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February 14, 2020 Support us at highlandscurrent.org/join Putnam Settles Hossu Case for $750,000 Last chapter in seven-year political saga
By Chip Rowe
utnam County in December settled a lawsuit for $750,000 filed nearly five P years ago by a man who said he was targeted by former Sheriff Don Smith as part of a campaign to discredit a political rival. The Legislature’s Rules Committee on Dec. 10 approved transferring $250,000 to cover the county’s portion of the settlement. The county’s insurer will pay the rest. The lawsuit stemmed from the 2013 arrest by Putnam County sheriff’s depu- ties of a Brewster man, Alexandru Hossu, following an allegation by the daughter EAGLE SCOUTS — The Putnam Highlands Audubon Society provided telescopes and binoculars at Boscobel in Garrison on Feb. of a girlfriend that he had raped her more 8 to look for national treasures as part of the annual Teatown Hudson River EagleFest. The group spotted three adults and a than two years earlier, when she was 12. juvenile. According to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, only about one in eight eagles in New York reaches (Continued on Page 7) adulthood, which is five years. Photo by Ross Corsair Nine is Enough? Route 9 Firm Sues Philipstown for $50 Million Beacon school board talks State judge orders RNV to halt rock-crushing Board of Appeals (ZBA) missteps and viola- tions of town law. reduction, again By Liz Schevtchuk Armstrong further rock-crushing, while the busi- After the ZBA in January refused to over- ness, RNV Green Processing and Supply ride a stop-work order issued by the town By Jeff Simms he clash between Philipstown Corp., demanded the town pay at least $50 building inspector in April to RNV, town he measure won’t appear on a and a debris-processing operation million in damages. officials requested a court order to stop ballot this year, but at least some T on Route 9 escalated this month The legal arguments in Putnam County further rock-crushing, along with any T of the nine members of the Beacon with dueling lawsuits: The town won an Supreme Court include allegations of spying processing and stockpiling of demolition City Board of Education believe their injunction in county court against any by drones, a vendetta, dirty trucks, Zoning (Continued on Page 18) board could stand to shrink. The discussion has come up in recent years around this time, as the district prepares for the May vote on its budget and Do You Want a other issues. A change to the number of board members ‘Historic’ Home? would also require voter approval, but one of two things must happen to get the issue on As Beacon revises regulations, the ballot: the board must vote to add it, or VILLAGE SOUNDS David Rothenberg not everyone so sure a petition with the signatures of at least 500 plays the bass clarinet district voters must be presented. at the Cold Spring By Jeff Simms If voters approved the change, it would Coffeehouse on Feb. 8 in go into effect in July of the following year. the first performance of he Beacon City Council will hold a There are compelling arguments both a monthly Hudson Line pair of public hearings on Tuesday for the status quo or a reduction, said music series. He was T (Feb. 18) regarding revisions to the school board President Anthony White. accompanied by Daniel city’s historic district law and, separately, For instance, board meetings might be Kelly on keyboards. 35 properties that are candidates to be shorter with fewer members. Even with a Photo by Ross Corsair added to the district. fairly routine agenda, the board met for The historic district is an overlay, rather more than two-and-a-half hours on Feb. than a zoning district, which means it can 10. Four years ago, when the district lost its be applied to buildings throughout the (Continued on Page 18) (Continued on Page 8) 2 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
FIVE QUESTIONS: MARJORIE TARTER
By Alison Rooney running a bakery for 10 or 12 years, she Hanukkah. We do stocking stuffers like hot approached us to take over. cocoa bars and a Christmas “coal.” Our holi- By Michael Turton arjorie Tarter day season was so bonkers this year we ran Why did you? out of vanilla marshmallows for two weeks. co-owns the Are you savoring the M Hudson Valley Friends were like, “What do Marshmallow Co. in Beacon you know about bakeries?” But Do you sell marshmallows outside of mild winter or fretting with her husband, Brendan our thought process was, if you Beacon? over global warming? McAlpine. make something delicious and The big chunk of our business is whole- the customer experience is sale. We have smaller retailers as well as As a child, did you great, it’s going to be a grocery chains such as Whole Foods and dream of owning slam dunk. We knew Adams. We never thought we would have a marshmallow we wanted to open a national sales, although we’d go to the I’m fine with it. Hunter store? little shop to intro- fancy-food trade shows and I knew we were Mountain today had I wish we had a duce our concept on to something because we had people no snow but they make cute origin story! to the public. We sneaking back for samples pretending they I have a back- re-branded with hadn’t already been twice before. tons of it. ground in fash- the Hudson Valley ion marketing, name, and here Why do people who don’t like marsh- and Brendan we are. If you mallows seem to like yours? is a real-estate can’t have fun We’re using ingredients with names you attorney. We had selling marshmal- can pronounce, and we’re a bit less sweet. a friend who was lows, you’re doing And you can have a handful for about 80 calo- a pastry chef in something wrong. ries. There are no disgruntled customers. The the city, and one store is where we experiment with flavors of the most deli- Is Valentine’s Day and learn what will make it to the big time. cious things your busiest time of Coconut and coffee are doing well, although she made was the year? Or maybe we’ve had some fails: the everything-bagel flavored marsh- Easter? marshmallow, the pizza marshmallow — that ~ Bryan Conklin, Beacon mallows. After It’s Christmas and was definitely a no-go. You can’t win ’em all.
I’m enjoying the weather but we lost seven of our eight CHEERFUL beehives at Stonykill Farm STRENGTH due to climate change.
Opportunities for growth in Consciousness & Community
Cheerful Valentine’s Dance! Saturday, February 15 7:00 – 9:00 pm $10 …or pay what you can…. ~ Kaetlyn Stamper, Beacon Celebrate Love in all forms! All ages, all combinations welcome. No partner required! Mystical Kirtan with Mirabai Moon The groundhog saw his Friday shadow; let’s get along February 28 with spring. 7:30—9:00 pm
$20 Suggested Donation
Cheerful Sing! Saturday, February 22 2:00 to 3:00 pm $10. …or pay what you can…
See our full schedule!
CHEERFULSTRENGTH.NET 3182 US Rt 9, Cold Spring, NY [email protected] ~ Lou Thorpe, Cold Spring (845) 723-1314 highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 3
Philipstown Plans More Sidewalks, Bike Paths Wish List Roberto Muller said on Wednesday bicyclists and mass-transit riders, as well According to the policy, when undertak- Adopts policy designed to (Feb. 12) that the Philipstown Climate as public safety. ing road work, Philipstown will consider Smart Task Force list of potential fight global warming In its resolution adopting the policy, the installing sidewalks, crosswalks, ramps, Complete Streets projects includes: board directed that major updates to the bike lanes, bicycle-parking stands and zoning code, subdivision regulations and “traffic-calming” mechanisms. The policy • A sidewalk on the east side of Route By Liz Schevtchuk Armstrong highway and street standards incorporate instructs the Highway and Building depart- 9D between Cold Spring and the he Philipstown Town Board last Complete Streets principles. ments and other offices to work “toward Manitou School week endorsed more sidewalks, bike Roberto Muller, who leads Philipstown’s making Complete Streets practices a regu- • A walking/biking path between lanes, walking paths and mass-tran- Climate Smart efforts, told the board that lar part of everyday operations” and pledges Foundry Dock Park in Cold Spring and T the state offers incentives of up to 50 percent that Philipstown will collaborate with Cold sit options to decrease the reliance on cars the Philipstown Recreation Center in and reduce global warming linked to the of project costs, and the federal government Spring, Nelsonville and other neighboring Garrison via Boscobel, Philipstown pollution they emit. and other sources also offer grants. municipalities, plus the state and Putnam Park and the Garrison train station, With a 4-0 vote at its monthly meet- “It seems sensible” to get involved, said County, on meeting Complete Streets goals. with connectors to the Garrison ing on Feb. 6 (Supervisor Richard Shea Board Member John Van Tassel. Every three years the town will “deter- School and Desmond-Fish Library The Town Board’s resolution noted that mine how well the streets and transporta- was absent), the board joined officials in • Bike lanes on Routes 9D and 301; Beacon, Dutchess County and other juris- the task force recently “identified on-road tion network are serving all categories of dictions in adopting what is known as a vehicle emissions as one of the communi- users” and will review the total miles of • A pedestrian/cyclist-friendly connec- Complete Streets policy. ty’s largest contributors to climate change.” sidewalks and bicycling and walking paths tion between Philipstown Square on The initiative is a component of the state’s However, it acknowledged that Philipstown in town, total miles of roads with shoul- Route 9 and Nelsonville will proceed “when feasible, based on prac- ders at least 4 feet wide, the number of bike Climate Smart program and reflects a 2011 • A pedestrian/cyclist path between tical considerations such as budgetary racks, the dimensions of crosswalks and law that requires publicly funded road proj- Cold Spring and Breakneck Ridge ects to consider the needs of pedestrians, constraints.” related infrastructure.
¢ Mayor David Merandy reported that because all area fireworks companies Notes from the are booked for the July Fourth holiday weekend, Cold Spring’s pyrotechnics Cold Spring will take place as part of Community Day over Labor Day weekend. Village Board ¢ Village Accountant Michelle Ascolillo outlined the 2020-21 budget process and By Michael Turton said the maximum allowable increase in the tax levy will be $41,000 under ¢ Village reservoirs are at 100 percent the state-imposed cap. The village must capacity, Matt Kroog, the superinten- submit its budget to the state by May 1. dent of water and wastewater, told the Cold Spring Village Board at its Feb. ¢ The highway department collected 43.4 11 meeting. Water levels had fallen in tons of trash and 16.5 tons of recyclables the fall because of drought conditions. in January. A price increase brought Kroog said no water discoloration has the cost of disposing of recyclables to been reported since extensive problems $102.48 per ton, compared to $87 per around Jan. 10. A flush of the system ton for trash. The village is exploring will be conducted in late March or early the savings of switching from weekly, April, he said. single-stream recycling to a dual- The owner of this barn on Parsonage Street would like to remove it and construct a stream system in which cardboard and single-family home on the same footprint. Photo by M. Turton ¢ The Cold Spring Police Department paper would be collected on alternate answered 51 calls for service in January. weeks from cans and bottles. remove a barn at 21 Parsonage St. and Dockside Park on the weekend of May There was one arrest, for violation of an replace it with a single-family home on 30-31 will be resubmitted to shift the order of protection. Officers wrote 50 traf- ¢ The Zoning Board of Appeals requested the same spot. event to Mayor’s Park. The size of the fic and 56 parking tickets. The Cold Spring an advisory opinion from the Plan- event, traffic, parking and policing Fire Co. responded to three alarms. ning Board regarding an application to ¢ The board continued its discussion on were among the board’s concerns with Feb. 11 with the organizers of a Putnam having the event at Dockside. Pride event tentatively scheduled for June 6. [See Page 8.] Numerous attempts ¢ The board on Jan. 28 rejected all bids by the trustees and Merandy to secure received for the purchase of a boiler Is it time to focus on you? event details proved unsuccessful. An for the firehouse due to higher than equal number of attempts by the principal expected cost. A second round of bids organizer, Eileen McDermott of Brews- is being considered. Sharp, comfortable vision ter, to explain why such details are depen- and healthy eyes are essential dent upon first receiving formal board ¢ The mayor said he would contact the for your overall well-being. approval, were equally unproductive. state Department of Transporta- The protracted discussion ended with tion after resident Teresa Lagerman expressed concerns on Jan. 28 about Schedule your comprehensive McDermott agreeing to bring to the Feb. 25 meeting information such as the antic- pedestrian safety at the corner of Main eye exam today! Street and Chestnut Street/Morris ipated attendance, number of vendors, food trucks and nonprofit organizations, Avenue, especially with students walk- arrangements for music and speeches, ing to and from Haldane. Request your appointment online at www.sdec2020.com, or call us today. New patients welcome! and locations of activities. ¢ The board supported resident Jennifer 969 MAIN ST. FISHKILL (845) 896-6700 sdec2020.com ¢ John Sherer’s application for a Hops on Zwarich’s suggestion to form an ad hoc Optometrists Dr. Brian Peralta | Dr. Gary Weiner | Dr. Brian Powell | Dr. Weixun Wang the Hudson Artisan and Craft Fair at committee to deal with cell-tower issues affecting Cold Spring. 4 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
Tell us what you think PUBLISHER Highlands Current Inc. he Current welcomes letters to the editor on its coverage and local issues. Submissions are selected by the 142 Main St. T editor to provide a variety of opinions and voices, and all are subject to editing for accuracy, clarity and length. Cold Spring, NY 10516-2819 We ask that writers remain civil and avoid personal attacks. Letters may be emailed to [email protected] 291 Main St., Beacon NY 12508 or mailed to Editor, The Highlands Current, 142 Main St., Cold Spring, NY 10516. The writer’s full name, village or city, and email or phone number must be included, but only the name and village or city will be published. FOUNDER Gordon Stewart (1939 - 2014)
