrator Michael
Blau, William Brady of the county Planning Board, Trustee Butler, residents Joyce
Lannert, and Bridget Gomez, and Jacques
Vieweg, of the Washington Irving Boat
Club.
The study was initiated more than a
year ago by the Board of Trustees and Village Planning Board and is promoted as a
“transparent and open process.” The Steering Committee is responsible for managing
“the day-to-day work necessary to move the
project forward.”
The Steering Committee has a website
with additional information, http://www.
tarrytownconnected.com/, and panels describing the three concepts presented at the
workshop are on display at Warner Library.
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 3
Permit Finally Issued for Affordable Housing Project in Tarrytown
by Alexander Roberts
In 2004, an agreement between the Village of Tarrytown and the developer of
Hudson Harbor called for him to build 12
units of affordable housing on the site of the
former Village Hall on Wildey Street. The
ensuing 12 years produced heated hearings, reams of paper and thousands of volunteer man-hours as the three local boards
that handle land use—the Planning Board,
Zoning Board of Appeals and Architectural
Review Board—all went in different directions.
A fourth board, the Warner Library Board,
added a couple of years to the process as it
insisted on a new structure that would not
obscure views of the Hudson River acquired
when the Village Hall was demolished. The
developer, National RE/sources Group,
contributed its own set of delays as well.
Finally, Village Administrator Michael
Longtime Hackley Headmaster Walter Johnson
Dies at 64
by Rick Pezzullo
Walter C. Johnson, the Headmaster at
Hackley School in Tarrytown since 1995,
died June 16 from cancer. He was 64.
The 11th Headmaster in the history of
Hackley, Johnson led the independent
school through unprecedented growth
and development. He was credited with
strengthening and expanding the school’s
academic program and faculty, attracting a
talented and diverse student body, substantially increasing financial aid and faculty
compensation, and expanding and redesigning the campus.
Philip Havens, a former Headmaster and
Hackley trustee and retired executive director of the Edward E. Ford Foundation, said
Johnson personified the essential element of
4 The Hudson Independent
Hackley’s mission statement: unreserved effort.
“He gave us his talent, his boundless energy and his imagination,” Havens stated.
“Somehow, like a sculptor, he saw what was
possible. He saw how to create it. And he
saw how to harness the energy and talent
of the many who love Hackley to join together, chisels in hand, in this grand and
beautiful project.”
A teacher at heart, Johnson, who planned
to retire on June 30, began his education
career teaching English at Trinity School in
New York. He is survived by his wife, two
children, Meg (Class of 2007) and Will
(Class of 2012), a sister and stepmother. A
Memorial Service was held June 26 at Akin
Common at Hackley School.
July 2016
Blau brought all of the parties together and
hammered out a compromise. He said it
was one of his proudest moments and he
predicted a quick shovel in the ground. But
that was over a year ago, and still the village
hall site remains a vacant parking lot. The
last affordable housing built in Tarrytown
was Village Hall Mews--six apartments
completed in 1998 across the street from
the current site.
After 12 years, the developer received his
building permit and work is under way.
Tarrytown Mirrors Westchester
Experience
Tarrytown’s experience mirrors that of
most of Westchester. Even the HUD Settlement, which the county executive warned
could destroy local zoning, only requires
750 units built over seven years. That’s
about two-tenths of one percent of the
county’s 345,000 units.
The development gridlock endures despite exploding demand that is driving up
housing costs as wages have stagnated. In
Tarrytown, the number of severely cost-burdened renters—renter households paying
more than half of their income for housing—is now up to 25% of all renters in
2014, up from just 12% in 2000. The percentage of severely cost-burdened renters in
Sleepy Hollow went from 14% in 2000 to
33% in 2014. In Irvington, the percentage
of severely cost-burdened renters increased
more modestly from 17% in 2000 to 19%
in 2014. Typically, renter households paying more than half their income for housing
have to go without adequate food, medical
care or other necessities.
The lack of affordable housing has been
identified as a major factor for businesses
leaving the county or businesses looking to
relocate here. Office vacancies have soared
to over 20% in the county.
On March 1, speaking at the groundbreaking for the Reader’s Digest project in
Chappaqua that took 11 years, Connecticut developer Felix Charney said, “I have
learned a lesson. In Westchester, maybe you
need to measure things in decades rather
than in quarters.”
Percent of Renter Households Paying More than 50%
of Income for Housing (rent + utilities)
Village
Tarrytown
Irvington
Sleepy Hollow
2000 Census
12%
17%
14%
2010-2014 (American Community Survey)
25%
19%
33%
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Greenburgh Moves to Repair Reassessment Damage
by Barrett Seaman
Greenburgh Town Supervisor Paul Feiner’s efforts to mitigate the political damage
and financial pain caused by a town-wide
property reassessment this spring produced
at least some payoff in June.
Though some homeowners whose projected property taxes were bumped up by
30% or more in the initial valuations by
Tyler Technologies won relief during the
informal appeals phase in May, a majority
of those who felt they were over-assessed
were still not satisfied after learning in the
first week of June the results of their meetings with Tyler representatives.
Some 750, many of whom had chosen
not to meet with Tyler, signed up for a second phase of appeal through direct meetings with either Assessor Edye McCarthy
or her deputy, Gary Link. Those meetings
had to be completed by June 21, which was
also the deadline for filing a formal grievance, to be heard by the Town’s independent Board of Assessment Review (BAR)
during the summer months. According to
the timeline set forth at the beginning of
the process, all property assessments are to
be set in stone as of September 15 and reflected in tax bills mailed out in the spring
of 2017.
Judging by interviews with individuals
who availed themselves of the opportunity
to meet personally with the Assessor’s Of-
fice, as well as posts on the “Greenburgh
Residents for Fair Taxation” page on Facebook, many appellants found relief from
the town that they had not with Tyler.
“Refreshingly reasonable, fair and rational”
was a representative reaction to a meeting.
Wrote Irvington resident Todd Jaeger: “In
contrast to Tyler, the Town Assessors have
a significantly better understanding of the
local nuances of our real estate market and
were also quite receptive to logical arguments.”
Feiner was also helped by the passage in
Albany of a three-year phase-in bill that
will allow qualified homeowners a delay of
66% of the tax increase in the first year and
33% in the second. By the end of June, the
bill had gone to Governor Cuomo’s desk
for review. He must sign it by July 9, after which Greenburgh Town Council must
hold hearings and vote whether to implement it.
Feiner critics had predicted failure for the
phase-in bill, some alluding to his inability
last year to win a hotel tax. Yet not only did
the phase-in win legislative approval, but
Albany also passed the hotel tax that, according to Feiner, “will generate as much as
a million dollars a year to unincorporated
Greenburgh and significant revenues to
villages that have hotels, helping us reduce
property taxes.”
The Town Supervisor quickly credited
Assemblyman Tom Abinanti and State
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, who
shepherded both the phase-in and hotel tax
bills.
These victories notwithstanding, thousands of homeowners are still fighting
their reassessments and have filed griev-
ances with the Board of Assessment Review
(BAR). At an initial meeting of the BAR
in late June in which five-and-a-half hours
were set aside to hear live testimony from
formal grievance filers, more than 50 apContinued on page 9
More than 150 friends, administration, medical staff, partners and donors
gathered for the opening of the new Phelps Memorial Hospital Center lobby and
canope June 27. (L-R:) Robert Lane, VP Devolopment and External Relations;
Glen Taylor, Phelps VP, Support Services; Kevin Plunkett, Deputy County Executive; Daniel Blum, Phelps President & CEO; Eva Marie Dahling; Phelps Auxillaries and Phelps Volunteers Richard Sinni, Chairman, Phelps Board of Directors;
Terrence Murphy, State Senator, 40th District; Dennis Connors, Northwell Sr. VP,
Regional Executive Director; and David Rockefeller (front right).
— Photo by: Sunny McLean
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 5
Irvington Democrats Endorse Three for 2016 Election
On June 2, the Irvington Democratic
Committee endorsed three candidates
for the 2016 election this fall: two for the
Board of Trustees, and one for Village Justice.
In a unanimous vote, the committee selected incumbent Mark Gilliland, 61, who
is up for reelection, and Larry Lonky, 59,
longtime chair of Irvington’s Recreation
and Parks Advisory Committee, as Trustee
candidates. As candidate for Village Justice, the committee selected incumbent
Desmond Lyons, 48, who is also up for
reelection.
“We couldn’t be more eager for the fall,”
said Democratic Committee Chair, Pat
Ryan. “Our candidates are all deeply experienced in dealing with the village and
village issues. For years, they’ve shown
their commitment to Irvington, and a
dedication to civic duty. They are widely
known and liked in the community. And
our town is sure to benefit from their deep
knowledge and passion.”
Gilliland was first elected to the Board of
Trustees in 2012. His achievements over
the past four years have been extensive. He
recently helped formulate and roll out Irvington’s very visible and successful “Slow
Down Irvington” traffic safety campaign.
He is determined to continue his work on
improving public safety with the new “Walk
Safe” pedestrian safety initiative. Gilliland
also initiated the village’s “Be Water Wise”
campaign and the lawn irrigation-focused
“Save Water Save Money” campaign with
an eye toward environmental, conservation
and affordability concerns.
Lonky has been a resident of Irvington
since 1985. In 2004, he was named to the
Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee
(RPAC); in 2011, he succeeded Bob Munigle as Chair. In that capacity, he has been
centrally involved in budgeting and programming, parks projects, and planning.
His role on RPAC has given him firsthand
knowledge of the interactions among all
of Irvington’s departments, supervisors,
workers and the Board of Trustees. Lonky’s
RPAC work, his involvement in the community and his optometry practice give
him a rich sense of Irvington and the needs
of its citizens.
Lyons has served as Village Justice since
2010. Prior to his current position, he
served as Village Prosecutor for almost
a decade. A practicing lawyer for more
than 20 years, and a founding partner of
a White plains-based firm, Lyons’ private
practice focuses on representing municipal
entities, businesses, not-for-profit corporations and individuals as general counsel
and in contractual and civil litigation.
Fraternal Twins Relish Earning Top Two Spots at Irvington High
by Elizabeth Nutig
For one family in Irvington, the excitement at graduation was doubled, as fraternal twins Sweta and Swati Narayan were at
the head of the Class of 2016 as valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively.
Sweta, who will be studying biology at
the University of Chicago in the fall, said
being valedictorian has always been a goal
of hers, and she was gratified her hard work
in high school paid off. She cited her role
model as her Latin teacher, Michele Cella.
“I have always been enamored by how
passionate Ms. Cella is about Latin, and by
how much she cares about her students,”
Sweta said. “[She has taught me that] I
must enjoy whatever I decide to do in life.”
Swati, who will also be studying biology
in the fall at Amherst College, was also ecstatic about her distinction and attributed a
lot of her success to her freshman year biology teacher, Nadia Parikka.
Swati’s interest in the subject stemmed
from Parikka’s passion for teaching, and
when she was in her class again for science
research two years later, she became Swati’s
motivation and support system while researching the effect of PD (a specific cancer
drug) on three different types of cancers.
As with any set of siblings, competition is
always a gleaming factor, but Swati believes
that only made them stronger.
“I think we pushed each other to do better, so it was more of constructive competition,” she said.
At the end of the day, both couldn’t be
happier for the other. Sweta remarked, “I
think that it is awesome that Swati is salutatorian! I know that she worked really
hard in high school, and I think she really
deserved it.” Swati commented, “I cannot
think of anyone that deserves it more than
[Sweta] does and I am so proud to be able
to say that she’s my sister.”
Irvington High School Principal David Cohen called the twins’ accomplishments an inspiration to the Irvington High
Yo u r Wi fe Is HOT !!
COOL
.
The name you have trusted for over 45 years to take care of your
plumbing & heating needs can now take care of your air conditioning as well.
Swati and Sweta Narayan clap for classmates at graduation.
— Photo by Sunny McLean
School community.
“In all of my years as an educator I have
never heard of twins earning the distinctions of Valedictorian and Salutatorian for
the same school,” he said. “Sweta and Swati
are truly remarkable young ladies who each
have demonstrated their unique brilliance
in the classroom and in their extra-curricular activities.”
When asked what advice they would give
to incoming freshmen about high school,
they both put in their two cents.
“There are going to be times when you
feel frustrated or that things aren’t working out but it’s more important to focus on
how you get over it and move on from it
and learn from it,” Swati remarked.
Sweta added, “If you sincerely and
wholeheartedly try your hardest, you will
do great in high school. Remember: Do
not underestimate yourself! You can accomplish anything if you really put your
mind to it!”
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6 The Hudson Independent
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Elizabeth Silver, Zoe Kaplan Head SH High Class of 2016
by Heather Colley
Q: How does it feel to be named Sleepy
Hollow’s salutatorian this year?
A: Receiving this honor is an amazing
experience and opportunity. There are
so many bright and talented students at
Sleepy Hollow and I’m so fortunate to be
named salutatorian.
Elizabeth Silver and Zoe Kaplan are this
year’s valedictorian and salutatorian at
Sleepy Hollow High School, respectively.
The Hudson Independent profiled the top
two academic students in the school’s graduating class of 2016 to learn more about
their high school experience, and their extensive plans for the future.
Q: What message would you like to give
to future graduates of Sleepy Hollow?
