Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Volume 21, Issue 2 • February 2020

the love issue

Real Estate by Design

Over $2 billion sold

Top 20 listing broker in NYC by the Real Deal

Stephen McArdle Lic.Associate Real Estate Broker Member of REBNY mcardle@compass.com 646.641.3343 design-buildteam.com

Stephen McArdle is a real estate agent affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by equal housing opportunity laws.

Over 1,500 units sold and closed

GRAND OPENING 9 138 Main Street Nyack, NY m (845) 358-3222 K rakusushiny.com Order online & get 10% off your order.

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Dr. Lawrence Glassman has devoted his career to teaching and improving the surgical outcomes and safety of Plastic Surgery. Following 5 years as chair of Cosmetic and Breast subcommittee, he is now the overall Chair of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons In-Service Examination which is responsible for guiding and impacting the education of all the young plastic surgeons in the country.

Dr. Glassman is also Chair of the first comprehensive exam dedicated to Aesthetic and Breast Surgery (Life Long Learning Exercise in Aesthetic and Breast Surgery). This exam is taken by plastic surgeons around the world and has received accolades for successfully promoting better patient care and safety for our plastic surgery patients. This learning experience helps the plastic surgeon keep up to date with proven procedures, techniques, and patient safety.

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MON. WED. THURS. 5PM-10PM | TUES. CLOSED | FRI. SAT. 5PM-10:30PM | SUN. BRUNCH 11:30AM-2:30PM DINNER 5PM-9PM 8 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

RivertownMagazine.com / 9

WHAT’S INSIDE EAT

14

18

22

SHOP

SOUP TO NUTS...NATURALLY Organica Natural Foods

SWIMMING UPSTREAM Raku Sushi Destined to Make Waves

ZARRILLI’S ITALIAN SEAFOOD Passion For Great Eats & Service

10 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

LIVE

30

DAVID ROCCO

Romancing The Hudson River

38

A PIECE OF PIERMONT HISTORY

230 Hudson Terrace Hits the Market

40

DR. IGOR ELMAN

Brings a Personal Touch to Health Care

45

CITY TALK: NOMAD

New York City’s Vibrant Neighborhood

26

RIVERTOWN RETAIL

48

Valentines Gift Guide

28

BUYIN’ WITH RYAN

50

Valentines Gifts For Her

BETTER ACCESS TO HEARING Health Care For Medicare

YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE You’ll See Rivertown

Vo lume 21 , Issue 2

ABOUT RIVERTOWN MAGAZINE LOCAL

Rivertown Magazine is Rockland County’s #1 local print magazine, published monthly by Moon Media Group, LLC. With a readership of over 100,000, it is distributed free at 650+ locations throughout Rockland County, the Hudson Valley and Bergen County, New Jersey. Sign up for weekly emails on local events, exclusive content, photos, special offers and more at rivertownmagazine.com.

STAFF & CONTRIBUTORS Founder Phil Bunton Editor-in-Chief David Perry Art Director Brian Keenan Copy Editor Jessica Choi Communications, Social Media Reed Tighe Reporters Joseph Kuhn, Tom Riley, Jeannine Deramo Contributing Photographers Nina Skowronski, Samantha Finch Columnists Phil Bunton, Donna Cox, Scott Forman, Joseph Lux, Frank Mancione, Stephen McArdle, Kedar Sankholkar, Steve Zuccato Advertising Executives Jennifer Perez, Diane McIntyre Webmaster WebCorrectly

CONTACT

56

IN LOVE WITH THIS PLACE

Nyack’s Romantic Landscape

66 RIVERTOWN’S LOVE STORIES

Five Local Couples Tell Their Story

74

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Resolutions & The 2020 Election

79

FOR THE LOVE OF LONGEVITY

Maintain That Youthful Glow

Mailing Address 171 Paris Ave, Northvale, NJ 07647 Past Issues rivertownmagazine.com Social Media @rivertownmagazine Advertising Opportunities Call (845) 521-5277 or email sales@rivertownmag.com Submissions To submit photos, press releases, and letters to the editor, email info@rivertownmag.com

80 MEET THE MASTERS

82

D.S.Z’s Talented Barbers

RIVERTOWN FILM At Nyack Center

Rivertown Magazine™ is a trademark of Moon Media Group, LLC All materials are the property of Rivertown Magazine and Moon Media Group, LLC and may not be copied or reproduced without written consent from the publishers. Copyright 2020.

86 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Find Out What’s Going On

88 RIVERTOWN GUIDE

Your Concierge to the Community RivertownMagazine.com / 11

On The Cover

A cartoon by Carolita Johnson.

C

artoonist and writer Carolita Johnson, New Yorker since birth and Hudson Valley denizen since 2015, has been contributing cartoons to The New Yorker magazine since 2002. About the cover cartoon, Johnson says:

“In childhood I learned two things at Sunday School: (1) that there was a religion that assumed everything had a soul, including trees and rocks, and (2) we were supposed to love the soul, rather than the physical aspects in others. I really hoped I would not fall in love with a rock or a tree, but I figured I better be ready, just in case. I never worried I’d fall in love with a squirrel though, because they’re such little jerks.”

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“FROM SOUP TO NUTS…NATURALLY” ORGANICA NATURAL FOODS STORY BY JEANNINE DERAMO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NINA SKOWRONSKI

From Left to Right: Teresa Gibbs, John Marrone, Mark Marrone, Christina Francica, Cristina Lettieri, Diane DePiero

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ore than five decades ago, while on a trip to California, a young New Jersey native had a lifechanging taste of freshly squeezed carrot juice on the shores of Malibu; and the rest, as they say, is history.

