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Vol. 1, No. 18

Hudson Valley School Districts Hudson Struggle with Lawsuit Burdens Valley

By Michelle Carter district, because officials are typically barred from PROUD SPONSOR PROUD SPONSOR mcarter@hudsonvalleyreporter.com comment, either by court order or common sense. CARMEL, N.Y.- Hudson Valley school districts Robert Lowry, spokesman for the New York are struggling under the weight of an unfunded State Council of School Superintendents, said the mandate they can do nothing about lawsuits. majority of lawsuits filed against school districts Area school superintendents say lawsuits are par are related to special education students and for the course for any governmental entity, and are teacher contracts. HV Obviously, parents have the right to due process, budgeted for accordingly. However, the proximity of private schools in Connecticut for children and to question the services provided to their with special needs leads to many more lawsuits in child, Lowry said. But when it becomes litigious, Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess than in other it becomes very expensive in many ways. The areas of the state. reality is that yes, its an expense that flies under It can be time-consuming and costly, Mahopac the radar. WPDH DJ Mark Cooper died Your Wednesday, Aug. 14, after Your Community, Your News Your Community, News Schools Superintendent Thomas Manko said. Its Lowry said New York has higher standards for suffering a stroke. Photo courtesy of WPDH the cost of doing business, but thats money we its special education students , and that is a doublecould be spending on teachers or supplies. edged sword - it often leads to better outcomes for Superintendents agreed most members of students, but also can lead to more litigation. New York the public have no idea how frequently schools continued on page 14 are sued and how much is spent defending the

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WPDH Morning Show Host Mark Coop Cooper HUD Plans to Reallocate $7.4M After Westchester Lets Deadline Pass Dies at Age 49

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The $7.4 million in federal grants long held up by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are now gone after Westchester refused to comply with HUDs demands. Photo courtesy of Westchester County By Michael Nocella mnocella@hudsonvalleyreporter.com WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. After Westchester let a Thursday deadline set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development go by without taking action, HUD and county officials have responded. A July 31 report by the federal monitor overseeing the housing settlement found exclusionary zoning in seven Westchester communities Lewisboro, Pound Ridge, Croton, Ossining Town, Mamaroneck Town, Pelham and Harrison. In an Aug. 9 letter, HUD demanded the county adopt this continued on page 6

By Bob Dumas bdumas@hudsonvalleyreporter.com POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. Mark Coop Cooper, the gravelly voiced morning show host of Poughkeepsies classic rock station, WPHD, passed away Wednesday after suffering a stroke earlier in the week. He was 49. Everyone at WPDH is completely devastated, WPDH program director Andrew Boris said in a statement. Coop was a friend to so many people in the Hudson Valley and had an incredibly infectious joy for life. He was a caring and dedicated advocate for so many causes both on and off the air, its hard to imagine mornings without his voice. Those of us who were fans of his show, or lucky enough to know Mark on a personal level will miss him deeply. Our hearts go out to his family and friends. Boris invited fans to celebrate Coopers life by sharing their memories on the stations Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/wpdhfm. Cooper was born in England in 1964, and his family immigrated to the United States in 1967. He graduated from LeMoyne College, and held many part-time jobs in his early adult years. But he soon developed a career as a successful stand-up comedian and was a founding member of the Spilt Milk performance comedy group appearing on Comedy

continued on page 14

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August 19-21, 2013

Hudson Valley Reporter

By Greg Maker gmaker@hudsonvalleyreporter.com New Yok State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said that a settlement has been reached with 15 contractors in Dutchess and Putnam counties who were found in violation of the states Home Improvement Contracts Law. In total, 211 contractors across the state, including seven in Dutchess County and eight in Putnam County were each ordered to pay fines up to $1,500 as part of the settlement. A press release from Schneidermans office said that an investigation by the Attorney Generals Office revealed widespread violations including failure to provide written contracts or honor the most basic terms of consumers work agreements. Far too often, homeowners hire contractors without having signed documents stating what work will be done and how long it will take, Schneiderman said. And time and again, consumers end up with much larger bills than expected, or with projects that were never started or completed. They need to know their rights, and home improvement contractors must obey the law. My office will continue fighting to protect consumers hard-earned dollars and ensure that bad contractors are held accountable. Schneiderman said that the contractors in question have agreed to do home improvement work using only underwritten contracts that comply with the law. Additionally, they have agreed to put advance deposits from customers into a customer account at a local bank. The law states that every contractor doing home improvements must provide the homeowner with a written contract before beginning any work, which sets out certain specific information and disclosures. Schneiderman said that a contract must provide

AG Fines 15 Contractors in Dutchess, Putnam

Fifteen contractors from Dutchess and Putnam counties were among the 211 that were found to be in volation of the NYSs Home Improvement Contracts Law, according to Attorney General Eric Schneiderman proposed start and ending dates and include a description about work to be done. Contracts must include materials to be provided and the contractor must give notice that the consumer has an unconditional three-day right to cancel the contract without penalty. In addition, the law requires that any advance deposits taken by the contractor must be placed into an account at a banking institution separate from the contractors other funds, Schneiderman said. The contractor must notify the consumer of the banking institution at which the deposit is kept. Schneiderman said that homeowners need to be specific about what work they want done and should educate themselves about required permits needed for the work. Homeowners should shop

around and get references and proof of insurance from the contractor and check licenses. Never pay the full price up front, Schneiderman said. Always put work to be done in writing and know where the payments are going. Never do business with a contractor who is unwilling to abide by any of the conditions above. To report violations call the Attorney Generals consumer helpline at 1-800-771-7755. The following contractors were found to be in violation: Dutchess County Briggs Paving Inc., 211 Van Wagner Road, Poughkeepsie Builder Development Corp., 400 Route 9, Fishkill Landers Construction, 108 Reservoir Road, Staatsburg Malcarne Contracting Inc., 22 East Market St., Rhinebeck Michael Malloy - C&M HVAC, 11 Tymor Park Road, Lagrangeville Joe Schrotz, 75 West Long Meadow Drive, Staatsburg Thermo Cool, 153 Creamery Road, Hopewell Junction Putnam County De-Fence Inc., 12 Main St., Brewster J.G. Remodeling, 289 North Road, Mahopac Top Notch Overhead Door Inc., 4 Bayberry Hill Road, Mahopac Hudson Cabinet Making Inc., 84 Glenvue Drive, Carmel Dominick Garage Doors, 874 Drewville Road, Brewster Envirostar Corp., 50 Fields Lane, Brewster Fraiser Fence Co., LLC, 2499 Route 22, Patterson Guy Hoffman Home Improvement Contracting, 39 Barger St., Putnam Valley

Bedford Council Candidate Losses Independence Line

By Brian Donnelly bdonnelly@hudsonvalleyreporter.com BEDFORD, N.Y. - Bedford Town Council candidate Mary Beth Kass will not challenge for the Independence Party line after a judge invalidated her petition and then denied her request to reargue the decision. Kass, who is running on the Conservative and Republican lines, tried to change her enrollment from the Republican Party to the Independence Party last fall. This would have put her name on the ballot and forced a primary Sept. 10 with her opponent and Democratic Party candidate Meredith Black, who filed a lawsuit July 23 claiming she didnt meet the deadline to switch parties. The Westchester County Board of Elections received Kass form Oct. 13, which is the deadline to submit enrollment changes. However, Kass argued that she postmarked it for Oct. 12. State Supreme Court Judge Emmett Murphy ruled in favor of Black Aug. 2. He then denied Kass request to reargue the matter. Respondent has failed to demonstrate that this Court overlooked any relevant facts or misapplied any controlling principle of law in reaching its prior

decision, he wrote in the decision. Kass and Black are running to replace Peter Chryssos, while incumbent Republican Francis Corcoran will be challenged for his seat by Julie Vulpescu. Chris Burdick, a five-year Democratic council member, will run for supervisor against newcomer Don Scott. Current Supervisor Lee Roberts will not seek another term. Scott and incumbent Town Clerk Boo Fumagalli are both write-in candidates for the Independence Party primary on Sept. 10 through the opportunity to ballot process. Fumagalli has already secured the Republican and Conservative party lines Mary Beth Kass (left) will not challenge Meredith Black (right) for the for the Nov. 5 election. Independence Party line Sept. 10 after a judge invalidated her petition. The Democrats nominated Simone Improvement Society. She currently serves on the Shapiro as their candidate for town clerk. Bedford Energy Advisory Board and is the co-founder Democratic candidate Judy Aydelott will challenge and co-president of Bedford2020. Her opponent, Judge Erik Jacobsen for his seat, which will also have a Black, serves on the Bedford Zoning Board of primary Sept. 10 Appeals and is a land-use attorney with Zarin & Kass is the former president of the Katonah Village Steinmetz in White Plains.

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August 19-21, 2013

Study: Indian Point Among Most Vulnerable Nuclear Reactors to Terrorist Attack
By Michael Nocella mnocella@hudsonvalleyreporter.com BUCHANAN, N.Y. Entergys Indian Point Power Plants in Buchanan have been identified among the 11 reactors most vulnerable to terrorist attacks, according to a study released on Thursday. The study, Protecting U.S. Nuclear Facilities from Terrorist Attack: Re-assessing the Current Design Basis Threat Approach, found that none of the 104 commercial nuclear power reactors in the United States are protected against a maximum credible terrorist attack, such as the one perpetrated on Sept. 11, 2001. The report points out that some power plants are more vulnerable to terrorist attacks from the sea, as they are not required to protect against ship-borne attacks. In addition to Indian Point, reactors in this category include Diablo Canyon in California, St. Lucie in Florida, Brunswick in North Carolina, Millstone in Connecticut, Pilgrim in Massachusetts and the South Texas Project. Existing U.S. nuclear power plants were designed to withstand extreme environmental events like hurricanes and earthquakes, but their design analysis did not consider deliberate attacks using fuel-laden airliners, the report stated. in, means that there is no feasible way for used fuel to be accessed, let alone removed from the site, Steets said. If Indian Point ever fell victim to a terrorist attack, the consequences to public health, the environment and the economy would be catastrophic given its proximity to New York City, according to findings from Edwin Lyman of the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), which were used in the study. An attack that resulted in a core meltdown and a large radiological release to the environment could cause 44,000 short-term deaths and 500,000 long-term deaths from radiation, the report stated. He [Lyman] estimated economic damages at $2 trillion. Report co-author Professor Alan Kuperman, coordinator of the Nuclear Proliferation Prevention Project, said the point of the study was to raise awareness to how disastrous a terrorist attack on a nuclear power plant would be, and that there is not enough precaution taken considering the possible consequences. It would be a tragedy if the United States had to look back after such an attack on a nuclear reactor and say that we could have and should have done more to prevent the catastrophe, Kuperman said.

Indian Points two nuclear reactors are among the most vulnerable to a terrorist attack because of its access to water, according to a report released on Thursday. Entergy spokesperson Jim Steets said Indian Point is one of the most secure facilities in the world, regardless of the threat. More than $100 million has been spent on enhanced security infrastructure at Indian Point since 9/11, and the site is one of the most secure and hardened non-military facilities in the world, Steets told the Hudson Valley Reporter. The report also stated that another serious terrorism threat to reactors is the theft of fuel, which can be used to make nuclear weapons. The layers upon layers of security, not to mention the robust structures used fuel is stored

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Body of Missing POK Man Found

By Greg Maker the crash occurred but gmaker@hudsonvalleyreporter.com found nothing until they POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. - A city returned on Saturday of Poughkeepsie man who had been morning, when they reported missing was found dead found Deckers body Saturday in Bethlehem in Albany and his motorcycle. The County. Authorities said he died in state police said Deckers a single-vehicle motorcycle accident. body was found 127 The body of Eden Decker, 51, was feet off of the roadway found near County Road 32 and in dense vegetation. Creble Road at 10 a.m. Poughkeepsie The police said the area police had sent out a missing persons where Deckers body notice about Decker on Friday was found is somewhat saying he hadnt been seen since he isolated, which explains left for a motorcycle trip upstate on why his body wasnt Aug. 1. found for two weeks. Poughkeepsie police said a Eden Decker, 51, of the city of Poughkeepsie Police said the cause preliminary identification confirmed had been missing since he left Aug. 1 for an of the accident was the body was Deckers. State troopers upstate motorcycle trip. Photo courtesy of under investigation. from the New Scotland barracks in the City of Poughkeepsie Police Department THey said foul play had Albany County found Deckers 2002 been ruled out. Kawasaki motorcycle at the scene. Anyone with information on the accident or Poughkeepsie police said cellphone records who saw Decker on Aug. 3 is asked to call the showed that Decker had been at the crash site New York State Police at 518-768-8154 or the on Saturday, Aug. 3. State troopers said the crash city of Poughkeepsie Police Department at 845more than likely happened at 2:45 a.m. Aug. 3. 451-4142. Police said more information will be Troopers on Friday combed the area where released when it becomes available.