A: Sleepy Hollow is a special place. Ask
any staff member and they’ll tell you the
same. Cherish your years at Sleepy Hollow
and take as many opportunities as you can.
From academics to extracurriculars, there
are so many options and numerous individuals who are more than excited to help
you along your way.
Q: Elizabeth, where will you be attending college next year and what are you
planning on majoring in?
A: I will be attending the University of
Connecticut on the pre-med track where I
will be majoring in biology.
Q: How does it feel to be named this
year’s valedictorian?
A: It truly is an honor to be named the
valedictorian of Sleepy Hollow. I feel very
proud, as this was a goal I had set for myself
years ago. It is a very special feeling to be
recognized for your work, and I am thankful for being presented with this honor.
Q: What message would you give to future graduates of Sleepy Hollow?
A: I would advise the graduating class of
Sleepy Hollow to challenge yourself. Do
not doubt your capabilities and knowledge; we have been prepared to face many
challenges ahead of us, so rise above these
obstacles to achieve your goals. To current
and future Sleepy Hollow students, get
involved! Find groups that you are interested in, whether it is clubs, sports, music, or anything else. Being part of a group
that has a similar interest as you is really
an enriching experience and allows you to
relate to one another, forming friends that
can understand your experiences and be a
source of support.
Q: What will you remember most about
Sleepy Hollow as you pursue higher education in the coming years?
A: One of the most special elements of
Sleepy Hollow is the amazing community
both inside and outside of the school. People are accepting of one another and embrace the diverse cultures and backgrounds
of the student body. When one student
achieves something great, the entire school
feels a sense of pride. Even our annual Spirit Week is a testament to this sense of community. I am so grateful to have gone to
school in such a welcoming and supportive
environment and hope to carry what I’ve
learned at Sleepy Hollow with me to college next year.
Valedictorian Elizabeth Silver and
Salutatorian Zoe Kaplan.
saw in the world around me. I realized, too,
the endless nature of what’s still unknown,
and I was excited by the limitlessness of science.
Q: What are you most looking forward
to as you get ready to begin your college experience?
A: I really look forward to broadening
my horizons as I go to college. I want to
take a well-rounded range of courses, concentrated in the sciences but also with
other interesting classes that will allow me
to think in different ways. I hope to study
abroad and possibly minor in Spanish to
gain a new appreciation for different cultures. And while intimidating, I also look
forward to the independence of college and
the new responsibilities I will have as I go
out on my own.
Q: Zoe, what college will you be attending and what is your possible major?
I will be attending Wesleyan University
in the fall. I love to write and read so I plan
on majoring in English. However, that’s
subject to change. It’s a common thing
for Wesleyan students to double or triple
major, so I would possibly do that with
English and maybe theater and/or women’s
studies.
Q: What subject area did you prefer to
study in high school, and will you pursue
that interest in college?
A: Since I was young, I have always been
drawn to the sciences. I loved how there
was always more to learn and what I was
taught in school could be applied to the
real world. Whether it was learning in biology that thirst after eating salty foods is
because cells have lost water, or in physics
that birds on telephone wires don’t get electrocuted because there is no voltage difference, I could relate what I learned to what I
www.thehudsonindependent.com
A: The reason I’ve loved English since I
could form words, and the reason I still do,
is because studying English involves learning about an infinite number of skills that
help me in other subjects. In chemistry I
have to write out detailed abstracts with
endless amounts of information; in calculus I write explanations to problems, outlining theories to help others understand
my answer. I hope to continue to study the
way English helps to connect us to other
subjects, others around us, and our world.
Q: What will you remember most about
Sleepy Hollow and your high school experience?
A: I’ll remember so many wonderful
things about my years at Sleepy Hollow,
but most specifically I think I’ll have the
best memories of the sense of community.
From AP Calculus BC class, to the Varsity
Girls Tennis Team, to my theater family, to
my feminism club group, Sleepy Hollow
has been a place that embraces inclusiveness. Despite the great diversity we have,
students and teachers alike get along and
work together. I’ve loved spending the past
four years in a place that has accepted me
for who I am and has pushed me to be a
better person.
Q: What are you looking forward to the
most as you get ready to begin your college
experience?
A: I’m so excited to get passionate about
the things I truly love. With an open curriculum and heavy focus on extracurriculars, I’m ready to delve into all that Wesleyan has to offer. I plan on taking new and
exciting classes while getting deep into subject areas I’ve always loved. I’m also looking forward to getting involved outside the
classroom, specifically in theater and vocal
performance.
Q: What was your favorite subject area
in high school, and will you pursue that interest in college?
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July 2016 The Hudson Independent 7
Expanding JCC to Provide Wide-Ranging Services
by Robert Kimmel
Completion of the JCC on the Hudson’s
first construction phase is nearly a year
away; however, the newer, now partially
built structure is evidence of the wide-array
of services the organization will provide
when the ongoing work is finished.
During construction, the JCC’s existing
services and programs continue in its original building on South Broadway in Tarrytown, which will remain part of the larger
6.6-acre campus. The grounds encompass
the adjacent former GM testing facility,
which the JCC bought in 2009, quadrupling its size. Planning for “Phase 1” began
soon afterward and the expansion work began last October.
“When the GM building became available, it was just good fortune,” said Frank
Hassid, Executive Director of the JCC,
which was recently officially renamed the
Harold & Elaine Shames Jewish Community Center on the Hudson. “We felt it was
an opportunity we couldn’t pass.”
Hassid noted that soon after the existing building was opened in 1995, there
was a realization that, ultimately, the nonsectarian JCC would need to expand. That
perception will be fulfilled in June of 2017
when the JCC expects to have a grand
opening of the new facility. The new structure, upon final expansion, will bring the
JCC’s total space to 75,000 square feet, in
which a variety of activities will be available
to members.
In a tour of the ongoing construction,
it is possible to see the magnitude of the
facilities which include a 6,000-squarefoot, state-of-the-art fitness center, and a
1,500-square-foot group exercise room, as
well as a 20-cycle spin room, and an additional mind/body studio. Two indoor
swimming pools are being built; one is
Olympic-style, 40 by 75 feet, with five
8 The Hudson Independent
JCC on the Hudson’s first construction phase is expected to be completed in about a
year.
lanes, while the second is a 16 by 30 feet
teaching pool with platforms that will adjust the water level height to accommodate
different groups such as children or people
with disabilities, according to Hassid.
Included in the first phase are a
1,000-square-foot mind/body studio, a
7,500-square-foot
basketball/volleyball
gymnasium, locker rooms, an area for
childcare and a youth lounge/ art studio.
“What excited me most and motivated
me to take a leadership role was the
opportunity to create a world class
facility to serve the rivertowns.”
—Peter Boritz
The JCC’s phase 2 construction will include a 5,000-square-foot auditorium,
a board room and exhibition hall for art
exhibits, and a WiFi cafe, as well as five
music suites for lessons as part of its music
school. It will also provide for new administrative offices. A third phase will see the
creation of three to four new classrooms
to meet increasing demands for the JCC’s
early childhood and afterschool programs,
and provide all early childhood rooms in its
July 2016
existing building with new floors and cabinetry. There will also be an outdoor playing
field and about 165 parking spaces.
“The beauty about the new JCC is that
for a lot of people it will provide a pool and
a fitness center. However, for people who
have those things or are not interested in
them, it will also provide a full array of programming that we have never been able to
do before,” Hassid explained. “Whether it
is films, concerts, lectures, or social engagements, it really will be, from my perspective, a total community center; something
that we’ve strived for before, but which we
couldn’t be because we were working from
this small 17,000-square-foot building.”
Hassid said that the JCC currently serves
about 500 “units,” married couples, families and the like, comprising 1,800 to 2,000
members, and in all provides a service to between 3,000 to 3,500 individuals annually.
He predicted that during the first year after
construction is completed that membership
could “...multiply by three or four times, “
again emphasizing its non-sectarian nature,
as “something we pride ourselves about.”
He said that with its expanded campus and
many activities, “We hope people will view
the center as a second home.”
Hassid lauded the support coming from
the local villages, adding that, “We are
genuinely excited about what is happening
to the rivertowns and we feel that our expansion is coming at the right time....with
young families coming in, the relationships
with the public schools, it just feels right.”
The JCC’s newly named Chair of the
Board of Governors, Peter Boritz, explained, “What excited me most and motivated me to take a leadership role was the
opportunity to create a world class facility
to serve the rivertowns. As an Irvington
resident with young kids I see firsthand
how the new JCC will meet the growing
diverse needs of our community, enriching
peoples’ lives at every stage,” Boritz added.
“Nothing like this exists in our community
now and I believe it will be a transformative
experience for all.”
The JCC has embarked on a new capital fund raising campaign - “Creating The
Center for Your Life,” not only to support its expansion, but also for its endowment scholarship program which includes
financial assistance for childcare and day
camp. The endowment will also “provide
assistance for families and individuals impacted by special needs,” and “...access and
support for financially challenged seniors,
individuals and families seeking counseling
support, social connections or wellness programming.” The JCC has raised about $6.5
million thus far toward the cost of the first
phase project, which will total $14.5 million, according to Hassid.
As for the new name for the JCC, Hassid said Harold and Elaine Shames...”have
been remarkable benefactors in so many
ways that included a camp scholarship
fund to make it possible for disadvantaged
kids to experience camp. They always have
had a great passion for the community and
backed up that passion with real commitment.”
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Work Cut Out for New ‘Paws Crossed’ Animal Shelter
by Hannah Fowler
Tucked away behind various truck lots in
Elmsford lies a beat-up building only two
weeks into repair but ready to take back
the old property and animals of the former
animal shelter, Pets Alive Westchester, and
open its doors as a brand new and completely separate organization called Paws
Crossed.
When Pets Alive Westchester closed last
September, it consolidated all of its finances, dogs and cats, and brought everything
with it to the shelter in Middletown, New
York. That raises the question as to what
fate lies ahead for the animals that were
shipped away.
Julie Potter, chairman of Paws Crossed,
and Donna Troiani, rescue manager, discussed how, even though they are not associated with Pets Alive anymore, they are
definitely looking to take back the dogs
and cats that were sent to the Middletown
shelter.
“We are absolutely going to negotiate.
They [the animals] are a major reason why
we fought so hard for this building,” Potter
said.
Potter went on to discuss the history of
the shelter and how, “Donna used to work
for Pets Alive Westchester. They [the volunteers] are the heart and soul of this place.
Some of them have been here since it was
the Central Westchester Animal Shelter.
There are dogs that have issues, they even
have behavioral issues, but each and every
one of these dogs has their own volunteer
that loves them to bits.” As for the opening
of the shelter, they should be starting with
about 50 to 60 dogs and approximately 15
cats.
The shelter was originally proposed to
reopen in July, but that date has been extended because the shelter construction
only started two weeks ago, and it recently
received a large grant to redo a part of the
building. Two main walls have already gone
up, but electrical outlets for the computers,
the cat room, and the training center all
still need work.
August 6 will be the shelter’s “soft opening,” which will be attended by close partners and shelter volunteers. The grand
opening will take place in the beginning of
September. The shelter is planning to make
it a big event - with food trucks and attendance by many in the community.
The staffing of the new Paws Crossed
shelter will include five full-time staff members, who will be working for free for the
first six months in order to cut costs, as well
as 50 volunteers who originally worked at
Pets Alive. New volunteers are also in the
process of being trained.
There was a 10-month negotiation period for how the property was going to
be used, and Greenburgh Supervisor Paul
Feiner was a major proponent in pushing
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the deal to get Pets Alive to give the property to Paws Crossed.
“I will do whatever I can do to help. I’m
impressed with how passionate they [Paws
Crossed] are with animals,” Feiner said.
Another component that was instrumental in creating “the deal” was the community. The painters, contractors, electricians,
and plumbers have been doing everything
pro bono for the shelter.
Potter discussed the steep costs of maintaining and running the shelter. However,
during the first six months the shelter will
be running at a relatively low cost, since the
five full- time staff members will be work-
ing for free.
Potter and Feiner both expressed similar
sentiments of gratitude toward the community for their donations and support to
get this project going.
Paws Crossed has hosted various fundraising events, including a wine tasting
called “Waggin’ for Wine,” a trivia event,
a battle of the bands event, and a jewelry
party. Paws Crossed also has a full calendar of fundraising events for this upcoming
year that will keep the finances, energy and
compassion alive to care for the animals.
Donations are accepted through this
link: http://www.pawscrossedny.org
REASSESSMENT
Continued from page 5
plicants offered testimony, stretching the
meeting out to seven hours and adding an
additional time the following week to deal
with the overflow. Many of those who testified at the hearing came from Irvington,
Dobbs Ferry, Hastings and the Edgemont
section of Scarsdale, those communities
hardest hit in the reassessment.
One representative couple awaiting their
turn before the BAR were Irvington’s Gareth Hall and Laura Bird, who bought
their house off Riverview Road only last
May—for $690,000. Yet Tyler pegged their
home as worth $1.12 million in the first
go-round, reducing it only to $858,900
after appeal—despite a bank appraisal of
$700,00 and the actual selling price, which
is supposed to be the best measure of a
property’s worth. The pair did not schedule a meeting with the Assessor but instead
filed a formal grievance that will be heard
sometime in the summer. Gareth Hall’s
assessment of Tyler Technologies was also
representative: “They used algorithms,” he
said, “but not a lot of common sense.”