John Marrone brought his passion for that juice and the idea of providing wholesome, pure foods back to the east coast and set out to create a similar niche. John and his father secured a small storefront in Northvale, NJ, bought a juicer and opened the doors to Organica Natural Foods in 1978. At only 800 square feet of selling space, they had to be scrupulous about products. “Initially, we mainly sold bulk foods like seeds, nuts, grains, and other natural whole food products. We had small sections for prepared meals and pure body care products. We were very selective about what we carried. Back then, there weren’t a lot of organics available, so we searched and tried to bring in the most conscious products we could at the time.” The Marrones sold carrot juice, soup from one pot, and a few sandwiches and salads.

14 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Today, after four expansions, Organica sprawls across 7,500 square feet and features an award-winning gourmetprepared foods department, along with a popular juice bar, and carries an extensive selection of high-quality supplements and body care. This impressive growth and expansion is due largely to the dedicated, passionate team behind this family business. Brothers Mark and John Marrone, along with their sister, Diane DePiero, and niece, Christina Francica, work tirelessly to provide the most natural and pure products to their loyal customer base. Rounding out the team are the Gourmet Manager, Theresa Gibbs, and the General/Operations Manager, Cristina Lettieri.

Endearingly, Mark shares, “Our employees are the core of our business and a large part of our success.”

Organica’s juice bar has been wildly successful in their delicious offerings of organic juices, smoothies, and protein shakes. Just as it does within every facet of the store, Organica sticks to the highest standards—using the purest and most natural ingredients. No refined sugars are

RivertownMagazine.com / 15

Mint Julep Juice

Tumeric Tonic Protein Shake

Ingredients: • 2 Cucumbers • 4 Pieces Celery • 4 Leaves Dandelion • 1/2 Cup Pineapple • 1 Sprig Mint Leaves Add ingredients one at a time to centrifuge or slow press juicer.

Ingredients: • 8oz. Almond Milk • 1 Scoop Vanilla Protein • 4oz. Pineapple • 1/4 Piece Banana • 1 Tsp. Turmeric/Black Pepper Blend • 3 Tbsp. Black Cherry Juice • 1/2 Tsp. Ginger Juice • 6oz. Ice

*For centrifuge juicers, roll mint inside dandelion leaves to ensure mint juice extraction.

Add all ingredients to high speed blender for 45 seconds.

16 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

added to any of their juices or smoothies. Mulberries and date paste (a real fruit) are used as sweeteners. Organica now also offers organic espressos, lattes, and an array of brews at their new coffee bar.

And, as aforementioned, this purity is not reserved solely for their juices; every bakery item is made from scratch, daily—as are the prepared foods in the gourmet department.

The day starts as early as 4 AM for some staff who begin prepping the day’s meals and specials.

Mark tells Rivertown, “We appeal to naturalists as well as the mass market. People come in to buy our food because it just tastes good. And, the benefit is that all our prepared foods are made with all organic produce and quadruple filtered water. It’s a healthy meal made with the highest quality of ingredients.” These tasty offerings also appear on Organica’s diverse à la carte catering menu. On this menu, you will find their finest recipes—mastered over the years and all made fresh on premises using organic or locally sourced natural fruits, vegetables, grains, pastas, flours, sweeteners, and organic or free-range poultry and meats.

While many larger scale markets may offer an organic produce section, these days their selection can often be a blend of conventional choices and alternatives. This can become tirelessly confusing for those searching for natural, organic choices to grab and go. A noteworthy feature of this boutique market is that every item in the produce aisle is 100% organic. At Organica, they take out the guesswork.

It is a well-rounded market that continues to look for new ways in delivering the best products—never cutting corners.

“If there’s a better-quality product available, we are going to get it and use it,” Mark says. “We just want to keep serving our community, providing natural, healthy, clean, goodtasting food.”

John adds, “We put a lot of our profits back into the business to maintain our standards and to refine and hone our business. It is always our objective to exceed expectations.”

Organica Natural Foods is open seven days a week, 7 AM to 7 PM Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM on Saturday, and 8 AM to 5 PM on Sunday. E

Organica Natural Foods 246 Livingston Street, Northvale, NJ (201) 767-8182 organicanaturalfoods.com

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SWIMMING UPSTREAM Newcomer, Raku Sushi, is Destined to Make Waves STORY BY JEANNINE DERAMO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NINA SKOWRONSKI 18 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

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ushi aficionados, take note. Raku Sushi has hit the Rivertown dining scene, forging against the tide of traditional Japanese restaurant expectations. Owner

and chef, Joe Chen, and manager, Tom Yau, personally welcome you to their intimate space on the corner of Main and Franklin Streets in downtown Nyack—where inventive top-grade sushi has hit the spotlight.

With no less than 20 years of experience under his belt, Chef Joe Chen opened Raku Sushi in late December 2019 with his trusted manager, Tom Yau. Chen trained under the famed Chef Kanji at world-renowned Nobu, eventually evolving to work alongside his mentor. The intensive “itamae” (sushi chef) training is among the most rigorous in culinary education. “This training program is very different from that of a traditional chef,” says Yau. “It can take six months to learn to cut cucumbers or avocado correctly. You need at least two years to be allowed behind a sushi counter, and it’s a minimum of five years training before you can even cut sashimi.” The dedication to this craft is extraordinary, and Chen further honed his skills over his 15-year stint at Nobu.