EDITOR LETTERS AND COMMENTS Chip Rowe [email protected] Decatur Myers The world is a poorer place without Mr. to chat about the weather, the dog and his Thank you to Michael Turton for his Myers. But the community is richer because nephew. His grin and positive nature always SENIOR EDITOR wonderful column about my longtime Michael Turton told that story — ampli- left me smiling after my personal deliveries. Leonard Sparks “paper man!” — which was the enthusias- fying the feelings people like me and Mr. Sylvia Wallin, via Facebook tic daily announcement from my old friend Myers’ other customers already knew. ARTS EDITOR Decatur Myers as he tossed the paper from My sincere condolences to the extended Everyone in my building knew about Alison Rooney his moving car (“From One Paperboy to Myers family. Decatur’s departure. In fact, he told me [email protected] Another,” Feb. 7). Mike Meeropol, Cold Spring about his health issue during one of his last SENIOR CORRESPONDENT I was terribly saddened to hear about deliveries. His last words to me were, “I’ll Michael Turton his passing — a fact I had suspected but Thank you, Mike Turton! Decatur would be back. I will return.” His positive attitude was uncertain about over the previous few drive by and throw my paper out his car was inspiring. The residue of those words REPORTERS months. Mr. Myers was indeed special. The window, but I never knew who he was. It’s and the memory of his years delivering my Liz Schevtchuk Armstrong most significant thing about his work was nice to read and know his story. newspaper, has indeed brought him back. Brian PJ Cronin • Joe Dizney how oriented he was to servicing each and Susan Branagan, via Facebook Rest in peace, Decatur. Pamela Doan • Deb Lucke every individual on his many routes. Bill Whipp, Cold Spring Skip Pearlman • Jeff Simms Because my wife and I traveled a lot, we I’ve been wondering why my Times has soon learned that it was better to rely on him been coming earlier, why the Sunday sections Decatur was a unique and gentle man LAYOUT DESIGNER to keep track of our comings and goings than stopped coming on Friday, why I haven’t who served our communities with style — Pierce Strudler on The New York Times’ computer. I assume heard his loud motor or traditional “Paper, Honk. “Paper!” A couple of years ago, Deca- paper, wake up, wake up, wake up!” call tur and I talked about going to a Yankees ADVERTISING DIRECTOR there are many people from his route who outside my window. Decatur’s well-deserved game, but it never happened — it’s too bad! Michele Gedney called his cellphone to report this or that issue For information on advertising: and fondly remember his cheerful greeting. reputation for bad driving aside, he was a Alan Brownstein, Cold Spring 845-809-5584 The column was a perfect example of why great newspaper guy, and he’s been missed. [email protected] a community newspaper is still an important Marjorie Gage, via Facebook Editor’s note: The Myers family has highlandscurrent.org/ads way for us locals to connect with each other. asked that memorial donations be made to Mr. Myers’ career is an example of no matter Decatur would pull to a complete stop in the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic how “simple” a job may be, when a person the middle of his deliveries, throw his car Cancer Research, 45 Crossways Park Drive, does it with grace, enthusiasm and dedica- door open in the roadway, leaving it wide- Suite D, Woodbury, NY 11797 (lustgarten.org). tion, he or she makes a positive difference. open, and saunter over to my front porch THE HIGHLANDS CURRENT Beacon’s Shakespeare (USPS #22270) / ISSN 2475-3785 I knew John Laing well (“All the City’s February 14, 2020 Volume 9, Issue 7 (2475-3785) a Stage,” Feb. 7). The Beacon High School teacher who was instrumental in getting is published weekly by Highlands Current Inc., 142 Main St., Cold Spring, a monument to Shakespeare installed at NY 10516-2819. Periodicals Postage Paid Beacon City Hall loved his work and his at Cold Spring, NY, and at additional students. He was also the first vice presi- offices. POSTMASTER: Send address dent of the Animal Rescue Foundation. Even changes to The Highlands Current, 142 Main St., Cold Spring, NY 10516-2819. when he was sick, he would come to Beacon Mail delivery $30 per year. to visit his friends and the cats and dogs. highlandscurrent.org/delivery Joan Cornett, Beacon [email protected] Distribution audited by the Circulation Verification Council Anarchy in Beacon “Looking Back in Beacon” (Jan. 31) is © Highlands Current Inc. 2020 terrific. I especially liked the item about the All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any Beacon resident who in 1920 was mistaken form, mechanical or electronic, without for fugitive John Reed, the author of Ten written permission of the publisher. Days That Shook the World, who was released from jail only after detectives * arrived with a photo of Reed. It’s quite clear Winner: 45 Better from the photo that John Reed does not Newspaper Contest Awards look like Warren Beatty [in Reds], either. * New York Press Association, 2013 -18 Steven Wiesmore, via Instagram NNA* Winner: Bridge tolls 31 Better The proposal by Gov. Andrew Cuomo that Newspaper the independent New York Bridge Authority, Contest Awards which oversees the Bear Mountain, Newburgh- * National Newspaper Association, 2016-18 Beacon and other bridges, be absorbed by the state Thruway Authority is just so typical NYNPA* Winner: of New York State’s methods of destruction 8 Awards for (“Governor Proposes Bridge Changes,” Feb. 7). Excellence If it works, break it and charge more. * New York News Publishers Association, 2017- 18 How many people give any thought to (Continued on Page 5) highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 5
LETTERS AND COMMENTS (Continued from Page 4) Indian Point where all of those outrageous Thruway tolls New York should be worried about Holtec go? How about the state’s gasoline tax — CORRECTION taking over the decommissioning of the where does it go? Our roads are like driving In our Feb. 7 issue, we published Indian Point nuclear power plant (“Clean- through a minefield. At night there are roads a yearbook photo we identified ing Up Indian Point,” Feb. 7). There has where white lines are so invisible that keep- as showing Beacon High School been major mismanagement, lack of safety ing the car on the pavement becomes difficult. teacher John Laing, who was and inferior design with Holtec’s thin-wall If anyone remembers or even cares, the instrumental in 1970 in installing nuclear waste canister system at San Onofre, George Washington Bridge in 1975 was Calfornia. Holtec also loaded more than half a monument dedicated to William destined to be paid off, after which only the thin canisters at Diablo Canyon incor- Shakespeare at Beacon City Hall. 25 cents per passage would be needed for rectly over three separate campaigns. ongoing maintenance. In fact, the photo showed another The damaged canisters will need to be Leonard Lindros, Garrison teacher, Charles Dunn. The correct replaced in the short term, yet there are no photo is at right and also has funds allocated to pay for this. Canisters There is no constructive reason for this but been posted with the article at do not meet or have storage and transport to plunder the coffers of a very successful, highlandscurrent.org. certification for monitored retrievable fuel professional, top-rated, self-sufficient, fiscally storage and transport. These are pressure responsible Authority that provides decent- vessels but no pressure-monitoring or pres- paying jobs to our community members. upstate. If he gets his way, I guarantee that get back to the great state I knew is to vote sure-relief valves. Patrick Kelly, via Facebook tolls will rise. Meanwhile, the roads and Cuomo out, but the biggest bloc in the state Donna Gilmore, San Clemente, California bridges are crumbling. Since the governor is in his pocket. Corruption at its finest. Gilmore is the founder of SanOnofre- This is just another way for Cuomo to now has a majority in the Legislature, the Until they don’t like him, we’re screwed. Safety.org. bleed money from the good people of sky is the limit. The only way New York will Eric Munkelt, New Windsor
NEWS BRIEFS
Vardy will create programs and activi- that restricts Custom and Border Protec- Police Arrest 24 in Super ties, develop the young adult book and tion’s access to criminal-history records Dutchess, By the Numbers Bowl Crackdown media collections and online resources, and and other critical vetting information that In anticipation of his State of the County collaborate with schools and agencies such compromise the safety and security of the presentation on Feb. 20, the office of County State troopers issue 1,108 tickets Executive Marc Molinaro released highlights of as the Philipstown Behavioral Health Hub, United States and its citizens,” a reference to his annual report to the Legislature, including uring an annual crackdown, New York the library said. She is recruiting members the state’s enactment of a “green light” law that the county in 2019 recorded: DState Police troopers issued 1,108 tick- for a Teen Advisory Council. that allows undocumented immigrants to ets in the lower Hudson Valley over Super Most recently, Vardy was a co-counselor obtain driver’s licenses. Thirteen other states 850,000 Bowl weekend and arrested 24 people for for the library’s STEAM (Science, Technol- and Washington, D.C., have similar laws. public transit trips allegedly driving under the influence. ogy, Engineering, Art and Math) summer New York State said that 50,000 resi- Between Friday, Feb. 1, through 4 a.m. camps. Teens are invited to complete a dents have been conditionally approved 1,800 visits to its 24/7 Stabilization Center Monday, Feb. 3, troopers from Troop K survey at bit.ly/dflteensurvey. for Global Entry but have not completed issued 466 citations for speeding, 29 for their interviews, and another 30,000 appli- 258,603 distracted driving, 23 for seat belt viola- State Sues Feds Over cations are pending. The memberships of calls to 911 tions and 10 for violating the “move-over 175,000 New Yorkers expire this year. law” when approaching police or emergency Travel Ban 40,000 Medicaid transactions vehicles. Statewide, troopers issued 8,372 Says policy unfairly targets New Yorkers Hustis Case Delayed Again tickets and arrested 122 people on allega- 177 tions of DWI. he State of New York sued the federal Rescheduled to March 11 T government this week over a policy civil-service exams that bans its residents from participating in he prosecution of Charles E. “Chuck” 2,800 Library Creates Teen Hustis III, who was arrested by the FBI Trusted Traveler programs that allow them T people supervised while on probation Services Position to move faster over the border or through in Cold Spring on Dec. 16 and accused of airport security. soliciting a minor for sex, has been delayed 1,600 Beth Vardy will create programs On Feb. 5, the Department of Homeland a second time, until March 11. public water-supply inspections he Desmond-Fish Public Library in Security informed the state Department of According to documents filed in federal T Garrison has appointed Beth Vardy as Motor Vehicles that New York residents can court in January, Benjamin Gold, who disposition of the case without trial.” its new teen services librarian, a position no longer enroll or re-enroll in programs represents the former Cold Spring village The judge released Hustis, 36, in December it said was recommended by community such as Global Entry, TSA Pre, SENTRI, trustee and mayoral candidate, is talking on $150,000 bond but placed him under home members during strategic planning. NEXUS and FAST “due to state legislation with federal prosecutors about “possible detention with a monitoring device. FEEL YOUR BEST! Massage Therapy & Healing Arts PRIVATE OFFICES + DESKS AVAILABLE IN BEACON Wellness Sanctuary in Garrison, NY Bradford Teasdale, LMT 845-418-3731 beahivebzzz.com 917.362.7546 | www.medicinehandsmassage.com 6 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org By Chip Rowe Campaign Contributions Whom n August we shared a chart showing how much each federal candi- date for elected office had received from local donors in the first six The National Institute on Money in Politics (followthemoney. months of 2019, as compiled by the Federal Election Commission I org) tracks which groups and individuals give to candidates (fec.gov). The chart below updates those figures for all of 2019. for state and federal offices. The top donors for elected Does the Individuals may give up to $2,800 per federal candidate per election officials and candidates in the Highlands are listed below. (primary and general), as well as annual contributions of up to $5,000 to Political Action Committees (PACs), $10,000 to state party commit- Highlands tees and $35,500 to national party committees. (So-called “Super PACs” SUE SERINO NYS Senate, Highlands (3 elections) can accept unlimited money.) 1. NYS Senate Republican Campaign Committee $213,000 Our chart includes candidates and PACs that received at least $75 in 2. American Federation of State County & Municipal Employees $31,300 donations from Highlands residents. The number of donors is in paren- 3. Cathy Young Campaign Committee (NY Senate 57) $21,000 4. Civil Service Employees Association $17,580 Support? theses following each total. Money given to PACs that support specific 5. Real Estate Board of New York $16,250 candidates is included in the total for that candidate. 6. Rent Stabilization Association of New York $13,900 7. Peckham Industries (construction, White Plains) $13,500 COLD SPRING/ 8. Friends of Betty Little (NY Senate 45) $12,800 CANDIDATE PARTY RACE PHILIPSTOWN GARRISON BEACON 9. Citizens to Elect John Bonacic (NY Senate 42) $12,500 10. Housing New York (landlords) $12,500 Michael BENNET (D) President $2,800 (1) 11. NYS Association of Realtors $12,150 Joe BIDEN (D) President $5,557 (5) 12. Healthcare Association of NYS $11,250 Cory BOOKER (D) President $3,900 (3) 13. Time Warner Cable $11,000 14. Hotel & Motel Trades Council NY $11,000 Pete BUTTIGIEG (D) President $2,899 (6) $3,250 (3) 15. Hotel Restaurant Club Employees & Bartenders $11,000 Julián CASTRO (D) President $500 (2) $250 (1) 16. Daniel Loeb (billionaire hedge-fund founder) $11,000 John DELANEY (D) President $100 (1) Tulsi GABBARD (D) President $500 (1) KAREN SMYTHE NYS Senate, Highlands (1 election) Kamala HARRIS (D) President $2,750 (2) $1,500 (2) $1,200 (2) 1. NYS Democratic Senate Campaign Committee $193,172 John HICKENLOOPER (D) President $16,200 (1) 2. Karen Smythe $183,581 Amy KLOBUCHAR (D) President $11,200 (2) 3. NYS Democratic Party $26,000 4. Mason Tenders District Council of Greater NY $22,000 Beto O’ROURKE (D) President $105 (1) 5. New York State United Teachers $11,000 Tim RYAN (D) President $2,800 (1) 6. Communications Workers New Jersey $11,000 Bernie SANDERS (D) President $1,427 (10) $2,042 (7) $2,452 (10) 7. Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee $11,000 8. Andrew M. Cuomo Campaign Committee $11,000 Donald TRUMP (R) President $150 (2) $10,422 (3) $481 (3) 9. Michael Dupree (Hyde Park) $11,000 Elizabeth WARREN (D) President $2,308 (6) $2,064 (4) $1,133 (5) 10. Michael Fleischer (Hyde Park) $11,000 11. Dutchess Democratic Women’s Caucus $11,000 Marianne WILLIAMSON (D) President $1,505 (4) $2,300 (2) 12. Elizabeth Gilmore (Ancramdale) $11,000 Andrew YANG (D) President $186 (1) Nancy PELOSI (D) U.S. House (CA-12) $14,100 (1) JONATHAN JACOBSON NYS Assembly, Beacon (1 election) Adam SCHIFF (D) U.S. House (CA-28) $7,600 (1) $16,200 (1) 1. Jonathan Jacobson $94,442 Larry WILSKE (R) U.S. House (CA-50) $200 (1) 2. 1199SEIU United Health Care Workers $4,400 Jahana HAYES (D) U.S. House (CT-5) $75 (1) 3. New York State Laborers $3,400 Donna SHALALA (D) U.S. House (FL-27) $10,000 (1) $17,000 (2) 4. Mason Tenders District Council of Greater NY $3,200 5. Plumbers & Pipefitters Local 373 $1,500 Raja KRISHNAMOORTHI (D) U.S. House (IL-8) $250 (1) 6. International Association of Bridge Structural Alex MORSE (D) U.S. House (MA-1) $500 (1) Ornamental & Reinforcing Iron Workers $1,000 Joe KENNEDY III (D) U.S. House (MA-4) $1,000 (1) 7. Electrical Workers Local 363 $1,000 8. International Union of Painters & Allied Trades $1,000 Rashida TLAIB (D) U.S. House (MI-13) $127 (1) 9. Orange County Democratic Committee $625 Dan MCCREADY (D) U.S. House (NC-9) $176 (1) $258 (1) Xochitl Torres SMALL (D) U.S. House (NM-2) $2,800 (1) SANDY GALEF NYS Assembly, Philipstown (11 elections) Lee ZELDIN (D) U.S. House (NY-1) $1,000 (1) 1. 1199SEIU United Health Care Workers $10,500 Jerry NADLER (D) U.S. House (NY-10) $2,800 (1) 2. Steven and Sandy Galef $8,784 Alexandria OCASIO-CORTEZ (D) U.S. House (NY-14) $145 (1) 3. NYS Association of Realtors $7,953 4. Marie Carpentier (Ossining) $6,200 Sean Patrick MALONEY (D) U.S. House (NY-18) $28,100 (6) $23,079 (11) $1,050 (2) 5. Manhattan Beer Distributors $6,000 Antonio DELGADO (D) U.S. House (NY-19) $6,500 (3) 6. Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy Committee $5,500 Roger MISSO (D) U.S. House (NY-24) $250 (1) 7. Medical Society of the State of New York $5,150 8. David Swope (Ossining) $5,000 Jim JORDAN (R) U.S. House (OH-4) $100 (1) 9. John P. Curran (health care investor, Ossining) $4,250 Doyle CANNING (D) U.S. House (OR-4) $500 (1) 10. NYS United Teachers $3,500 11. PMHC Realty Corp. (Sleepy Hollow) $3,500 David CICILLINE (D) U.S. House (RI-1) $5,600 (1) Gina Ortiz JONES (D) U.S. House (TX-23) $250 (1) Doug JONES (D) U.S. Senate (AL) $250 (1) $180 (1) SEAN PATRICK MALONEY U.S. House (7 elections) Mark KELLY (D) U.S. Senate (AZ) $5,600 (1) 1. Sean Patrick Maloney Campaign Committee $2,446,744 2. Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee $102,418 Mike JOHNSON (D) U.S. Senate (CO) $1,000 (1) 3. Jon L. Stryker (NYC/Garrison, philanthropist) $97,600 Chris COONS (D) U.S. Senate (DE) $500 (1) 4. Peter B. Lewis (Progressive Insurance, philanthropist) $60,200 Amy MCGRATH (D) U.S. Senate (KY) $5,629 (2) 5. Ameripac / The Fund for a Greater America $55,000 6. Tim E. Gill (software developer, philanthropist) $52,500 Joe KENNEDY III (D) U.S. Senate (MA) $1,000 (1) 7. JOE Pac (Jobs Opportunities & Education) $51,770 Ed MARKEY (D) U.S. Senate (MA) $5,600 (1) 8. Jonathan Lewis (venture capitalist, son of Peter) $50,000 Sara GIDEON (D) U.S. Senate (ME) $5,600 (1) 9. David Bohnett (tech entrepreneur, philanthropist) $50,000 10. Adam J. Lewis (environmentalist, son of Peter) $50,000 Gary PETERS (D) U.S. Senate (MI) $250 (1) 11. New Democrat Coalition $48,000 Tina SMITH (D) U.S. Senate (MN) $250 (1) 12. Suzanne Halloran (Armonk) $47,500 Jeanne SHAHEEN (D) U.S. Senate (NH) $250 (1) Ron WYDEN (D) U.S. Senate (OR) $1,000 (1) According to Opensecrets.org, which also tracks campaign finance, large individual contributions made up 56 percent of Bob CASEY (D) U.S. Senate (PA) $5,300 (2) Maloney’s contributions, PACs accounted for 31 percent and Lindsay GRAHAM (R) U.S. Senate (SC) $1,200 (2) donations of $200 or less were 10 percent. Jaime HARRISON (D) U.S. Senate (SC) $3,559 (3) $300 (1) Ted CRUZ (R) U.S. Senate (TX) $180 (1) $90 (1) Mitt ROMNEY (R) U.S. Senate (UT) $250 (1) (Continued on Page 7) highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 7
COLD SPRING/ POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEES (PACS) FOCUS PHILIPSTOWN GARRISON BEACON
314 Action Fund Scientists and STEM $403 (2) $500 (1) ACT Blue Democratic candidates $17,909 (201) $15,374 (156) $26,992 (454) American Bridge 21st Century Liberal Super PAC $101,000 (1) American College of Engineering Bipartisan $1,650 (1) the Anthem Inc. PAC Health services $320 (1) CHC Bold Pac Democratic candidates $120 (1) $100 (1) Communications Workers of America Communications $156 (1) AWARDS Congressional Hispanic Caucus Bold Democratic candidates $100 (1) Democracy for America Founded by Howard Dean (D) $5,700 (1) Emily’s List Pro-choice Democratic women $720 (2) $245 (1) End Citizens United Democratic candidates $175 (1) $510 (3) We are proud to recognize Everytown for Gun Safety Gun control $350 (1) our exceptional local sales Fair Fight Founded by Stacey Abrams (D) $250 (1) $6,250 (2) $1,050 (2) professionals for 2019 Giffords PAC Gun control $80 (1) It Starts Today Democratic candidates $210 (3) Mason Tenders of Greater NY PAC Union $78 (2) $191 (2) Molina Healthcare PAC Health services $135 (1) Moveon.org Progressive candidates $100 (1) National Multifamily Housing Council PAC Apartment industry $5,000 (1) NYS Union of Teachers Educators $300 (1) $296 (3) Progressive Turnout Project Progressive candidates $100 (1) $571 (3) Seal PAC for Supporting American Leaders Conservative veterans $200 (1) Swing Left Progressive candidates $2,135 (1) MELISSA CARLTON VoteVets Progressive veterans $116 (1) Associate Real Estate Broker Top Producer | Platinum Award
PARTY COMMITTEES
Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee $9,572 (8) $23,901 (7) $23,901 (7) Democratic National Committee $5,750 (3) $1,800 (3) $1,800 (3) Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee $5,278 (4) $2,398 (4) $2,398 (4) National Republican Congressional Committee National Republican Senate Committee NY Democratic Committee $250 (1) KATHYRINE TOMANN NY Republican Federal Campaign Committee $1,000 (1) $1,000 (1) Associate Real Estate Broker Platinum Award Republican National Committee $245 (2) $381 (2) $381 (2) State Government Citizens' Committee (D) $1,000 (1)
should be investigated for harboring an (from Page 1) Hossu Case “illegal alien” — Hossu was a Romanian According to the lawsuit, the girl told immigrant who had overstayed his visa. police that Hossu had continuous inter- Levy recused his office from the case but course with her from 7:15 to 10:37 p.m. — was criticized for providing Hossu with a except for one 10-second break — while also lawyer (his brother-in-law) and more than LINDA K. HOFFMANN Real Estate Salesperson choking her with his hand or forearm, and $100,000 for legal fees. Platinum Award that her mother was in the next room but After Smith issued his news releases, Levy slept through the attack. She said Hossu, sued for defamation, asking for $5 million. whom she didn’t like, had become violent To settle the case, the county agreed to pay when she told him she didn’t need help with Adam Levy and Don Smith $125,000 and Smith $25,000, and the sheriff her math homework. apologized “unequivocally” and conceded Family members were skeptical of her embarrass then-District Attorney Adam the statements in the releases were “untrue; claim, as was a jury, which heard evidence Levy, with whom he was waging a political and I should not have made them.” that the girl was on her phone for 43 minutes turf war. Hossu had been Levy’s personal Levy, who lost his bid for a second term ABBIE CAREY during the time of the alleged rape. After trainer for about seven years and lived at in 2015 to Robert Tendy, sued the sher- Associate Real Estate Broker Hossu spent a year in jail awaiting trial, he his home and used his address for a time iff again in October 2017 — this time for Gold Award was acquitted of all charges. but had moved to an apartment complex $50,000, saying Smith had disparaged Soon after, Hossu sued Putnam County, long before his arrest, the lawsuit said. him by implying in interviews that he had Smith, three investigators and two prosecu- Following the arrest, Smith issued two acted based on the facts as he knew them at tors for false arrest and malicious prosecu- news releases alleging that Hossu lived at the time and later made “a correction.” (A tion. He asked for $45 million. Levy’s home at the time of his arrest; that judge threw the case out.) The next month, Hossu claimed in his lawsuit that his the district attorney had interfered with Robert Langley Jr. defeated Smith by 324 CRAIG ROFFMAN prosecution was orchestrated by Smith to the investigation; and that Levy himself votes of nearly 25,000 cast. Real Estate Salesperson Silver Award Hossu claimed in his lawsuit that his prosecution was orchestrated by Smith to embarrass COLD SPRING BROKERAGE . . then-District Attorney Adam Levy, with whom he was waging a political turf war. HOULIHANLAWRENCE.COM 8 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
Perspective 56 percent of the vote county-wide — and controlled. The county Legislature recently 61 percent in the Town of Carmel. Compare passed resolutions opposing the New York that to Westchester County — a five to State Reproductive Health Act (RHA) as In Search of Progressive Putnam 10-minute drive away — where Trump got “sanctioning infanticide” and objecting to 31 percent of the vote. New York’s “green light” bill to grant driv- By Eileen McDermott in our search for a new home, anticipating The dynamics at play don’t bode well for er’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. woods, more space and less traffic. progressive and LGBTQ newcomers. While During the hearing to approve the RHA any residents After months of searching in the usual gay Putnam libraries and some organizations resolution, one supporter of the effort o f N e w flight meccas of Beacon, Cold Spring, Peek- have hosted Pride events in recent years, sitting near me held a sign that decried M York City skill, Cortlandt Manor and other Hudson and many of the schools have Gay-Straight abortion on one side and homosexuality have heard of Cold River spots, our real-estate agent forced us to Alliance groups, there is no nearby LGBTQ on the other — as if he were hopping from Spring because face reality — we could not afford or handle Community Center, no gay bar in Putnam one protest to another that night. they’ve visited the a fixer-upper, and the prices and taxes for or even within reasonable driving distance, These kinds of politics persist only village or hiked move-in ready houses in riverfront commu- and there has never been a Pride Parade. because the progressive community in this Breakneck or other nities were beyond us. So, she showed us a LGBTQ people and artists can often be part of Putnam County has been silenced nearby trails. house in Brewster — wherever that was. the lifeblood of progressive communities, or become apathetic and disillusioned in But it’s less likely It was perfect. It was a modest ranch with but without public spaces for queer people light of it being a decades-long conservative they’ve heard of Putnam Valley, Mahopac, a decent-sized yard, the taxes were low, there to convene and be visible, communities stronghold. Like Beacon and Cold Spring, Carmel, Kent or Brewster, which are more were state-protected woods across the street remain insular and conservative, keeping other communities in Putnam County populated but less of a pull for tourists and and — most importantly — the house had progressive values in the shadows. have great potential for LGBTQ and other decidedly more conservative. The partic- just been gut-rehabbed to be flipped. In response to this climate, I’ve joined progressive families looking for more space, ulars of their location and history have Brewster is a little farther from the city with some other Putnam residents in an easy access to Manhattan via Metro-North, created a progressive desert of sorts — than we would have liked, and we knew effort to hold the first Putnam Pride Parade local arts, nature, farms and more. But as even as Manhattan’s ongoing ejection of little about the town or surrounding area, on Saturday, June 6. The Cold Spring Village long as the queer community is encouraged its middle class and swiftly-rising costs in but the village was quaint and the house Board has given us tentative approval. The to stay quiet, the dynamic will not change. Hudson River towns sends more progres- four minutes from the Metro-North Harlem drag queen Angel Elektra, who recently read There are certainly many forces work- sives, including those of us in the LGBTQ Line and only an hour from Manhattan. stories to children at the Putnam Valley ing for change — the Putnam Progressives, community, to the eastern reaches. How different could it be? Library and will make an appearance at Putnam Young Democrats, Hudson Valley My wife, Laurie, and I moved to Brewster Six months later, on Nov. 8, Donald Split Rock Books in Cold Spring in May, has Stonewall Democrats and the Putnam in 2016. I had lived in Manhattan since 2001; Trump won the presidency, and at 3 a.m. agreed to emcee. County Democratic Committee, to name a she since 2005. Our individual love affairs we were awakened by a celebratory boom- The event is badly needed, not just for few — with some recent successes that indi- with New York City had enjoyed good runs ing bass — our neighbors were elated. I had Putnam’s LGBTQ residents who have cate Putnam may be trending toward change. but its many wonders had begun to pale in gone to bed hours earlier after sending off nowhere to congregate, but to energize But we need more help. Join us for Putnam comparison with its many inconveniences an angry Facebook message to no one in and bring visibility to the county’s queer Pride or lend your support at putnampride. and a growing sense of angst. And as a couple particular. Stirred by a party in our midst, community and to ensure that the arc of com, open an LGBTQ-friendly business in we don’t shun cliches: we hike, snowboard I felt crushed, angry and scared — where our state politics continues to bend forward Putnam or consider moving here. If you’re and have a pit bull, so we looked northward was this place that I now lived? rather than backward. up for helping to foster change somewhere Five of the six towns in Putnam voted To be sure, other Lower Hudson Valley not too far away, Putnam needs you. for Trump in 2016. Philipstown, which counties voted for Trump in 2016, but HOWLAND CULTURAL CENTER includes Cold Spring, was the only one that Putnam’s margins stand alone and its A version of this column originally went for Hillary Clinton. Trump won nearly local governments are broadly Republican- appeared in Gay City News.