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 9
Watercooler
Heard Around the Watercooler
AWARDED
13 Irvington High School students who
took the National Greek Exam (the only
standardized exam on ancient Greek in the
country) received awards for their scores.
The highly competitive exam was administered in two categories, Beginning Attic
Greek and Intermediate Attic Greek; students answered a series of multiple-choice
questions that tested their reading comprehension, analysis, and ability to understand
ancient Greek and apply their knowledge to
English grammar and vocabulary. Based on
the students’ scores, Irvington High School
was the highest ranked public school and
placed sixth among 39 other schools nationwide. Clara Montgomery and Nicholas Panjwani received red ribbons for High
Honors in intermediate Greek; Naomi Gordon received the green ribbon for Honors.
Stephanie Ades, Zoe Mermelstein and Eleni
Papapanou received blue ribbons for Highest Honors in beginning Greek; Sofia Bazdekis received the red ribbon for High Honors;
and Hope Gray, Yeesoon Jeon, Samantha
Lapine and Atsuyo Shimizu received green
ribbons for Honors.
ACCEPTED
Tarrytown resident Maria Eberhardt has
been accepted into the Greater Westchester
Youth Elementary Strings Orchestra. This
highly competitive ensemble has been training string players in grades 4-6 for over 50
years and performs regularly at prestigious
venues in the New York metro area, including Lincoln Center. Maria is a 4th grader at
Transfiguration School and a violin student
of Joyce Balint at Mozartina Conservatory,
both in Tarrytown.
HONORED
Irvington Main Street School 5th grader
Josephine Kelly was honored as “one of the
brightest young students in the world” at
an awards ceremony
on May 21 at Rutgers
University in New
Brunswick, NJ, sponsored by Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY).
Josephine was recognized for scoring exceptionally high on a
Josephine Kelly
rigorous, above-level
testing when, as a 4th grader, she took a
SCAT 6th grade level test.
WON
The Sleepy Hollow Tarrytown Chamber
of Commerce presented their annual scholarship to Sleepy Hollow High School student Whanda Camacho. Whanda won the
scholarship with an essay about her community involvement and how it impacted her
life. She plans to attend Westchester Community College to study elementary education.
PLACED
Irvington High School sophomores pre-
10 The Hudson Independent
sented their research projects at the 2016
Westlake Science Fair on June 4 and took
home top prizes. Nicole Chase placed 2nd
in the Earth/planetary science category,
William Pascal placed 3rd in the cellular/
molecular biology category, and Claire Song
placed 3rd in the medicine/health category. They competed against more than 460
first-year science research students from 28
schools throughout Westchester County.
SELECTED
Sleepy Hollow High School senior Spencer Sands was honored in a special ceremony with school officials (complete with cap,
gown and diploma) after learning that his
rowing team, RowAmerica Rye (a rowing
club with team members from throughout
the Westchester region), was selected for
possible placement in the World Rowing
Championships (having won the USRowing Youth National Championships) and
would be headed to Portland, Oregon at the
time of his high school graduation. Spencer
will attend Princeton University this fall as
an undergraduate.
CELEBRATED
Irvington’s Main Street School held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the school’s garden on June 21. 5th-grader Riley Annicharico told guests that the idea for the garden
grew when a group of students expressed an
interest in having a space where they could
read, reflect and sit with friends during recess. To raise money for the garden, students sold raffles and flowers at talent shows
and concerts, and held an ice cream fundraiser. The Irvington Education Foundation
also supported the project through an offcycle grant.
NEW OFFICERS
The Rotary Club of the Tarrytowns serving Irvington, Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown last month installed new officers for
2016-17. Rabbi David Holtz will serve as
President, replacing Immediate Past President, Margaret Black. President-Elect (for
the following term) is Fred Salek. Ginny
Hayes becomes Secretary, and Laura Murray
remains as Treasurer. Mimi Godwin, Aubrey
Hawes, Andres Valdespino and Alexandra
Reilly are Directors-at-Large.
Please send submissions about distinctions and honors given to local community members to: thiwatercooler@thehudsonindependent.com
July 2016
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Viewfinder
2
1. Tarrytown’s Babalu’Q, an authentic Cuban
catering company, was a hit at Westchester
Magazine’s Wine & Food Festival.
3. Sleepy Hollow Recreation’s Third Annual
Father Daughter Dance at Kingsland Park
Pavilion.
— Photo by W. Brad King
2. Irvington Town Hall Theater Commissioners
Jody Hansen and Beth Ryan at “Celebrate
Irvington Day” June 19.
4. Christ Church unveiled Bridge of Hope
Mural.
— All other Photos by: Sunny McLean
1
3
4
12 The Hudson Independent
July 2016
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Viewfinder
2
1
1
1. Laura Haupt, owner of Bark & Meow pet store in Tarrytown,
coordinated Pet Palazzo at Neperan Park.
2
2. Irvington Mayor Brian Smith joined store owner Bill Belchou
and others at Doctor Mac reopening celebration.
3. More than $20,000 was raised for Make-A-Wish Hudson
Valley during JP Doyle’s charity softball game at DeVries
Park in Sleepy Hollow, a game attended by WFAN personalities Craig Carton and Boomer Esiason and MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred.
4. Some runners cooled off at annual Sleepy Hollow Color Run.
— Photos by: Sunny McLean
3
4
www.thehudsonindependent.com
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 13
Irvington High School
Photos by: Sunny McLean
IRVINGTON HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2016
Sweta Narayan
Valedictorian
Swati Narayan
Salutatorian
Samuel Abramowitz
Kayla Acevedo
George Adams
Brandon Asadi
Ashley Baez
Alexander Belchou
Carly Bernstein
Weston Bishop
Amanda Blass
Stephanie
Bloomfield
Marcus Boykin
Sarah Boyle
Elizabeth Brantl
Zachary Brown
Max Buchen
Darius Burgh
Nora Burkhardt
Mark Caldropoli
Madison Carelli
Lindsay Chafizadeh
David Chu
Daniel Chushko
Raven Clivilles
Ryan Collette
Jared Conwisar
Julia Crespo
Lindsey Cummings
Patrick Daly
Rohan Dave
Ana Delgado
Edem Demanya
Bryce Deziel
Mikhail Dorokhov
Scott Duarte
William Dwyer
Peter Eccles
Jared Egloff
Christian Enax
Ashley Espinal
Gabriella Feder
Courtney Ferraro
Kyle Fogerty
Masaya Funakoshi
Zachary Gallin
Thomas Gambardella
Lucas Garcia
Jessica Geller
Christopher
Giampaolo
Daniel Gilbert
Miles Gilbert
Caleigh Gizzi
Joshua Goldberg
Robert Goldberg
Benjamin Goldberg
Jack Goldman
Rebecca Goldman
Isabelle Gonzalez
Naomi Gordon
Taryn Grande
Henry Green
Dana Grotenstein
Hayley Hall
Luke Hargraves
Rebecca Harless
Steven Hartog
Joelle Herbert
Thomas Heying
Brandon Hirsh
Richard Hollis
Emily Horowitz
Dean Jarrett
Yeesoon Jeon
Maxwell Johnson
Owen Jones
14 The Hudson Independent
Hannah Kibel
Yoonsung Kim
Simon Knowler
Logan Kornfeld
Emily Lapine
Kate Leahey
Justin Levin
Diana Lozina
Louis Lustenberger
Lucas Maciel
Isabella Mattei
Kumani McLean
Matthew McLoughlin
Lesly Mendoza
Benjamin MilanPolisar
Leah Monack
Matthew Montaruli
Dillon Morley
Kody Morris
Matina Mountroukas
Alison NakajimaInglis
Tess Nienaltow
Elizabeth Nutig
Julia O’Quinn
Emma Oros
Nicholas Ovetsky
Dylan Owen
Nicholas Panjwani
Nicholas Parke
Daniel Pastarnack
Sierra Petro
Andres Picon
Corina Picon
Kyle Picone
John Pike
Tyler Pollack
Dean Radlauer
Ajay Ramnarine
July 2016
Andie Regan
Barbara Robertson
Dennis Rodriguez
Olivia Rosner
Brian Ross
Jeremy Rothman
Taylor RufflerCarbone
James Russin
Michael Sagan
Avery Schaefer
Grace Schelp
Nathaniel Schochet
Joshua Schultz
Jake Scott
Adam Segreti
Lucas Selenow
Dara Semerad
Zachary Seymour
Soon Young Shimizu
Soon Hee Shimizu
John Staropoli
Sarina Stein
Mallory Toolan
Justin Tunis
Nina Valdes
Andreas Vatakis
Isabella Vendramin
Elizabeth Wang
Stephanie Ware
Rachel Weg
Ethan Weinstein
Jacqueline Wexler
Connor Winton
Dylan Woods
Qi Rui Yang
Myung Seo Yoon
Ileana Zinger
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Sleepy Hollow High School
Photos by: Alexa Brandenberg
Photos by: Sunny McLean
SLEEPY HOLLOW HIGH SCHOOL Class of 2016
Jacques Abou-Rjeili
Kriselys Adames
Cristian Alberto
Raymond Alcantara
Lisandro Alejandro
Whitneyfer Alejo
Edelisa Alvarez
Sabrina Andre
David Araujo
Alexander Arias
Gisselle Armijos
Vito Arpi
Brian Arpi-Aguilar
Christian Arteaga
Mario Ascencio
Diana Azana Jarama
Jailene Barbosa
Javier Bautista
Genesis Bencosme
Katherine Bender
Claire Berdik
Kai Bertolacci
Christopher Blalock
Paul Bloshuk Jr.
Harrison Bogusz
Benjamin Bojemski
Wendell Brand
Michael Bravato
Liliana Brito
Roger Bucci
Adolis Burgos
Natalie Bustamante
Marin
Joseph Cabrera
Nadia Cabrera
Carol Caceres Sanchez
Whanda Camacho
Anita Camlic
Beatriz Capellán
Ashley Carrion
Daniel Carvajal Jr.
Christopher Cerbone
Diego Chacha
Gabriella Chebetar
Jessenia Chica
Stacy Cisnero
Jhané Coello
David Collado
Heather Colley
Brandon Cooper
Tyler Cowles
Tony Cypress Jr.