We get Uni (Sea Urchin) from California in the winter, Japan in the summer and Maine in autumn. Our Bluefin Tuna is from Spain and Bigeye Tuna (Ahi) from Hawaii.

—Chef Chen, Raku Sushi

RivertownMagazine.com / 19

Chef Joe Chen with manager Tom Yau.

SUSHI TIPS • Do not rub chopsticks together to break off loose wood. This can be viewed as insulting.

• Eat with your hands or chopsticks (nigiri with hands and sashimi with chopsticks).

• Use soy sauce sparingly, fish side down, when eating nigiri. When dipping a roll, dip lightly—do not saturate the rice.

• Ginger is eaten as a palette cleanser in between bites, not with your sushi.

• Whenever possible, eat your sushi in one, full bite.

• Choose the omakase menu (“Chef’s choice”) and be delighted by the best, seasonal offerings the itamae has to offer. Bonus: It’s likely to be as visually appealing as it is tasty.

Raku Sushi 138 Main Street, Nyack, NY (845) 358-3222 rakusushiny.com

20 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Raku’s top priority is the exclusive use of the highest quality seasonal fish. While many sushi restaurants often use striped bass, Chen assures us you won’t find any at Raku, “We only serve high-quality and premium fish, such as Shima-Aji, Madai (Japanese Seabream), Kampachi (Amberjack) and Sayori (Japanese Halfbeak). We have studied the best seasons for fish. We get Uni (Sea Urchin) from California in the winter, Japan in the summer and Maine in autumn. Our Bluefin Tuna is from Spain and Bigeye Tuna (Ahi) from Hawaii.”

Richly-appointed glass cloth menus will serve as the portals to your memorable culinary journey at Raku. Prepare to be astonished by innovative dishes such as the Salmon Carpaccio and the Tiradito Scallops (Nobu devotees will instantly recognize these menu favorites). And, when dining this month, don’t miss the Valentine Roll—well-crafted with crunchy

spicy tuna, avocado, and topped with fresh tuna (fittingly in the shape of a heart for lovely presentation). Raku’s kitchen serves fully-cooked entrees, as well, such as chicken, shrimp, Chilean Sea Bass, and lobster; their expansive menus include a dish for everyone. Rounding out their comprehensive list of offerings are teriyaki dishes, fried rice, and a selection of ramen (noodles).

Chef Joe Chen will make sure you feel comfortable and at home. “When customers come to our restaurant, we will recommend the day’s special fish. And, we also like to help explain how to eat the sushi,” says Chef Joe Chen.

Chen credits his mentor and partner, Chef Kanji, with the restaurant’s namesake.

“The word ‘raku’ means happiness. With our attention to high-quality ingredients and service, we know that is what our customers will experience here at Raku.” E

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ZARRILLI’S ITALIAN SEAFOOD A Passion for Great Eats & Exceptional Service STORY BY JEANNINE DERAMO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NINA SKOWRONSKI 22 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

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ama Zarrilli won’t give up the secret. She holds the family meatball recipe close to her heart. But lucky for us, she has entrusted it

to her son, Ken, who will gladly simmer the dish up any day of the week at Zarrilli’s Italian Seafood.

Ken Zarrilli has spent his entire life surrounded by food.

As a second-generation Italian, he grew up watching “Ma” serve meals and cook for a whole household. He began working in food service right out of high school and subsequently became the owner of a deli and catering business in Westchester for thirty-five years. He was known for his mouthwatering, heaping sandwiches

Everyone leaves here happy, I won’t let them leave any other way.

—Ken Zarrilli

and hearty, homemade soups. Ken eventually made the difficult decision to hang up his apron and close

What sets Zarrilli’s apart from its competition? “We make

the business. Fourteen months later, Ken realized he

Italian dishes—but lighter. I serve a lot of seafood and our

missed the cooking and the serving. But mostly, he says,

talented chef, William Martinez, cooks our pastas with less

“I missed the people.” In the fall of 2019, Ken bought

butter and oil. Everything is fresh. You’ll find a lot of the fish

the corner space in West Shore Plaza on Route 303 in

as specials because I like to know what’s fresh before I buy

Blauvelt and opened the doors to Zarrilli’s Italian Seafood.

it. And, everything is cooked to order.”

RivertownMagazine.com / 23

On the appetizer portion of the menu, you’ll find crispy fried calamari rings and legs served with marinara sauce and wasabi sauce, a homemade jumbo lump crab cake prepared with blue claw crabmeat and, of course, the family’s treasured meatballs. Ken does let a tiny hint slip, “You can’t use too many breadcrumbs.”

As for entrees, standouts include a light homemade Fettucine Carbonara, a 28 oz. Porterhouse steak and the Zuppe di Pesce which can be “Zarrillified” (a double order) to satisfy even the most discerning crowd. The

JANET’S COCKTAIL HIGHLIGHT The Obsidian Martini This after-dinner martini, created by Janet Tolli, warms the heart and soul. Sip on your specialty cocktail made with Bailey’s Irish Cream, Kahlua, and Smirnoff Raspberry Vodka as you embrace the purification, the transformation, the fulfillment, the practicality­—traits brought to you via a complimentary obsidian stone.

wine list does not disappoint, and behind the bar, you’ll find Steve “Snax” Yasinsac mixing up an array of martinis and libations.

As an experienced business owner, Ken is keenly aware of what keeps customers coming back. “What really drove me into reopening an eatery is the lack of service I experience at other places. I always want to impress everyone.” Ken is ever-present at Zarrilli’s; whether he is pushing a broom or tying on an apron to help in the kitchen, he is always striving to serve.