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Police: Somers Teen Throws Party in Neighbors Vacant Home

By Michael Nocella mnocella@hudsonvalleyreporter.com SOMERS, N.Y. A Somers teenager threw a house party in his neighbors home while they were on vacation, state police said. Brett Rozell, 18, was charged with second-degree criminal trespass and fourth-degree criminal mischief after organizing a large gathering at a private residence on Aug. 10, police said. Police said Rozell knew the home would be unoccupied while its owners were away on vacation. He allegedly got in through a sliding glass door and invited numerous guests to the home. Police said Rozell and his guests consumed alcoholic beverages, which they brought to the home. Guests also drank liquor and beer found in the residence. Rozell was released on a ticket directing him to appear in Somers Town Court.

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Police: Brewster Man Charged with Attempted Rape

By Dan Curtis dcurtis@hudsonvalleyreporter.com BREWSTER, N.Y. A Brewster man was arrested by New York State Police Tuesday and charged with attempted rape as a result of an incident in North Salem on Aug. 10. Fransico Borja Guerra, 44, of 52 Marvin Ave. in Brewster allegedly attempted to sexually assault a 21-year-old female acquaintance. The official charge is attempted rape in the first degree, a class C felony. He was arraigned in the Town of North Salem and held at Westchester County Jail on no bail. He is scheduled to appear in court Aug. 19.

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Police: Yonkers Man Arrested for Drugs in Kent

By Dan Curtis dcurtis@hudsonvalleyreporter.com KENT, N.Y.-- The Putnam County Sheriff s Office announced Aug. 15 that a Yonkers man was arrested for misdemeanor drug charges July 30. A deputy observed a vehicle parked in the middle of Nimham Road. Upon investigation, police say they observed the driver with with controlled substances in plain view. Edward Bodolato, 27, of Yonkers was charged with two counts of criminal possession of a controlled substance. He was released on $250 bail and is due in Kent Justice Court later this month. If found guilty, he could face up to a year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

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August 19-21, 2013

By Michelle Carter mcarter@hudsonvalleyreporter.com CARMEL, N.Y. - A Mahopac businessman accused of operating an illegal transfer and waste station off Barrett Hill Road in Carmel has had his civil case continued in state Supreme Court yet again, but his attorney said he is actively seeking to relocate the business. The town of Carmel and a group of neighbors are separately suing Robert Kissh; Mid-Hudson Waste Inc.; and their landlord, Albert Corbelli. They claim Kissh and Mid-Hudson Waste are operating an illegal transfer station in the quiet neighborhood. The town seeks to shut down the operation. The neighbors seek that and $3 million in damages for the noise, insects, smell, vermin and disruption they say they have suffered. Such activity is conducted at night time and on weekends in an attempt to conceal from authorities witnessing the activities being conducted at the Waste Facility, the neighbors lawsuit said. Attorneys representing Kissh and the town were in court Wednesday to hear a judges ruling on a cease and desist order filed June 26 by the town. After a conference in Justice Francis Nicolais chambers, Nicolai announced the hearing would be delayed two weeks so Kisshs attorney Joseph Fonseca, who had been on vacation, would have time to prepare a response. Although all parties were in court when the cease and desist order was filed, Nicolai said the original paperwork was missing and ordered it to be resubmitted. For the record, I oppose the extension, the towns attorney, Joseph Charbonneau, told the judge. The order to show cause has been issued since June and no answering affidavits have been provided. I see no need for an extension. Ive known both attorneys a long time, Nicolai responded. They are both diligent. Obviously there is some sort of office snafu here, and I dont want to penalize anyone for that. Although clearly annoyed by the delay, Charbonneau declined to comment outside of court, citing the ongoing nature of the litigation. At the center of the dispute is a property at 21 Ernest Lane[http://goo.gl/maps/CRMA6], off Barrett Hill Road. Carmel Building Department records show that in 1991, approval was granted to expand the pre-existing, nonconforming use of the property as a parking lot for repossessed cars to an area of 200 feet by 275 feet. Albert Corbelli purchased the property in 1995. Neighbors and the town claim the property is being used for far more than parking cars. The town has issued 16 formal citations each to Kissh and Corbelli alleging illegally constructed garages for which no permits were applied for or issued, altering a freshwater wetland without a permit, illegally storing and repairing trucks and trash bins, changing the use of the lot without approval, and expanding the size of the lot without approval. Each citation carries with it a $1,000 per week fine and a year in jail. The state Department of Environmental Conservation is investigating the alleged wetland violations.

Alleged Illegal Transfer Station in Carmel Still in Court; Owner Seeks to Relocate to Fishkill

A view of the Mid-Hudson Waste property in Carmel from Barrett Hill Road. Photo by Michelle Carter

These are just the latest in a string of legal filings against Kissh. Just since January, Kissh has had more than $52,000 in legal judgments against him, with $79,000 more making its way through the courts. Carmel attorney Joseph Fonseca is defending Kissh and Corbelli. He denied any wrongdoing by his clients, saying the property is simply used for parking and the occasional repair, when things break down from time to time, as they do. He cited judgments and lawsuits against Kissh and MidHudson Waste by trash haulers Waste Management and AAA Carting as proof that Mid-Hudson is not operating a transfer station, but simply parking the vehicles which haul debris to other transfer stations. This property has been used in this fashion for the better part of 40 years, Fonseca said. Ive always made the comparison of the person who buys the house next to the airport and then screams bloody murder. Fonseca said the property has been used to park plenty of heavy equipment over the years, including backhoes, bulldozers and landscaping equipment from a time Criminal Defense when Corbelli owned a contracting company, DWI / DuI and neighbors are Drug Offenses unhappy in part because they paid top dollar for Vehicle & Traffic Violations their homes just before Personal Injury the market collapsed in 2008. Real Estate None of the activities Wills, Trusts & Estates going on there rise to the level of a waste transfer Business Law station as defined by statute. Theres nothing Landlord/Tenant Law going on that falls outside the norm, Fonseca said. The town is being politically pressured by these vocal neighbors to shut down the operations

because of the noise. Unfortunately, the property has been zoned as light industrial since day one, and unfortunately developers built residential units around the property. (Neighbors) bought at the height of the market, but similar homes in more attractive settings were 15-20 percent higher in price, so they got them on the cheap because they were next to a light industrial property. You cant buy next to the train station and complain about the noise, but this is the same thing. An attorney for the neighbors, William Shilling, did not return repeated calls for comment. Fonseca argued that his clients have improved the property and the area by removing trash and debris that was improperly buried in the 1960s. He also said the DEC investigation into wetland violations turned up nothing, which the Hudson Valley Reporter was unable to confirm by press time. Fonseca said that Kissh is sensitive to the neighbors needs and that Kissh has kept him on a pretty short leash. I still think this can be resolved amicably, Fonseca said. But (Kissh) has been actively looking to relocate to Fishkill. Kissh and Mid-Hudson Waste are due back in court to face the neighbors on Aug. 19, and the town on Sept. 6. To see copies of the court documents visit http://bit. ly/1eWyN5Z or scan the qr code.

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The Bat Rises: 51 Found in Westchester Homes

By Brian Donnelly bdonnelly@hudsonvalleyreporter.com WESTCHESTER COUNTY, N.Y. - The number of bats found in Westchester homes rose sharply in August, and the county Department of Health has tips on how to catch them so they can be tested for rabies. In the past week alone, 51 bats were found in Westchester homes and brought in for rabies testing, up from 30 during the same period last year. During the first two weeks of August, 16 more were reported, but not caught. Those people sought preventative rabies treatment. While 97 percent of the bats tested dont have rabies, a series of life-saving vaccines must begin soon after exposure to a bat. From 1995 to 2011, 49 people died of rabies in the U.S; 35 of them had been exposed to bats, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Wed like everyone to catch the bat, Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler, said. Most of the time, the bats tested are not rabid, so you and your family can be spared unneeded treatment. But rabies is fatal, so without the bat to test, you will most likely have to get rabies shots. About 148 Westchester residents have required rabies treatment after being exposed to bats that couldnt be coffee can), a piece of cardboard and some tape. Wait until the bat has settled on a wall. Place the container over the bat, trapping it against the wall. Slide the cardboard between the wall and container to trap the bat inside. Tape the cardboard to the container Its critical to keep the bat on ice in a cooler or double-bag it and place it in the freezer.

There were 51 bats found and caught in Westchester homes during one week in August. Photo courtesy of Flickr user kqedquest caught during the last five years. From 1995 to 2011, 49 people died of rabies in the U.S., and 35 of them had been exposed to bats, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To help people safely catch bats that get into their home, the county Department of Health created a video tutorial that can be seen at http://bit.ly/150H3Aj. It recommends you: Close windows and doors so the bat cannot escape. Wear thick gloves and grab a container (such as a

Call the Health Department at 914-813-5000 for advice on submitting the bat for testing. The health department also recommends batproofing your home by adding screens to your eaves and attic openings. Bats often hide inside closed patio umbrellas, so beware when you open it. If theres a chance that a person or pet in your house had contact with the bat, catch that bat and call the health department at 914-813-5000 to arrange to have it tested for rabies. The health department advises residents to assume there was contact with a bat whenever one is found in a room with a sleeping or mentally impaired person or with a young child or pet. It is essential to call the Westchester County Health Department at 914- 813-5000.

continued from page 1 report into its assessment of impediments, the last barrier separating Westchester from compliance with the settlement. With the administration refusing to comply, HUD will now reallocate the $7.4 million in grants it has been holding up since 2011. Westchester County has had four years to comply with the terms of the settlement and prepare an analysis of impediments to fair housing choice acceptable to HUD, HUD Deputy Secretary Maurice Jones said. In a letter to County Executive Rob Astorino, Jones said: My prior letter alerted you that time was of the essence, and provided a reasonable way forward to meet fair housing obligations. The Countys response makes clear that it refuses to offer anything that is responsive to HUDs request. The county analyzed all 853 of its zoning districts and submitted to HUD more than 2,000 pages of its own analyses of impediments to fair and affordable housing. HUD rejected the study, and Astorino maintains there are no impediments. Theres no way were signing anything that asks us to come up with a conclusion that cant be justified, said Ned McCormack, spokesman for Westchester County. HUD in effect wants us to do an analysis of impediments where we just adopt what they want us to adopt, and were not going to do that, because our findings, which were comprehensive, do not suggest what HUD wants us to come up with. A judge on Thursday dismissed the countys lawsuit against HUD over the reallocation of the 2011 community development block grants. Without a court proceeding holding up the $7.4 million in grants, the ball is, again, in HUDs court to decide the fate of those funds, McCormack said. If HUD does reallocate the $7.4 million, the state

HUD Plans to Reallocate $7.4M After Westchester Lets Deadline Pass

said Thursday that it would be willing to administer them in place of the county. Westchester officials are hoping the money is released to the residents who need it the most. Now, the ball is in HUDs court to see if they want to let the money be released to the people that it is for, McCormack said. This money is for some of its neediest residents. However, Jones said that under applicable law, those funds cannot be reallocated through the state for distribution to local governments in Westchester, and in effect, relieve the county of its legal obligations. He added that county officials are depriving its citizens of funding for infrastructure improvements in choosing to disregard its civil rights and federal grantee obligations. I want to be clear that for the funds to go to the Westchester Urban County, the county must comply with its legal obligation to meet fair housing requirements, he said. HUD has tried to be a partner with the county, but the county is unwilling to comply with the terms of the settlement. HUD will now proceed to reallocate the funds, which will be put to use primarily in communities within the New York metropolitan area that are willing to meet their legal obligations. Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Ken Jenkins (D-Yonkers) echoed Jones assessment and said the countys decision is now costing the countys taxpayers. The federal government gave the Astorino administration every opportunity to comply with the requirements attached to receiving these essential block grants and program funds, he said. Instead, County Executive Astorinos continuing fight with the federal government has reached a point where it will now cost Westchester taxpayers over $7million. Meanwhile, some towns named in the report are still scratching their heads over what exactly constitutes exclusionary zoning. The town of Ossining, for one, was surprised to be named in the report and has a meeting with James Johnson next week for further explanation. Johnson is the federal monitor overseeing the housing settlement and also conducted the July 31 study, which named the seven municipalities. Were not sure what he means and we need to sit down and talk to him, Donnelly said. We have multifamily houses. We consider our condo developments multifamily. We have a multifamily building at the corner of Chappaqua and North State Road. So were waiting to sit down and go over it with him what he meant by that. Part of the 2011 CDBG grants were allocated to fund phase two of a streetscape project in Peekskill. With those funds now gone, the city has applied for a transportation enhancement program (TEP) grant that would reimburse it for $788,000, or 80 percent of the estimated costs. The proposed streetscape improvement project would make improvements to the sidewalks and curbing and add historic lights to the area from South Street and Union Avenue down to Brown Street by the Elks lodge, Mayor Mary Foster said. Of the $7.4 million, $5.37 million would have gone toward of CDBG programs, $1.65 million for the HOME Investment Partnership program, which is used to build affordable housing, and $405,939 for the Emergency Shelter / Solutions Grant program, which is used for homeless prevention and rapid re-housing services. The 2012 and 2013 CDBG grants totaling more than $10 million are still in jeopardy if the county maintains its position.