Ariana Davis
Chabely De Jesus
Diana Deleon
Lydia Dembert
Johnny Diez
Jordan Dorn
Samantha Dorn
Case Dunn
Daniel Durango
Olivia Edwards
Derek Estrella
Stacey Estrella
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Leiny Ferreras
Portia Foster
Arianna Friedman
Jenny Garcia
Griffin Gebler
Peter Gerena
Caleb Gleit
Hugh Gomory
Humberto Gonzalez
Joneirys Gonzalez
Wendy Gordillo-Cuzco
Steven Grady
Jonnathan Guamantario
Carmen Guzman
Jacob Handelman-West
Julian Hargrove
Kristina Hart
Chelsea Hernandez
Francisco Herrera
Romy Herrera Garcia
Chelsea Hiciano
Janira Hiciano
Rudy Hiciano
Gabriela Hidalgo
Cassidy Higgins
Ronaldo Hilario
Mariela Huerta
Tobias Humm
Khalil Jarane
Mark Jelenek
German imenez
Tonasia Jones
Esaul Juarez
**Zoe Kaplan
Matthew Karac
Janoah Kearse
Sebastien Kent
Jeremy Klami
Ethan Koffler
Zachary Krall
Louisa Kupfer
Melissa LamsonLindsey
Vivian Laranjeira
Jake Leary
Juliet Leavy
Sebastian Leiva
Alexia Leon
Adam Lopez
Erideivi Lopez
Michelle Lopez
Vanessa Lopez
Pape Loum
Brandon Loyola
Joshua Loyola
Consuelo Madrigal
Nancy Maita
Jacqueline Maldonado
Dominique Marchini
Daniel Mares
Andrew Martin
Maria Martinez Hidalgo
Claudia Maxi
Hannah McCarthy
Benjamin McCoy
Gabriel McGuire
Eliza Mendez Rodriguez
Viktoriya Molchanova
Isaiah Montanez
Michael Morales
Renata Morales
Zach Morales
Anthony Moronta
Adonis Moscoso
Trinidad
Steven Nerys
Daniel Nieves
Miriam Nieves
Yoelvis Novas Perez
Brianna Núñez
Magui Ochoa Sinchi
Mikaela O’Donohue
Vanessa Onwe
Liam O’Sullivan
Francis Pace-Nunez
Georgina Pena
Nicole Pereira
Esmeralda Perez
Franklin Perez
Diosmary Perez Trinidad
Briar-Rose Pieroni
Claudia Pillacela
Jonathan Pina
Eric Pinto
Aracely Polanco
Seré Politano
Benjamin Povman
Daniel Quechol Cuautle
Kelly Rachlin
Kauri Recio
Leidy Reyes
Andre Ribeiro
Catarina Ribeiro
Dimitre Ridley
Darwin Rodriguez
Dashley Rodriguez
Elena Rodriguez
Vanessa Rodriguez
Ziel Rodriguez
Lucianny Rodríguez
Jenniffer Rodriguez
Henriquez
Alexa Ron
Marilou Rosas Rosas
Kyle Rosero
Issac Roso
Gavin Ryan
Nolan Samford
Brian Sanchez
Joselyn Sanchez
Spencer Sands
Courtney Scott
Juliet Semel
Sophia Sharmat
*Elizabeth Silver
Katie Smercak
Aleksandra Smirnova
Gabriel Sosa
Nora Stack
Xu Tan
Steve Tarcan
Rosalys Tavarez
Carlos Terreforte Garcia
Nicole Territo
Emily Thayer
Jhuriko Then
Luis Then Diaz
Dylan Thomas
Cristian Torres
Yosmi Trinidad
John Uguna
Dejah Vandiver
Gloribie Vargas Torres
Mayely Vasquez Vega
Elissamar VázquesJiminian
Fili Veras
Elvyn Villa
Genessy Villa
Luis Villa
Paula Villacreses Brito
John Welch
Erika Yari
Stephen Zayas
Katherine Zepeda
Jessica Zhinin
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 15
Hackley High School
HACKLEY SCHOOL Class of 2016
Jordan Ryan Payton Allison
Alexis Alzalene Arnold
Florence Douglas Arnold
Youssef Anthony Asaad
Nina Jessica Bethel
Katherine O’Connell
Bogart
James Peter Breen
Rebecca Frances Brisman
Carina Eloise Burroughs
Grace Catherine Carroll
Kelly Anne Castro-Blanco
Ella Rose Charkes
Maximillian Kang
Gene Chen
Sarah Elizabeth Cherry
Christopher Sanghyun
Chon
Eric Weiti Chow
Gregory Jae Chung
Kyu Sun Chung
Spyridon George Coffinas
Morgan Alexandra Connor
Katarina Rae Cucullo
Alexander Charles Delia
Levi Paul DeMatteo
Phebe Prioleau Ravenel
du Pont
Joshua Eliav Edelstein
Emma Annie Fetner
Karina Maria Franke
George Nicholas
Germanakos
Jarrod Pierce Gerstein
Alexandra Sarah
Gluckman
Thomas Joseph Gooley
Joshua Ryan Greenzeig
Nicholas Ben Gutfleish
Robert Ward Hallock
Molly Grace Harmon
James Charles Hjerpe II
Darius KeithAlexander Inzar
Clifford Jordan Joseph
Erin Samantha Jung
Irene Eunbe Kim
William A. Larkin
Eugene Alexander Linden
Frederick Samuel Barnaby
Lodge
Joseph William Lovinger
James Avery Mattei
Galen Annabelle May
Julia Margaret Medici
Domenique Alexa
Meneses
Antonia Lally Meyers
Eugenio Henry Minvielle
Alison Molner
Nur Momani
Sydney Rose Monroe
Caterina Colette Moran
Julia Skye Morgenstern
Sumail Lawrence Morton
Samantha Nicole Mueller
Michael Eric Nelson
Elijah Banza Ngbokoli
Nkechi Adaeze Nwokorie
Meghan Grace O’Keefe
Jessica Burton Paridis
John Charles Peruzzi
16 The Hudson Independent
July 2016
Allison Nicole Petitti
Eli Joshua Pinkus
Mackenzie Lee Price
William Martin Pundyk
Nicholas Louis Rizzi
Marc Elliott Rod
Anthony Neil Roderick
Caroline Doris Sade
Kelly Michelle Sohn
Ha Saxton
Lindsay Austin Schechter
Sarah Schlesinger
Brian Thomas Schmitt
Laura Kathrin Seebacher
Zachary Samuel Shalett
Akira Shindo
Sonia Sohan Singh
Samuel Taylor Skriloff
Sophie Elena Slutsky
Stephanie Lynn Smith
Arielle Anna Stern
Elana Irene Stern
Julia Anna Stevenson
Neil Rohan Suri
Lana Frances Tager
Sabina Adeline Thomas
Brandon Thrope
Jason Daniel Traum
Basia Nicole Van Buren
George Nelson
Wangensteen
John Patrick Waterhouse
Katharine Bing Xue
Luka Achilles Yancopoulos
Isabella Magna Yannuzzi
Gabriella Maria Zak
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Sports
Sleepy Hollow High Alum
Named Lacrosse All-American
by Kevin Brown
Local resident Ben Parens, a 2014 graduate of Sleepy Hollow High School and lacrosse player at Connecticut College, has
been named to both New England Small
Athletic Conference First-Team and U.S.
Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association AllAmerican First Team.
Parens posted a remarkable season playing for the Camels and was ranked 18th
in the nation for Division III schools on
face-offs, a hugely important edge in competitive lacrosse. His .658 face-off winning
percentage ranked 23rd in the country to
go along with an average of 7.38 ground
balls per game.
“There was no doubt that Ben was going to be successful playing at Connecticut
College,” Sleepy Hollow Varsity Coach
Gary DiVico said. “He didn’t just like lacrosse, he loved it. He constantly carried
his stick around and practiced every second
he could. And, on the field Ben was a fiery
competitor. But the most impressive thing
about Ben is how he is always there to give
back. Even now when he is home, he comes
to practices and clinics to try and help the
next generation toward success.”
Lacrosse has grown in prominence at
Sleepy Hollow High School since Parens
was a youngster. He had to play in every
summer league and competitive Westchester situation he could find. Reflecting upon
what he did to compete at such a high
level, Parens said, “Everyone plays wallball
and lifts weights, but the adjustment from
high school to college is a tough one. Everyone at college level was their high school
Ben Parens was ranked 18th in nation
for Division III schools on face-offs.
team’s best player, so separating yourself
comes down to how much individual work
you want to put in. That work ethic was
instilled in me by my parents and Coach
Divico and Coach Villanueva, and it made
my transition to college ball fairly smooth.”
So many students head to off to college
to compete in athletics but find the rigors
of academics and college sports too overwhelming. Parens shared, “Connecticut
College is a very challenging academic
school as well as being top notch in lacrosse.
During the season, you have to plan on
four to six hours out of your day devoted
to just lacrosse, so getting all of your school
work done early is a must. While it is stressful at times, I found that lacrosse forced me
to manage my time better.”
“It is great to see the Sleepy Hollow program help players excel at the next level,
and we expect even greater success when
kids see how successfully recruited our
players are at competitive colleges and universities.” DiVico beamed.
www.thehudsonindependent.com
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 17
The Way We Wore….
“Defying Labels, New Roles, New Clothes,” on Display at Lyndhurst
by Dorothy Conigliaro
Fans of Downton Abbey remember
it as a first-class drama, made equally
memorable for its fashion statements.
On glorious display each week were the
wonderful styles of the early part of the
20th century. They were exquisite and
unique, a triumph of design and of impeccable dressmaking. The good news
is that the designs of those times can
be viewed up close and personal at the
Lyndhurst Estate exhibition throughout the summer.
“Defying Labels, New Roles, New
Clothes,” can be seen through September 25 at Lyndhurst, the 19th century
Gothic Revival style mansion, formerly the
home of the railroad tycoon Jay Gould. For
lovers of fashion and history, the exhibit
is a must see, showcasing the evolution of
fashion from 1880 through 1940 through
the dazzling collection of designer clothing
worn by the Gould heiresses. The more than
30 ensembles, including gowns, dresses and
sportswear, made from the finest fabrics of
another age, came from such fashion houses
as Chanel, Cartier, Worth, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Louis Vuitton.
From a historical perspective, the display
also includes interesting details about the
lives of the women who made Lyndhurst
their home – Helen Gould, the eldest
daughter, who became one of the foremost
philanthropists of her time; Anna Gould,
the Duchess of Tallyrand, the stylish daughter of the late financier; and Gould’s daughter-in-law, Edith Kingdon Gould, who displayed the fashion panache of the former
actress she was.
A visual retrospective
After WWI, women’s lives became less
restrictive and they were more readily able
18 The Hudson Independent
Clockwise from top: Delman, NY,
1940s shoe -- Anna Gould;
Coquette Evening Gown detail, Anna
Gould 1940s-1950s;
Printed Silk Day Dress -- Anna Gould,
1937-39; Black Receiving Dress worn
by Helen Gould, circa 1912-14
to assert their own distinctive tastes.
Many of the dresses in the Lyndhurst collection come from Maison
Burano, an American retailer who
supplied apparel to mature women
who wanted to remain fashionable.
Key among these outfits is a suite of
day dresses and hats that display the
influence of such designers as Chanel,
Schiaparelli, and Lanvin. Also included in the exhibition is a group of luxury goods purchased from some of the
most important jewelers of the time.
None of the Gould women were
recognized in their time as fashion
leaders. Because they were not born
and raised to be prominent in gilded
age society, they had a much more individualized relationship with fashion.
Their distinct personalities and many
roles — as seen through their wardrobes
July 2016
— presage a way of life
and dressing that is
specifically American
and contemporary.
For those unfamiliar with Lyndhurst,
this exhibit is just
one of the many attractions showcased
here. As one of the
Historic Hudson
Valley sites, it offers
an array of popular events, including
tours of the mansion,
Saturday evening jazz
concerts, and Crafts at
Lyndhurst in spring
and fall. The site reflects nearly 175
years of life on the
Hudson River contained in 67 parklike acres that include
16 structures, such as
a Lord & Burnham
steel-framed greenhouse complex and
the oldest regulation bowling alley in the
United States. Lyndhurst’s magnificent
grounds feature an award-winning rose
garden, a fern and rock garden, specimen
trees, and the now-aged but still magnificent linden trees for which the property was
named.
AT A GLANCE
What: Defying Labels, New Roles,
New Clothes
Where: Lyndhurst Estate, 635 South
Broadway, Tarrytown, NY
Dates: June 17 through September
25
Tickets: Admission to the exhibit is
$10. For $16 (for adults) and $12
(for children) visitors can also tour
this National Trust for Historic
Preservation home. The exhibit is
included in the price of the tour,
and additional costumes will be on
display on the house tour.
For more information: visit: www.
lyndhurst.org.
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Arts & Entertainment
Bjorn Olsson’s Vision for The Music Hall: “A Living Room
for The Community”
by Morey Storck
In a wide-ranging interview, backstage at
the Tarrytown Music Hall, Bjorn Olsson,
Executive Director, discussed his thoughts
about where the Music Hall founders and
administrators started, what they learned,
where they are, where they plan to go, and
what he means by “A Living Room for The
Community.”
Olsson became involved with the Music
Hall in the early 1980s as a volunteer. He
was a Swedish-born opera singer who met
Karina Ringeisen while on tour in Germany. “She bought me a drink and I woke up
in Tarrytown. Just like that, I was in the entertainment business. Decisions were made
around the kitchen table,” he said. “We depended on a volunteer staff, primarily local
music professor Berthold Ringeisen and his
wife Helen. Actually, it was that dedicated
group who really kept the daily operational
part of the theatre functioning, including
cleaning up after each show. It was a generation that had a clear sense of commitment.”
The Music Hall was built in 1885 by William L. Wallace, a local chocolate manufacturer, at a cost of $50,000. But, to adapt to
changing times, interior space was continually altered. The Music Hall’s present configuration was done in 1922.
From 1930 to 1976, the theatre was operated by local benefactor Robert Goldblatt
and showed films almost exclusively. But
with the advent of television and multiscreen cinemas, the theatre failed. The village discussed plans to tear down the theatre to make room for a parking lot. But,
in 1980, the Ringeisens and the Friends
of the Mozartina Musical Arts Conservatory purchased the abandoned Music Hall
to preserve it and establish a center for the
performing arts. As Olsson explained, “It
was just insanely gutsy. They had no experience running theatres. All they had was
a great eye-to-eye, performer to audience
venue, absolutely magnificent acoustics,
and heart.”
The next 23 years were a struggle. The
new owners had a deteriorating building
on their hands and a dark theatre. It was
considered non-operational because of a
leaking roof, frozen heating pipes and insufficient electrical power, among other
problems. However, they were able to secure a listing on the National Register of
Historic Places and re-opened the Music
Hall as a rental house. The extensive renovations necessary to merely open the theatre were made possible by a tax exemption
from the Village of Tarrytown and by securing a bank mortgage that was backed by
Ringeisen, who put his home and savings
up as collateral.
“At that time, merely to stay afloat, they
really depended on outside promoters. Selection of acts was rather random. Helen
and Bert ran the place as best they could,
but it was hardly a professional organiza-
tion,” Olsson said. “And, of course, there
were those other monumental repairs that
had to be done. But, slowly, an optimistic
gleam of an idea began to take shape. What
if we started to do our own shows? I actually went to business conferences to see how
business was done.” Slowly, but deliberately, the idea took focus.
“We used to have promotional showcases here,” Olsson continued. “We also
used to do operas, galas and concerts here.
Not many people know this, but we can
accommodate 65 musicians on our stage.
Of course, the conductor can’t step backwards,” he laughed.
Olsson and Karina Ringeisen, now Theatre Manager, started presenting shows of
their choice. “Not a multiple-bill show.
That’s a production, starting from scratch.
A presentation is someone else putting
it together, and then coming to you with
a product, an offer to the market. We say
okay, we’ll give you X amount of dollars,
and with that settled, they come in and do
their concert,” Olsson explained. “There are
also outside presenters with acts that lack
exposure and need a theatre. Therefore, we
rent to them.”
There is really no tried-and-true formula
for picking a show according to Olsson. He
tries to do his homework, like reviewing
how many tickets they sold at comparable
venues in the past. Some shows are very expensive, but no one wants a dark theatre.