“Everybody leaves here happy. I won’t let them leave any other way,” passionately states Ken. Zarrilli’s Italian Seafood is located at 580 Route 303, West Shore Plaza, in Blauvelt, NY. Open Monday through Wednesday, 11:30 AM to 9 PM, Thursday and Friday, 11:30 AM to 10 PM, Saturday, 4:30 PM to 10 PM and Sunday, 4:30 PM to 9 PM dining room available on Saturday and Sunday, 12 P.M. to 4 P.M. for private parties. Call now to make your Valentine’s Day reservations at (845) 848-2260, or visit their website: zarrillisitalianseafood.com. E

Name Zarrilli’s Italian Seafood Address 580 Route 303, Blauvelt, NY Phone (845) 848-2260 Site zarrillisitalianseafood.com Social / Website Chef William Martinez with owner Ken Zarrilli.

24 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Espresso Bar Opens Early!

SUNDAYS 11:00-3:00 Thru March 29th, 2020

249 FERDON AVE PIERMONT

RivertownMagazine.com / 25

Valentines Gift Guide Show your affection and adoration with these heartfelt gifts. This month’s roundup offers a selection of charming ideas sure to enamor your Valentine. Cupid-approved! S

100 Dates Scratch Off Bucket List Poster - $17.95

Spice things up with your beloved using this scratch off list of 100 date night ideas. Complete each activity on the “bucket list” and scratch off to reveal an illustration!

(Paper Source, The Shops at Nanuet)

Montebello Medley Bouquet - $74.95 ($19.99 additional for chocolates)

This bouquet features robust red, pink, and sweetheart roses that will sweep her off her feet. These gorgeous flowers are arranged in a mirrored glass vase. Add a box of Godiva chocolate for the ultimate Valentine’s Day delivery.

(Schweizer & Dykstra Beautiful Flowers, Pearl River)

Custom Chocolate Platters - Prices Vary

Surprise your loved ones with a collection of decadent indulgences. Chocolatier Matisse takes pride in their creations, sourcing only the best ingredients. Indulge in chocolate that is made with pure love.

(Chocolatier Matisse, Orangeburg)

Valentine’s Day Hearts Small Custom Favor Bags $39.95 for a set of 50

These favor bags are perfect for gifting Valentine’s treats.

Seal with a sticker or punch holes and tie ribbons through them. Bags are customizable with your color of choice for both bag and the print ink.

(Paper Source, The Shops at Nanuet) 26 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Sweet Wink Long Sleeve T-Shirt ($33.50), Tutu ($28.50) & Rhinestone Headbands ($22.50 each)

Dress your little one for the holiday with this lovely ensemble. This casual chic white t-shirt showcasing a pink and sliver heart motif coordinates perfectly with this sparkly tutu—an outfit made for your Valentine’s Day princess. The red & white or heart rhinestone headband adds a finishing touch.

(Marcia’s Attic for Kids, Englewood, NJ)

MantraBand “Follow Your Heart” Bracelet - $25

MantraBands are simple, elegant bracelets with a touch of delicate polish and an uplifting message. This one reminds the bearer to always listen to and “follow your heart.” It is your essence and will always lead you in the right direction.

(Engravably Yours, Spring Valley)

The LOVE Drop Necklace - $24

This ideal Valentine’s gift for her is crafted by SoulKu designers who empower women and mothers.

The semi-precious Rose Quartz stone restores trust and harmony in relationships, encouraging unconditional love. A necklace for your true love at a perfect price point. (pied à terre, Nyack)

The Sweetie Bracelet - $138

Express your love with this delicate wristlet in sterling silver with a 14kt gold heart. This exquisite piece by Hudson Valley fine jewelry designer, Jane Hollinger, is sure to make her heart skip a beat. (pied à terre, Nyack)

Purely Pandora Beaded Stackable Rings ($50) & Beaded Heart Dangle Birthstone Charms ($40)

Pandora is known by women all over the world as a leader in jewelry design that allows them to express their own personal style. Inspired by the beaded designs of Purely Pandora, these rings and heartshaped dangles are hand-finished in sterling silver and feature claw-set stones.

Pick out your loved one’s birthstone or favorite colors. To style, stack with other rings and add on these whimsical charms to a Pandora bracelet or necklace.

(Christopher Robert, New City)

Kate Spade New York Garden Drive Jewelry Box - $40 (add engraving for $9.95)

In chic contemporary style, this elegant Kate Spade New York jewelry box shines of an exotic pink lacquer. A gold-toned metal medallion decorates the front of the box complete with the Kate Spade New York logo. It is the perfect size for a few of your most treasured jewelry items or keepsakes.

Win over your special someone by customizing this classic gift with an engraving of her name or her initials.

(Engravably Yours, Spring Valley)

For more fashion and lifestyle tips, visit jeanninederamo.com RivertownMagazine.com / 27

with GIFTS FOR HER THIS VALENTINES DAY

Finding the perfect gift to get the girlfriend has always been a struggle. I tend to overthink the holiday and then end up running to the mall or online stores to buy a last-minute gift. I am hoping to improve on this character flaw this year!

The most important thing to remember is that the perfect Valentine’s day gift does not have to be expensive; it simply has to come from the heart.