HudsonValleyReporter.com

August 19-21, 2013

By Dan Curtis dcurtis@hudsonvalleyreporter.com PUTNAM VALLEY, N.Y. Putnam Valley residents may get their long-awaited wish of an overpass at the Pudding Street intersection on the Taconic State Parkway. After securing $1 million in federal funding to assess a plan for the site, state Sen. Terry Gipson held an open meeting Wednesday at Putnam Valley Fire Station 1, where he discussed the project with local officials, state transportation department representatives, and Putnam Valley residents. Pudding Street is the last remaining grade-level crossing on the Taconic State Parkway in Putnam County. A plan for an overpass was first created in 2003 but was delayed due to modifications of NYSDOT project schedules. Local residents and officials are hope the funding acquired by Gipson is a step toward getting something done to mitigate danger at the intersection. Im very happy that he has actually started the ball rolling on this, said Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Bob Tendy. Weve been told for years that this is going to happen, and it clearly is going to take more than just promises, so Im glad that hes aware of that. Tendy echoed residents concerns regarding the dangers school buses face. He said buses drive through the Pudding Street intersection more than 20 times per day throughout the school year. Theyre not exactly NASCAR, said Tendy of the school buses .

Sen. Gipson Pushes for Pudding Street Overpass

Putnam County Legislator Sam Oliverio (left), Senator Terry Gipson (center) and Putnam Valley Town Supervisor Bob Tendy, Wednesday night, discussed a potential overpass at Pudding Street intersection on Taconic State Parkway. You have cars coming 70-80 mph, and during rush hour, its extremely busy and you have buses that have had real close calls, and some have actually been involved in accidents. Youre talking about a real dangerous situation, which is not going to improve. Its a constant fear if you speak to any of the bus drivers on that route, they will tell you. Gipson took office seven months ago and he said the danger at the Pudding Street intersection was one of the first issues brought to his attention by the Putnam Valley Town Board. They [the Town Board] said for 10 years theyve been trying to get this intersection built in a safer way, to possibly have an overpass built it became very clear to me that this was something

that I needed to work on so I took it up, Gipson said. So now were off to the right start trying to get it done. Gipson said the $1 million in funding is a step in the right direction and he wants to make sure that investment does not go to waste. We want to make sure these investments pay off in the long run, and the real key to this is just staying on it, staying committed, which I will be, and over time these investments will result in a much safer intersection, Gipson said. New York State Department of Transportation is optimistic that construction of an overpass at Pudding Street will take place, and Gipson hopes the department will be able to take the first step by identifying a design team by the end of the year. Resources are what they are, and all agencies across all levels of government are struggling, said Bill Gorton, acting regional director for thre Trandportation Departments Region 8. We have to identify the design people now to work on it. I would think by the end of the year we will have identified the plan to start engaging the community but it wont be in the next month or two. Putnam County Legislator Sam Oliverio thanked Gipson for his attempts to bring a new overpass to the Pudding Street intersection. I want to thank Senator Gipson for his leadership in getting this project off the ground and continuing to move it forward, Oliverio said. The Pudding Street project will make Putnam Valley a safer community.

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August 19-21, 2013

Hudson Valley Reporter

Legal Experts: Only Losers in Levy v. Smith Case

By Michelle Carter mcarter@hudsonvalleyreporter.com PUTNAM COUNTY, N.Y. - Legal experts agree on one thing: There is no best-case scenario in the battle between Putnam County District Attorney Adam Levy and Putnam Sheriff Donald Smith. The relationship has deteriorated so badly, said Bennett Gershman, a professor of law and ethics at Pace University Law School. Levys allegations, as inflammatory as they are, and the kinds of statements Don Smith has made, I dont see how you can referee this. I dont see a best-case scenario here. Gershman, who specializes in prosecutorial misconduct and wrongful convictions, was aware of the defamation lawsuit that Levy has filed against Smith, Putnam D.A. Adam Levy Sheriff Don Smith but had not read it when interviewed. I think these people have both behaved from Westchester. In the lawsuit, Levy said these irresponsibly, and the only scenario that can end actions are all memorialized in a voice mail left on this is where both or either one of them is thrown his confidential secretarys cellphone just 12 minutes out of office, Gershman said. They should both be after she first texted him at 4:10 p.m. March 13. told to shut up. He said he then called Krauss to confirm the In filing his lawsuit Wednesday, Levy emphasized Westchester District Attorneys Office was on board, he is suing Smith as an individual and not in his and to offer any help he could. Knowing that child capacity as sheriff. Levy said it was because Smiths sex offenders frequently have multiple victims, actions went far beyond the scope of his official he said he made sure to advise Krauss that Hossu duties. He implied that he would drop the suit if he had worked with children at a local camp and had cannot sue Smith as an individual, to diminish the provided personal training sessions to a teenage impact on Putnam taxpayers. friend of Levys daughter. Cathryn Lavery, chairwoman of the Criminal Levy said in an interview that aside from his Justice Department at Iona College, said its up to role as district attorney, he was saddened that no a judge to decide in what capacity the suit would one from the sheriff s office contacted him to warn affect Smith. him of the investigation, since Hossu was known to The judge will have to decide, as it will determine spend a good deal of time with Levys children. He whether he used his position to defame the plaintiff, also said Smith erred in politicizing the case and not Lavery said. If so, that could have an effect on the asking other potential victims to come forward. damages as well as the taxpayers. Levys suit alleges a history of poor investigatory To win his suit, Levy must prove not just that practices with child sex crimes by the Sheriff s Smiths statements were false, but that Smith knew Department, and goes on to detail each area of they were false or that he made them with reckless the investigation against Hossu which the Sheriff s disregard for whether they were false, Lavery said. Department is alleged to have bungled. The decision Central to the suit is the March 20 arrest of by sheriff s investigators to interview the alleged Alexandru Hossu for the alleged rape of a young victim without waiting for or even attempting to girl. At the time, Smith told the media that Hossu contact the Westchester assistant district attorney was Levys live-in personal trainer, and repeatedly who Smith knew was waiting for his call, was not accused Levy and his office of improperly interfering only extremely suspicious, but also violated the with the investigation. Putnam County CAC [Child Advocacy Center] In the lawsuit, Levy said he was on vacation with Interagency Principles and New York State Executive his family when he was texted by his confidential Law and New York State Social Service Law. secretary, Laurie Mainey, to contact Assistant Levys suit alleged that instead of investigating the District Attorney Laura Roberts immediately. In the crime, sheriff s deputies tried to link Hossu to Levys suit, Levy details each text and phone call made the address. When they were unsuccessful in getting night he learned Hossu was under investigation. this information from the Department of Motor Levy says that within 12 minutes of the initial Vehicles or the U.S. Postal Service, Levy alleges, they text, he had contacted Roberts; confirmed his close staged a traffic stop March 19 in which Hossu was relationship with Hossu; recused his office from compelled to display his drivers license, which had the investigation; and contacted Putnams senior Levys address. Levy says that Hossu received mail child sex crimes prosecutor, Chana Krauss, and at his home and spent the night on occasion but did informed her of the same. He also says he ordered not live there. If Hossu was the violent criminal that her to contact the Westchester district attorneys Smiths office alleged, why didnt the deputy who child sex crimes unit immediately to ask for issued him a traffic ticket take him into custody? assistance, and had her immediately contact Judge Levy asked, noting that Hossu was formally arrested Alan Scheinkman to apprise him of the recusal and just 24 hours later. ask him to immediately assign a special prosecutor After a week of investigations had turned up nothing to support an arrest, Levys suit alleges, a deputy who was a friend of Hossus visited Hossus home at Clocktower Commons on March 20 while wearing a hidden recording device in an attempt to obtain a confession. Although no confession was made, deputies then went to Patterson Town Court to obtain a warrant for Hossus arrest. The warrant had the Clocktower Commons address on it. Gershman, the Pace University law professor, said there are ethical considerations for essentially trying a criminal case via a civil suit. Here youre disclosing a whole array of factual matters that might very well suggest a bungled investigation, and thats something a defense attorney can use quite effectively, Gershman said. This can only help the defendant, Hossu. This cannot help the prosecution. Gershman said that if Levys allegations have merit, then certainly action must be taken to correct any issues for the future. However, the allegations provide strong footing for any attorney who wants to challenge a prosecution, specifically one involving child sex crimes. If there is a basis for Levys claim that the Sheriff s Department investigators did not properly investigate child abuse allegations, I think this could affect other cases where there is a similar concern that the matter was not fully and properly investigated, Gershman said. It would certainly give a lawyer a basis to make that kind of allegation without being accused of being reckless. Likewise, if parents thought that law enforcement werent investigating these kinds of cases properly, they may be worried about bringing such a case and exposing themselves. I think it could have a rippling effect going forward. Lavery advised caution before reaching such conclusions. I believe we need to have faith in our jury process and that they will be able to sort through facts and evidence, if the said case moves to a trial, and we still dont know if it will, Lavery said. We are still in beginning stages of this defamation case, and both sides have taken solid stands. So in the interim, it will be a waiting game. Regardless of which side prevails, the citizens of Putnam will suffer, and their wallets likely will, too, Gershman said. If youre talking about stopping crime and protecting the community, people dont have hope for that when they see a sheriff and a D.A. fighting like this. The people are getting very badly damaged by the process here, Gershman said. Officials seem to have put that on the back burner in order to focus on their own egos, and this is the consequence. Its really disconcerting for anyone who cares about a justice system that works. To see a copy of the lawsuit visit http://bit.ly/126paik or scan the qr code.

HudsonValleyReporter.com

August 19-21, 2013

Mt. Kisco Holiday Inn to be Renovated

By Michael Nocella mnocella@hudsonvalleyreporter.com MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. The Holiday Inn in Mount Kisco will receive a face-lift in early 2014 under the new ownership of Roedel Cos. The New Hampshire-based hotel owner/ operators company recently added the full service 122-room Holiday Inn to its portfolio for $8.5 million. It then announced that the hotel will undergo a multimillion-dollar renovation to update all public spaces including the lobby, corridors, meeting and banquet rooms, and a repositioned restaurant. The hotel will remain open while undergoing these changes, which will begin in the first quarter of 2014. David Roedel, a partner of Roedel Cos., explained that the primary goal of the renovations is to enhance the customer experience by adding to recent work done to the facility already. The guest rooms were recently renovated and are in great condition, Roedel said. By updating the public areas, and repositioning and rebranding the restaurant, our customers will be able to enjoy all aspects of the hotel from check-in to check-out. Roedel said the organization brought together a highly experienced group of partners under one roof specifically to renovate and operate the project. That team includes ROK Builders, Roedel Cos. used the same approach, which it coined Hotels. Done Right, for a La Quinta Inn and Suites in Manchester, N.H. and Holiday Inn Express and Suites in Merrimack, N.H. Simply put, this will not be Roedels first rodeo. By utilizing the groups combined industry experience, we are able to maximize every dollar invested in this project, Roedel said. Well do so by strategically applying the in-depth expertise our team has accrued during nearly 45 years of successful hotel development, construction, management, and design to meet the projects The 1 Holiday Inn Drive property was recently sold for $8.5 specific needs. The Mount Kisco Holiday Inn is at 1 Holiday million to Roedel Companies. Photo by Michael Nocella Inn Drive. It was formerly owned by Floridaa hotel construction affiliate of Roedel Cos. based Kisco Motel Associates. HK Group, that will oversee the renovation, and RGH which served as the broker for the deal, said Hospitality, a hotel management subsidiary the sale of the property keeps in line with the of Roedel Cos. that will run the hotel. RSJ industrys recent upward trend. Associates will handle interior design and The sale represents increasing interest procurement. and improvements in the hospitality market, The team does not lack experience. HK Group said in an announcement. The ROK Builders has 45 years of experience hospitality market has come a long way back developing, constructing, managing and from its low point of 2008 to 2009. designing hotels for its own account and third Lodging in the Hudson Valley grew by 4 parties, while RGH Hospitality has a vast resume, percent ($358.1 million) in 2012, and hotel which includes work with national hotel brands occupancy rose 0.9 percent to 69.7 percent, JOB 9-412 La Quinta Inns and Suites, Hilton Garden Inn according to statistics provided by the state hotels, Hampton Inn and 8.75 XSuites 5.25and Holiday Inn Department of Economic Development as of Express properties. RSJ Associates has worked June 28. HUDSON VALLEY REPORTER with Roedel Cos. on 10 hotel renovations.