So, sometimes you lose money.” However,
while they were searching for that perfect
formula, along came Mark Morganelli and
his Jazz Forum. From June 1992 to Fall
2013, he presented 150 concerts and recitals of various kinds of music. Today, their
presentations range from popular singersongwriters, jazz stars, stand-up comedians,
U-Tube phenoms, and all-star concerts, to
clubby bands and nostalgia acts.
“Since we replaced our 1920’s projection
equipment and sound system, we can also
show movies again. The first one that we
presented after that investment was Gone
With The Wind. After the showing, two elderly ladies came up to me and said that
they sat in the same seats they had in 1939
when it was premiered at the Tarrytown
Music Hall! Thank goodness for those back
rows in the balcony. That’s how we make
ends meet. By the way, we got quite a good
price for that old equipment from a west
coast collector.”
Demographics? “Let’s face it,” Olsson explained, “we lose the kids and young adults
to the city for the bright lights and the adventure. But, after a couple of years and a
couple of kids, many come back where the
trees are, where they don’t have to drag the
stroller up the brownstone stoop, where
they can see a great show, have a great meal
and be home before 11 p.m.” They are just
starting to collect meaningful data, but so
far their audience is 60% from Westchester
as a whole, 10% strictly local, 10% New
www.thehudsonindependent.com
Music Hall Executive Dir. Bjorn Olsson
York City (when they realize it’s only 40
minutes away), and the rest from the tristate area.
A Living Room For The Community
“Today, we have a handle on things. Not
that we’re completely out of the woods,
but we know where we want to go and
how we’re going to get there. We want to
spend more time and effort on this part of
our mission: to provide quality programs
in the performing arts for the general public, including performing opportunities for
students and professional artists. And, that
must include educational opportunities
and facilities,” Olsson said.
“We want the Music Hall to become a
comfortable meeting place, a living room,
for the entire community, for neighborhood
reach-out educational programs, for local
musical and artistic talent encouragement,
and for bringing in local businesses, and
professionals to discover how to keep Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow vibrant and growing. Currently, the Music Hall is a cultural
destination, attracting over 85,000 people,
including 25,000 children, on an annual
basis. We also contribute over $100,000 of
space to local non-profit organization.”
Current community events include: resident companies Random Farms Kids’ Theatre and Westchester Symphonic Winds,
children’s fieldtrips to the Music Hall for
national touring companies such as TheaterWorks USA and The Paper Bag Players,
dance and arts recitals, “Tix for Tots,” and
a $5 film series.
CORRECTION
A Winner After All In the May issue of The Hudson Independent, the story on
Irvington Master swimmer Susan Tokayer (After 35 years, Irvington Resident Back
in the Swim of Things, page 27) incorrectly stated that Tokayer missed winning a
national title in the 100-yard butterfly. In fact, she did win it, with a time of 1:08.9.
The author extends his apologies—and congratulations.
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 19
Business News
Eye Doctor Brings Care, Expertise to the Last Frontier
by Thomas Staudter
Prospective patients hoping to make an
appointment with Nathan DeDeo, a doctor of optometry and co-owner of Hudson
River Eye Care in Tarrytown, may speculate why he has been unavailable and “out
of town” a number of times during the past
year-and-a-half. Is the friendly 36-year old
attending professional conferences, vacationing or golfing at some of the storied
courses around the world?
Low-income residents from a number of
small villages and cities in Alaska desperate
for medical care know otherwise, however.
Since May 2015, DeDeo has made five
trips to the state known as the Last Frontier, traveling above the Arctic Circle and to
some of the most sparsely populated regions
of North America, as part of a state-sponsored effort to provide basic medical services
for residents.
“Working in Alaska has been quite a different experience for me,” DeDeo said in
a recent interview at his Tarrytown office.
“The people are so welcoming, and their
culture is entirely different from what I
know—the languages, food, homes with
grass-thatched roofs, you name it. Every
day there is amazing and presents some-
20 The Hudson Independent
thing new to me. And the Alaskans are really tough people, able to handle anything,
it seems, but also very kind and generous.”
He added, “My only regret is waiting so
long to start working there.”
In Alaska, DeDeo is part of a medical
team that travels in a small plane, as there
are no roads between many of the villages
and cities where he has worked, the names
of which—Shaktoolik, Elim, Stebbins,
Koyuk, St. Michael, Kotzebue, Savoonga,
Point Hope, Selawik, Unalakleet, Hoonah,
Haines, Tenakee Springs and Yakutat, as a
relative sampling—represent the mixture
of Inuit, Native American and settlers from
the Lower 48 that make up his patient base.
The needs of a mobile group providing
physicals and other medical examinations
are modest: “Just enough room for a desk,
two chairs and whatever equipment we
have brought along, which isn’t much,” said
DeDeo.
Usually, the team ends up in a village
school or library, sometimes the only edifice with running water and electricity, and
for the sake of privacy the examining room
sometimes is a closet. Visits can keep the
team in the same location for two or three
days, with 30 to 40 people examined over
the course of a day. The doctors are often
July 2016
given small, handmade trinkets as gifts by
the patients they see.
Patients also bring the doctors food to eat.
“People show up with meals for us all
the time,” DeDeo said, “and that includes
boiled whale blubber and a lot of other
things I normally don’t eat. Generally,
though, the food is good but not cooked
with much spice.”
The eye maladies that DeDeo finds in the
Alaskans are not much different than what
he sees in his Tarrytown office. But in some
of the smaller villages he has traveled to,
where there are just a few hundred residents,
a lack of diversity in the gene pool means
an exacerbation of bad eye problems from
generation to generation.
As for what a snow- and ice-filled landscape does to the eyes, DeDeo noted that it
has a minimal effect on Alaskans.
DeDeo is quick to point out that his
travel expenses to Alaska are paid for and
that he also receives a small stipend for his
work—but, in the end, it doesn’t add up to
much, and certainly not enough to make a
living. It’s definitely a charitable endeavor,
and the sort of service to others he has participated in throughout his life.
While growing up in Pennsauken, New
Jersey, DeDeo often accompanied his
mother, a banker, when she volunteered at
the local food pantry and animal shelter. In
high school, he was a member of a choir
and several other musical groups that raised
money for different not-for-profit organizations through concerts and arts events.
After majoring in biology at Adelphi
University, DeDeo began doctoral study
at SUNY College of Optometry in Manhattan. In his second year, he joined a few
remote medical missions to low-income
communities in Virginia and North Carolina. Along with the medical doctors and
opticians on the mission, DeDeo witnessed
real poverty and how the poor suffer from
the lack of basic health care. Although most
of his duties were limited to administration,
he was able to see the work of the doctors,
as they spent several hours under a big tent,
the line of patients waiting to get into the
makeshift clinic stretching far down the
road.
While studying for his doctorate and
also afterwards DeDeo, who resides now
in North Arlington, New Jersey, became
involved with Special Olympics. He kept
up his singing, as well, and continues to
perform, a bespectacled version of Michael
Bublé, for a volunteer organization that
raises money for disas- Continued on page 26
www.thehudsonindependent.com
6
Business News
Regeneron to Sponsor Science Talent Search Competition
by Maria Ann Roglieri
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, a biotechnology company with headquarters in Tarrytown, has taken over sponsorship of the
national high school science competition,
the Science Talent Search (formerly the Intel Science Talent Search). Regeneron was
selected by the Society for Science & the
Public (known as The Society) from among
50 companies because of its steady commitment to mentoring young scientists.
Led by two former participants in the
Science Talent Search (Chief Executive Officer Leonard Schleifer and Chief Scientific
Officer George D. Yancopoulos, both participating in the 1970’s), Regeneron has
committed $100 million over the course
of 10 years to support the Science Talent
Search and other Society programs.
The Science Talent Search has been running since World War II, originally sponsored by Westinghouse Electric (19421997) and then Intel (1998-2016). So far,
it has provided more than $25 million in
awards to over 8,500 students and schools.
Each year, approximately 1,800 applicants
present their science projects in the competition. Typically, 300 semifinalists are invited to proceed and 40 finalists are invited to
Washington, DC. The finalists go to Washington for a week, where their projects are
judged, and they meet with each other and
leaders in science and government (often including the President).
Effective immediately, Regeneron is increasing the total award package to $3.1
million a year (almost double from previous years), increasing the highest award to
$250,000, and doubling the awards for the
top 300 young scientists and their schools
to $2,000 each. In addition, Regeneron will
spend $30 million to reach out to young
scientists in underserved areas, mentoring
them and helping them write their applications and participate in the contest. Finally,
the company will also support the creation
and publication of science news to 4,000
high schools.
Regeneron has been voted one of the
best companies in the country to work for
(Fortune magazine) and has been growing
steadily in Tarrytown over the last few years.
Last November, the company added nearly
300,000 square feet of laboratory and office space including two new buildings. It
currently employs 2,300 people at the Tarrytown campus, of which approximately
109 live in Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, and
Irvington. It is a company that discovers,
www.thehudsonindependent.com
invents, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines for the treatment
of serious medical conditions. Regeneron
commercializes medicines for eye diseases,
high LDL-cholesterol, and a rare inflammatory condition and has product candidates
in development in other areas of high unmet medical needs, including cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, atopic dermatitis,
pain and infectious diseases.
“The experience of working at
Regeneron inspired me to become
a scientist.”
—Liz Sobolik
Locally, Regeneron has been supporting
students to go into STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields
for a while. It sponsors the BioBus, a community lab on wheels, which is essentially
a research-grade mobile science laboratory
aboard a “green” 1974 school bus. The BioBus brings hands-on science research and
discovery experiences to local public schools
and has visited the Sleepy Hollow district
on numerous occasions. Regeneron has also
sponsored about 200 high schools in local
science competitions and takes on approximately 20 high school students per year in
the Westchester area in the Science Research
Mentorship Program. Currently, two Sleepy
Hollow High School (SHHS) students are
participating in the program.
One of SHHS’s Science Research teachers, Michele Zielinski, said, “Regeneron has
been very supportive of the science research
in our school in multiple ways; employees
often mentor projects and/or volunteer as
judges at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF) SHHS practice
night, etc.”
Overall, Regeneron’s outreach efforts have
inspired countless students to pursue careers
in STEM fields. Liz Sobolik, a Sleepy Hollow High School graduate and now a Columbia student, has worked at Regeneron as
a high school intern for the past two summers, and is doing so again this summer
as a college intern. She said, “The experience of working at Regeneron inspired me
to become a scientist. I was able to make
the transition from trying to learn facts in
school to actually applying them in the lab,
which gave me a clear picture of how my life
could be as a research scientist. My mentors
at Regeneron were and still are extremely
committed and encouraging.”
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 21
Food for Thought
Restaurants Move Outside for Summertime Dining
by Linda Viertel
Summer has finally arrived; patios are
being swept off, gardens replanted and
seasonal furniture is making appearances
throughout our river towns. Sidewalk dining on our Main Streets has become ubiquitous – a touch of Manhattan’s culinary
atmosphere in Westchester. But, several
new restaurant gardens have cropped up
over the past year or two, in addition to
patios and decks with panoramic views of
the Hudson River. Each provides a different, enchanting, fun way to drink, dine and
celebrate convivial times.
the action.
455 South Broadway
524-6410
bistroz.com
Il Sorriso Ristorante Italiano
One of our river town restaurant’s hidden
gems is Il Sorriso’s rear terrace, graced by
a commanding view of the Hudson River.
With seating for approximately 36, it is a
popular place for parties and often a first
choice for summer dining. It’s a short walk
from the Irvington train station, and what
better way to relax after a hard day’s work
Brrzaar – Frozen Yogurt Café
Bridge View Tavern
It’s hard to believe that Brrzaar has been
open just over a year ( The Hudson Independent, May 2015) and has aleady made
a name for itself in providing, fresh, wholesome, and delicious frozen yogurt creations,
rich coffees, and now much more. Starting
this summer season, Brrzaar has opened its
FroYo Garden, a delightful greenspace with
3 picnic tables, topped with umbrellas for
sun protection. Charmingly landscaped, replete with water bowls for thirsty animals,
and plenty of fencing, customers can enjoy
their frozen yogurts outside while watching
Since Bridge View Tavern’s Beer Garden
opened last October, just next door to the
tavern, it has lived up to its reputation as
one of the most welcoming, fun spots to
enjoy a brew. And what a vast offering is
on hand! Twelve lines of draft are available
outside, and the selection switches weekly
in constant rotation. (Thirty, in total, are
available, if you include the tavern’s full
beer selection.) Peach guava sangria and red
classic sangria, as well as ciders and wines
are also on hand, so everyone will be happy
with their choices.
Favorite appetizers, burgers and sandwiches can be ordered outside, with additional food specials offered daily. Monday
through Wednesday, $4 pints are on special;
Thursday some selected pints are featured.
And, Trivia Night just started on Monday,
June 20th, from 7 to 9 p.m., so the fun is
on at Bridge View for trivia enthusiasts.
Wood lattice-work creates an open feel to
the sides and roof of the terrace, plus enhancing the free flow of cool breezes coming off the river. Wood decking and tables,
planters all come together to provide an
indoor/outdoor feel. The array of beer logos, licenses, draft handles, posters make
Bridge View’s Beer Garden a place that
says, “Come on in – you are going to have
a good time.”