I have found that no matter the gift, it is the effort and thought that matters the most. But fellas, do NOT forget the flowers! S

EBERJEY GISELE PJ SET IN IVORY & NAVY $120 A perfect gift for the girl that likes to stay comfy and cozy during Valentine’s Day! Great for bedtime or staying in to watch a movie. (revolve.com) EBERJEY CROPPED HEATHER PANT IN LIGHT CHARCOAL $65 A chicer and sportier alternative to the average pajama bottom, this soft sweatpant is made from a snug knit fabric, and features a ribbon drawstring waist. Get the matching Heather Slouchy longsleeve tee to complete the look. (revolve.com)

ODE À LA ROSE FLOWER DELIVERY $50-$250 For the Valentine’s Day traditionalist!

Flowers are always a safe bet. Surprise her with a bouquet of flowers at work or waiting for her when she gets home. Ode à la Rose is one of my favorite flower delivery services in the northeast. Their flowers come in beautiful arrangements ready for display in a pretty vase. Most importantly, they do same day delivery within NYC and next-day throughout the northeast! So, in case you are like me and tend to procrastinate on the Valentine’s Day front, this is the perfect service for you! (odealarose.com) DIPTYQUE BAIES/BERRIES CANDLE $68 For the girl that likes to “set the mood” on Valentine’s Day, the Baies, Berries candle is this French brand’s best seller. The scent emanates a tangy cool note of freshly picked blackcurrant berries. The candle comes in two different sizes at different price points: $68.00 or $32.00. (diptyqueparis.com)

MEJURI SATELLITE NECKLACES $70 Don’t forget about a little Valentine’s bling.

Mejuri has a full line of stylish fine jewelry without the traditional markups, so you can get timeless, quality pieces without a hefty price tag. The handcrafted Satellite necklace features a thick 18k gold layer on top of sterling silver with white sapphires—a versatile piece that can be worn on its own or layered with other necklaces. (mejuri.com) 28 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Since opening its doors, Caked Up has quickly cultivated a following among locals, celebrities and professional athletes with its wildly flavored cupcakes and custom designed celebration cakes.

See what everyone’s buzzing about.

RivertownMagazine.com / 29

2009 was the 400th anniversary of Henry Hudson discovering the river that bears his name as well as Samuel de Champlain discovering the Lake that bears his name. It was also the 200th anniversary of Robert Fulton inventing the Steamboat.

NY State Office of Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation in partnership with its sister agency, the NY State Department of Conservation, hosted the Hudson Fulton Champlain Quadricentenial Celebration (HFC – 400) honoring these three men with events scheduled throughout the year at assorted locations in the state. There were several Legacy designated events during the year which included the Hudson River Flotilla in June, followed by the Dutch Fleet Week in September and the grand opening of Walkway Over the Hudson in early October which drew over forty thousand visitors during the opening week-end festivities.

30 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

This photo was taken from the center of the Bear Mt. Bridge capturing the Dutch flat bottom sailboats making their way up the Hudson River, a journey that originated in NYC and would eventually conclude in Albany as part of the HFC celebration.

David Rocco

romancing the

HUDSON A PHOTOGRAPHER’S 19-YEAR-LONG LOVE LETTER TO THE RIVER

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imply put, I love the Hudson River.

From Mt. Marcy where the river begins, right to down to where the river spills into the Atlantic Ocean between Staten Island and Breezy Point, I had the privilege to take photos of these locations and everything in between.

The Hudson River is so rich in history going back to Henry Hudson, right up to the likes of Pete Seeger. To get to know some of the people who had a role in the river’s revitalization is something I will always cherish—to photograph these people and events they participated in is very special...and very humbling.

I love taking photographs of the Hudson River no matter where I am.

That special events occur along the river is a given, but the varieties of the ever-changing landscapes are a dream for photographers like me.

From the NYC skyline to the mountain ranges of the Adirondacks, there is no shortage of opportunities to capture the magnificence of life along the Hudson.

RivertownMagazine.com / 31

I

n June of 2008, I took part in a two-day voyage aboard the Henry Hudson replica, the Half Moon.

We departed Athens, NY and made rest stops in Kingston and Gravesend Bay in NYC (where Henry Hudson docked the original Half Moon in 1609). We sailed up the East River and out to the Long Island Sound, completing our trip in New London, CT. Upon departing from the ship, I made arrangements with Captain Chip Reynolds to coordinate a plan to cross paths in the NYC harbor on the Half Moon’s return trip back to Athens, NY the following month.

The plan was to fly in a helicopter and capture the ship in full open sails traveling down the Hudson.

Unfortunately, my helicopter got to the designated

32 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

location a bit too soon for the open-sail look, but it was a still a wonderful opportunity to shoot the Half Moon with the lower Manhattan skyline behind her.

Below left is a picture of Pete Seeger and I during a Beacon Sloop Club month meeting in July 2012. It turns out that National Geographic had requested Pete Seeger write a song about the Hudson River. Pete was signing the lyrics to me. The shot was taken by Russell Cusick, another Hudson Valley photographer.

Below right is the famous Bounty tall ship as she made her way down the Hudson River in April 2010.

She made a return trip back to the Hudson Valley in June 2012, but sadly sank 90 miles off the coast of North Carolina during Hurricane Sandy the following October.

I

n June of 2007, after sixteen years of struggles and repeated failed starts, the Walkway Over the Hudson organization finally reached its goal to convince private citizens, area foundations, and elected and appointed officials that investing in the Walkway concept was a great opportunity.