ing homes, can ask to be excluded, but a A dozen people spoke in September during (from Page 1) Historic District super-majority vote by the council (five of the council’s first hearing on the 35 possible city. About 280 homes and structures are its seven members, including the mayor) additions, with about half of them express- already in the district, which prevents them can overrule an objection. ing concern. Opponents cited the cost and and neighboring buildings from being Beacon officials have been working for nuisance of going through the Planning Fri. Feb. 14 – 7 pm altered in a way that the city believes will more than a year to make the designa- Board, as well as creative limitations on HUDSON VALLEY POETS harm their historic value. tion more appealing. Property owners can things like paint colors or exterior features. Featured: Bob Phelps + open mic The district also has its own architec- currently apply for tax breaks on exterior The council responded with a proposal to Sun. Feb. 16 – 4 pm tural and design standards, a requirement restoration of a home’s historic features, eliminate Planning Board fees for property PIANIST ZOLTAN FEJERVARI that has agitated some property owners. but they have also been required to get owners who comply with its standards. The Howland Chamber Music Circle www.howlandmusic.org Maggie Yarnis lives in an 1860 Victorian approval from the Planning Board before revision to its historic district law would home on Beacon’s west side that is in the making significant changes. also eliminate the need for the Planning Wed. Feb. 19 – 7 pm * JOAN HENRY and band, SPIRITED historic district. She said on Wednesday that The council has asked Dutchess County Board to approve interior and out-of-sight Tribal Harmony concert series her family had been pleased with the desig- and the Beacon school board to grant exterior alterations and, in many cases, nation “until we started learning about it.” historic property owners tax breaks, as repainting and landscaping changes. Fri. Feb. 21 – 7:30 pm THOM JOYCE’s OPEN MIC Yarnis said one conversation with her well. Both proposals are being reviewed. Far fewer people attended a public hear- Your chance to sing and play insurance agent led her to believe she’d lose “The No. 1 benefit that we’ve afforded ing on that proposal on Jan. 21, however. her coverage because the district’s limita- has been the additional uses in the zone,” Comments included the suggestion that the Sat. + Sun. Feb. 22 + 23 – 3 pm * Howland Playhouse tions would make the cost of restoring exte- Mayor Lee Kyriacou said this week, citing city exempt houses of worship from historic and Hudson Valley Theatre Initiative present: rior features on her home too expensive. Then the Rose Hill Manor Day School, his neigh- restrictions. “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” she was reassured that her coverage would bor on Route 9D, as an example. On Tuesday, both proposals — the 35 Fri. Feb. 28 – 8 pm * continue, but possibly at a higher premium. Because Rose Hill is part of the historic properties being considered and the new Howland Playhouse “I had no idea about this,” Yarnis said. district, added zoning uses — commercial, law — will be up for comment. and Romanian Cultural Institute present: “Why the Child is Cooking in the Polenta” She’s gathering information on Beacon’s restaurant, bed-and-breakfast or offices During the City Council’s meeting on regulations, but says if she concludes the — are allowed by special permit in what is Monday (Feb. 10), Kyriacou suggested that AND MORE Sun. Mar 1 – Lincoln Trio, Howland Chamber Music Circle district is too restrictive, “we’re leaning otherwise a single-family residential district. existing and prospective historic-district Sat. Mar 7 – Opening Reception, art show, toward wanting out.” “Clearly that property is far more valu- property owners could be more amenable Women’s History Month The 35 buildings under consideration able being in the historic overlay than it this time around because of the revised Sat. Mar 7 – Jazz pianist Matthew Shipp, by Elysium Furnace Works * are either in or close to the Central Main would have been in single-family zoning,” law’s benefits and “cost-less process.” Tue. Mar 10 – Old-Timey Southern Fiddle Tunes Jam Street zone. Owners of buildings, includ- Kyriacou said.
477 Main Street, Beacon, NY 12508 www.howlandculturalcenter.org (845) 831-4988 The council has asked Dutchess County and the Beacon school board to grant facebook.com/howlandcenterbeacon *Brownpapertickets.com, search Beacon Howland historic property owners tax breaks, as well. Both proposals are being reviewed. highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 9
for the Stop Common Core Party received more than 50,000 votes in the 2014 election How They to win the party a ballot line for the next four years. But in January 2015 it changed its name to the Reform Party, a move that Voted supporters of the legislation said gave the organization “a multi-year legal political Governor signs another status based on fraud.” Passed Senate 43-19 round of bills passed by Serino state legislators Passed Assembly 111-30 Galef Jacobson By Chip Rowe Health insurance ov. Andrew Cuomo has so far during The governor on Dec. 12 signed legisla- the 2019-20 legislative session tion that expands what procedures do not G enacted 778 bills passed by the require pre-approval from an insurer. state Senate and Assembly, with another five In 2007, the state enacted a law that waiting for his signature. He has vetoed 169. Dream Shepherd (second from right) with her mother, State Sen. David Carlucci and prevented insurers from ruling that certain Assembly Member Sandy Galef. Photo provided Below are summaries of select laws procedures performed by a surgeon had to enacted since Dec. 9 and the votes cast by be pre-authorized so that doctors could deal Republican Sue Serino (whose Senate district allows local governments to force lenders to nurse by the family’s insurance company. with complications without seeking approval. includes the Highlands), Democrat Sandy foreclose on vacant properties or discharge The law requires that hospitals train the The 2019 law is designed to address situ- Galef (whose Assembly district includes Phil- the mortgage within three months. During caregivers of patients who are discharged ations such as chemotherapy, which is typi- ipstown) and Democrat Jonathan Jacobson debate over the bill, opponents asked how with a central venous line within 24 hours cally done on an outpatient basis. Patients (whose Assembly district includes Beacon). a municipality would determine if a vacant on how to administer medication. often are treated for related symptoms such Serino did not respond to an inquiry about property was in default. They also noted that as nausea, low platelet counts and allergic her two votes in the minority. Passed Senate 61-0 mortgages typically do not require banks to Serino reactions so they can receive chemo. The law maintain abandoned properties, meaning Passed Assembly 145-0 will allow doctors to perform these proce- Environmental justice the law would alter existing contracts. Galef Jacobson dures without first getting approval from an Cuomo on Dec. 23 signed a law to create insurer. It takes effect on March 11. a 16-member Environmental Justice Advi- Passed Senate 48-14 Serino Changing names sory Board, as well as an Interagency Coor- Passed Senate 62-0 Passed Assembly 122-24 Cuomo on Dec. 11 enacted a bill that Serino dinating Council. The board will create a Galef Jacobson prohibits political parties from changing Passed Assembly 147-0 model environmental justice policy so that their names once they are on the ballot. Galef Jacobson low-income and minority communities can Property-tax relief Galef introduced the legislation in the “have a seat at the table,” its supporters said, Cuomo on Dec. 13 signed a bill introduced Assembly after the gubernatorial candidate (Continued on Page 10) while the council will provide guidance to in the Assembly by Galef that allows water, state agencies implementing environmental library, fire and other special districts to justice policies to combat climate change. provide property-tax exemptions on the Board members will be appointed by the value of changes made to make a home governor and legislative leaders, while the more accessible for a disabled homeowner council will consist of commissioners from (e.g., ramps, grab bars, alterations to light- various agencies. ing and heating systems) that increase its Passed Senate 62-0 value. Serino Passed Senate 62-0 Passed Assembly 117-30 Serino Galef Jacobson Passed Assembly 146-0 Galef Jacobson Elevator licensing Cuomo on Jan. 2 signed legislation Fire safety at schools requiring individuals engaged in the Cuomo on Dec. 17 enacted a law that design, construction, inspection, main- requires schools to have fire inspections tenance and repair of elevators or other conducted by a fire department or certi- “automated people-moving conveyances” fied inspector. It also eliminated a provi- to be licensed by the state. sion that allowed inspectors who made Passed Senate 62-0 errors to avoid liability, allows the state to Serino deny a public school to operate if it does not Passed Assembly 145-0 correct deficiencies noted in a fire inspec- Galef Jacobson tion, and gives the state authority to order an inspection of any private school that Safe way home does not submit an annual safety report. On Dec. 23, Cuomo enacted the Safe Way Home Act, which requires hospitals to use Passed Senate 62-0 Serino victim-services funds to pay for sexual- Passed Assembly 140-1 assault victims to be driven after treatment Galef Jacobson to their homes or shelters. It takes effect on March 22. Dream’s Law Passed Senate 62-0 Cuomo on Dec. 10 signed legislation Serino requiring that hospitals have plans in place Passed Assembly 146-0 for patients who are discharged but still Galef Jacobson require central venous lines. The bill, introduced in the Assembly by Zombie properties Galef, was named Dream’s Law for Dream On Dec. 18, Cuomo enacted the Zombie Shepherd, 14, of Ossining, who was battling Property Remediation Act of 2019, which sickle-cell disease but was denied a private 10 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
How They Voted (from Page 9) 1,4-Dioxane in Products Water contamination In parts per billion (ppb) Cuomo on Dec. 9 enacted a law that Victoria’s Secret Fragrance Wash will ban a chemical known as 1,4-dioxane, which the federal Environmental Protec- 17,000 tion Agency has identified as a likely Tide Original carcinogen, from household cleaners sold in the state and limit its use in cosmetics 14,000 and personal care products (see left). Home Store Lemon Dish Soap Elevated levels of 1,4-dioxane have been found in the water of municipalities across 7,700 the state but especially on Long Island, which Baby Magic Hair and Body Wash has the highest levels in the nation. In the Hudson Valley, the chemical was detected 5,500 last year in five public water systems that Dawn Dish Soap serve more than 10,000 residents, not includ- A photo shows the interior of a stretch limousine that later crashed in Schoharie, killing ing Beacon or anywhere in Putnam County. 3,600 17 passengers. Only the driver, who also died, was wearing a seat belt. NTSB The law establishes a “trace-amount Selsun Blue threshold” for manufacturers, who have 3,100 until Jan. 1, 2022, to comply, although they elections to also be used by school districts. for hemp growers and the Department of can obtain a one-year waiver if they have The latter goes into effect on March 9. Health will regulate hemp extract such as Ajax systems in place to remove the chemical Passed Senate 62-0 CBD; its sellers are required to register. 2,500 from their products. Serino Passed Senate 62-0 Purex Laundry Passed Senate 62-0 Passed Assembly 143-0 Serino Serino Galef Jacobson Passed Assembly 131-4 2,000 Passed Assembly 144-2 Passed Senate 41-20 Galef Jacobson Soft Soap Fresh Breeze Galef Jacobson Serino 1,900 Passed Assembly 142-4 Victim compensation Absentee voting Galef Jacobson On Dec. 20, Cuomo signed a bill into law Johnson’s Baby Shampoo On Dec. 10, Cuomo enacted a bill intro- that makes domestic partners eligible for 870 duced in the Assembly by Galef that Hemp sales compensation from the crime victims’ fund. requires that absentee ballots match the Cuomo on Dec. 9 signed legislation that Passed Senate 59-0 Source: Citizens Campaign for the Environment (citizen- ballots used on Election Day and another requires hemp manufacturers to test and scampaign.org), which in 2019 found the chemical in 65 Serino label their products. The state Department of of 80 products it had tested. The group notes the proposed that requires simplified absentee ballot Passed Assembly 122-24 state drinking water standard for 1,4-dioxane is 1 ppb. applications created in 2010 for general Agriculture and Markets will oversee permits Galef Jacobson
Limo safety In the wake of a stretch limousine crash in Cuthogue in 2015 that killed four teenag- ers and another in 2018 in Schoharie that killed 20 people, Cuomo on Feb. 3 enacted a package of laws aimed at the industry. Each bill passed unanimously or nearly unani- mously in the Senate and Assembly with | SATURDAY, FEB. 29 1:30 - 4:30PM support from Serino, Galef and Jacobson. Cajun Jam and Pot luck Bring your instrument or your dancing ¢ Vehicles converted into stretch shoes-and a dish or snack to share. limousines as of Jan. 1, 2021, must have at least one seat belt for each FRIDAY, MARCH 6 | 7:30PM Mike + Ruthy passenger. All limos must be retrofit- Americana, from alt-country ted with belts by Jan. 1, 2023. to folk to bluegrass. OPERATIONS ¢ Limo drivers must have commercial SUNDAY, MARCH 8 | 3:00 - 5:00PM MANAGER driver’s licenses. Open Mic at Poets’ Corner Featuring Bill Buschel for Clean Energy Events ¢ The state can impound or immobi- Our monthly open mic Company, Beacon, NY lize limos if they fail inspection. for writers and readers ¢ The penalties for illegal U-turns by SATURDAY, MARCH 14 | 3:00 - 5:00PM New Energy Events is an limos were increased. “Song!” Art Exhibit and Reception organizer of international clean Featuring artists’ interpretation energy events with an opening ¢ The state will create a safety hotline of the word “Song.” for a part-time Operations for issues involving limos. Manager. This is an opportunity | ¢ Owners must register stretch limos SATURDAY, MARCH 14 7:30PM to join a growing team and with the DMV, which will review driver Arte Povera A Celebration of Irish Music make a significant contribution with Brian Conway & Brendan Dolan records at least annually. The agency to the operation of world-class Open: 11:00am to 5:00pm Hosted by Neil Hickey also will post data online about firms Thursday, Friday, Saturday, events promoting investment Sunday, Monday SATURDAY, MARCH 21 | 7:30PM in clean energy. This role also that operate limos and their drivers. Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday Jim Dale stories offers the unique opportunity ¢ A state task force will be created to
for travel throughout Latin review limo safety. Admission is free to the public SATURDAY, MARCH 28 | 7:30PM America and the Caribbean. No reservation required Peter Gerety Stories ¢ Limo drivers and applicants will be Free shuttle from Cold Spring station subject to random drug and alcohol
Magazzino Italian Art Foundation 729 Peekskill Hollow Road testing. Putnam Valley, NY 10579 | 845 528-7280 For more information, and to apply: 2700 Route 9, Cold Spring, NY 10516 In addition, a new law requires that taxi Visit: www.tompkinscorners.org 845 666 7202 newenergyevents.com/careers/ or livery cab passengers under the age of www.magazzino.art 16 must wear a seat belt in the back seat. highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 11 The Calendar