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Your Community, Your News August 19-21, 2013

Hudson Valley Reporter

Westchester county distribution Points Reporter

BEDFORD Bedford Playhouse 633 old Post rd, Bedford Bedford Gourmet 652 old Post road, Bedford Bedford Free Library 32 village Green, Bedford Village Green Deli 26 village Green Bedford, Bedford A&P Fresh 422 old Post road, Bedford Bedford Pharmacy 424 old Post road, Bedford Pizza Station 27 Parkway #1, katonah Scgaglios 127 katonah avenue, katonah Village Market 93 katonah avenue, katonah Katonah Library 26 Bedford road, katonah Kellogg and Lawrence Hardware Store 26 Parkway, katonah Sunoco Gas Station 105 Bedford road, katonah Mrs. Greens Natural Market 202 katonah avenue, katonah Mobil Gas Station 193 Pound ridge road, Bedford Bedford Town Hall 321 Bedford road, Bedford Hills Bedford Shell Service Center 848 S Bedford Rd BRIARCLIFF Briarcliff A&P 1886 Pleasantville rd croTon-on-HuDSon Croton A & P 2005 albany Post road Croton Library 171 cleveland Street Black Cow 51 Maple Street Save Mor Pharmacy 175 S. riverside ave Croton Shoprite Super Market 490 S. riverside ave New York Sports Club 420 S. riverside ave corTlanDT Montrose Library 185 kings Ferry road Da-Ros Deli 2146 old albany Post road Two Brothers Pizzeria 2146 old albany Post road Coles Deli 2147 albany Post road Montrose Deli 4 kings Ferry road

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PROUD SPONSOR PROUD SPONSOR 256 route 100, lincolndale Stop and Shop Premier Athletic Club Froggys Deli 246 S. Highland ave 2127 albany Post road 253 route 100, Somers C-Town Montrose Veterans Nursing Home Somers Pharmacy 100 croton avenue 2090 albany Post road 336 route 100, Somers Ossining Library- 20 Montrose Beer & Soda Somers Town Hall 53 croton ave. (route. 133) 2039 albany Post road 335 route 100, Somers Town/Village Hall Village Dorio Bakery & Deli Fratellis Pizza 16 croton ave (route. 133) 24 old albany Post road 1 Heritage Hills Drive, Somers Angelis Deli Val Bens Butchers PeekSkill 130 Broadway 8 Heritage Hills Drive, Somers Drum Hill Retirement Panera Bread Putnam County Savings Bank 90 ringgold Street 3083 east Main Street, cortlandt Manor 249 route 202, Somers Mobil Gas Station ShopRite Somers Diner 4100 albany Post road 2094 east Main Street, cortlandt Manor 155 route 202, Somers Westchester Diner New City Diner Cardillo Super Deli 300 albany Post rd. S 3825 crompond road, cortlandt Manor Your Community, YourPeekskill News Your Community, Your News lovell Street, lincolndale A&P FieldHome Somers Library 20 Welcher ave 2300 catherine Street, cortlandt Manor 82 Primrose Street, Somers HV Gateway Chamber of Commerce Yorktown Chamber of Commerce 1 S Division Street. 3565 crompond road, cortlandt Manor YorkToWn Bean Runner Caf Hudson Valley Hospital Center Mohegan Lake A&P 201 S. Division Street. 1980 crompond road, cortlandt Manor 1008 Main Street, Mohegan lake Nellies Caf DiCiccos Food Market 1008 Main Street. leWiSBoro 3651 lee rd, Jefferson valley Kathleens Tea Room Goldens Bridge A&P Yorktown Heights A&P 979 Main Street route 22 and route 138 100 Triangle center, Yorktown Heights Peekskill Coffee House Maggie Mays Yogurt Panera 101 South Division Street 100 Goldens Bridge Shopping center Triangle Shopping ctr., Yorktown Heights Peekskill City Hall Dunkin Donuts/Baskin Robbins Mrs. Greens Market 840 Main Street 100 Goldens Bridge Shopping center Triangle Shopping ctr., Yorktown Heights Field Library Yorktown Community/Senior Center 4 nelson ave MounT kiSco 1974 commerce Street, Yorktown Heights Peekskill Stop & Shop Mount Kisco Town Hall Friendlys 1831 Main Street 104 Main Street. 1983 commerce Street, Yorktown Heights Mount Kisco Public Library PounD riDGe Beaver Ridge Senior Home 100 e. Main Street. Maggie Mays Frozen alan avenue, Yorktown Heights M&R Deli Yogurt and Ice Cream Yorktown Town Hall 135 Main Street 73 Westchester avenue 363 underhill avenue, Yorktown Heights Coach Diner Scotts Corner Market Yorktown Police Department 252 Main Street. 55 Westchester avenue 2281 crompond road, Yorktown Heights UPS Store Pinnochios Pizza John C. Hart Library 487 e. Main Street. #2 69 Westchester avenue 1130 east Main Street, Shurb oak Northern Westchester Hospital Chubbys Hardware Store Shrub Oak A & P 400 e Main Street Mt kisco 68 Westchester avenue 1366 e. Main Street Shrub oak Pound Ridge Nurseries 6 JV Bagels neW caSTle Pound ridge road east Main St. Shrub oak Millwood A&P Pound Ridge Town Hall Mohegan Diner 230 Saw Mill river rd 179 Westchester avenue route 6, Mohegan lake Tazza Caf SoMerS 230 Saw Mill river road, Millwood Somers Stop & Shop Rockys Millwood Deli 80 Birdsall road, Baldwin Place 235 Saw Mill river road, Millwood Somers Deli Tonino Pizzeria 238 Saw Mill river rd, Millwood New Castle Community Center The Hudson Valley Reporter is distributed in 10 Senter Street, chappaqua, Putnam, Dutchess and Westchester counties. New Castle Town Hall For a complete listing in other counties, visit 200 S. Greeley ave, chappaqua Chappaqua Library www.hudsonvalleyreporter.com. 200 S. Greeley ave, chappaqua

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August 19-21, 2013

11

Tribal Love at Nimham Pow Wow in Kent

By Dan Curtis dcurtis@hudsonvalleyreporter.com Kent, N.Y. Putnam County residents flocked over the weekend to Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park for the 13th annual Daniel Nimham Intertribal Pow Wow to honor veterans. Hosted by the Nimham Mountain Singers and co-hosted by Red Storm Drum and Dance Troupe, the event consists of storytelling, veterans songs, intertribal dancing, a tribute to women veterans, Native American Grammy Winner Joseph Crow, childrens dances, a birds of prey exhibit, pony rides, tee pee displays, and more. Parking and admission are free. The first 100 people who arrived each day that donated $20 received a specially made pin of the Wappinger Monument. Caption: Intertribal dancing Saturday at Daniel Nimham Pow Wow at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park. Photos by Dan Curtis

Poughkeepsie Hospital Workers Rally to Become Unionized

In todays society unfortunately, hospitals are more about the funding than taking care of workers and workers rights, Peterson said. They have to stand up for themselves. We have workers who have been here for 25 years and when they walk out the door they have nothing. Peterson noted the tough economic times and the importance of workers being able to sit at a table with their employer to negotiate. Peterson said that if contract negotiations are left solely to the employer, employees will not get a fair deal. Why cant we be part of the process from the beginning instead of getting the crumbs at the end of the year? Peterson said. Employee Ryan OShea said she has been working at St. Francis Hospital for four years as St. Francis Hospital workers rallied outside the facility on a monitor technician and is currently in school Thursday demanding that they be allowed to unionize. Photo to become a registered nurse. OShea, whose by Greg Maker mother and grandfather both worked at St. By Greg Maker Francis Hospital, said that she loves the hospital gmaker@hudsonvalleyreporter.com and wants to be able to continue working there POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. - Health care workers when she graduates from college, but said at St. Francis Hospital in the city of Poughkeepsie workers need better health benefits and wages. rallied on the street outside the facility Thursday We want to work with management to get to demand to become part of Local 1099 of the better patient care, OShea said. The reason Service Employees International that we are focused on forming a union is so we Anthony Peterson, lead organizer for can finally have a voice without management SEIU1199 which represents healthcare workers, dictating to us. We want to work with them to said that he wants all of the approximately 800 make this hospital a better place. If we work with workers at the hospital to become unionized. the administration we can have better staffing Peterson said currently about 30 maintenance levels and equipment to improve patient care. workers at the hospital are a part of Union 1199 Our health insurance is atrocious at the moment but none of the more than 500 service workers or and our raises are not predictable. 300 registered nurse are. Peterson said that even Poughkeepsie Councilwoman Ann Perry, though the maintenance workers belong to the who once worked at St. Francis Hospital as a union, they still are not able to get a standard technician, said the workers are not against the contract. hospital, and just want better wages and working

conditions. Its a different generation of employees and they deserve a union to help organize their lives, Perry said. A lot of people cant speak for themselves. If they have a union that can bargain for them there is a good chance the employer will pay a little more attention to their demands. I think that every company that hires employees should have a union to bargain for them. Peterson said that unionizing the employees would set standards for rules adding that employees at the hospital cant currently negotiate their terms of employment. Peterson said that if unionized, employees would have a true grievance procedure that could be settled by a third party if necessary. There are registered nurses here that dont have health coverage because they cant afford it, Peterson said. Health care workers cant afford to get sick, and thats a shame. Calls to St. Francis Hospital seeking comment were not returned.

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August 19-21, 2013

Hudson Valley Reporter

By Greg Maker gmaker@hudsonvalleyreporter.com POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. - The red and white flag of Poland flew proudly in the city of Poughkeepsie on Saturday as St. Josephs Church celebrated its annual Polish Fest. Hundreds of people lined up on Lafayette Street to sample a taste of Polish culture. From food such as kielbasa and pierogies to beer to traditional Polish clothing and jewelry, festival goers had a chance to sample everything Polish. Polka music played from the speakers as people young and old danced along. Krzysztof Mroczek, a teacher at St. Josephs

Poughkeepsie Celebrates Polish Culture

Churchs School of Polish Language, said people traveled from all over Dutchess County as well as New York City and Long Island for the celebration. Were a small Polish community and we are scattered a bit, but our friends and families are here to show their pride, Mroczek said. PolishAmericans played a big part in this country when it first started. Its important that we get together and show people that we are proud Polish-Americans. To see more photos visit: http:// bit.ly/16AunT1 or scan the qr code. St. Josephs Church in the City of Poughkeepsie held Polish Fest on Saturday.

HudsonValleyReporter.com

August 19-21, 2013

13

Senior Facility in Carmel Holds Grand Re-opening

By Dan Curtis dcurtis@hudsonvalleyreporter.com CARMEL, N.Y. Wednesday evening a ribboncutting ceremony marked the grand re-opening of The Plaza at Clover Lake in Carmel with the introduction of 65 Medicaid beds. The new Assisted Living Program (ALP) allows the facility to take in people who are on Medicaid or cannot afford private means of payment. There had previously been no assisted living facilities in Putnam County that offer ALP,

Big Turnout for Annual Peekskill Italian Feast

according to Charles Edouard Gros of Center Management Group, which owns The Plaza at Clover Lake. This is a dream come true. There are so many residents in Putnam County that have been vying for this service for different reasons, Gros said. Many assisted livings are five, six or seven thousand dollars a month. Here you get the same service no matter what, and many people lost money in the stock market or didnt save up enough, so this allows us to The Plaza at Clover Lake held a ribbon cutting ceremony and celebrated the take care of addition of 65 Medicaid beds to their facility. everybody. Amitai Dagan, director of business and Gros says that The Plaza development at The Plaza at Clover Lake, is excited at Clover Lake now offers that quality of care will no longer be measured by the complete package how deep patients pockets are. and he thinks it is second We are able to offer the same amenities, the same to none in Putnam services, and the same quality of care and quality County. of life for those that are not as financially stable as The people have a those that could afford private living, Dagan said. much better life here, Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell was Gros said. They have an present at the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and she The Peekskill Italian Feast drew more people than ever on Friday, feast director Ken apartment as opposed is glad that seniors no longer have to worry about Chiocchi said. Photos by Michael Nocella to some nursing homes their savings drying up. that have two or three in At least you know if you outlive your resources a bedroom. The state is you wont be kicked to the curb and put out on the saving money and people street, Odell said. That offers a huge piece of mind here are happy as can be. moving forward.