The goal of the organization—to take a forgotten unused historic former railroad bridge and turn it into a multi-use linear park in the sky. It would benefit the entire Hudson Valley once it was renovated. In this photo, construction crews are removing the former railroad bridge’s material in order to get the old Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge prepared for its new purpose.

RivertownMagazine.com / 33

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started photographing the demolition of the Tappan Zee Bridge and the construction of its replacement in July 2013. Since that time, I’ve taken over 12,000 photos, and spent countless hours near the project site at all hours of the day, under every imaginable weather condition—all in anticipation of that moment.

I’ve captured just about every milestone moment for this project by land in both Rockland and Westchester Counties, by water in a dozen boat rides, and by air on 23 helicopter flights. I even travelled to Williamsport, PA to see where the new bridge’s steel girders were cast, then to the port of Coeymans, NY to one of the bridge contractor’s staging areas, 100 miles north of the project site. I photographed the 100-foot-long single pieces of steel girders that were assembled into larger sections and then transported down the Hudson River to the new bridge for placement by the Left Coast Lifter.

In this picture, I waited in frigid conditions for hours to capture the controlled demolition explosion of the east anchor pier of the Tappan Zee Bridge. I was standing on the property of an area homeowner I befriended a year earlier when I requested access to record progress on the south side of the new bridge.

For the demolition, I went back to the lady’s house to find out if she would still allow me to use her yard.

Her response, “I was waiting for your knock at the door.”

RivertownMagazine.com / 35

O

n August 24, 2017, Governor Andrew Cuomo drove US Navy Veteran, Pearl Harbor survivor, Armondo “Chick” Galella across the Rockland-bound new Tappan Zee Bridge in a restored 1955 Chevy Corvette.

Mr. Galella was the first person to drive a vehicle across the original Tappan Bridge as part of the opening day ceremonies in 1955—a 1955 yellow Chevy Corvette. This photo allowed me to become friends with Chick, and I gave him a framed copy of this image shortly after the grand opening of the new bridge.

T

he Space Shuttle Enterprise was retired from service in 1979. In 1985, it was transported to the Smithsonian Institution. In April 2011, NASA announced that the Discovery would replace the Enterprise in the Smithsonian’s collection, with ownership of the Enterprise transferred to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in NYC. In April 2012, Enterprise took off from Washington, DC to do fly-bys over a number of NYC-area landmarks before landing at JFK airport.

After missing the Enterprise flyover in NYC, I was determined to shoot it’s transport up the Hudson. On June 6, 2012, I positioned myself along the Weehawken, NJ waterfront, directly opposite the Intrepid Museum.

I looked along the waterfront and realized that I had been joined by hundreds of other photographers, all trying to capture the moment. Trying to think of a different approach, I observed a number of water ferries crossing the river, taking passengers from Weehawken to a pier in Manhattan, just south of the Intrepid. I bolted to the nearby ferry terminal and bought a round-trip ticket, hoping to get the shot. I got it. L

36 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

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230 Hudson Terrace in Piermont.

A PIECE OF PIERMONT HISTORY

230 HUDSON TERRACE HITS THE MARKET STORY BY JOSEPH KUHN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY R2M REALTY

B

uilt in the 19th century by legendary architect Stanford White, the majestic four-story home at 230 Hudson Terrace is one of the first ever to be constructed in the area and has overlooked the riverside village for more than 130 years. A stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, the rare jewel of a house is now on the market for the first time in its long and storied history.

The current owners, the Flobeck family, have lived in the house for five generations and preserved the classic colonial structure. The house still has all of its original hardwood floors, archways, and handcrafted crown molding and remains an iconic example of the architectural style popularized by the American Renaissance.

Simply walking into the foyer gives visitors the impression that they have stepped back into the gilded age. Originally built as a summer home for George Taylor, the treasurer of the Pirsson Piano Company, 230 Hudson is quite an opulent place. The home has four fireplaces (all of them 38 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

retaining their original trim and tile work), three different porches which overlook the Hudson River, and a lavish formal dining room–ideal for entertaining.

The house is practically dripping with neo-French influences. The mantles over the firepits, the arched windows and doors, and even the ceiling of the guest bedroom each boast an ornate handcrafted flourish that signifies the workmanship of the original designers.

The Beaux-Art style was in many ways meant to mimic the classical aesthetic of the Renaissance, and Stanford White and his crew totally recaptured the artistic movement.

Every floor of the home was carefully designed to maximize its visual appeal. For example, the pocket doors that divide the dining and living room are made of two different woods (walnut and cherry) so that each side matches the crown molding of the room it leads from. It’s in such minute details that builders replicated the charm and skill of classic European architecture.

The Flobecks have done an excellent job maintaining their home, and the small alterations they have made have only increased its appeal.

The former coal storage room in the basement is now a one car garage (that could easily be repurposed as a wine cellar according to the current owner), a bathroom has been added to the lower level, and the entire house now has central air conditioning. The property sits on the largest and most level lot in Hudson Terrace and even the foliage is rich in history. In the front yard sits a Japanese Laced Maple tree that was planted before World War I. 230 Hudson Terrace is an absolutely gorgeous home rich in history and personality. The house feels like a Newport mansion and the property offers a majestic view of the village of Piermont and the Hudson River.

Its breathtaking antiquity and modern comforts surely won’t be on the market long. L

Make the Move!