Monthly book club focuses Jordan: “Very military surplus.” on graphic novels And then there were matters specific to Comic Sensibilities this form. By Alison Rooney Summer: “It’s a large book. A lot of books we’ve read are quick reads. An author raphic novels are no longer rele- once told me that a nine-panel grid makes gated to the dim recesses of book- the reader slow down.” G store aisles. And the people buying them aren’t always monosyllabic adoles- Jordan: “There is good movement from cents. That was clear from the group which panel to panel. She can convey movement, turned up on a Tuesday night at Split Rock motion, transformation. Like when the Books in Cold Spring for a monthly Graphic skull emerges.” Novel Book Club session for adults. Michael: “I originally read this on Led by cartoonist and writer Summer ComiXologyn [comixology.com]. I read it Pierre, author of All the Sad Songs and the on my phone. Print is my favorite, but it Paper Pencil Life series (and a too-infre- was kind of cool because on my phone it quent contributor to The Current), the gives you each individual panel.” participants are here given the most rudi- mentary descriptions in an attempt to avoid Chris: “Sounds exhausting!” mismatching names and quotes. They were: Summer: “I was thinking of her choice of using pencil. When she scans it in, she ¢ Alessa: Brown coat, black jeans, also takes all the gray out. A lot of people say a cartoonist, been here several times, you should never cartoon with pencil, but was living in Beacon, now Red Hook what a different experience it would have ¢ Jordan: Black jacket, black-and- been in ink: harsher and more bleak.” white tee, married to Alessa, also a cartoonist Yet, ultimately, like any tale told, it comes ¢ Grace: Caught a break on Grace, who down to story + characters + how they’re owns Supplies for Creative Living, depicted. There’s plotting:
just up Main Street Summer: “She’s so lucky she’s alive. The ¢ Michael: Black jacket, black-and fact that she escapes that mafioso house white-scarf, lives in Cold Spring, is like, nuts.” been coming to these sessions for a Illustration by Summer Pierre Jennifer: “Right before the monk dies, year, working on a book much more bearable. This made me angry, Alessa: “I like the way her legs have she meets this guy from Gambia and goes ¢ Cynthia: blond, ponytail, recently but you’re freed a little by the strength there. wiggly things on them when she’s angry. I with him. Turns out he’s a decent guy.” moved to Beacon, made tiny little She’s willing to go out on this journey — love how languages are expressed. In the graphic novels strike out and do this stuff.” beginning, Italian is just squiggles.” There’s pause for reflection: ¢ Jennifer: white hat, moved to Kent Because the book is mostly drawings, the ummer “Then it goes to loopy cursive. It Chris: “I was impressed that you could last year, visited Split Rock numer- S : visuals filled half the conversation. has many interesting arcs.” survive on the street, and that you could ous times before realizing there was Marin: “When you asked if anyone go into a restaurant and they’d give you a book club Caroline: “The disliked it, did you mean the food.” ¢ Marin (had the smarts to spell it out: content is brutal. art or the story?” ummer “She must have smelled … “Martin with no T”), glasses, married In this case so S : so much. She didn’t shower the whole to Jennifer Summer: “That’s many images interesting – that stay in my mind. summer, and she has one outfit.” ¢ Chris, a longtime comics editor, and there is a separa- Her reactions ¢ Caroline, accompanied by Hans, her tion between the — the drawings And, ultimately, there’s an emotional dachshund two.” of people’s faces, response (or not): secondary charac- The topic was Ulli Lust’s Today is the Jennifer: “I’m Summer: “I kept waiting for wounded- ters, passersby — Last Day of the Rest of Your Life, a gritty mixed on it. I found ness and was surprised that by the end it are very vivid.” memoir chosen by Pierre “because it’s a the story content wasn’t there.” wonderful example of what can be achieved frustrating, but I Michael: “I can’t Jordan: “It’s presented non-judgmen- in graphic form. Ulli lives in Berlin and she liked the grunge- believe how much tally. She’s clear-eyed about herself at that was the editor of an online German comic style art.” she can do in terms age. I’ve done some stuff [comics] about collective, and she serialized this online. of sense of place. I Grace: “She high-school-age me, and I tend to skewer She just came out with her second memoir, captured the drift- feel like I’m there. myself because I’m mortified about who which is also phenomenal and amazing. ing aspect of being a The style changes as I was.” “This book requires time, which comics it goes along.” teenager, and the way Chris: “If I had to tell a story about this don’t always require,” Pierre explained. “As she’s drawn, you don’t Grace: “I kept coming age … It’s a beautiful book. I feel like it is a result, it’s a rich and deep experience. even have to hear back to the colors. The sort of hopeful.” Reading it again made me realize how what she’s saying.” sickly green.” many people try to do something like this. Split Rock Books is located at 97 Main Did anyone really dislike it?” Michael: “Her story- Cynthia: “The St. The selection for the next session of the The book club discussed Ulli Lust's No hands were raised, but Jordan said: telling abilities are so colors of camo; Graphic Novel Book Club, scheduled for 7 inspiring and impres- latest graphic novel. walking in the “Enjoy is a weird word for it. I feel like there’s Fantagraphics p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 18, is You & a bike & a central toughness to her that makes it sive.” woods.” a Road, by Eleanor Davis. 12 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org THE WEEK AHEAD Edited by Pamela Doan ([email protected]) For a complete listing of events, see highlandscurrent.org/calendar.
COMMUNITY SAT 22 Black History: SAT 15 The Puppet Show Celebrate Washington’s PUTNAM VALLEY Birthday 11 a.m. Putnam Valley Library NEWBURGH 30 Oscawana Lake Road Noon – 4 p.m. 845-528-3242 Washington’s Headquarters bookwhen.com/putnamvalleylibrary 84 Liberty St. | 845-562-1195 JD Lawrence and his puppeteers parks.ny.gov will tell the story of a young girl Re-enactors will portray exploring her African-American the general and his troops. roots with her grandfather. Free Create a craft, learn about the Revolutionary War as it was fought TALKS & TOURS in the Hudson Valley and hear performances of period songs. SAT 15 Also SUN 16, MON 17. Free Weather BEACON SAT 15 7 p.m. Binnacle Books Special Night of 321 Main St. | 845-838-6191 Remembrance binnaclebooks.com BEACON Jenny Offill will read from 7:30 p.m. Beacon High School her latest novel and join in a 101 Matteawan Road discussion with author Lynn beaconk12.org Steger Strong of Cold Spring. The Beacon Players organized this event to honor the victims of SUN 16 the Holocaust. It will be followed Audubon Field Trip next weekend by two sold-out BEACON performances of I Never Saw 8:30 a.m. Dennings Point Another Butterfly. See Page 15. 199 Dennings Ave. Meet in the parking lot at the end SAT 22 Community Soup-Making, Feb. 22 of Dennings Avenue for a morning of Community Soup- bird watching. Register by emailing Making [email protected]. BEACON SUN 23 KIDS & FAMILY SUN 16 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. More Good Party for Your When Presidents WED 19 383 Main St. | commongroundfarm.org Mental Health SAT 15 Were Kids Intro to Mindfulness Home cooks will be able to make BEACON Love Your Library GARRISON Meditation soup in support of Soup4Greens Noon – 3 p.m. Towne Crier | 379 Main St. Day Party 2 p.m. Desmond-Fish Library GARRISON using a professional kitchen. Email GARRISON 10:30 a.m. Desmond-Fish Library [email protected] 845-855-1300 | townecrier.com 472 Route 403 | 845-424-3020 1 – 3 p.m. Desmond-Fish Library 472 Route 403 | 845-424-3020 to participate. The soup will be Members of the Sikotabs Art desmondfishlibrary.org 472 Route 403 | 845-424-3020 sold at the Beacon Farmer’s Market Project will be reading from their In this President’s Day desmondfishlibrary.org on SUN 23 as a fundraiser for new picture book on dealing with desmondfishlibrary.org celebration, storyteller Jonathan This is the first class of matching federal food assistance depression, Sometimes It’s OK to Celebrate the library and Kruk will perform Brawling, Brash, a six-session workshop led dollars for the community. Always be Sad. There will also be bring games and puzzles Bashful & Bad Boy: Washington, by Alicia Leeds. Free music from Tony DePaolo, Judith you want to trade. Lincoln, Roosevelt and More. Tulloch, The Costellos, Russell THURS 20 SAT 22 St. George and Luv Dot Gov. Renegades Game Day SAT 15 MON 17 Ensuring Safe Nuclear Proceeds will benefit the American Make A Friend/ Winter Wildlife Survival Job Fair Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Decommissioning Be A Friend Party FORT MONTGOMERY WAPPINGERS FALLS Cost: $20 donation BEACON 1 p.m. Fort Montgomery Site 10 a.m. – 2 pm. Dutchess Stadium BEACON 7 p.m. River Center 690 Route 9W | 845-446-2134 1500 Route 9D | 845-838-009 1 – 3 p.m. Howland Public Library Long Dock Park | 845-463-4660 HEALTH & FITNESS palisadesparks.org hvrenegades.com 313 Main St. | 845-831-1134 beaconsloopclub.org Children and families ages 8 and Bring a resume and identification SAT 15 beaconlibrary.org Manna older can go on a nature trek and to interview for seasonal Blood Drive Students will write letters or Jo Greene, a draw pictures to send to a child who learn how animals make it through member of jobs during summer Hudson BEACON has been bullied to show that he or the cold days of winter when food is the Indian Valley Renegades games. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Elks Lodge she is not alone. scarce. Registration required. Free Point Nuclear 900 Wolcott Ave. | 845-765-0667 Decom- SAT 22 nybloodcenter.org THURS 20 missioning Roaring ’20s Costume Ball Walk-ins welcome. Drink plenty of Toy Story 4 Citizen Ad- BEACON fluids. visory Panel, GARRISON 6 – 9 p.m. St. Rocco Society will discuss 6 p.m. Desmond-Fish Library 26 S. Chestnut St. | THURS 20 environ- beaconopenstudios.org Narcan Training 472 Route 403 | 845-424-3020 mental and desmondfishlibrary.org At this annual fundraiser for COLD SPRING safety issues This 2019 family movie follows related to the closure of the Beacon Open Studios, dress for 7 p.m. Philipstown Hub | 5 Stone St. Woody, Buzz and the gang on plant that begins in April. the 1920s and enjoy food and 845-809-5050 | philipstownhub.org drinks, raffle prizes and swinging a new journey with Bonnie. Learn how to save a life when music from Tony DePaolo and someone is overdosing on opioids. The Beacontonians. Cost: $35 highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 13
MUSIC SAT 22 Hudson Highlands Poetry SUN 16 GARRISON CJ Chenier & The Red 1:30 p.m. Desmond-Fish Library Hot Louisiana Band 472 Route 403 | 845-424-3020 BEACON desmondfishlibrary.org 4:30 p.m. Towne Crier | 379 Main St. Carla Carlson, A. Anupama and 845-855-1300 | townecrier.com Joseph Fasano will read their work Celebrate Mardi Gras with a as part of this ongoing series. Zydeco show, Louisiana-style dishes and dancing. Cost: $30 ($35 door) SAT 22 The Miraculous Journey WED 19 of Edward Tulane Tribal Harmony: BEACON Joan Henry 3 p.m. Howland Cultural Center BEACON 477 Main St. | 845-831-4988 8 p.m. Howland Cultural Center miraculousjourney.bpt.me 477 Main St. | 845-831-4988 In this production by the Hudson tribalharmony.bpt.me Valley Theatre Initiative of Kate Henry will blend storytelling CJ Chenier, Feb. 16 DiCamillo’s novel, a vain but fragile with jazz standards from the old toy rabbit learns about love. Suitable to the avante garde backed by the for ages 8 and older. Also SUN 23. SAT 22 SAT 15 WED 19 band Spirited (Dennis Yerry on See Page 14. Cost: $15 ($10 children) piano, Rupert Ifil on percussion, Strange Loops Sinbad The Human Element Rich Syracuse on bass, Tom BEACON PEEKSKILL POUGHKEEPSIE VISUAL ART DePetri on guitar and Gus Mancini 4 p.m. BAU Gallery | 506 Main St. 8 p.m. Paramount Hudson Valley 6 p.m. Trolley Barn | 489 Main St. on sax). Cost: $10 ($15 door) 845-440-7584 | baugallery.org 1008 Brown St. | 914-739-0039 eventbrite.com/e/ SAT 15 The Schroeder Umansky Duo paramounthudsonvalley.com the-human-element-tickets Winter Weekend In this 2018 documentary, FRI 21 will perform music for violin The comedian and actor — NEW WINDSOR environmental photographer James Hudson Valley and cello by Zoltán Kodály, ranked by Comedy Central as one of 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Storm King Art Center Michael Ippolito and Caroline Balog explores the impact of climate Gospel Festival the top 100 comics and known for 1 Museum Road | 845-534-3115 Shaw. Presented by the Howland his many specials — returns to the change and the people on the front stormking.org POUGHKEEPSIE Chamber Music Circle. Free Paramount. Cost: $47.50 to $67.50 lines of wildfires, hurricanes and dutchesstourism.com/ticketinfo sea-level rise. A panel discussion Enjoy the outdoor sculpture park This festival will include concerts with elected officials and nonprofit in a wintry landscape. Also SUN 16. SAT 22 TUES 18 by Everett Drake, Edwin Sutton leaders will follow the screening. Cost: $18 ($15 seniors, $8 ages 5 to and the Livingstone College Gospel The Smithereens True Justice Online registration requested. Free 18 and students, free under age 4 Choir, among others, as well as PEEKSKILL BEACON and members) 8 p.m. Paramount Hudson Valley workshops, a Gospel Walk Through 7 p.m. First Presbyterian Church FRI 21 History and a Hat Parade. Also 1008 Brown St. | 914-739-0039 50 Liberty St. Harriet CIVIC SAT 22, SUN 23. Cost: $50 to $125 paramounthudsonvalley.com moviesthatmatterbeacon.org COLD SPRING After 40 years and 17 albums, This 2019 documentary examines TUES 18 7 p.m. Butterfield Library | 10 Morris Ave. FRI 21 the band’s latest is Covers, which the journey of Bryan Stevenson, City Council 845-265-3040 | butterfieldlibrary.org features songs originally recorded a public defender in Alabama BEACON Kiss the Sky Cynthia Erivo and Janelle Monae by other acts. Robin Wilson from and director of the Equal Justice 7 p.m. City Hall | 1 Municipal Plaza PEEKSKILL star in this 2019 biopic of the the Gin Blossoms will be the guest Initiative, who represents the 845-838-5011 | cityofbeacon.org 8 p.m. Paramount Hudson Valley vocalist following the death of Pat incarcerated, wrongfully convicted abolitionist and activist Harriet 1008 Brown St. | 914-739-0039 DiNizio. Cost: $29 to $59 and disadvantaged. It will be Tubman. Rated PG-13. Free paramounthudsonvalley.com screened as part of the ongoing TUES 18 Jimy Bleu, who plays the role of STAGE & SCREEN Movies That Matter series. Free FRI 21 Village Board Jimi Hendrix in this tribute show, Rosebuds NELSONVILLE has toured with members of the SAT 15 WED 19 7:30 p.m. Village Hall | 258 Main St. Hendrix band. Cost: $20 to $35 BEACON Three Chaplin Shorts Traces of the Trade 8 p.m. Story Screen Beacon 845-265-2500 | nelsonvilleny.gov COLD SPRING 445 Main St. | storyscreenbeacon.com FRI 21 BEACON 7 p.m. Butterfield Library THURS 20 Spyro Gyra 1 p.m. Howland Public Library In this episode of the Storytelling 10 Morris Ave. | 845-265-3040 313 Main St. | 845-831-1134 Series, John Blesso and Linda Pratt Community Development BEACON butterfieldlibrary.org beaconlibrary.org of Adult Stories, Mike Burdge and Forum 8:30 p.m. Towne Crier | 379 Main St. Bernadette Gorman-White of Story The library, as part of its Silent After filmmaker Katrina Browne BEACON 845-855-1300 | townecrier.com Screen Presents, Bridget O’Neill Film Series, will screen Charlie discovered her ancestors were the 7 p.m. Memorial Hall | 413 Main St. Now in their 45th year as a band, Chaplin’s “The Floorwalker” of Keepin’ It Real with Bridget largest slave-trading family in Following a presentation the contemporary jazz icons will (1916), “Easy Street” (1917) O’Neill and Drew Prochaska of U.S. history, she and nine other about Beacon’s comprehensive focus on music from their releases and “The Adventurer” (1917), The Artichoke will discuss the descendants retraced the Triangle plan, development activity and after 2000. Cost: $55 ($60 door) with musical accompaniment films that matter most to them. Trade from Rhode Island to Ghana to zoning changes, a facilitator by Cary Brown. Free Mature audiences. Cost: $10 Cuba for this 2008 documentary. Free will lead a discussion.