By Michael Nocella mnocella@hudsonvalleyreporter.com PEEKSKILL, N.Y. Even though the festivities were scaled back in comparison to the festivals first three years, the fourth annual Peekskill Italian Feast was a huge success. Friday night was the biggest turnout in the history of the feast, said Ken Chiocchi, who ran the feast for the first time on short notice. We pulled it off, he said. We accomplished in six weeks what normally takes six months. Chiocchi said this years feast was scaled back after the event in its first three years became a bit overwhelming. We keyed it down to make it feel more traditional, he said. It was starting to feel like Woodstock there for a while, which is not what this weekend is all about. What the weekend is all about is good food, good people and good fun, Chiocchi said. There appeared to be plenty of that on hand, as a strolling festival band, a disc jockey and an accordion player put on multiple performances, in addition to a Saturday night appearance by Sugarush a Top 40 band. On Saturday afternoon, Dance Expression of Westchester performed at the feast for the first time to a large crowd. Chiocchi said the aura of the weekend was exactly what he envisioned. This weekend is about having no negativity, he said. Its about everyone coming together no matter what race or nationality you are. The positivity going on here is great for the Peekskill community. One hiccup of that positivity occurred with a miscommunication over who was allowed to sell beer at the feast. The Paramount, which had a sign outside saying Craft Beer Here, caused some confusion as customers were then told they could drink those beers only inside the Paramount and not outside at the feast. Feast vendors were the only ones on hand permitted to sell beer outside. I dont want to get political about it but, essentially, the feast is the only one allowed to sell beer at the feast, Chiocchi said. Its a big part of how this event is funded.

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August 19-21, 2013

Hudson Valley Reporter

Hudson Valley School Districts Struggle with Lawsuit Burdens

continued from page 1 also has a two-tiered mediation system in place before a special education challenge can head to court. Although the system should theoretically decrease the number of suits filed, it increases mediation costs, which are also high. Lowry said the Hudson Valley sees more of that kind of lawsuit than other areas of the state, because there are many great special education schools in Connecticut where parents seek to send their children. He said the problem is complicated by a Supreme Court ruling a few years ago that shifted the burden from parents to prove their children are not being served properly to the district to prove it is doing everything possible. Croton-Harmon Schools Superintendent Edward Furhman said special education suits are so common they are frequently settled out of court quickly to save money and get services to a student faster. He called schools inability to educate the public about such a large portion of the budget frustrating. Privacy is important and we have every respect for it, Fuhrman said. But were concerned there doesnt seem to be a clear way to educate people regarding this expense that wont in some way violate peoples rights. He said that even in cases where there isnt a formal gag order, even speaking in generalities can come back to haunt officials, so they say nothing at all. Fuhrman referenced another school district in which a childs family sued after the child fell through a skylight, from a roof the child never should have been on in the first place. The claim was that since a fence was so close to the roof, it created an opportunity to access it, Fuhrman said. (Schools are) an entity and sometimes were viewed as an entity with deep pockets. We cant even correct misinformation, and thats frustrating, Fuhrman said. Its not much different from disciplinary cases. Parents always want to know what kind of consequences the other student involved saw, and we cant tell them. We have to respect privacy. Nearly every district in the Hudson Valley Reporters readership area has current court cases, except the Garrison and Haldane districts in Putnam. While most are personnel contract disputes and special education issues, there are also lawsuits for injuries and negligence. The Carmel Central School District is facing the largest number of open lawsuits. The district is being sued by a disabled teacher who claims the district did not make reasonable accommodations for her disability before terminating her employment, parents who claim a teacher bullied their son, and the parents of a student who found a dead body on school grounds, among others. The Putnam Valley Central School District is being sued by an elderly resident who claims a student ran into her while she walked to the track, causing her to fall and break her hip, and a laid-off teacher who claims she wasnt called to fill a vacancy as her union contract requires.

Rotary Clubs Honored at Putnam Hospital Center

By Dan Curtis dcurtis@hudsonvalleyreporter.com CARMEL, N.Y. Rotary Clubs in Carmel, Brewster, Mahopac and Patterson came together at the Putnam Hospital Center for a dedication ceremony that marked their joint participation in the hospitals Path to Progress Brick Program. The four rotary clubs combined to purchase a special brick plaque configuration, which was installed in the hospital courtyard as a symbol of the clubs Service Above Self. The plaque is highlighted by the four clubs inception dates and the rotary international logo. Over the history of the hospital, the area rotary clubs have been fundraising and volunteer projects

Four area rotary clubs were honored with a plaque, by the Putnam Hospital Center, for their continued dedication to fundraising and volunteer work. Countys only acute care hospital remain responsive to instrumental in the healthcare needs of the community. to help Putnam

WPDH Morning Show Host Mark Coop Cooper Dies at Age 49

continued from page 1 Central and the Comedy Channel, as well as clubs and colleges throughout New England and along the East Coast. It was in these formative years of performing onstage that Cooper found a new creative way to make a living at being himself - on the radio. He began his career in radio as an on-air personality as the morning show host for WPXY-FM and WRQIFM in Rochester before making his way to Poughkeepsie and starting a long affiliation with 101.5 WPDH-FM and a deep personal commitment to the surrounding community. His tenure at WPDH began in 1998 with partner John Tobin. The Cooper and Tobin show lasted until 2001, when Tobin left and was replaced by Mike Colvin. Cooper was let go in 2003 due to low ratings, but returned in 2006 for the resurrected Coop and Tobin show. He married Nona Dennis Duncan on Nov. 29, 2002, and quickly assumed a new role as friend and parent to her two children. In 2003, the Coopers celebrated their familys newest addition with the birth of Thomas Jebediah Cooper. On the air, Cooper was known for his gravelly voice, irreverent humor and folksy conversational style. But in the community, he was known for his charity work. When his health began to deteriorate, his commitment to helping others in need never wavered and he continued to participate in the annual Roof-A-Thon and Camp Out for Kids to benefit the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation. In addition to his radio career, Cooper also appeared on television regularly including starring roles on Talk With tBills seen by Buffalo Bills fans on many western New York TV stations; as Sharkey on the childrens television show, The Adventures of Gary the Happy Pirate on WUHF-TV 31 in Rochester, and more recently, joining the Teutul family on Discovery Channels American Chopper. Cooper died from complications of a stroke at Vassar Brothers Hospital at 9:45 a.m. - his usual sign-off time every morning at WPDH - with a fever of 101.5.Within hours of the announcement of his passing on Wednesday, WPDHs Facebook page had already received more than 1,300 comments from listeners who wanted to pay tribute to Cooper. I always enjoyed listening to Coop, and it was easy to tell he was such a terrific guy, wrote Marc Cohen. Our prayers go out to his friends and family that God helps them through this most difficult of times. I just met him in person a few months back, wrote Judith Decicco. [He was a] wonderful individual that did so much for others. Nancy Graf wrote that Coopers passing was a terrible loss for WPDH, the Hudson Valley, and his family. May they all know the love that was had for him, she posted. Hearing Coop every morning was like having a friend along for the ride to work. Im going to miss his infectious laugh and distinctive voice. Ann Brown wrote, Coop, I raise my glass to you and celebrate your love for life and awesome ways ... there will never be anyone like you to grace the airwaves. You had a style all your own and a distinctive class about you. Rest in peace my friend. You are and always will be one of a kind and so special to me and everyone who grew up listening to you. Service arrangements were still pending at press time, but a celebration of life for friends and fans is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to a college fund established for his son, Thomas. Make checks payable to: Fidelity Investments FBO Thomas J Cooper and send care of the Wm. G. Miller and Son Funeral Home, 371 Hooker Ave., Poughkeepsie, NY, 12603. Those who wish to light a candle or send an online condolence should visit www. wmgmillerfuneralhome.com.

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Mt. Kisco Coach Diner Bigger, More Modern Expansion Begins

By Michael Nocella mnocella@hudsonvalleyreporter.com MOUNT KISCO, N.Y. The Mount Kisco Coach Diner, one of the most popular hangouts for residents and visitors alike, has begun a renovation that is expected be finished before Christmas, according to officials. The expansion of the diner, 252 Main St., will include 50 seats and 14 parking spots, diner manager Harry Georgiou said. The Georgiou family has owned the diner for more than 18 years, when Harry Georgious father, Frank, originally purchased it. For the past five years, they have been trying to expand. Their renovation plan was approved in January. Its going to be a whole new place, a whole new look, Georgiou said. Well have more seating, more parking and all new wood flooring. Georgiou said the renovation also includes an outside terrace for warmer Mount Kisco days. The diner will remain open while work is being done, but will close for two weeks near its conclusion to connect the new space with the existing restaurant and put finishing touches on the interior. Its going to be really nice, Georgiou said. We hope it will give the diner a more modern feel. Its a definitely a new direction, but at the same time we wont forget what has made us successful in the first place. Well still feel very Westchester-ish. With a vacant Borders down the street and several other empty business storefronts, Mount Kiscos business district has not exactly been booming in recent years. However, the Coach Diner which stays open 24 hours a day, seven days a week always seems to have plenty of customers to serve around the clock. It is that loyalty and demand that has given the Georgiou family the confidence to expand. When asked if expanding while some neighboring businesses are struggling was a way to lead by example and revitalize the c o m m u n i t y, Georgiou said that was safe to say. We have The Mount Kisco Coach Diner plans to remain open while its expansion is under way and hopes to have a very steady the work done before Christmas. Photo by Michael Nocella customer base, he We have some great items that are quality, quality said. Whether its a weekend or late on a weeknight, food, Georgiou said. We pick up fresh prime steaks, we have people shuffling in. This expansion is our and our lobster rolls are great. way of rewarding that loyalty. We want to make our Those cuisine traditions have made fans out of customer experience that much more enjoyable. Interstate 684 travelers, singer Rob Thomas and Gov. Georgiou said that one thing that separates Coach Andrew Cuomo, who named the diner as one of his Diner from average diners is its menu. Lead by top 10 things to do in 2010, in addition to plenty of Executive Chef Michael Lombardi, the menu is regulars. constantly updated with exotic and unique specials, People come to find us. They make it a tradition, including a burger of the week. The menu also Georgiou said. Thats why were so excited to make sports an all-organic section and dishes that one our diner even better than it is now. I think it will be might not expect to see served at a diner. a great asset to Mount Kisco.

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Senior Living

Ask the Pharmacist: Caregivers, Take Care

From Brandpoint Approximately 42 million Americans provide unpaid care to an ill or disabled adult and new research shows the stress associated with this responsibility can have a negative effect on a persons health. Express Scripts research paired an analysis of prescription claims with a telephone survey of more than 12,000 commercially-insured Americans ages 18 to 65, and discovered use of medications to treat stress-related conditions, including high blood pressure, depression, anxiety and ulcers, is higher among caregivers. In fact, the use of antianxiety medications is 29 percent greater with caregivers compared to non-caregivers. As a member of the sandwich generation I know first-hand how hard it can be to care for everyone who needs you, including yourself, says Paul Reyes, Express Scripts pharmacist and host of the Ask the Pharmacist radio series. But if your role as a caregiver negatively impacts your own health, no one benefits. Caregivers are the unsung heroes of our healthcare system, helping many people live with dignity within their community. With the demand for caregivers expected to increase as baby boomers reach age 65 (the 65+ age group is expected to top 70 million in 2030), its important that caregivers know how to prevent their important role from deteriorating their own health. signs of depression: continuous low mood, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, neglecting hobbies and unexplained aches and pains. If you think you may be depressed, talk to your doctor immediately and consider caregiving support groups or professional counseling. * Use online resources: At Express Scripts, their website and mobile app can make managing prescriptions for you and your patient easier, and reduce the administrative burden associated with care-giving. Home delivery can be a convenient way to receive medications and ensure you dont miss a dose, and specialist pharmacists, who understand your unique needs, can provide additional support and counsel for you and your loved one. * Dont do it alone: Talk with your family members, friends, neighbors, your religious community or local civic organizations like the Boy and Girl Scouts of America - about available support services. The Department of Health and Human Services has an online resource to help connect caregivers with locally available support services. For more resources and information on ways to keep your health in check, visit Express Scripts Healthcare Insights blog at http://lab.expressscripts.com/.