230 HUDSON TERRACE, PIERMONT, NY 10968 4 Bedrooms

Built in 1891

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Jennifer Sirkowa, R2M Realty, Inc. Licensed Real Estate Associate Broker info@ready2mov.com | 845.358.2000

RivertownMagazine.com / 39

DR. IGOR ELMAN

Brings A Personal Touch to Health Care STORY BY JOSEPH KUHN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NINA SKOWRONSKI

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gor Elman has always wanted to be a doctor. “At around five or six years old,” the physician had decided that he wanted to spend his life helping people, and he determined that the best way to do this was by practicing medicine. That’s why Dr. Elman chose to join MDVIP, a new creed of medical professionals dedicated to personalized preventive care.

MDVIP is a national network of primary care physicians that was formed in 2000 with the goal of providing a more patient-centered approach to medicine. By helping a smaller pool of patients, the doctors who join the network commit themselves to a more comprehensive and personalized style of treatment. For Dr. Elman, this was a welcomed adjustment.

Dr. Elman began his career as an attending of record at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. There, he was responsible for patients whose primary care physicians were unavailable

40 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

as well as patients that had no primary care doctor at all. It was an intense environment according to Dr. Elman, who spent four years at St. Francis before relocating to Rockland.

He explained, “I felt pressured to run from room to room to see patients.”

Now at his new practice, which he inherited from Dr. Charles Glassman and Dr. Richard Handelsman in November of last year, Dr. Elman can now take a more proactive approach to medicine.

“The biggest change is the amount of time I get to spend with patients. I can now spend time creating wellness, nutrition, diet, and exercise regimens for people—preventing disease from starting before it takes hold. That’s the essence of why I came into the medical practice.” Dr. Elman’s new approach is widely benefitting both his patients and the larger medical community.

InBody Technology is just one of the tests included in a wellness exam at Dr. Elman’s practice. It is used to measure body composition balance and body mass index (BMI). Patients can also take advantage of this technology as frequently as they like and it is helpful with a weight loss program.

For patients, it means their doctor is able to fully understand their individual needs and preferences, and treatment plans can be tailored to them holistically. As Dr. Elman believes, “we are in an age where we have to be our patients’ guide and not their authority figures.” Being an MDVIP allows him to carefully discuss his procedures with patients and to work with them, in tandem, when developing long term health plans—this is meant to help avoid the need for costly emergency treatments in the future.

For hospitals, Dr. Elman’s methods can mean less overcrowding and wasted resources; just last month he was able to save one of his patients a trip to the emergency room with just a phone call.

“When paramedics called and reported that [their patient’s] blood pressure was out of control and that they might have to send their patient to the E.R., I told them I felt comfortable prescribing additional medication.” That prescription

was filled immediately, and the patient’s blood pressure decreased without stepping foot in the hospital.

Dr. Elman and his office represent a new trend in health care that is doing good for the industry and everyone who depends on it. Thanks to MDVIP, Dr. Elman can proudly provide his patients with a new level of attention and availability—and he couldn’t be happier. “When a patient calls me, I’ll be calling them back within a half hour,” guarantees Dr. Elman. “You can reach me day or night.” L

Igor Elman, DO 7-C Medical Park Dr, Pomona, NY (845) 846-8209 mdvip.com/igorelmando

RivertownMagazine.com / 41

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A New K ind of Memory Care is Coming to Your Neighborhood If you find yourself helping a family member with more and more of the things they used to do for themselves, let us help!

Get to know The Artis Way: Exceptionally customized and respectful Memory Care in a cozy, neighborhood setting.

Be among the first in Chestnut Ridge to experience what it means to live every day The Artis Way!

Learn more by calling 877-385-6725 or visiting

www.TheArtisWay.com/Rivertown WELCOME CENTER: 146 Red Schoolhouse Road, Suite D, Spring Valley, NY 10977 COMMUNITY LOCATION: 801 Chestnut Ridge Road, Chestnut Ridge, NY 10977 Check out our other nearby community in Briarcliff Manor.

44 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

CITYTALK NoMad

by Stephen McArdle NoMad, also known as North of Madison Square Park, is recognized as one of New York’s most vibrant neighborhoods and is located between 30th Street and 25th Street from Lexington to 6th Avenue. A rapidly evolving neighborhood with the rise of its hotels, condos, and restaurants, the area caters to tech entrepreneurs, media creatives, and people who are looking for a slightly more refined experiences. From fancy lounges to lowkey bars, there’s always somewhere to spend your evenings in NoMad. Please find my tailored guide for your next visit!

The Flatiron Room

Eat

To Do

Family Fun

The Flatiron Room

The Morgan Library & Museum

The National Museum of Mathematics

The Flatiron Room is a classy nightspot staple serving over 1,000 whiskeys, bourbons, single malts, and cocktails. Enjoy their live jazz performances while nibbling on charcuterie, cheese, and oysters.

Breslin

This critically acclaimed restaurant continues to be a mainstay and culinary destination in NoMad. The beautiful and moody restaurant dedicates itself to local farmers and purveyors, allowing visitors to enjoy the freshest of seasonal ingredients.

Eleven Madison Square Park

Claimed as one of the best restaurants in the world, Eleven Madison sure has made its mark on New York City. This touted restaurant is famously known for its 11 course meal which can last for three hours.

Drink The NoMad Bar

Ranked, annually, in the world’s 50 best bars, The NoMad Bar is a spot you won’t want to simply pass by. Located inside the swanky Nomad Hotel, this bar delivers an upscale twist on traditional pub culture.

The renowned Morgan Library & Museum began as the private library of financier Pierpont Morgan. Open to the public, today, The Morgan Library & Museum continues to acquire rare materials as well as music manuscripts and early children’s books.