THURS 20 State of the County HYDE PARK 5:30 p.m. Culinary Institute of America (Marriott Pavilion) 1946 Campus Drive County Executive Marc Molinaro will give his annual address. Registration requested at surveymonkey.com/r/8TRQHZQ.
SAT 22 Ward 1 Office Hours BEACON 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Howland Public Library 313 Main St. | 845-831-1134 beaconlibrary.org Council Member Terry Nelson will be available for questions or comments. The Smithereens, Feb. 22 Harriet Tubman film, Feb. 21 14 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
This piece by Hana Becková (1930-1944) was done at Terezin. The children were asked A landscape with a river and two figures, by Soňa Fischerová (1931-1944) to draw a memory of home. Holocaust Remembrance Set for Feb. 15 in Beacon
Related play the next Jenessa Bell of two poems written by chil- dren at Terezin. weekend already sold out After the Beacon cast performs scenes from the play, a sculpture honoring the By Alison Rooney Terezin children created by the school’s Art y first reaction to the story Crew will be dedicated. The Beacon Hebrew of the Terezin children was Alliance cantor, Ellen Pearson Gersh, will silence. My second reaction then lead the singing of “Olam Chesed “M Yibaneh” (“The World Shall be Built From was the inability to keep silent.” Those are the words of Celeste Raspanti, the Love”) and Beacon’s poet laureate, Peter author of I Never Saw Another Butterfly, a play Ullian, will read from a musical drama he based on the wartime experience of Jewish co-wrote called Signs of Life that also is set children held captive by the Nazis at a trans- at Terezin. port camp near Prague known as Terezin. The event will conclude with a perfor- On Saturday, Feb. 15, at 7:30 p.m. at Beacon mance by Graeme McEneany and Juliana High School, students who are members of Giannasca of the Jacques Brel song “If We the Beacon Players will hold a community- Only Have Love.” wide Special Night of Remembrance to honor The high school also will host an exhibit, So victims of the Holocaust. This will be followed That No One Shall Forget, for which Beacon next weekend by two sold-out performances High School students recreated artwork of I Never Saw Another Butterfly. made by the children of Terezin that will be At the ceremony, candles will be lit for the hung with photos from the Holocaust. children of Terezin, and the Sabbath Prayer I Never Saw Another Butterfly, which will be recited by students from Beacon will be performed on Feb. 21 and 22, was and Spackenhill high schools. This will be inspired by an accidental encounter. Wait- The entrance to a cell block at Terezin Photo by A. Rooney followed by a reading by Asha Marcus and (Continued on Page 15)
ARTISTS INVITE FEBRUARY 7th to MARCH 1st, 2020
Grey Zeien / Gary Jacketti
Grace Kennedy / Lael Morgan
Tim D’Acquisto / Simeon Lagodich
Pat Hickman / Nancy Koenigsberg
Ada Pilar Cruz / Katrina Bello Opening Reception: Friday, February 7th Nancy Steinson / Insun Kim 6pm to 8:00pm Maria Pia Marrella / Robert Braczyk Gallery Hours: Saturday to Sunday, BUSTER LEVI 12 to 5pm G A L L E R Y
121 MAIN ST. COLD SPRING, NY 10516 BUSTERLEVIGALLERY.COM highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 15
At that moment, I knew I was committed to these children, to the more than 15,000 children who were incarcerated in Terezin, to the mere 100 who survived, and in a special way, to that one child, now a woman, who would become the subject of my research and the nominal principal character in my play. ~ Raspanti
in Terezin, to the mere 100 who survived, (from Page 14) Holocaust and in a special way, to that one child, now ing for a friend in a bookstore, Raspanti, a a woman, who would become the subject former Catholic nun who is now 91, spotted of my research and the nominal principal a compilation of artwork by the children character in my play,” she wrote. between 1942 and 1944; she would use its Eventually, the two women met. The contents and title for her play. play is narrated by Raja 10 years after the In her production notes, Raspanti writes war, with scenes acted out as flashbacks. It that she was moved by the poignancy of the includes the depiction of a teacher, Friedl drawings and “terrified at the brutal truth Dicker-Brandeis, who, despite it being that came so directly and openly from the forbidden, encouraged the children to draw mouths of the children.” In the back of the what they remembered of their homes, and book, each child was identified by all that their dreams and nightmares, as a means was known about him or her: the date of of escape. (Dicker-Brandeis was murdered birth, transport and death. at Birkenau in 1944.) A section of the camp at Terezin Photo by A. Rooney “I noticed one recurring phrase in the For the past month or so, a group of grim litany of brief, young lives: ‘perished at Beacon High School actors immersed them- love, community, hope. The victims feel let something like this happen again.” Auschwitz, perished at Auschwitz, perished selves in those memories, led by student- distinctly human, painfully familiar.” The idea for the Beacon production came at Auschwitz,’ ” Raspanti recalled. Another director Amanda Montaldo. Caleb Ullian, who plays Raja’s father (and from director Anthony Scarrone, who earlier line also startled her: “Raja Englanderova, The play is effective, the senior says, who is the son of Peter Ullian), says the play mounted the production at John Jay High after the liberation, returned to Prague.” because it “takes such a broad and diffi- is “important to me as a Jewish kid because, School. It will be performed with the audi- “At that moment, I knew I was commit- cult topic as the Holocaust and breaks it as the Holocaust becomes more and more of ence also on stage to create intimacy, limit- ted to these children, to the more than down into the fundamental aspects of life a distant memory, it’s necessary to remem- ing the seating to 100 per show, which is one 15,000 children who were incarcerated we all experience: fear, family, loss, first ber why it’s so significant and why we can’t reason both shows filled quickly.
• Best Brunch in Beacon •
379 Main Street, Beacon
FRIDAY, FEB. 14 7 pm Annie Mash Duo - No Music Cover 8:30 pm Genticorum + Maeve Gilchrist
SATURDAY, FEB. 15 6 pm Chris Brown - No Music Cover 8:30 pm Mary Fahl former lead singer of October Project
SUNDAY, FEB. 16 11:30 am The Edukated Fleas - No Music Cover 4:30 pm CJ Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band Mardi Gras Party
THURSDAY, FEB. 20 7 pm Calling All Writers Open Mic 7 pm Dance Jam
FRIDAY, FEB. 21 8:30 pm Spyro Gyra
SATURDAY, FEB. 22 8:30 pm David Broza & Trio Havana
SUNDAY, FEB. 23 7 pm California Dreamin’
FRIDAY, FEB. 28 8:30 pm Joseph Arthur
SATURDAY, FEB. 29 8:30 pm Cherish the Ladies
Townecrier.com • 845.855.1300 Closed Mon. & Tues. 16 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
Andrea Fennell with Edward Tulane Photo by Todd Hulet Emily Boone in a scene from The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane HVTI photo
board into a raging sea, being scorned, “There’s also this level of children think- exploited, ignored and left to die, yet he ing about times in their lives, the way they Shattered but Unbroken is also the beneficiary of great kindness, can sort of conceptualize loving a toy, then much of it from those who have the least. having a toy they may not love anymore,” she An unlikely hero in a play Edward Tulane who is loved, lost, discarded, Through it all, he is unable to speak, move says. “That’s what draws kids to the book.” shattered and cared for before learning how or otherwise control his fate, until he learns There’s a lot of local talent on board. Along for elementary students to love, the picaresque book has overtones of other ways of doing that. with Greenblatt and Hulet, the produc- everything from The Grapes of Wrath to The A hallmark of the book is Bagram Ibatoul- tion team includes costume designer Lila By Alison Rooney Odyssey, mixed with a smidgen of Dickens. line’s intricate black-and-white illustra- Barchetto, marketing director Aimee DeSim- ince its founding two years ago in Edward is an unlikely hero for a children’s tions, which in turn have inspired the look one and cast members Emily Boone, Martina Beacon, the Hudson Valley Theatre story, but his harrowing and often melancholy of the play. In one interview, Ibatoulline Drayer, Andrea Fennell and Humza Mian. Initiative has presented musicals and misadventures open him up to happiness. explained that he had to sculpt Edward’s S “There’s a deficit of shows geared to the plays for adults (QueenE), and toddlers head “so it would be easier to paint it and The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Baby Shark, Wheels on the Bus). third- to fifth-graders — and even more so turn it into different positions, because his will be presented at the Howland Center, 477 Now HVTI is aiming at older children for middle-schoolers,” explains Todd Hulet, expression doesn’t change throughout the Main St., in Beacon, at 3 p.m. on Saturday, with The Miraculous Journey of Edward HVTI’s artistic director. “This adaptation book. Only his inside changes.” Feb. 22, and Sunday, Feb. 23. Advance tickets Tulane, an adaptation of Kate DiCamillo’s brings the story out in a poetic way, which can For Elizabeth Greenblatt, who is produc- are $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 13 2006 book. appeal to a lot of age groups, including adults.” ing the play and has a 9-year-old who loves and younger (see brownpapertickets.com/ In its story of a china rabbit toy named Edward survives being thrown over- the book, it’s more than a compelling story. event/4486976), or $15 and $10 at the door.