Reyes offers these tips for caregivers to keep their health on track: * Practice healthy habits: Daily exercise and a good nights sleep can reduce stress and improve health. Those with a busy lifestyle can start small by building in five to 10 minutes of physical activity into their day and going to bed a few minutes earlier each night. * Make personal time a priority: Set aside time every day - even a few minutes - to socialize with family and friends, read or meditate. If your loved one receives Medicare or Medicaid services, speak with a caseworker about respite resources for extended time off. * Dont ignore depression: Understand what signals

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August 19-21, 2013

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Health & Beauty

Whether you have full brows or invisible ones, it is always a good idea to fill them in where they are sparse. Defined brows frame the face and draw attention to the eye. You can find a few different types of fillers. I like to use pencils to fill By Meredith Hayman b are l y there brows because the wax of a pencil adheres best to the skin. Anastasia is a brand that specializes in brows - the spoolie on the other end of this Perfect Brow Pencil, which is avaialble through Sephora, makes blending a breeze.

Beauty Bulletin: Picking the Best Brow Filler For You

Powder fillers are great if you just have a few holes to fillmake sure you choose a color that is a shade or two lighter than your hair color. I love this trio from Paula Dorf the colors are muted so you dont have to worry about being too heavy handed. Gel filler is my go-to for enhancing fuller brows that may need you may need to brighten or lighten depending on your hair color. I LOVE this Sonia Kashuk one I found at Target. If you are someone who changes their hair color often, this quad has everything you need for blending if you are a redhead one week and more blonde or brunette the next. Got a few gray strands peeking through? Before you pluck them, try brow mascara its easy to apply and is perfect for keeping your brows looking neat and tidy. This one from Benefit is so quick and easy a good one to keep in your on-the-go makeup bag.

Meredith Hayman is one of the most recommended bridal makeup artists in the Hudson Valley. Since moving to New York in 1998, she has worked in all aspects of Makeup Artistry including, television, print, instruction, runway, and bridal. See more about her at MeredithHayman. com or call her at 646-418-5445

New Health Findings Can Help Combat Common Ailments

From StatePoint From high blood pressure to cancer, serious ailments often strike, despite our best efforts to maintain good health. With the rapid pace of medical advancements and treatment options emerging, conventional medical wisdom can sometimes lag behind innovations in disease management. Furthermore, theres often little attention paid to nutritions role in health conditions. Our healthcare system is a disease model, not a prevention model, and reimbursement is based upon sickness, not wellness. We need to better integrate all facets of care, says Dr. Steven V. Joyal, chief medical officer with Life Extension, Inc., an organization dedicated to increasing the functional human lifespan. Its this thinking that spurred the creation of Life Extensions 2014 edition of the Disease Prevention and Treatment Book, which seeks to fill those gaps. From cancer to multiple sclerosis, the book offers 1400 pages of information on integrating pharmaceutical treatment options, nutritional support and lifestyle changes for optimal health. For example: High Blood Pressure A major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, congestive heart failure and kidney disease, high blood pressure threatens the life of every third American adult. Intensive lifestyle changes can ease blood pressure management. When this isnt enough, pharmaceutical options can help. For example, blood pressure is best controlled with lower doses of multiple antihypertensive medications convenience foods, meats and cheeses contain significant amounts of sodium. Get plenty of beneficial nutrients, especially potassium and magnesium, which are important for vascular health.

rather than a single large dose of medication. Furthermore, side effects can be greatly reduced. Many patients are lulled into a false sense of security by normal blood pressure readings at their periodic doctors visits. But quite frequently, patients experience gaps in control, putting them at risk for stroke and heart attack, says Joyal. Joyal recommends considering the following: With an inexpensive at-home blood pressure monitor, take readings at multiple times throughout the day, tracking values over time. Your doctor can determine whether to modify your treatment regimen based upon the results. Stay fit and exercise. A healthy body weight and high degree of cardiorespiratory fitness reduce hypertension risk, and if you already have high blood pressure, can help you achieve better control. Hold the salt. High sodium intake can make high blood pressure worse. Read labels. Even if you arent reaching for salt, many pre-packaged

Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis could pose more than just a risk to comfort. Systemic inflammation hastens the onset of other age-related diseases, including cardiovascular disease. For optimal longevity, we need to integrate lifestyle changes with pharmaceutical treatments, rather than blindly assume that all a patient needs is more medication, says Joyal. In addition to doctor-prescribed treatments, Life Extension researchers have scoured medical literature, finding several nutrients help support health in rheumatoid arthritis patients: Fish oil Krill oil blend Gamma linolenic acid Vitamin D Vitamin B6 Green tea extract Quercetin Folate

More information about integrating lifestyle changes into treatment plans for various medical challenges can be found at www.LifeExtension. com/dpt. By taking advantage of new findings in medicine and science, optimal health may be better achieved.

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August 19-21, 2013

Hudson Valley Reporter

Dutchess County Fair, There is an App for That

By Bob Dumas bdumas@hudsunvalleyreporter.com RHINEBECK, N.Y. - While the Dutchess County Fair is known for its quaint 20th-century Americana such as 4-H barns filled with prize livestock and its glittering midways and their carnival barkers, this year fair goers can enhance their experience through the magic of 21st century digital technology. Fair organizers have created a free smartphone app, sponsored by the Rhinebeck Bank, which is available for all iPhone and Android users. This brand new app has all the information about the 2013 Dutchess County Fair, including an interactive map, the daily fair schedule, and an icon to purchase tickets. It also allows users to check out well as the fairgrounds complete season schedule and a listing of Fair partners. All the information about the 2013 Fair is now at fair fans fingertips. Fair officials say the app is easy to operate and convenient for the ever-growing population of smartphone users. Smartphone users can get the app by going to the App Store for iTunes and searching for: Dutchess Fair. Android users should go to the Goggle Store and search for: Dutchess Fair. In both stores the Dutchess County Fairgrounds comes up from the search and you need only to download to begin the application. For more information about the Dutchess County Fair app go to www.dutchessfair.com or call 845-876-4001.

fair videos, view pictures and post to Facebook and Twitter. On the app you can also find Rhinebeck Chamber of Commerce lodging and dining info, as

By Dan Curtis dcurtis@hudsonvalleyreporter.com BREWSTER, N.Y. The Village of Brewster Film Festival has gone International. The second annual event Labor Day Weekend will showcase featurelength films, shorts, and documentaries from the United States, Canada, Australia, Germany, Mexico, Cuba and Dubai with genres including drama, comedy, sci-fi/fantasy, thriller, historical drama, and animation. Friday, Aug. 30, the opening night of the celebration, features a Dinner and Movie. The dinner will be hosted at 6 p.m. in the Walter Brewster House at 43 Oak Street and the movie Cloudburst will be screened at the Studio Around the Corner at 8 p.m. Tickets for the dinner,

Brewster Film Festival will Feature International Films

which is in honor of this years filmmakers are $35. Tickets for the movie are $5. Off-street parking will be available all weekend at the Studio Around the Corner in the Gold Lot,at the former Garden Street School at 20 Garden St, and on Main Street. This event is made possible in part, by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the NY State Legislature and with public funds from Putnam County. The grant programs are managed and monitored by the Putnam Arts Council. On Saturday, Aug. 31, a Food Festival sponsored by the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, will begin at 4 p.m. on Oak St. and will be accompanied by live music courtesy of the Second Saturday Band

and State of Being. A free Short Film Festival begins at 8pm on the lawn of the Walter Brewster House Saturday. Filmgoers are encouraged to bring their own chairs and blankets and enjoy the buttered popcorn. On Sunday, Sept. 1, the Studio Around the Corner, at 67 Main Street Suite 101, will host its first ever all-day film extravaganza from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Food will be available from local restaurants outside the studio as well as music and artists. The rain date for the Short Film Festival is Sunday, Sept. 1, at 8 p.m. All other events will take place, rain or shine. For tickets and additional information including this years film lineup, please visit www. VOBFilmFestival.com, or call 845-729-9687.

Ossining Bicentennial Celebration Continues with First Harborfest

By Michael Nocella mnocella@hudsonvalleyreporter.com OSSINING, N.Y. The village of Ossining will keep its summer theme of bicentennial celebrations going well into September with its first Harborfest on the Hudson River. Scheduled for Sept. 21, Harborfest teams up with the Hudson Rising River Tour to bring Sloop Clearwater, the historic covered barge Pennsy 399, a farm feast, outdoor adventure activities, live music and water-related activities along Ossinings waterfront beginning at 11a.m. The festival will conclude with fireworks over the Hudson at 10 p.m. Harborfest is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Ossinings waterfront with a wide range of activities that include something for everyone, said George Camp, chairman of the Bicentennial Committee. See the heritage ships, enjoy a boat ride or demonstration, paint, listen to music, stroll along the water, and learn more about Hudson River preservation efforts. Ossining officials anticipate that Harborfest will draw a crowd of several thousand. Various boats will be on display, with boat-building demonstrations by local craftsmen. SEAS Westchester will have a smallboat regatta at the Ossining Boat and Canoe Club. The club will also run a youth fishing program and seine fishing at the PAL Beach. Booths at Harbor Square will feature a variety of vendors including Hudson River-oriented groups, crafts and artists. Live music at Harbor Square kicks off at 11:30 a.m. with a performance by the Ossining-based Mike Risko Music School band and continues throughout the day with an array of musical genres. The extensive lineup includes eight groups, many with ties to Ossining. KJ Denhert and her band will play the final set leading to the fireworks display over the Hudson. Additional artists include Erin Hill & Her Psychedelic Harp and the Grammynominated new age jazz band Sundad. In addition to the live entertainment, festival attendees will have the opportunity to go aboard a variety of water vessels, including the Sloop Clearwater, a majestic 106-foot-long replica tall ship. Pete Seeger launched the Sloop Clearwater in 1969 to draw attention to efforts to clean up the Hudson River. A nationally recognized symbol of environmental awareness, Clearwater is a floating classroom to inspire tomorrows environmental leaders. Held this year in conjunction with Harborfest, the 11th annual Ossining MATTERS Education Foundations 5K Run/2 Mile Walk kicks off at 9 a.m. to raise funds to support opportunities for all children in the Ossining school district. The route includes a walk or run along the waterfront, with runners continuing through the Edward M. Wheeler Crawbuckie Nature Preserve. Registration will be available on-site next to the Ossining Boat and Canoe Club from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. For more information or to register, visit www. ossiningmatters.org[http://www.ossiningmatters. org/] or call 914-510-9320. For more information about Hudson Rising visit www.hudsonrising.com and www.facebook.com/ hudsonrising. For additional information on Harborfest or other upcoming bicentennial events, visit www. celebrateossining.com, www.villageofossining.org, or contact the Village Managers Office at 914-9413554.

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MONDAY, AUG. 19 Sound City will be shown at the Jacob Burns Film Center on Aug. 19 and 21. Yickets can be purchased in advance at www.burnsfilmcenter. org or at the box office (opens 4pm weekdays and 11am weekends). For screening times and other information, visit our website or call the Box Office at 914.747.5555. Tuskegee Airmen Golf Classic will be held on Monday, Aug.19, at 9 a.m. Sponsored by the Maj. Gen. Irene Trowell-Harris Chapter of the worldfamous Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., the 14th annual golf outing benefits the Newburgh-based chapters youth aviation program and its annual scholarship grants of $1,000 each to 10 Hudson Valley high school seniors pursuing further education, either college or trade-oriented. Registration opens at 9

Fun Around Town

a.m., play begins with a shotgun start at 10 a.m., dinner at 2:30 p.m. For more info please contact Glendon Fraser at glendonfraser@mac.com or 914 329-0036. Also visit http://www.tai-ny.org. Yoga With A View will be held on Monday, Aug. 19, at 6 p.m.Yoga with a View, is held outdoors each Monday at 6 p.m., in good weather at Boscobel in Garrison. Yoga is taught by certified instructor Ellen Forman. This class fits the needs of all levels, from beginner to expert. As a teacher, Ellen emphasizes the inward journey and the profound healing effects of yoga on the mind, body and spirit. Yogas numerous benefits include improved flexibility, endurance and strength. Yoga at Boscobel takes place Monday evenings 6-7:15 p.m. through Sept. 9. The walk-in rate is $17, and multi-class discount packages are available. Friends of Boscobel

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members receive a 10% discount. Tickets can be purchased online at Boscobel.org or in person or by phone during regular business hours. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own mats and water.