226 Beekman Avenue
914-332-0078
bridgeviewtavern.com
RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen
Since opening in the fall of 2013 (The
Hudson Independent, Oct. 2015), RiverMarket Bar and Kitchen’s patio has been a
gathering place for both destination diners
and locals who want to enjoy their views of
the Hudson River and, now, the New New
York Bridge construction. With seating for
up to 100 outside, the “umbrellad” tables
are in constant demand. Lushly planted
pots plus views from the wrap-around
porch to the north-facing allee of trees provide differing visual impacts. The patio is
handicapped accessible, and wait stations
outside make service prompt and reliable.
In addition to RiverMarket’s justly sought
after classic dishes and wood-burning oven
pizzas, now is the time to try RiverMarket’s
new seasonal menu. Heirloom tomatoes
are starting to make their appearance, plus
tuna crudo, crispy soft-shelled crabs, quail,
and duck confit. Traditional cocktails are
now supplemented by new summer drinks
such as the New Fashioned, Marie is Ready
to Mango, or the Lola.
You’ll have to stop by to find out what
makes these beverage creations so appealing, and let Emilio Ugarte, RiverMarket’s
award-winning mixologist, know which
one is your favorite.
127 Main Street, Tarrytown
914-631-3100
www.rivermarketbarandkitchen.com
Bistro Z at the DoubleTree Hotel
Complementing Bistro Z’s large patio
dining area is the restaurant’s new outdoor bar - an already popular watering
hole that opened in early June. High-top
tables and stools, plus high backed chairs
made comfortable by generous pillows are
situated next to low tables with a more private feeling. But all of them get the festive
treatment with decorative lights and attractive planters. A full service bar is on hand,
and bar specials are available. Full service
dining is always offered on the restaurant’s
adjacent patio.
Happy Hour is from 5-7p.m. Flat screen
television will also be featured outside, so
customers don’t feel they have to miss viewing their favorite team while enjoying a relaxing time, beer in hand, at Bistro Z. Just
drive by the DoubleTree on South Broadway any summer weekend evening to catch
22 The Hudson Independent
Il Sorriso Ristorante Italiano
then with a glass of wine, a pizza from Il
Sorriso’s wood-burning oven, and the view
from the beautiful patio brimming with
planters, warmth and conviviality?
Il Sorriso’s full traditional, homey Tuscan
menu is always available, with special dishes, wines and cocktails also offered. And,
if you are lucky enough, you can book the
Wine Cellar – a short flight of steps down
from the patio, for a private dining experience for 16 in a truly exquisite Enoteca.
5 Buckhout Street, Irvington
914-591-2525
ilsorriso.com
Facebook
trains pull in and out of the Irvington Train
Station.
New seasonal offerings are the organic
grass-fed Brrzaar Dogs and the fresh chilled
soups (vegan) from Splendid Spoon. Choices include cauliflower coconut, pumpkin
pear hempseed, vegan bone broth and carrot turmeric. Drinking a cold cup of soup
on a hot summer’s day is one of the most
refreshing and nutritious experiences imaginable. Only bested by following up with a
frozen yogurt treat, individually crafted by
the one who is going to enjoy it most.
7 North Astor Street, Irvington
914-274-8118
brrzaar.com
G
River Grill
Next door to Bridge View Tavern is the
River Grill, which specializes in seafood,
steaks and sandwiches. The Monday Lobster Night and Thursday Prime Rib nights
are a big draw, but dining on the rooftop
patio with full view of the Hudson River in
all its glory, enhances the dining experience
beyond measure. With the GM land about
to be developed, diners will soon be able to
witness the development being created with
each successive visit.
222 Beekman Avenue
914-909-6500
IRVINGTON Farmers Market
(9 a.m.- 1:30 p.m., SUNDAY, Main Street School)
Please note new website: irvmkt.org
VENDORS (may alternate weekly):
Arlotta Food Studio, Water Mill, NY
Aroli’s Kitchen, Chappaqua, NY
Asian Farmer Dumplings, Jericho, NY
Berry Brook Farm, Catskills, NY
Big Bang Coffee, Peekskill, NY
Bien Cuit Bakery, Brooklyn, NY
Doc Pickle, Paterson, NJ
Dough Nation, Dobbs Ferry, NY
Farm XO Flowers, Hancock, NY
FarmEats, Carlisle NY
Found Herbal, Pleasantville, NY
July 2016
Joe Tomato Mozzarella, White Plains, NY
Kontoulis Olive Oil, Mamaroneck, NY/
Strefi, Messinia, Greece
La Petite Occasion, Somers, NY
LUXX Chocolate, Ridgewood, NJ
Madura Farm, Goshen, NY
MOMO Dressing, Brooklyn, NY
Nutty Spread/Archaeia Organics,
Valatie, NY
NY Chup Company, Bronx, NY
Penny Lick Ice Cream, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY
Pura Vida Fishery, Long Island, NY
Ready Set Sharp, Pelham, NY
Saratoga Cracker Co., Saratoga Cracker
Co.
SOHHA Yogurt, New York, NY
Southtown Farms, Blairstown, NJ
Strudel Z, Hudson, NY
Sun Sprout Farm, Chester, NY
Teagevity, Nyack, NY
Dobbs & Bishop Cheese, Bronxville NY
True Food, Nyack, NY
Wave Hill Breads, Norwalk, CT
What’s for Dessert, Bronxville, NY
Wild Sea Salt, Pomona, NY
Wright’s Farm, Gardiner, NY
www.thehudsonindependent.com
M
Obituaries
Musical Director Barbara Vander
Hart Fondly Remembered
by W.B. King
cal medium was piano and
Musical, spiritual, loving,
organ. Her love of music
caring, friendly, selfless and
centered on spirituals and
buoyant—these are but a
chorales. The couple retired
few adjectives that illustrate
to Stillwater Township, NJ,
the life and times of Barbara
where she served as musical
E. Vander Hart. Tarrytown
director and organist for five
and Sleepy Hollow residents
years. Before leaving Sleepy
remember her as the musiHollow, the Vander Harts
cal director for the Reformed
were instrumental in raising
Church and The Old Dutch
the necessary funds for the
Church of Sleepy Hollow. Barbara E. Vander Hart magnificent and haunting
There she served alongside her
Noack tracker pipe organ,
devoted and loving husband, Rev. Gerald which remains operational at The Old
Paul Vander Hart, from 1972 to 1998.
Dutch Church.
“If you were getting married, my mom
“They helped to replace the old pump
would play the music and then ask if you organ that was there,” said Birrittella, who
needed help with your wedding dress. added that approximately $150,000 was
She would then want to help the maid raised. “There is a plaque on the back of
of honor and the bridesmaids with their the organ with my parents’ names on it,
dresses. She would often offer to help with which is great. My mom was a spiritual
the food, too,” said Vander Hart’s daugh- mentor to many.”
ter and Tarrytown resident, Laurie BirritVander Hart is survived by her hustella. “She touched so many people and re- band and four children and their spouses,
ally had unconditional love for the people Wendy (Joanne), Paul (Robin), Jennifer
she met—many of whom became lifelong (Dan), and Laurie (Myles); nine grandfriends.”
children and four step-grandchildren; her
Born in New York City on September brother and sister-in-law, John B. Thom22, 1942, Vander Hart was raised in Feast- son III and Judy; and a sister-in-law, Wally
erville, PA. After their nuptials in 1961, Fopma. She was laid to rest at the Burythe couple served at DeWitt Reformed ing Ground of the Old Dutch Church of
Church in New York City. Her musi- Sleepy Hollow on June 18, 2016.
Gerald Barbelet, 71
Gerald Barbelet, a lifelong resident of Tarrytown and former village treasurer, died
June 12 at age 71.
Mr. Barbelet was born in New York City
on January 6, 1945. He graduated from
Transfiguration School and Sleepy Hollow
High School. On November 19, 1966, he
married Maureen McGowan at Immaculate
Conception Church.
Mr. Barbelet was retired after a long career
of service and was well known for his many
community activities. He was a Life Active
member of Conqueror Hook and Ladder
Co. #1, having received his 50-year badge.
He also had served as company president for
many years. He was a member of the Rotary
Club of the Tarrytowns and the Knights of
Columbus St. Elmo Council #318. He was
also very active in local sports. He was a diehard hockey fan who had been the goalie for
the SHHS hockey team. A founding member of the Sleepy Hollow Hockey Boosters,
he had coached a summer league hockey
team. He had also been a coach for Dad’s
Club for many years and was an avid New
York Rangers fan as well.
Mr. Barbelet is survived by his loving
wife, sons Kevin (Lauren), John (Leigh) and
Dennis (Alyssa), and grandchildren Alexandra, Thea, Stephen, Emma and Aubrey.
Mario Belanich, 83
Mario Belanich, a longtime resident of
North Tarrytown, died suddenly June 11,
2016. He was 83.
He came to the United States from Croa-
tia in the early 1950s and settled in North
Tarrytown. On September 15, 1957, he
married Edna Esposito in Immaculate Conception Church.
Mr. Belanich had a long career with General Motors, retiring with 40 years in the
company. He was a member of Local 664 of
the UAW. He was also an active member of
the Sleepy Hollow Seniors. As a parishioner
of Transfiguration Church, he served as an
usher and was also member of the Transfiguration Seniors. An avid gardener, he had
an eye for beautiful flowers.
He was very involved in community affairs and was a regular attendee of both
Village Board Meetings and School Board
Meetings.
Josephine Leggio, 96
Josephine Leggio, whose family owns and
operates Mima Restaurant in Irvington,
died June 13 of natural causes. She was 96.
Born December 8, 1919 in Tarrytown,
together with her husband, John, they enjoyed many years of their retirement in
Arizona and returned to New York to spend
the remaining years with family. He died in
2006.
She was a dedicated family woman who
spent most of her life caring for her family. She loved cooking, and her legacy lives
through Mima Restaurant. “Her picture
will always hang on the wall here, her recipes will serve many, and her memory will
live forever in our hearts,” the family stated.
She is survived by four sons, 15 grandchildren, and 29 great-grandchildren.
www.thehudsonindependent.com
DWYER & VANDERBILT
FUNERAL HOME
Tarrytown
WATERBURY & KELLY
FUNERAL HOME
of Briarcliff Manor
The Guarino Family continues
the warm and personal service
which was originally
established by Jack Kelly
Celebrating Life with dedication, excellence and innovation.
Our staff have over 100 years of combined experience serving families.
We serve all faiths, and can provide a full range of options to meet your
individual religious or financial needs. We offer immediate out of town
funeral services and transfers and are within close proximity
to all Westchester houses of worship and cemeteries.
! Individualized Service !
! Pre-Planning !
Dwyer & Vanderbilt
Funeral Home
90 North Broadway
Tarrytown, NY 10591
(914) 631-0621
Waterbury & Kelly
Funeral Home
1300 Pleasantville Road
Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510
(914) 941-0838
Our Family Serving Yours
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 23
What’s Happening
Check out the complete directory for July at www.thehudsonindependent.com
Wednesday 6
646-709-4308 or visit www.hastingsflea.com.
“HELLO, MY NAME IS DORIS”: Showing at 2 p.m.
at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 6317734 or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
MEET THE ANIMALS: At 2 p.m. get up close and
hands-on with some of the animals at the Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale. Call 723-3470
or visit www.greenburghnaturecenterorg.
MOBSTERS ON MAIN STREET: Come dressed up in
1920’s mobster attire at 6 p.m. for pre-film fun
and a showing of “The Godfather” at the Tarrytown Music Hall. Call 877-840-0457 or visit
www.tarrytownmusichall.org.
Thursday 7
AUTHOR PRESENTATION: At 7 p.m. psychotherapist
Glenn Berger discusses his book “Never Say No
to a Rock Star” at the Ossining Public Library.
Call 941-2416 or visit www.ossininglibrary.org.
Friday 8
BODIES IN THE LIBRARY BOOK GROUP: Meets at
12 noon to discuss “Last Will” by Liza Marklund
at the Ossining Public Library. Call 941-2416 or
visit www.ossininglibrary.org.
Saturday 9
BUTTERFLY WALK: At 10 a.m. join Charlie
Roberto to look for butterfly visitors at Teatown
Lake Reservation in Ossining. Preregistration
required. Call 762-2912, ext. 110 or visit www.
teatown.org.
SUMMER SATURDAY ADVENTURES: At 10 a.m. enjoy
a story plus habitat hikes, stream stomps and wild
foraging at Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining. Preregistration required. Call 762-2912, ext.
110 or visit www.teatown.org. Also July 23.
ROOTS & FRUITS: Multimedia workshop at 12
noon conducted by artist Mary McFerran at the
Ossining Public Library. To register call 9412416, ext. 327. Also Aug. 13.
BALI, THE PEARL OF THE PACIFIC: Slide presentation at 2 p.m. by Irma and Bob Mandel at the
Irvington Public Library. Call 591-7840 or visit
www.irvingtonlibrary.org.
$5 FILM SERIES: “Bonnie & Clyde” showing at 7
p.m. at the Tarrytown Music Hall. Call 877-8400457 or visit www.tarrytownmusichall.org.
Tuesday 12
FREE HEALING MEDITATION: Non-denominational
spiritual group from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. at the
United Methodist Church of the Tarrytowns, 27
S. Washington St. Call 212-831-9812 or e-mail
Diana@dianamuenzchen.com. Also July 19 from
7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
COOKBOOK CHALLENGE: Post your favorite recipes
to Warner’s Facebook page and at 3:30 p.m.
bring a dish and copies of the recipe to share with
others at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call
631-7734 to sign up.