There’s a deficit of shows geared to the third- to fifth-graders — and even more so for middle-schoolers. This adaptation brings the story out in a poetic way, which can appeal to a lot of age groups, including adults. ~Todd Hulet
ART BRIEFS
noting that priority will be given to members. accelerates a reaction and causes activity what owner Scott Tillitt called a “dramatic” Clearwater to Scale The nonprofit said it hopes to again stage a between two or more persons or forces, increase in rent. Back Music Festival full-scale Great Hudson River Revival in 2021. without itself being affected. The space will Tillitt last year opened a second Beahive be continually utilized and transformed to location in Beacon and since 2012 has oper- Will only admit 529 people on each day fulfill various needs, and by doing so will ated a similar “hive” in Albany. He plans to fter losing $190,000 on the Great Catalyst Gallery Closes create new opportunities for communica- open a space in Newburgh this year and in A Hudson River Revival in 2019, Clear- Provided rental space for artist shows tion and creativity.” recent years experimented with locations water said it would scale back its annual in Kingston and Peekskill, although both music festival this summer. he owners of Catalyst Gallery in Beacon, have closed. The organization said in a statement Twhich rented its space for art shows, Telephone Building Sold Katie Hellmuth Martin, the owner of A it will rename the event the Clearwater workshops, performances and pop-up Little Beacon Space moves out Little Beacon Space and Tin Shingle, wrote Community Celebration and cap attendance events, said last week they are closing the online that “both spaces may begin again each day at 529 people, including musicians 7-year-old business. Its most recent exhibit, he Telephone Building at 291 Main St. elsewhere, but for now, they are nestled into and volunteers. The event is scheduled for the annual Small Works Show, ended on T in Beacon sold in December, and after my attic, basement and other living spaces.” June 20 and 21 at Croton Point Park. Jan. 12. the new owner hiked the rent, the cowork- She continues to publish A Little Beacon Blog. The festival drew 7,600 people in 2018 Erica Hauser, who owns the gallery ing firms A Little Beacon Space and Tin Deborah Bigelow, who restored the Tele- and 4,500 in 2019, when it rained on the with Jon Reichert, cited a desire online to Shingle moved out. phone Building, which was built in 1907, second day. It was canceled in 2016 by “make room for new projects and focus on Beahive, another coworking firm that sold it to Shady Twal, a real-estate inves- Clearwater, which is based in Beacon. my work. Time to passionately scribble the has occupied a large part of the building tor based in Poughkeepsie. It was listed for Clearwater has created a waiting list for next rant and let it fuel whatever is next.” since 2009, will remain and expand into $1.24 million. its supporters at bit.ly/clearwater-request, She added: “A catalyst is something that the former A Little Beacon Space despite highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 17 It’s Valentine’s Day, and Love is in the Air How We Met Dear Valentine My husband and I met at an Irish bar in Queens. I was dating someone else at the time who I happened to be there with. I saw the back of Seosamh’s head and I knew. I saw my opportunity as he made his way to the jukebox. (Yes, I approached him, not the other way Eftinka around. Should you ever meet him, don’t let him tell you different!) Happy or grumpy, chipper or Those big blue eyes turned to me and my world was forever changed. sleepy, with feta or without, I ~Nadia Sheerin love you more and more each day. ~Joshua
The place: London, in a musty youth-hostel basement dorm. The voice in his head: “This is the girl you’re going to marry.” The voice in mine: “Eek! There are boys in this room!” Josh had the bunk above My dearest John mine in a room of a dozen international travelers. Parting, a few exchanged addresses, but only we wrote. A thousand pages and 50+ years and I am still the seven years later (with just five more meetings), a wedding on my side luckiest woman! You have made of the continent before starting a life together on his. The hostel was my life a full and happy one. gone when we checked 20 years later; 30 years later, we’re still here. ~Karen ~Jackie Hadden
In 2008 I answered a Craigslist ad posted by Revolution Rickshaws Polina for a gig delivering cargo in Manhattan via giant trike — and agreed, There were never two as lucky despite my fears of sharing the road with motorists, to show up at its as us. Paradise is every morning Midtown headquarters for an interview with the owner, whose name meeting with you. I’ll love you was Gregg. The day of the interview, I almost chickened out. But then, forever, my June. Xoxo ~Kat perusing its website, I saw that my old friend Julian was working there. I still wasn’t sure about the job, but I wanted to see Julian. So I kept the appointment — and met Gregg. Nearly 12 years later, we’re still Zuman along. ~Helen Zuman My dearest L I love you so very much. I always will. ~E. It was freshman year and I was on a pay phone in college when Diane walked by. Her smile caught me that day and stayed in my head! Two years later, I flirted with her every night during junior-year finals week and, on the last day before winter break, I finally kissed her. I’ve been in love ever since and that smile is the best part of my day still. Dearest Jess ~Dan Hughes I love you like a sea otter loves diving through crystal Bill and I met at the Edinburgh Theater Festival in 2002. He was clear waters. Will you be my acting in three plays brought over by his New York theater company, Valentine?. Love, Justin and I was working as a production assistant for the UK company producing them. After bumping into him in the Edinburgh rain and being charmed by his color-coordinated and comprehensive rain gear (truly an American in Scotland), I vowed to my friend that I would kiss Happy day to my mallard. him. I did, and then he disappeared to India. I tracked him down, and Remembering all of our sunsets two years of handwritten letters later, we were on our way. seen & looking forward to ~Jenny Coelius all of the sunsets left to fly through together.
Garrett and I met in 2017 when we played on the same bookstore- sponsored basketball team in Brooklyn. After a summer of being teammates, we began talking outside of the team email thread. Our first “date” started as a group hang but later that night we kissed and Ciao amore! have been together nearly every day since. Many of our early dates Ti amo tanto e ti were trips upstate to fish and hike. We’re still searching for pickup basketball games. ameró per sempre. ~Amy Hunt Tua, Francesca
I met Kit on the high school fencing team. She was in front of the Snapple machine during stretches. I remember seeing her and knowing something important was happening. She’s been my best friend ever since. Have your own story? ~Nate Smith Share it at highlandscurrent.org. 18 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
Nine is Enough? Philipstown in 2011 enacted a zoning code that outlaws (from Page 1) “processing of soil, dirt, gravel and rock, including rock- School Board Sizes crushing” everywhere below the intersection of Route 9 and East sixth permanent superintendent in 10 years, meetings often went past 11 p.m. District Students Members Mountain Road South, an area that includes the Ventura property. On the other hand, a smaller board Beacon 2,841 9 might not represent all of the district’s Haldane 837 5 constituent groups. Garrison 212 7* For years Philipstown’s did not specifi- “Board members should always try to (from Page 1) Lawsuit cally address such matters. Then, in a 2005 reach out to all stakeholders,” regardless Newburgh 10,745 9 and construction debris, soil, dirt, gravel zoning change, the Town Board forbade of the board’s size, White said, “but I could Poughkeepsie 4,131 5 and vegetative material. “the manufacture, processing or assem- understand why someone would have that Putnam Valley 1,646 5 On Feb. 4, Justice Gina Capone granted bling of goods made from concrete or fear. Changing the board isn’t a pressing Carmel 4,114 7 the injunction but limited it to a ban on asphalt” as well as dirt, soil and gravel issue for me, but I would be in favor of it if rock-crushing. processing “and rock-crushing.” it came up for a vote.” *After two resignations this past summer, Ricky Ventura, who runs RNV, and his In 2007, Tom Monroe, who was then The Beacon district is one of 133 of 690 the Garrison board discussed dropping to brother, Mark, inherited the 9.6-acre parcel the code enforcement officer and build- districts in the state with a nine-member five but instead appointed new members. at the corner of Lane Gate Road and Route 9 ing inspector, accused the Venturas of board. There are also 378 seven-member from their father, August Ventura. In 1979, violating the law. But two years later, boards and 165 five-member boards. Only their father opened a “construction yard” Robert Emerick, who succeeded Monroe, New York City, with over 1 million public During the board’s Jan. 27 meeting, he also there that, according to the Ventura lawyer, stated that “all violations on file have been school students, has more than nine pointed to the 17 seats that board members provided rock-crushing. removed and the Building Department is members, at 13. fill on various committees. Although the town lawsuit targets both satisfied with this property.” Meredith Heuer, the Beacon board’s vice “How many extra committee meetings brothers, the lawsuit against the town was Philipstown in 2011 enacted a zoning president, has been one of the more vocal would you want to go to with a smaller filed by Ricky Ventura and RNV. code that outlaws “processing of soil, dirt, advocates for fewer members, citing a lack board?” Tseng asked. In its complaint, filed on Feb. 3, Philip- gravel and rock, including rock-crushing” of candidates as one of her reasons. Statewide, school boards rarely shrink, stown charges that RNV continues to oper- everywhere below the intersection of Route “Not all of our recent elections have said Jay Worona, deputy executive director ate on the site, causing “noise pollution and 9 and East Mountain Road South, an area been uncontested, but many have, and I and general counsel for the New York State the runoff of effluent onto roadways and that includes the Ventura property. But it worry that board members are scrambling School Boards Association. adjoining properties.” It asked the court to also stipulated that “any use which existed to recruit people to run this time every Losing members “is much less the stop the activity and to make RNV “imme- lawfully” under old zoning but “fails to year,” she said. “That doesn’t feel like a true norm,” he said. “It’s usually related to some diately install erosion-control measures to conform” to the 2011 update “may be contin- democratic process.” specific issue that a community is facing.” mitigate impacts from the illegal construc- ued, subject to the provisions and limita- Last year, Heuer, Michael Rutkoske and In Beacon, Case-Leal wondered on Jan. tion activities [conducted] in violation of the tions specified” elsewhere under law. The Antony Tseng ran unopposed for re-elec- 27 whether a finite volunteer pool could be town’s code” and “to restore the slopes, vege- revision threw the Ventura property into tion. In 2018, newcomers Elissa Betterbid, that catalyst. tation and wetlands” on the premises. a “highway-commercial” zoning district. James Case-Leal and Flora Stadler were The members of the board “represent a RNV’s lawsuit, filed on Feb. 10, asserts Responding to anonymous complaints elected from a six-candidate field, and in certain amount of the people who are dedi- that Supervisor Richard Shea “improperly in 2013, Kevin Donohue, who had taken 2017 four incumbents ran unopposed and cated to service,” he said. “I have no doubt inserted himself” into the ZBA review and over as building inspector, determined were re-elected. that if this board was smaller the people made “a blatant attempt to sway” it, and that that the Venturas were crushing rocks and Tseng, who was first elected in 2016, has on this board would go on to do service in an unidentified ZBA member later “admit- engaging in similar disallowed activities said he believes the board should stay at other parts of our community. I’m think- ted that the [Zoning] Board was expressly and ordered them to cease. nine to encourage diverse representation. ing about the larger needs.” directed by the town supervisor to deny” the Legal action followed and the brothers Ventura plea to remove the stop-work order. lost repeatedly, from the local justice court The lawsuit also maintains that any noise to the state appellate court, which ruled or dirt on Lane Gate is probably from High- against them last March. way Department trucks coming and going In April, the current building inspector, Not all of our recent elections from Philipstown’s nearby recycling center Greg Wunner, issued a stop-work order. have been uncontested, but many and that “absolutely no runoff is coming The battle then shifted to the town ZBA, from the [Ventura] property onto the road- which, RNV said, had never considered have, and I worry that board members are way.” It also alleges that Shea has a “personal its arguments. But at the ZBA on Jan. 13, vendetta” against Ventura and reportedly Ricky Ventura again lost. scrambling to recruit people to run this spoke of “drones flying overhead and surveil- The Ventura’s attorney, Michael Sirignano, ling the property.” contends that RNV’s operations constitute time every year. That doesn’t feel like a true In part, the conflict between the Ventura a legal, pre-existing, non-conforming use — business and town involves evolving one that operated for years and was consid- democratic process. ~ Ellen Pearson Gersh zoning law and the place — if any — of the ered legal but now merely fails to fit under Ventura enterprise under it. the present zoning code. Town records include approved appli- The Ventura lawsuit asks the Putnam cations for August Ventura but do not Supreme Court to overturn the stop-work mention rock-crushing or debris-process- order and the ZBA decision; order the town ing; nor did the law define what a “contrac- to stop pursuing Ricky Ventura; and grant tor’s yard” meant or what was permissible him damages “in an amount presently in one. At that point, the Ventura land fell undetermined but believed to exceed $50 into a now-defunct “industrial” zoning million, together with punitive damages” district. yet to be calculated. highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 19
Out There offers seclusion and protection to birders who want to gaze across the bay. When I asked if park employees can enter Love It and the park when it’s closed, he let out a weary sigh. “I guess you saw the Facebook thread,” Leave It he said. I had. In a group devoted to Beacon, Letting go at Dennings Point someone last month posted a photo of the closed Dennings Point gate after a snowfall. By Brian PJ Cronin Numerous footprints tracked past the gate. The conversation that followed included here’s a fox den typical Facebook fare such as neighbors on Dennings blaming neighbors, lazy stereotyping, T Point, false information and residents proclaim- although I won’t ing they will go to Dennings Point anytime tell you where. they damn well please. I discovered it two Thompson said park employees do not go years ago, during a into the point during the winter unless it’s spring run, when half a an emergency. But I can understand the frus- dozen kits came bounding tration. For people who have been coming to down the trail as if I were a long-lost playmate. the point for their entire lives, it can feel like When they figured out I wasn’t a bipedal, something has been taken away by strangers. hairless fox, they turned tail. When I ran Much of the hostility that longtime residents past the part of the woods they had disap- of any place direct at newcomers and tourists peared into, I could see them peeking out Denning's Point is closed each year from Dec. 15 to March 15. Photo by B. Cronin seems to arise from the same question: Do at me, and an adult fox standing over them. you love this place as much as we do? I didn’t see them again until this past In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I’d like November, as I was running at twilight. I had but remain on the state’s. Winter is roost- Point, and also why the east side of the to suggest that we leave Dennings Point to just put on my headlamp when I heard some- ing season, when they are most vulnerable. point, where the bald eagle nest is located, the eagles over the winter. I’m not a Beacon thing off-trail. Swinging around, the beam Food is scarce, and the eagles need to is closed year-round. native, but my son is, and we’ve spent many illuminated the same part of the woods where hunker down and conserve energy for spring Thompson knows this isn’t the most happy hours down at Dennings Point. I would I had seen the den two years before. Six adult breeding. Birds that are constantly flying popular decision, so the agency has tried like to make sure the eagles are still there for foxes stared with glowing eyes. away after getting spooked by humans — to make Dennings Point accessible in other him and his children, and it’s wonderful to For such a small thumb of land jutting into even those running as slowly as I — are ways, such as paving the majority of the have something to look forward to. Spring the Hudson, Dennings Point has a wide vari- eagles that likely won’t be laying eggs. trail last year to make it passable for wheel- is just around the corner, and absence, as ety of wildlife. I’ve seen plenty over the past Some eagles seem perfectly fine around chairs. The state also constructed a blind always, makes the heart grow fonder. 12 years: Foxes, deer, rat snakes, raccoons, humans and choose to set up their nests near the ruins of the paper-clip factory that possums, coyotes, barred owls and a snap- in high-traffic areas. At Bowdoin Park in ping turtle so big I could have fit a saddle on Wappingers Falls, which is full of secluded, it. And, of course, the bald eagles. marshy areas, a pair of bald eagles nonethe- The bald eagles are why I don’t run at less chose to nest overlooking the playground. HIGHLAND STUDIO Dennings Point during the winter. Each Perhaps they like to go down the slides at year, from Dec. 15 to March 15, the point night, but Evan Thompson, manager of the is closed by the state Department of Envi- Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve, notes ronmental Conservation. This is done to it’s not typical behavior and that it’s best to protect the bald eagles, who may no longer protect nests whenever possible. be on the federal list of endangered species That’s why the state closes Dennings
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31 STEPHANIE LANE COLD SPRING, NY www.thehighlandstudio.com 20 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org SPORTS Current Canada (from Page 24) Classifieds with girls who wrestle, but Canada “didn’t find it awkward at all,” she said. “You wres- tle who you wrestle. I don’t worry about my FOR RENT opponent. I worry about what I have to do in order to get my points and the win.” GARRISON — Two-bedroom apartment, She concedes that wrestling boys adds 2nd floor, 50 and older, no pets, no a degree of difficulty. “It can be harder smoking. $1,500 a month, first month because guys can be physically stronger,” rent and 1-month security. Heat and hot she said. “But I adapted.” water included. Steps from town, drug Canada also said she faced unexpected world, medical building. Laundry on challenges. “I didn’t realize how hard I’d premises. Call Lisa at 845-265-3030. have to push myself, how mentally ready you have to be,” she said. “If you’re not on HELP WANTED your game, your opponent can tell.”