TUESDAY, AUG. 20 Dutchess County Fair will start on Tues., August 20 and continue through Aug. 25, from 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., at 6550 Spring Brook Ave, Rhinebeck, NY 12572. The experience of a lifetime awaits you at the 168th Dutchess County Fair in quaint Rhinebeck. 162 acres of family fun. You will be immersed in agriculture with thousands of farm animals while enjoying horticultural displays in a park-like setting. Learn about the past with a visit to an authentic one-room school house and

continued on page 20

ACROSS 1. He had no cause? 6. Also 9. Captain ____ 13. Napoleons stay on St. Helena, e.g. 14. Aggravate 15. It killed the radio star? 16. Serving of parsley 17. Actress ___ Thompson 18. More ill 19. Trying experience 21. *Geographia author 23. *Mouth to a river, e.g. 24. Call someone 25. PC brain 28. Stupor 30. *Gobi or Kalahari, e.g. 35. Os in XOXO 37. Livens up 39. Pang 40. *Capri, e.g. 41. Anklebone 43. Shamu 44. Nigerian money 46. Dharma teacher 47. Chinese restaurant staple, pl. 48. Founder of Scholasticism 50. Winningest Super Bowl coach 52. Marble __ 53. First in baseball, e.g. 55. Distress signal 57. *Tallest mountain 61. *Deepest lake 64. Japanese-American 65. American Gas Association 67. Like unspoken agreement 69. Garment enlarger 70. Octopus defense 71. Olden day anesthetic 72. It shows ownership 73. Poes The Murders in the ___ Morgue 74. High-pitched DOWN 1. Hi-___

GEOGRAPHY 101
2. Montreal baseballer 3. Ethiopean currency 4. Omit or suppress 5. *On a map 6. Cash cache 7. Bonanza find 8. Similar to giraffe but smaller 9. Tarantinos ____ Bill 10. Not in action 11. Believe 12. Nemos forgetful friend 15. Shrinking ______ 20. To modify a book into a screenplay, e.g. 22. Slight amount 24. Get off an airplane 25. *Most populous country 26. South Korean port 27. a.k.a. Tangelos 29. Eagerness 31. ____ me the money! 32. It may get you to first base 33. *_____ Mountains 34. Flirt 36. Bone-dry 38. Form of wrestling 42. Chip dip 45. Even though 49. No ___ 51. Hang around 54. Up or down step 56. Type of edible ray 57. National Velvet author ____ Bagnold 58. *Tropical rainforests contain ninety percent of the worlds ____ species 59. ___ quam videri or To be, rather than to seem (to be) 60. Instrument type 61. To be very hot

62. Yearn or pine 63. Told an untruth 66. Bearded antelope 68. Give it a go

See solution on page 20

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Hudson Valley Reporter

Fun Around Town

continued from page 19 Antique Village Museum. Crafters selling one-ofa-kind items and plenty of free entertainment for all ages. A host of other family activities include petting zoos with domestic, exotic and rainforest animals, racing pigs and dock diving dogs. Over 50 carnival rides await children of all ages. Is there food, you asked? Bring your appetite. Over 100 vendors serve everything from deep fried Oreos to full-course meals. For more info please call (845) 876-4000. Price Is Right Contestant Search will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 20, from 12 - 3 p.m. The Price is Right CBS television game show will hold a contestant search at Empire City Casino. Two lucky winners will be flown to Los Angeles to see the show and have a chance to be called as a contestant. The search will be held in the Good Time Room. Participants must be a U.S. legal resident 18 years of age and over, answer questions such as Why do you want to be on The Price Is Right? and have a completed application and eligibility form. For more info please email info@empirecitycasino.com, call 914-968-4200, or visit http://www.empirecitycasino.com/ promotions/#PriceIsRightContestantSearch Free Phone Breast Cancer Support Group will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 20, from 8 - 9 p.m. Support Connection, Inc. offers a Toll-Free Telephone Support Group for Women With Breast Cancer on the third Tuesday of each month. Join a group of women to discuss issues pertaining to all stages of diagnosis, treatment and post-treatment. This national toll-free teleconference group is open to women across the country. For more info please email info@supportconnection.org, call 914-9626402, or visit http://www.supportconnection.org/ Stroke Support Group will be held on Wednesday, Aug.21, at 3:30 to 4:45 p.m. Meets on the third Wednesday of the month at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Outpatient Building, Building #8,785 Mamaroneck Ave White Plains, NY 10605. For more info please contact Roseann Cardi at rcardi@ burke.org, or 914-597-2290. Also visit http://www. burke.org/. WEDNESDAY, AUG. 21 Footloose In Newburgh will be held on Wednesday, Aug.21, at the theatre at West Shore Station on the historic Hudson River waterfront, 27 S. Water Street, Newburgh, NY. For 14 performances only! Aug. 20-25 and 2731. Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m.. Saturday and Sunday Matinees at 2 p.m. Special Sunday Evening Performance Aug.25 at 7:30 p.m. Footloose is a classic tale of teenage rebellion and repression and features a non-stop retro-view of the 80s with music, dance, fashion, and great performances by some of the Hudson Valleys most talented actors. Tickets are available online now at discount prices of $15 and $18 with a credit card or through PayPal at www.justoffbwy. com. Tickets are available at the door for $20 with cash, check, or major credit card. For more information, call the Box Office at: 845-565-3791. Kids Summer History Days will be held on Wednesday, Aug.21, at 8 a.m., at Stony Point Battlefield & Lighthouse. Stony Point Battlefield & Lighthouse invites 5th and 6th graders to Summer History Days, Weds - Fri, Aug. 21 - 23. 9 am - 1 pm. $125 for three days includes snacks. For more info please call 845 786 2521. Emergency Blood Drive In Pleasantville will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 2 - 8 p.m., at the Pleasantville Fire House. Blood donations fall off dramatically during the summer when vacations and travel occupy more of everyones time. The need for blood, however, does not decline and supplies rapidly dwindle. To help correct shortages that invariably occur, the Pleasantville Volunteer Fire Department and Volunteer Ambulance Corps will be hosting a special Summer Blood Drive at the Pleasantville Fire House, 75 Washington Ave, on Wednesday, Aug.21 from 2:30 8:30 p.m. Since it is also difficult to organize community drives during the summer, blood donors from all towns are welcome to come to lend their help. All donors will be entered into a raffle to receive two tickets to the 2014 Super Bowl. Although it is helpful to let the organizers know in advance that you plan to come, walk-ins are always accepted. For more info please email angela. usobiaga@verizon.net or call (914) 747-2408. Open Language Lab will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 4 - 7 p.m., at the Patterson Library, 1167 Rte. 311, Patterson 12563. Go to the Mango Open Language Lab and learn to speak Spanish, French, Italian, German, English, Portuguese, Mandarin Chinese, and many other languages. This program is self-taught with staff assistance. Children 8 and over may participate with a parent. Space is limited to 15. Registration preferred, walk-ins welcome if space allows. Free program. For more info please call 845-878-6121 x10 or visit http://www.pattersonlibrary.org/ Submit your event to the Hudson Valley Reporter at least a week before it happens at events@hudsonvalleyreporter.com. Submission does not guarantee placement. Visit our online calendar at www. hudsonvalleyreporter.com/calendar.

Classifieds

Adoption The stork didn't call. We hope you will. Loving family of 3 looking to adopt another little miracle. Contact Robin and Neil: 866-303-0668, www. rnladopt.info Childless, married couple seek baby to make them a family. Will be stay-at-home mom/ doting dad. Promise love and bright future. Ellen & Chris. 1-888-701-2170 Events RINALDIFLEAMARKETS.COM Every Sunday Weather Permitting, 900 Dutchess Turnpike (rt44) Poughkeepsie NY. Free Admission & Parking, Great Food & Bargains. Vendors Wanted! Please visit RINALDIFLEAMARKETS.COM See Ya There! Help Wanted Dispatcher Needed Busy Taxi company in the Carmel Area has FT and PT position available(Day, Night and Weekends). Applicant must be able to handle multiple lines, be well spoken and courteous. Large knowledge

of local area and major roads and highways in the region is a must. Must be computer knowledgeable and be able to work Excel, Word, Outlook and the internet. Prior experience prefer and must be flexible. Perfect position for ex-Taxi, Truck or bus driver. Call: 845-225-5555 or Email: carmeltaxi@ yahoo.com. Sales Position Available Help businesses reach their target market. As an account executive for the Hudson Valley Reporter you will work with companies to developed customized marketing plans that will help them achieve the results they want. Outdoor/advertising sales experience preferred. Will train the right person. Compensation based on experieince. Send resumes to fbutcher@hudsonvalleyreporter.com. Home Improvement HAS YOUR BUILDING SHIFTED OR SETTLED? Contact Woodford Brothers Inc, for straightening, leveling, foundation and wood frame repairs at 1-800-OLD-BARN. www.woodfordbros.

com. Land Wanted SELL YOUR NEW YORK LAND, FARM OR LAND & CABIN. We have buyers! Call NY Land Quest: 877-257-0617 nylandquest.com Offering honest, straightforward, personable service! Vacation Rentals OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Real Estate. 1-800638-2102. Online reservations: www.holidayoc. com Wanted Looking for a Counselor or Therapist with an expertise in Bullying, including sibling bullying, for ALL age bully situations. 845-200-7353 Reserve your classified space. Call 845-4020132 or email your classifieds to classifieds@ hudsonvalleyreporter.com.

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Obituaries
Mary Jane Cox of Croton-on-Hudson, formerly of Yorktown Heights, passed away on Aug 16. Mary Jane was born on May 4, 1929 in Rochester, N.Y. to Francis & Florence Monk. She was married on Sept. 3, 1949 to the late Christopher Cox. Mary worked for 28 years at the Country House Retirement Home in Yorktown. She is survived by her two daughters Susan Wallace Grnuer( Tom), Carolyn Cox (Carmine Giuliani), two sons Christopher Cox(Sandy) and Stephen Cox, and a sister Jan Huether. Also survived by three grandchildren Stephen, Dan, Eric, and two great grandchildren Thomas and David. Mary Jane leaves behind her best friend her dog Gia. She was an avid met fan and was always available for a game of poker. Predeceased by a daughter Joan, sister Sue and two brothers Bud and Al. The Cox family will receive friends at the Yorktown Funeral Home on Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian burial Tuesday at Saint Mary of the Assumption 55 Valley Road, Katonah NY 10536 at 10 a.m. Interment to follow at Amawalk Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations to the St. Judes Research Hospital or an animal Charity would be appreciated. Albina E. Jean Ennis, 97, an area resident for 24 years and formerly of Hull Avenue in the Bronx, died on Friday, Aug. 16, at home with her family. Born in New York City on December 9, 1915, she was the daughter of the late John and Sophie (Stamphl) Erker. Jean had been employed as a Book Binder at National Law and Press in New York City for over 35 years. She was a parishioner at St. Brendan Church in the Bronx and more recently at St. Columba Church in Hopewell Junction. Jean was predeceased by her husband, Edwin Ennis, on February 1, 1979. She is survived by her children, Florence Docherty and her husband Thomas of Wappingers Falls, Carol Gruber and her husband Otto of Wappingers Falls, Sandra McPherson and her husband Lawrence of Jupiter, FL, Edwin Ennis and his wife Marie of Staten Island, Robert Ennis and his wife Judy of Port Jervis, Jean Marie Barry and her husband Edward of Barnegat, NJ, and Frederick Ennis and his wife Irene of the Bronx; 14 grandchildren, and 22 greatgrandchildren. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Aug. 26 at 10:45a.m. at St. Brendan Church, 333 E. 206th Street, Bronx followed by inurnment at St. Raymonds Cemetery in the Bronx. Donations may be made in Jeans memory to Hospice Foundation, Inc., 374 Violet Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601. Arrangements are under the direction of the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc. For online condolences or memorial donations, please visit Jeans Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com. Dominic (Nick/Poppy) Marino of Ossining, and formerly Prince Edwards Island in Canada, died Aug. 16. Mr. Marino was born in Brooklyn, on Jan. 4, 1919 to Andrew and Rose Marino. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 62 years. Bea/Nana, and by his sons George and Dominic Jr. His family was everything. He was the devoted father of Irene (Anthony), Tom (Vanessa), Andy (Dianne), the late George (Donna), Kathy (Steve), Stella (Fran), the late Nick Jr (Betsy) and Flo (Rob). As well as the loving grandfather of 18 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day + 12 hours as a Technical Sergeant of the 186th Field Artillery Battalion of the US Army. He saw active duty at the Battle of the Bulge (his unit held the Northern Line) and for the duration of the war. As he liked to say, it was his job to keep the big guns moving. He retired from Taystee Bread after three decades where he ran the fleet garage. In PEI he spent his days on his tractor, boat, lawn mower, truck, Caravan and fixing everything. He was an avid reader who in his later years learned to use the internet. He was hard working, practical, direct, witty and he loved life. It was his time. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, Aug 20, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at Dorsey, 14 Emwilton Pl., Ossining. A Funeral Mass will be held on Wednesday, Aug 21 at 10 a.m. at St Anns Church, Ossining. Internment at Dale Cemetery in Ossining following the Mass. Frances Ozerkis, 93, a resident of LaGrangeville, died on Friday, August 16, 2013 at home surrounded by her loving family. Born in Brooklyn on May 24, 1920, she was the daughter of the late Morris and Sarah (Garber) Quiat. On May 29, 1949, she married David Ozerkis who predeceased her in 1977 after 28 years of marriage. Frances was a skilled seamstress who enjoyed sewing, crocheting, knitting, and cooking. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family. Frances is survived by her daughters, Robin Ozerkis of Seattle, WA, Merril Yurch and her husband Richard of Edison, NJ and Bonnie Ozerkis-Daddazio and her husband Thomas Daddazio of LaGrangeville; and her grandchildren, Sarah and David. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 3-5pm at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction. For driving directions and online condolences, please visit Frances Book of Memories at www. mchoulfuneralhome.com. Theresa Sulpice, a resident of Fishkill for over 50 years, died on Thursday, August 15, 2013 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie. She was 83. Daughter of the late Patrick and Catherine (Haviken) Burke, she was born in the Bronx on February 12, 1930. On January 28, 1950, Theresa married Henry E. Sulpice at Holy Cross Church in the Bronx. He was the love of her life. She was an Irish beauty, so proud of her heritage and the life they created. Some of the best of those years were spent in the Florida communities Orlando and Coco Beach. Theresa was predeceased by Henry on April 4, 1991. With a pure heart and an optimistic sprit, her loving focus on family had a profound effect on all. She is survived by four children, Paul Sulpice of Highland, Ed Sulpice & his wife Beth of Highland, Donna OBrien of Highland, and Gayle Fedele & her husband Ralph of Pleasant Valley; her grandchildren, Rachael and Harrison Sulpice, Jacob, Jeremiah, Kathryn Sulpice,