TEDX TARRYTOWN: From 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
there will be a series of speakers on the theme
“Forward” at Temple Beth Abraham in Tarrytown. Call 524-7022 or visit www.tedxtarrytown.
com.
Wednesday 13
“WHISKEY, TANGO FOXTROT”: Showing at 2 p.m.
at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 6317734 or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
HISTORY OF PHOTOGRAPHY PART 2 – OF GELATIN,
BRAHMS, AND POTATOES!: At 7 p.m. presentation by photographer Elinor Stecker-Orel at the
Ossining Public Library. Call 941-2416 or visit
www.ossininglibrary.org.
$5 FILM SERIES: “Angels with Dirty Faces” showing at 7 p.m. at the Tarrytown Music Hall. Call
877-840-0457 or visit www.tarrytownmusichall.
org.
Sunday 10
ELECTRIC VEHICLES PUT NEW YORK IN THE FAST
LANE: At 7:30 p.m. learn how you can help
reduce climate disruption and air pollution at the
Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale. Program
co-sponsored by the Sierra Club Lower Hudson
Group. Call 723-3470 or visit www.newyork.
sierraclub.org/LHG.
NYACK STREET FAIR: From 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. at
Main St. and Broadway featuring art, crafts, retail
items, kids fun zone, food and music by Kenny
G. Call 201-666-1340.
CONCERT: At 8 p.m. the National Youth Orchestra of the USA plays at the Performing Arts
Center, Purchase College. Call 251-6200 or visit
www.ArtsCenter.org.
SHINRIN-YOKU: At 10 a.m. learn how to experience the natural world on its own terms on
meditative walks at Teatown Lake Reservation in
Ossining. Preregistration required. Call 7622912, ext. 110 or visit www.teatown.org. Also
July 31.
Friday 15
HASTINGS FLEA MARKET: From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
at the Metro North train station parking lot. Call
THIRD FRIDAY IN TARRYTOWN: Come to Main St.
and S. Washington from 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. to enjoy
CHRISTMAS IN JULY: At 6:15 p.m. kosher Chinese
dinner and the movie “Noodle” at Temple Beth
Abraham in Tarrytown. Call 631-1770 or visit
www.tba-ny.org/noodle/.
SENIORS
SENIOR BENEFITS INFORMATION CENTER:
Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. a representative from the Medicare Rights Center
is on hand at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Sign up at the Reference Desk or call
631-7734. To ask questions outside regular
counseling hours call 269-7765.
SENIOR VAN: Beginning at 9 a.m. Monday
through Friday, a van is available for seniors
who need transportation. Call the Tarrytown
Village Hall at 631-7873 or the Sleepy Hollow Recreation Dept. at 366-5109.
HOT LUNCH: Plus other activities Monday
to Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Neighborhood
House in Tarrytown. Suggested contribution
$3. Call 330-3855.
THE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE
43 Wildey St., Tarrytown, 631-0205
24 The Hudson Independent
BOOK CLUB: At 10 a.m. “The Beauty Queen of
Jerusalem” by Sarit Yishai-Lev will be discussed at
Temple Beth Abraham in Tarrytown. Call 6311770 or e-mail adulted@tba-ny.org to RSVP.
GREENBURGH NUTRITION PROGRAM: See Hot
Lunch above.
live music by Finders Keepers, demonstrations by Westchester Circus
Arts and Josie’s International School
of Dance, and much more. Call 6318347 or visit www.tarrytownthirdfriday.com.
“E.T. THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL”: This
classic film will be screened at dusk at
Memorial Park in Nyack. Admission
is free. Call 845-353-2568 or visit
www.rivertownfilm.org.
Saturday 16
FRIENDS OF THE RIVERWALK WORK
DAY: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Meet at the
end of West Main St., Tarrytown
with hand tools for weeding and clipping. Call 419-7229.
CONCERT: At 11:30 a.m. City Winds
Trio presents “On Your Mark, Get
Set, MUSIC!” for children ages 3 and older at the
Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 631-7734 or
visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
CRAFTS: At 2 p.m. Joan Lloyd demonstrates how
to make unique beaded earrings for yourself and
the Women’s Shelter at the Warner Library in
Tarrytown. Registration requested at 631-7734.
INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE: At 7 p.m. Padma Vibhushan Pandit Birju Maharaj sings, dances and
presents various emotions of life in his unparalleled style at the Tarrytown Music Hall. Call 877840-0457 or visit www.tarrytownmusichall.org.
Sunday 17
LITERARY AFTERNOON: At 4:30 p.m. John Perrault
shares original folk music and poetry at the Hudson Valley Writers’ Center in Sleepy Hollow. Call
332-5953 or visit www.writerscenter.org.
REMIX: The Modern Black Experience: “When
We Were Kings” showing at 5 p.m. at Jacob
Burns Film Center in Pleasantville. Call 7475555 or visit www.burnsfilmcenter.org
Wednesday 20
“MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN”: Showing at 2 p.m. at
the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 631-7734
or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
BUZZWORTHY FILMS: “Brooklyn” will be shown
at 6:30 p.m. at the Ossining Public Library. Call
941-2416 or visit www.ossininglibrary.org.
Thursday 21
Y SUMMER THEATER: Preview of “Into the Woods”
from 6:15 p.m.-6:45 p.m. at Pierson Park. Call
418-5562 for more information.
HOW BETTER FARMING LEADS TO BETTER HEALTH:
At 7:30 p.m. Dr. Maya Shetreat-Klein talks about
healthy kids and healthy soil at Stone Barns’ Center for Food and Agriculture in Pocantico Hills.
Call 366-6200 or visit www.stonebarnscenter.org.
Friday 22
EAGLES TRIBUTE CONCERT: At 8 p.m. Eaglemania
performs at the Tarrytown Music Hall. Call 877840-0457 or visit www.tarrytownmusichall.org.
Monday 18
Saturday 23
REMIX: The Modern Black Experience: “The
Hard Stop” showing at 7:15 p.m. at Jacob Burns
Film Center in Pleasantville. Call 747-5555 or
visit www.burnsfilmcenter.org
PICK-A-BOOK PICNIC: Saturday Storytimes at
11:30 a.m. and activities for all ages at the TaSH
Farmer’s Market in Patriots Park. Call 631-7734
or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
Tuesday 19
Sunday 24
MAYHEM AND MYSTERY BOOK GROUP: Meets at
3:30 p.m. to discuss “The Cat Who Could Read
Backwards” by Lillian Jackson Braun at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 631-7734 or visit
www.warnerlibrary.org.
SUMMER WILDLIFE: At 2 p.m. learn about sweltering summer survival techniques of animals at the
Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale. Call
723-3470 or visit www.greenburghnaturecenterorg.
TEDDY BEAR TEA PARTY: At 4 p.m. children ages
3-7 enjoy treats, tales & tea with their special
stuffed animal at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Registration is limited. Call 631-7734.
Monday 25
“CATCHING THE SUN”: At 6:30 p.m. showing of
this documentary about the global race to lead
the clean energy future at the Warner Library in
TARRYTOWN SENIOR CENTER
JAMES F. GALGANO SENIOR CENTER
ART EXHIBIT: July 1 – 31 at Warner Library.
Pierson Park, 631-2304. Annual donation is
$15.
55 Elm St., Sleepy Hollow, 631-0390. Annual donation is $10, due before March 1.
COMPUTER CLASS: 11a.m. Tuesdays (please
call).
MEETINGS: 1 p.m. July 5 and 19, followed by
games.
MEETINGS: 1 p.m. July 5 and 18, followed
by bingo.
YOGA ON THE CHAIR: 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays
and Fridays.
EXERCISE: 10 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and
Fridays (except July 13)
EXERCISE CLASS: 11:30 a.m. Tuesdays.
RECEPTION FOR ART EXHIBIT: 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
July 6 at Warner Library.
ANNUAL PICNIC: 12 noon July 13 (advance
payment required).
ART WORKSHOP: 1 p.m. Wednesdays (except
July 6).
TAI CHI: 11 a.m. Thursdays.
Senior canteen: informal social group, 1 p.m.
Thursdays.
MOVIES: 1 p.m. Fridays.
MAH JONGG: 1 p.m. Fridays
NICKEL BINGO: 1 p.m. Tuesdays
TRIP TO CULINARY INSTITUTE: 9 a.m. July 20.
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BOOK CLUB: 1 p.m. July 29.
KNITTING: 1 p.m. Fridays.
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OTHER CLASSES: Check bulletin board.
OPEN WEEKDAYS FOR SOCIALIZING, CARD PLAYING, ETC.: 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
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YOGA: 10:30 a.m. July 7.
NICKEL BINGO: 12:30 p.m. Mondays.
YOGA: 10 a.m. Thursdays.
POOL TABLES: Available any time.
Closed July 4
Closed July 4
BRIDGE AND CARD CLUB: 1 p.m. Fridays.
July 2016
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Lawrence Corio through Aug. 31 at the Irvington
Public Library. Reception July 1 from 7 p.m. – 9
p.m. Call 591-7840 or visit www.irvingtonlibrary.
org.
EXHIBIT: Work by the artists at Neighborhood
House at the Warner Library in Tarrytown.
Reception July 6 from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. Call 6317734 or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
PHOLOGRAPHY EXHIBIT: “A Family Affair” by Elinor Stecker-Orel and Mano Orel, and “Montauk:
The End” by Jeanette McWilliams on view at the
Ossining Public Library. Receptions July 9 from 2
p.m. - 4 p.m. and 12 noon – 2 p.m. respectively.
Call 941-2416 or visit www.ossininglibrary.org.
WALK AMONG LIVE BUTTERFLIES EXHIBIT: From
10 a.m. - 3 p.m. through Aug. 7 (except Fridays)
at the Greenburgh Nature Center in Scarsdale.
Call 723-3470 or visit www.greenburghnaturecenterorg.
GUIDED KAYAK TOURS: Weekends from 9 a.m. –
12 noon at Kingsland Point Park, Sleepy Hollow.
Call 682-5135 or visit www.KayakHudson.com
for complete schedule.
Saturday 9: BUTTERFLY WALK: At 10 a.m. join Charlie Roberto to look for butterfly visitors at Teatown Lake Reservation in Ossining.
Tarrytown. DVD and light refreshments provided by solar energy company SunBlue Energy.
Call 631-7734 or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
Wednesday 27
“LONDON HAS FALLEN”: Showing at 2 p.m. at the
Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 631-7734 or
visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
RETRO REVIVAL SERIES: Akira Kurosawa’s “Ran”
showing at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Jacob Burns
Film Center in Pleasantville. Call 747-5555 or
visit www.burnsfilmcenter.org
Thursday 28
CONCERT: At 7 p.m. children’s songwriter, recording arts and performer Zev Haber brings his
talents to the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call
631-7734 or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
Friday 29
“THE WIZARD OF OZ”: Random Farms Kids’
Theater performs at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. at the
Tarrytown Music Hall. Call 877-840-0457 or
visit www.tarrytownmusichall.org. Also July 30
at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m., Aug. 5 at 11 a.m. & 7 p.m,,
Aug. 6 at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Y SUMMER THEATER: Presents “Into the Woods” at
7:30 p.m. at Sleepy Hollow High School Auditorium. Call 418-5562 for more information. Also
July 30 at 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m., July 31 at 2 p.m.
LITERARY EVENING: At 7:30 p.m. HeidiLynn
Nilssen reads from her award-winning chapbook
“The Math of Gifts”, with her mentor Sean
Singer at the Hudson Valley Writers’ Center in
Sleepy Hollow. Call 332-5953 or visit www.
writerscenter.org.
at 6:15 p.m. & show at 8 p.m. Call 592-2222 or
visit www.broadwaytheatre.com.
“IRVING BERLIN IN HOLLYWOOD”: July 21 – Sept.
11 at the Westchester Broadway Theatre in Elmsford. Dinner at 6:15 p.m. & show at 8 p.m. Call
592-2222 or visit www.broadwaytheatre.com.
SUMMER MUSIC SERIES: Wednesdays through Aug.
24 Jazz Forum Arts presents free concerts from
6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Waterfront Park in Dobbs
Ferry. Call 631-1000 or visit www.jazzforumarts.
org.
JAZZ AT HENRY GOURDINE PARK, OSSINING: Alternate Mondays July 11 – Aug. 22 at 6:30 p.m.
Call 631-1000 or visit www.jazzforumarts.org.
JAZZ AT HORAN’S LANDING, SLEEPY HOLLOW:
Tuesdays Aug. 2-23 at 6:30 p.m. Call 631-1000
or visit www.jazzforumarts.org.
SUNSET JAZZ @ LYNDHURST: Thursdays July 7 Aug. 25 at 6:30 p.m. Call 631-1000 or visit www.
jazzforumarts.org.
JAZZ AT PIERSON PARK, TARRYTOWn: Fridays July
8 - Aug. 26 at 6:30 p.m. Call 631-1000 or visit
www.jazzforumarts.org.
DEFYING LABELS: New Roles, New Clothes:
Through Sept. 25 exhibit of couture dresses
and items from the last women of Lyndhurst at
Lyndhurst in Tarrytown. Visit www.lyndhurst.org
for tickets.