FARMER — Davoren Farm on Inverugie Lane is seeking a farmer, who is a college graduate, with car and license to manage, Push for weed, cultivate, harvest and deliver organic vegetables full-time from April Girls’ Wrestling through October on 1099. If interested, Girls’ wrestling is growing in New please contact [email protected]. York state, both in numbers and The Beacon boys' swim team honored its seniors recently. Coach Larry Collins, at left, competitiveness. Todd Nelson, FOR SALE is shown with Peter Fernandez, David Paschal and Omar Abdo . Photo provided a director with the New York State Public High School Athletic — The Current moved to MINI-FRIDGE Association, said hundreds of girls its new offices and has a Danby 3.2 Cu. compete on boys’ wrestling teams Ft. Compact Refrigerator – Black, $100. across the state but “the problem Also, Philips VIC WK1016A5B large-screen Varsity Roundup is they are scattered, [typically] television stand with assorted screws, with only one or two wrestlers per $15. Email [email protected] school.” The only high school with a with interest. Wrestling the way with 19 points and four assists, full girls’ team is Bay Shore on Long Senior Javon Dortch and freshman Maddie Chiera added 18 points, four Island. SERVICES Chris Crawford, who each wrestle for rebounds and three steals, and Molly According to the NYS Girls Wrestling Beacon at 106 pounds, both qualified Siegel and Liv Monteleone each had Task Force, a grassroots effort to CARETAKER/PROPERTY MANAGER for the Section 1 tournament, which 10 rebounds. get the sport sanctioned, there were — Caretaker with 20+ years’ experience opens Saturday (Feb. 15) at Sleepy After finishing the season with three 924 girls wrestling for high schools available to: Manage operations of Hollow High School. consecutive wins, the Blue Devils are the in the state this year, including property; maintenance, repairs, painting; Crawford (32-3) won the divisional No. 2 seed of four teams in the Section 43 in Section 1, which includes gardening, landscaping; convenience tournament on Feb. 8 at Arlington 1, Class C tournament and will face the Beacon. At least three sections this services (errands); pet care. Loyal, and Dortch (23-7) finished fourth. The Leffell School (9-8) on March 3 at The year added girls’ divisions to their trustworthy; flexible to a variety of needs; top four wrestlers in each weight class Westchester County Center. The winner championships. insured. Resume and references available. advance. will advance to the title game on March 7. Contact Greg at 914-618-2779 or “They’re both peaking at the right The state association says it will [email protected]. time,” said Coach Ron Tompkins. Boys’ Basketball organize a girls’ division once four of Haldane defeated Putnam Valley, the 11 athletic sections each have 60-53, on Monday (Feb. 10) to close out Tag Sale? Car for sale? Space Girls’ Basketball four teams. Schools lacking enough its regular season at 15-5. As the No. 2 for rent? Help wanted? Place The Beacon girls (8-12) edged female wrestlers can partner with Nyack, 43-39, on Senior Night, Feb. seed among four teams in the Section nearby schools, Nelson said. your ad here for $4.95. 6. After just getting into the tourna- 1, Class C tournament, the Blue Devils At Beacon High School, Assistant highlandscurrent.org/classifieds ment (the Bulldogs are seeded No. 20 now wait until March 2 to take on No. Coach Vincent Grelia said he in Section 1, Class A, and only the top 3 Tuckahoe (10-10) at the Westchester believes girls’ wrestling will happen 20 of 27 teams qualify), the team will County Center. Hamilton (17-3) is the soon in New York, pointing to a play on Tuesday (Feb. 18), likely at No. top seed. competitive tournament called 13 Saunders (11-9). Eastern States that this year added THANK YOU TO “A lot of the seniors — Grace Affeldt, Bowling a girls’ division. And there are a OUR ADVERTISERS Analiese Compagnone, Skyler Kurtz, Senior Selena Virtuoso will repre- number of girls excelling at the Anita Rodriguez, Dior Gillins and sent Beacon as one of six members sport, including Isabella Garcia of Catherine Mitchell — have been with of a Section 1 all-star team when it We are grateful Horace Greeley High School, who in me since the seventh grade, and we competes on March 14 at the state tour- December went 5-0 at a tournament for your support did not go to the playoffs last year, so nament in Syracuse. She also qualified in Pawling, including four pins, and I’m happy we are fulfilling that goal,” as a sophomore in 2018. Her season and encourage won the 106-pound division. said Coach Christina Dahl. “When we average was 195. our readers to stay focused, we can compete. We have Nationally, more than 21,000 girls shop local. some experience; we just have to come Boys’ Swimming wrestled last year at the high school ready to play.” At the Section 1 championships on level, a 27 percent increase over Contact us: The Haldane girls won at North Feb. 11, Beacon junior Stephen Quin- 2018, according to the National tero took ninth in the 200-yard free- [email protected] Salem, 50-45, on Feb. 5 to close their Wrestling Coaches Association, and season at 10-10. Shianne Twoguns led style in 1:49.40, setting a school record. 20 states held girls’ championships. Ninety colleges also have women’s programs. highlandscurrent.org The Highlands Current February 14, 2020 21 SPORTS Follow us at twitter.com/hcurrentsports
Adrian Davis, Lionel Cumberbatch, Shane Green, Quazir Hayes, Ian Bautista, Kam Torres and Tre Smith were honored on Senior Night.
Basketball (from Page 24) “We had a great first quarter,” said Coach Scott Timpano. “Lourdes is a very good team, and we knew they’d go on a run. But I knew our kids really wanted this game. We’ve been riding on the bubble — are we in the playoffs, or not? [Only the top 20 of 29 teams in the section qualify.] It was Senior Night, the crowd was fantastic, and the kids had a lot of energy.” Seniors led the way. Quazir Hayes led the Bulldogs with 16 points, five rebounds, three steals and three blocked shots; Shane Green had 12 points, five rebounds and Senior Shane Green three assists; Kam Torres had 11 points and five rebounds; and Ian Bautista added seven points, five rebounds and five steals. “Quazir had a lot of huge moments,” Timpano said. “His three blocks were major. Bautista played a phenomenal game; he has great vision and played incredible down low. Kam gave us a ton of energy; he had a big play at the end of the third that gave us the lead for good.” Timpano believes his team is ready for the tournament. “We ended the season on a good stretch, winning five of our last seven games, which is phenomenal,” he said. Senior Adrian Davis “We’re feeling good.”
Claire Morgan
WINTER GAMES — The U11 Beacon Fire participated in a tournament on Jan. 25 and 26 organized by the Cornwall United Soccer Club in Milton. The girls finished with wins against two teams from New Jersey and losses to two teams from Connecticut. Andrea Delgado and Claire Morgan had goals and Drew Kelly had a solid tournament controlling play at midfield. Julie Whittemore, Lily Mack, Victoria McKay and Sarah Ramkalawon played strong defense and keeper Victoria Maruggi had 15 saves and two shutouts. At the same time, the U9 boys’ Bombcats took second place in their division at the Beacon students came out to support their classmates, who gave them lots to cheer about. tournament, which was their first as a team. Photo provided Photos by S. Pearlman 22 February 14, 2020 The Highlands Current highlandscurrent.org
©2020; forecasts and graphics provided by ©2020; forecasts and graphics provided by 7-Day Forecast for the Highlands Snowfall Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Snowfall Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Past week 0.4” MonthPast week to date 0.9”0.4” 32/23 46/27 47/26 45/31 36/14 34/23 40/27 Month to date 0.9” 32/23 46/27 47/26 45/31 36/14 34/23 40/27 Normal month to date 4.0” SeasonNormal monthto date to date 14.4”4.0” NormalSeason seasonto date to date 22.8”14.4” LastNormal season season to dateto date 18.9”22.8” RecordLast season for 2/14 to date 10.0” (1940)18.9” Record for 2/14 10.0” (1940) Mostly sunny Rather cloudy and Sun and some A bit of ice in the A bit of ice in the After a cloudy start, Not as cold with SUN & MOON Mostly sunny Rather cloudy and Sun and some A bit of ice in the A bit of ice in the After a cloudy start, Not as cold with SUN & MOON milder clouds morning, then rain morning; mostly sunshine returns plenty of sunshine Sunrise Sat., 2/15 6:52 AM milder clouds morning,and drizzle then rain morning;cloudy, colder mostly sunshine returns plenty of sunshine Sunrise Sat., 2/15 6:52 AM and drizzle cloudy, colder Sunset Sat. night, 2/15 5:29 PM MoonriseSunset Sat. Sat., night, 2/15 2/15 12:085:29 AMPM Moonrise Sat., 2/15 12:08 AM POP: 5% POP: 10% POP: 0% POP: 60% POP: 55% POP: 0% POP: 0% Moonset Sat., 2/15 10:46 AM POP: 5% POP: 10% POP: 0% POP: 60% POP: 55% POP: 0% POP: 0% Moonset Sat., 2/15 10:46 AM SSW 4-8 mph WSW 4-8 mph WNW 7-14 mph S 6-12 mph WNW 10-20 mph NW 7-14 mph NNE 3-6 mph Last New First Full SSW 4-8 mph WSW 4-8 mph WNW 7-14 mph S 6-12 mph WNW 10-20 mph NW 7-14 mph NNE 3-6 mph Last New First Full RealFeel 34/20 RealFeel 46/17 RealFeel 45/26 RealFeel 41/19 RealFeel 27/8 RealFeel 30/20 RealFeel 47/28 RealFeel 34/20 RealFeel 46/17 RealFeel 45/26 RealFeel 41/19 RealFeel 27/8 RealFeel 30/20 RealFeel 47/28 POP: Probability of Precipitation; The patented AccuWeather.com RealFeel Temperature® is an exclusive index of the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine POP: Probability of Precipitation; The patented AccuWeather.com RealFeel Temperature® is an exclusive index of the effects of temperature, wind, humidity, sunshine intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body. Shown are the highest and lowest values for each day. Feb 15 Feb 23 Mar 2 Mar 9 intensity, cloudiness, precipitation, pressure and elevation on the human body. Shown are the highest and lowest values for each day. Feb 15 Feb 23 Mar 2 Mar 9
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Answers for Feb. 7 Puzzles
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Shianne Canada Photo by M. Turton Bulldogs Put on Show on Senior Night Sprint past Lourdes to rise in playoff rankings
By Skip Pearlman
he Beacon High School boys’ basketball team saved its best T play for late in the season, giving fans one of its best performances of the winter on Feb. 6 while rolling to a 61-49 victory over visiting Lourdes. Beacon (8-12), seeded No. 13, is expected to play a qualifying game in the Section 1, Class A tournament on Saturday (Feb. 15), likely at home against No. 20 Somers (7-13). The winner will play at No. 4 Pough- keepsie (14-6), the defending state champi- ons, in the first round on Feb. 21. Against Lourdes (12-8), which is seeded No. 10 in the section, the Bull- She’s a Wrestler dogs fed off the energy of the crowd and started the game with a 14-3 run. Like many girls in state, Beacon senior competed with boys’ team The Warriors fought back and stayed close until the fourth quarter, when the Bulldogs closed the game with an 18-8 By Michael Turton admiration of her determination. “She is team for a particular gender, such as basket- run. definitely an elite athlete,” says Assistant ball, football, lacrosse, soccer or wrestling, (Continued on Page 21) hianne Canada is the only girl on the Coach Vincent Grelia. the New York State Public High School Beacon High School wrestling team. Canada is not alone. She wrestled two Athletic Association allows girls to compete S The 5-1, 120-pound senior had never other girls this season, splitting the matches, with boys, or vice versa. competed before this season, and she won and there is an effort in New York to create Grelia said Canada, who also played goalie just two of her 29 matches. enough teams to get the sport recognized. for the girls’ soccer team, benefitted from Nevertheless, her coaches speak with (See Page 20.) When a school does not offer a her physical strength, mental toughness and resilience. After a loss, he said, she was “right back to work, improving on what didn’t work in previous match.” She sometimes grappled at 126 pounds if the team needed someone in that division at a meet, even though she faced heavier and stronger opponents. Canada’s season ended last weekend when she failed to advance at the Section 1 tour- nament at Arlington High School. She was disappointed, she said, but also “couldn’t have been happier, knowing how much I progressed through every single match, and never giving up, no matter what.” After graduating in June, Canada plans to join the U.S. Air Force and become a medic. She said she would like to compete in the academy’s intramural wrestling program. She wanted to wrestle as a junior but couldn’t due to a soccer injury. The boys on the wrestling team encouraged her to join the team, even for only one season. Canada said while there was a bit of good- natured teasing from her teammates, being a girl in a sport dominated by boys hasn’t both- ered her. That’s not a universal experience Shianne Canada during a match in December File photo by S. Pearlman (Continued on Page 20) Senior Quazir Hayes Photo by S. Pearlman