Joe, Teddy, and Michael OBrien, and, Ralph, Donna, Danielle and Michele Fedele; her greatgrandson, Cash; her sister Patricia Drummond & her husband Jesse of California; also many nieces, nephews and other loving relatives & friends. In addition to her husband, her son Daniel, grandchild Jesse, and six siblings, Anne, Jack, Catherine, Mary, Ed and Joe, also predeceased Theresa. Calling hours will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, August 23 at the McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill, Inc., 1089 Main Street, Fishkill. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 24 at St. Mary, Mother of the Church, 106 Jackson Street, Fishkill. Interment will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimers Association , 2 Jefferson Plaza, Suite 103, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601-4060; www.alz.org. For directions, online condolences and memorial donations, visit Theresas Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.

Jeanette Spagnolia Wallour, 89, a resident of Mohegan Lake died Aug. 14. She was born June 7, 1924 in Rochester, NY to the late Carmen and Columbia Spagnolia. She was a graduate of Charlotte High School. She was married for 59 years to John S. Wallour, a current resident of Mohegan Lake. Beloved wife, mother and grandmother, she is survived by her son, John H. Wallour and her three daughters, Janine Thwaite, Catherine Wallour and M. Frances Wallour. She has seven grandchildren, Mary Clare Tobin, Eve Tobin Caron, Christopher Purtell, and Kelsey, Amber, Heidi and Lafe Wallour. She also is survived by five great-grandchildren. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, Aug. 20 at 10 a.m. at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Shrub Oak, N.Y.

Peggy Ann Petkovich Wilcox, 44, formerly of Dover Plains, passed away at her home in Greenwood Lake, N.Y. on Aug. 8. Born on Feb. 20, 1969 in Sharon, Conn. she was the daughter of Alan and April Petkovich of Dover Plains. Peggy graduated from Dover High School in 1987. Prior to moving to Greenwood Lake, Peggy drove bus for the Dover School District and later worked at the Dedrick Agency in Dover Plains and Cumberland Farms in Greenwood Lake. Peggy loved the outdoors and loved to boat, camp and ski. She was also an excellent bowler. After suffering two strokes she was unable to work but continued to love life. She always had a smile for everyone and was loved my many. In addition to her parents, Peggy is survived by her daughter, Kaitlyn Wilcox of Greenwood Lake; a brother, Edward Petkovich of Dover Plains, and her fiance, Duane Clark of Greenwood Lake. A private memorial service will be held at the familys convenience. To send the family an online condolence or to light a memorial candle, please visit www.hufcutfuneralhome.com.

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HVR SPORTS
By Andrew Meola ameola@hudsonvalleyreporter.com POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. The Vassar College mens and womens volleyball teams earned an academic honor from the American Volleyball Coaches Association for the 2012-13 season. The teams earned the AVCA Team Academic Award, established in the 1992-93 academic year for collegiate and high school volleyball teams that maintain a cumulative 3.30 grade point average during the academic year. The Vassar mens team was one of only five NCAA mens teams to receive the award. The two Vassar teams were among 622 total NCAA, NAIA, junior college and high school teams honored. The 622 teams shattered last years record of 536. Excellence doesnt happen by accident, either on the court or in the classroom, said AVCA Executive Director Kathy DeBoer, according to a Vassar press release. It takes consistent preparation, relentless effort, and determined leadership. A full year of academic achievement, by an entire team of individual students, is a remarkable achievement. What better way to start a new season than with a celebration of an award so emblematic of all that is necessary for sustained success. The number of teams to receive the AVCA Team Academic Award has grown each year but one since the 2000-01 season for an overall increase of 300 percent. Only 62 teams received

August 19-21, 2013

Hudson Valley Reporter

Vassar Volleyball Teams Earn Academic Honors

The Vassar mens and womens volleyball teams earned academic honors for the 2012-13 season. Photo courtesy of Vassar College the award in its first year in 1993. This is an award we strive to achieve every year, said Vassar mens volleyball head coach Robert Wolter. Academics are important to us and our program, and it is great to see the team achieve their academic goal after putting in the time and effort. Division III, of which Vassar is a member, reached a record high with 93 teams that received the AVCA award.

Past Marist Soccer Player Frey Gets Postgrad Scholarship

By Andrew Meola respectively. ameola@hudsonvalleyreporter.com She also earned the Katherine Connor POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. Former Marist Memorial Scholarship, given to students who soccer player Jackie Frey has earned a excel in the classroom and in the community, postgraduate scholarship from Bob McCloskey during her time at Marist. Frey graduated Insurance, a partner of the Metro Atlantic magna cum laude with a bachelors degree in Athletic Conference. social work. She will begin working toward Frey started for four years for the Red a masters degree in social work at New York Foxes and was an integral part of the Ladies University this fall. Empowerment Athletic Program, a group for Ive had the pleasure to be a part of her female student-athletes at Marist who wanted time at Marist and watched her grow, said to foster leadership and community work. Cammie Jones, assistant director for studentFrey served on the organizations athlete enhancement at Marist, who worked administrative board in her senior year and with Frey closely in her four years with the Jackie Frey started all four years for the Red Foxes soccer team. Photo put together multiple events, including a Girl Red Foxes. I have no doubt that shell make courtesy of Marist College Scout sports clinic and events at the Childrens a significant contribution to her masters Foxes 2011 MAAC Womens Soccer Championship Home of Poughkeepsie and Vassar Warner Home. program and the individuals lives shell touch The Marist graduate was a starter on the Red Team. She is also in the Top 10 in Marists all- during her career. time record for goals and points with 14 and 36,

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Six Marist Womens Soccer Players Make Preseason All-Conference

Six Pace swimmers and divers swam more than 15 miles across the Long Island Sound to earn $3,000 to support cancer patients and their families. Photo courtesy of Pace University

Pace Swimmers Raise $3,000 for Charity

By Andrew Meola ameola@hudsonvalleyreporter.com MOUNT PLEASANT, N.Y. Six studentathletes on the Pace swimming and diving team raised $3,000 for charity in the Swim Across the Sound event. Alexis Chocianowski, Zacchary Filanova, Matt McCann, Kaitlyn Siriano, Nick Targonski and Thomas Virgona finished in second place in

the event. They earned $3,000 for St. Vincents Foundation to support cancer patients and their families. The six Setters swam 15.5 miles from Port Jefferson, N.Y., across the Long Island Sound to Bridgeport, Conn. The entire swim took more than nine hours, and the swimmers had to deal with rain, jellyfish and 5-foot waves.

Red Foxes Prepare for 2013 Season

By Andrew Meola ameola@hudsonvalleyreporter.com POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. The Marist mens soccer team started its preseason camp Thursday as it prepares for the 2013 season. The Red Foxes enter the season under Matt Viggiano, now in his seventh year as head coach. The camp began with a compulsory NCAA meeting and physicals. The Red Foxes then got into their first practice on the turf at Tenney Stadium. We have a pretty good vibe going right now, Viggiano said. The guys are excited and Im excited to put the ball down and play. We have a talented group, and Im looking forward to putting the pieces of the puzzle together. The Red Foxes bring back most of their roster from the 2012 season, including top scorer Evan Southworth, a senior who registered four goals and two assists last year. Junior Dylan Lee, who had two goals and an assist last season, also returns. Senior goalkeeper Anthony Sokalski had three shutouts and 63 saves last season. Sophomore Cesar Ceja should also see more time on the field this year. Marists first game is Friday, Aug. 30, at UC Irvine, while the Red Foxes first home game is Saturday, Sept. 14, against New Hampshire at 7 p.m.

By Andrew Meola ameola@hudsonvalleyreporter.com POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. Six Marist College womens soccer players have earned distinguished preseason honors. The six made the College Sports Madness 2013 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Womens Soccer Preseason All-Conference Teams, according to schools site. Marist head coach Katherine Lyn also earned MAAC Preseason Coach of the Year honors. Seniors Rycke Guiney and Kylee McIntosh made the First Team. Guiney, who also made the All-MAAC First Team after the 2012 season, was second on the Red Foxes in scoring last year with 18 points on seven goals and four assists. She is third all-time in points in school history with 52. McIntosh, meanwhile, made the All-MAAC Second Team last year and helped limit opponents to just 1.08 goals per game as part of the Red Foxes backfield. Senior Samantha Panzner and juniors Amanda Epstein, Marjana Maksuti and Marissa Mertens all made the preseason Second Team. Panzner made the All-MAAC Second Team last year. She scored two goals with a team-high seven assists. Epstein was the 2011 MAAC Rookie of the Year and led Marist in scoring last season with 20 points on eight goals and four assists. She finished seventh in the NCAA with six game-winning goals and made the All-MAC First Team. Maksuti scored five goals for Marist last year as a midfielder, while Mertens started all 22 games for the Red Foxes. Marist opens its season with a road game at Drexel on Monday, Aug. 26. The Red Foxes first home game is Thursday, Aug. 29 against UMassLowell at 7 p.m. at Tenney Stadium.

Vassar Womens Tennis Team Has Nationally Ranked Recruiting Class

By Andrew Meola ameola@hudsonvalleyreporter.com POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. The Vassar College womens tennis team has its third straight nationally ranked recruiting class, according to TennisRecruiting.net. The site evaluates 380 Division III teams each year, and Vassar earned the No. 15 spot in the Top 25 rankings. The Brewers earned the No. 20 spot in 2011 and 2012. Three-star recruit Emily Hallewell headlines the 2013 recruiting class. She was the star of an excellent Stoneridge School of the Sacred Heart in Washington, D.C. Emily is experienced in singles and doubles competition, said Vassar head coach Kathy Campbell, according to the schools website. She is also a highly-ranked U-18 player in the United States Tennis Association. Shayna Becker, a two-star recruit from University High School in Irvine, Calif., also joins the Brewers. She started and was the team captain for the nationally ranked team. Shayna brings a vast amount of competitive doubles experience to our program and also plays singles, Campbell said. Two more California players, Hanna McGuire of Costa Mesa High School in Manhattan Beach and Connie Yoo from Beckman High School in Irvine, round out the recruiting class. McGuire played in both singles and doubles for her high school, while Yoo was the team captain and earned Team MVP honors as the top singles player at Beckham. Hanna is a fighter on the court and is experienced in singles and doubles, Campbell said. Connie has a very consistent, gritty style of singles play. Campbell added that she knows the four girls will be able to handle the rigors of a college team. I know these four recruits are going to be a great fit at Vassar and in our nationally ranked tennis program, Campbell said. They are eager to contribute to the team and have a strong work ethic to foster continued development and will add to our positive team dynamics. They are enthusiastic about the team-oriented approach, both on and off the court, which is the cornerstone of our program.

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Hudson Valley Reporter