Saturday 30
Y DANCE ACADEMY: Kids activities and dance performance from 10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at TaSH
Farmers Market, Patriots’ Park. Call 418-5562 for
more information.
FREE TAI CHI: Drop-in Sundays from 10 a.m. –
11 a.m. through Aug. 12 at JCC on the Hudson
in Tarrytown. Call 366-7898 or visit www.
jcconthehudson.org.
PIONEERS OF AFRICAN AMERICAN CINEMA: At 8
p.m. three silent films with new scores will be
screened at the Nyack Center, Broadway at Depew, followed by a post-screening discussion with
the composer. Call 845-353-2568 or visit www.
rivertownfilm.org.
‘DROP YOUR PANTS’ DENIM RECYCLING INITIATIVE:
Bring your worn denim clothes to the Tarrytown
Music Hall lobby collection box for recycling into
insulation and keep textile waste out of landfills.
Visit http://bluejeansgogreen.org.
REMIX: The Modern Black Experience: “She’s
Gotta Have It” showing at 7:30 p.m. at Jacob
Burns Film Center in Pleasantville. Call 7475555 or visit www.burnsfilmcenter.org
TARRYTOWN SLEEPY HOLLOW FARMERS MARKET:
Open 8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturdays through Nov.
19 in Patriot’s Park. E-mail TaSHFarmersMarket@gmail.com or visit www.TaSHFarmersMarket.org.
OSSINING FARMERS’ MARKET: Open Saturdays
from 8:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Spring & Main Sts.
Call 923-4837 or visit www.downtoearthmarkets.
com.
IRVINGTON FARMERS MARKET: Open Sundays
from 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Main St. School. Visit
www.irvmkt.org.
MAH JONGG: Mondays at 1 p.m. at Temple Beth
Abraham in Tarrytown. Call 631-1770 or e-mail
adulted@tba-ny.org to ensure there are enough
players for a game.
MEN’S CLUB: Meets every Wednesday at 9:45 a.m.
at JCC on the Hudson in Tarrytown. Meetings
have varied speakers and are open to the public
free of charge. Call 366-7898 or visit www.jcconthehudson.org.
TORAH STUDY: Rabbi Holtz leads a class Wednesdays at 10 a.m. (except July 6) at Temple Beth
Abraham in Tarrytown. No previous knowledge
required. Call 631-1770 or e-mail adulted@
tba-ny.org.
CHESS CLUB: The Warner Library Chess Club
Saturday 16: Indian Classical Dance:
At 7 p.m. Padma Vibhushan Pandit
Birju Maharaj sings, dances and
presents various emotions of life in
his unparalleled style at the Tarrytown
Music Hall.
meets on the second, third and fourth Thursday
of the month from 6:30 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Call
631-7734 or visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
HEALTHY LIFE SERIES: Phelps Memorial Hospital
Center in Sleepy Hollow offers the community a
wide range of programs on health-related subjects
as well as health screenings and support groups.
Visit www.phelpshospital.org.
FILMS FOR CHILDREN: Weekends at noon at the
Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville. Call
747-5555 or visit www.burnsfilmcenter.org.
SPEAK EASY CONVERSATION GROUP: Thursdays at
1:30 p.m. Mary Lou Walker makes conversation
rewarding and fulfilling at the Warner Library in
Tarrytown. Call 631-7734 to sign up.
FAMILY MOVIE MATINEES: Thursdays at 4 p.m.
July 14 – Aug. 18 in the Children’s Room at the
Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 631-7734 or
visit www.warnerlibrary.org.
Monday August 1
KAYAKING: Rent a kayak between 12 noon and
5 p.m. on the Tarrytown Lakes Saturdays and
Sundays. Call 682-5135 or visit www.KayakHudson.com.
IRVINGTON-HUDSON RIVER TIFFANY TRAIL: This
electronic guide leads visitors to sites from the
Bronx to Briarcliff Manor open to the public
displaying the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany.
Visit www.tiffanytrailcom.
Ongoing
SUMMER READING GAME: For young readers
through- Aug. 19 at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 631-7734 or visit www.warnerlibrary.
org.
SOUNDS OF SUMMER: New music documentaries
July 6 – Aug. 25 at Jacob Burns Film Center in
Pleasantville. Call 747-5555 or visit www.burnsfilmcenter.org
ADULT SUMMER READING PROGRAM: Through
Sept. 9 for ages 18 and older at the Warner Library in Tarrytown. Call 631-7734 or visit www.
warnerlibrary.org.
“HAPPY DAYS”: Through July 17 at the Westchester Broadway Theatre in Elmsford. Dinner
PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT: “InSPIRED: Reaching for the Heavens – Buildings that Soar” by
www.thehudsonindependent.com
July 2016 The Hudson Independent 25
Inquiring Photographer
by Alexa Brandenberg
“What is Your Favorite Place to Go in the Summer ?”
Mike Love, 46
Misty Miller
Tim Allport
Ryan Cabral, 4
Ally Nghiem, 5
Sleepy Hollow
Tarrytown
Tarrytown
Tarrytown
Irvington
“Outer Cape Cod because it is so
peaceful.”
“Definitely the beach because it is
the one place where I can relax.”
“I don’t really have a favorite
place but wherever it is I always
like to go with my wife.”
“I like the beach. I like to go to
the pool much better.”
“The swimming pool.”
Letters
Thanks to All Supporters of Relay for Life of the Tarrytowns
To the Editor,
As Event Lead of this year’s American
Cancer Society Relay For Life of the Tarrytowns, I would like to thank the residents
of Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown for their
overwhelming generosity and support.
Twenty five (25) teams joined in our first
Relay For Life raising more than $89,000
to support the American Cancer Society’s
mission to help save lives and create a world
with less cancer and more birthdays by
helping people stay well, by helping people
get well and by finding cures.
Nineteen (19) survivors walked the
opening lap and inspired those currently
battling cancer. Our luminaria ceremony
showed the community’s warmth and caring for those who are no longer with us, for
honoring those who are still fighting and
who are survivors.
I would also like to thank the many Relay For Life volunteers, committee members and teams who worked to make this
year’s event a success. The very dedicated
Relay For Life committee did an outstanding job of putting our first Relay together.
We certainly want to thank our sponsors
Phelps Hospital, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Westchester Medical
Center, New York Presbyterian Hospital,
Sunset Cove, Tarrytown Honda, River-
Editor
RICK PEZZULLO
editor@thehudsonindependent.com
914.631.6311
Ad Sales Manager
JONATHAN MARSHALL
914.374.7564
hudsonindyadmgr@gmail.com
Office Manager
PAULA ROMANOW ETZEL
914.631.6311
indyoffice@thehudsonindependent.com
Art Direction
WENDY TITTEL DESIGN
results@wendytitteldesign.com
Ad Production Manager
TOM SCHUMACHER
adsales@thehudsonindependent.com
Advertising Sales Director
SUZANNE STEPHANS
(914) 255-1314
suzannestephans@gmail.com
Phone: 914.631.6311
Wewbsite: www.thehudsonindependent.com
Contact Hudson Valley News Corporation:
info@thehudsonindependent.com
Send listings for events/activities to:
listings@thehudsonindependent.com
Send letters to the editor to:
letters@thehudsonindependent.com
Published by the Hudson Valley News
26 The Hudson Independent
Circulation Manager
JOANNE M. TINSLEY
info@thehudsonindependent.com
What’s Happening Editor
SALLY KELLOCK, skellock@juno.com
Webmaster
Tim Thayer, tt@eyebuzz.com
P.O. Box 336, Irvington, NY 10533
Corporation:
Matthew Brennan, president;
Morey Storck, vice president;
Robert Kimmel
Editorial Board: Robert Kimmel, chair,
Kevin Brown, Paula Romanow Etzel,
Steven Gosset, Jennie Lyons, Alexander Roberts,
Maria Ann Roglieri, Barrett Seaman, Morey
Storck, Joanne M. Tinsley, Donald Whitely
July 2016
Relay for Life event raised more than $89,000 for the American Cancer Society.
— Photo Credit: Sunny McLean
town Runners, Bella Luna Italian Restaurant, Tompkins Mahopac Bank, 3 Badge
Beverage Corp, Sleepy Hollow Fire Department, Teachers Association of the Tarrytowns, Hope Hose Co #1, Conqueror
Hook & Ladder and Rescue Hose Co #1
for their support which made all of this
possible. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Public Schools of the
Tarrytowns for allowing us to utilize their
grounds to host this life-changing event, to
Mayor Ken Wray for welcoming Relay For
Life to Sleepy Hollow and the Police Department of Sleepy Hollow and the Sleepy
Hollow Ambulance Corp for their support
the night of the event.
Eye Doctor
Continued from page 20
ter relief.
Helping others, it seems, is a habit of nature for DeDeo.
DeDeo and a SUNY Optometry classmate, Larah Alami, opened up Hudson River Eye Care three years ago after each had
apprenticed for a few years at several chain
eye care companies. Alami’s husband, Rocco Robilotto, another grad school classmate,
first discovered the Alaskan health outreach
Thank you for coming out to support
the Relay For Life of the Tarrytowns. It was
amazing to see how the community came
together for a common cause. Not only did
the American Cancer Society win, but so
did our community. I am very grateful for
how everyone embraced Relay for Life and
how determined everyone was to make it
something we all could be proud of.
Sincerely,
Jacki Geoghegan
Event Lead
Relay for Life of the Tarrytowns
program online, and actually moved there
with Alami to work full-time for a few years.
(Robilotto has a separate optometry practice in Manhattan.)
Once settled with the eye care business
in Tarrytown, where patients are examined
and then fitted for eye wear in one visit,
DeDeo was ready for Alaska.
“Talking about Alaska just reminds me
how much I miss being there,” he said, adding that his next trip northward will be this
fall.
www.thehudsonindependent.com
g
Rock Island Sound Hosts Rock Photography Exhibit
by W.B. King
Capturing the art of expression—a moment in time—is no easy feat, especially
when the subjects are musicians prone to
windmill guitars strums, duck walking solos or an unwillingness to be memorialized
after the curtain drops.
“My favorite photos are of REM, as they
were unknown at the time,” said Kathy
Lener, a Valhalla, NY-based rock photographer whose day job is the photo editor
for retired and famed photojournalist, aka
“paparazzo,” Ron Galella. “The backstage
photographs show two members of the
band playfully posing for the photos while
lead singer Michael Stipe appears quite uncomfortable, hiding behind his full head of
curly hair.”
The photo Lener refers to is among 50
images presented in “Rock ’N’ Roll Up
Close,” an exhibition of vintage rock ’n’ roll
photography by Lener and Jaime Martorano, also from Valhalla, who captured images of some of the world’s best known musicians in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Running from June 17 to July 31, at
Rock Island Sound’s 54 Main Street location, the exhibit includes images of David
Bowie, John Lennon, Prince, The Rolling
S tones, Chuck Berry, REM, U2, Joan Jett,
Bruce Springsteen, The Ramones, Peter
Frampton, Meatloaf, Bob Seger, Levon
Helm, among others. Additionally, the ex-
hibit includes private collected works by
Annie Leibovitz and Ron Galella.
“Set against the backdrop of Rock Island
Sound’s Tarrytown music school, attendees
of all ages will find a treasure trove of classic
rock ’n’ roll stars and many early career and
underground band surprises,” noted Martorano, who also serves as a professional
real estate and architectural photographer.
Behind the Lens
While Lener and Martorano have dated
for the last four years, this marks the first
time the photogs have joined forces in an
exhibit. Lener can’t recall which concert
she first shot, but Martorano does: Peter
Frampton on his famed Frampton Comes
Alive Tour. His last concert was The Who
with Elvis Costello. The one band that
eluded Martorano was Led Zeppelin. “Circus magazine didn’t invite me to [shoot]
one of their concerts.”
Whereas the photographs in the exhibit
were snapped at various venues, the now
defunct Left Bank in Mt. Vernon was
among tour stops for alternative and punk
bands of that era. This club proved foundational to Lener and some of her early efforts.
“In order for the club to book a band
called ‘Gang of Four,’ they had to agree to
book the then unknown band, REM,” recalled Lener. “¬The Left Bank sparked an
unusual late night reverse commute trend.
New York City’s in-crowd began taking the
train to Westchester to get its musical fix—
a most unlikely scenario that was nearly
unheard of at the time.” She continued.
“I not only photographed the acts but also
got to see incredible, spectacular shows:
The Ramones, Joan Jett, Ronnie Spector
and Duran Duran.”
Over the years, Lener and Martotano,
with his trusted Nikon F3, freelanced for
Cream magazine, among other publications. The result is an exhibit featuring a
wide array of images that, for some, will
spark memories of times past and, for others, provide an introduction into a period
of musical exploration.
“For those of us who simply love rock
’n’ roll and the early punk days, expect a
glimpse at budding fame and an up-close
look at some of the world’s best musical talent,” noted Martotano. “It’s an exhibit that
will have you dusting off the vinyl of bands
you’ve always loved.”
The Kids’ Club of Tarrytown & Sleepy Hollow held its 3rd Annual “Breakfast for
Bedding” on June 16. More than 50 guests attended to celebrate hard-working
Sleepy Hollow students who participated in the “Let’s Get Ready” college prep
and SAT tutoring program, and send them off to college with new bedding.
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July 2016 The Hudson Independent 27