Tibet House

Tibet House is a cultural preservation organized at the request of the Dalai Lama to protect Tibet’s ancient traditions of philosophy, mind science, art, and culture from the Chinese invasion of Tibet. For a cultural refresh, this is a must visit!

Self-Care Sukho Thai Healing

Check out this highly-ranked healing spa whose mission is to provide healing from pain through traditional Thai yoga massage techniques. The traditional practice has been passed down via the generations with the goal of keeping mind and body connected.

The National Museum of Mathematics is the only museum dedicated entirely to math in North America. Tailored to every math enthusiast, from beginners to expert mathematicians, all will enjoy discovering math in an adventurous way.

Madison Square Park

Did you know? The historical Madison Square Park is named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. Opened 150 years ago, this park is often graced with artwork by emerging as well as renowned artists. You will regularly see a number of visitors in line for the food trucks and the famous Shake Shack.

Looking to buy a home in the NoMad? As your real estate expert, reach out to me today!

Madison Square Park

Vin Sur Vingt

For the wine enthusiast, Vin Sur Vingt is a go-to location; and, it is enjoyed by local residents and out-of-towners alike.

I encourage you to stop by for a glass of wine, some escargot, or a spread of French casseroles.

Ace Hotel Lobby Bar

The lobby bar at The Ace Hotel is a hot scene for freelance writers and graphic designers, by day. Then, it quickly fills with roves of mingling New Yorkers and visitors, by night. Enjoy a cocktail or two over novel conversations.

STEPHEN MCARDLE is a licensed Associate Real Estate Broker and member of REBNY. (646) 641-3343 mcardle@compass.com

Compass is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdrawal without notice. No statement is made as to the accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of real estate brokerage.

RivertownMagazine.com / 45

YOU AND YOUR TAXES Cash Flow: A Central Part of Your Business & Tax Plan

I

suspect that many taxpayers who paid mortgage interest during 2018 took mortgage interest deductions on their tax returns for amounts that they were not entitled to deduct. While the loss of a tax deduction usually simplifies the tax code, repealing the home equity interest deduction substantially complicates personal tax return preparation because of the difficult tracking rules related to taxdeductible mortgage interest.

Previously, the interest paid on up to $1 million of debt to purchase or improve a personal residence (acquisition debt) was fully tax deductible. In addition, interest paid on up to $100,000 of home equity debt, no matter what the funds were used for, was also tax deductible.

Under the new law, only interest paid on acquisition debt up to $750,000 is deductible. (Up to $1 million for debt that existed as of 12/15/2017). Here’s the kicker: Interest on home equity debt is no longer deductible.

Home equity debt is defined by the use of the money borrowed and not what the lender calls the loan. If you borrow what the lender calls a home equity loan or open what the lender calls a home equity line of credit and use the proceeds to pay for improvements to your home, this loan is acquisition debt; the interest on all acquisition debt combined is fully tax deductible up to the $750,000 debt limit.

It is crucial to keep separate track of acquisition and home equity debt.

Homeowners must go back to the original purchase mortgage for each property and forward through all

46 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

subsequent refinancing, borrowing, and consolidation to separately identify acquisition debt and home equity debt.

Unless the homeowner has only had one mortgage loan—the original purchase mortgage for the property— and has never refinanced, the interest reported on the form 1098 issued by the lender is not the amount of the interest that can be deducted on his tax return. When an existing acquisition debt loan is refinanced, the new mortgage is treated as acquisition debt only up to the balance of the old mortgage principal, just prior to the refinancing plus any additional debt used to substantially improve the residence. Any excess principal including amounts used to cover closing costs is considered home equity debt, and the related interest is not tax deductible. In this case, you can avoid the home equity debt classification by refinancing only the principal from an acquisition debt mortgage and paying all closing costs with separate funds.

For example, Joe and Gayle purchased a home in 2014. They have a principal balance on their original mortgage for $110,000 and no home equity debt. They refinanced their original mortgage in 2018 to get a better rate.

The closing cost for this new loan was $3,000—and the new mortgage’s principal balance will be $113,000. Joe and Gayle now have acquisition debt of $110,000 and home equity debt of $3,000. Only the interest on the $110,000 portion is tax deductible.

Form 1098 issued by the lender will show the interest paid on the entire debt. The tax-deductible portion will

equal $110,000/$113,000 = 97.3% of the total mortgage interest reported on form 1098. If Joe and Gayle had refinanced and borrowed a total of $200,000 in 2018 and used $40,000 of these funds to improve their home, their tax deductible interest would be limited to the interest on the original acquisition debt of $110,000 plus $40,000 of additional acquisition debt. The $50,000 excess would be considered home equity debt. Interest on the $50,000 would not be tax deductible since it was not used to improve the home and would not be considered acquisition debt.

Ask your CPA to help you to determine the amount of mortgage interest that you may deduct on your 2019 tax returns. He or she can help you navigate the difficult tracking rules related to tax-deductible mortgage interest so that you can maximize your deductions. L Joseph A. Lux, CPA has been providing tax and accounting services to individuals and small businesses in our community for over twenty-five years. Visit joelux.com, for more tax saving ideas and tools, or to subscribe to his free monthly newsletter.

Free initial consultations are available to new clients.

HEART Cardiac Care with Dr. Kedar Sankholkar

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A STROKE

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stroke often will scare cardiologists more than a heart attack. In fact, a stroke is sometimes called a “brain attack” and causes more serious long-term disabilities than any other disease (Resource: stroke.nih.gov/ materials/needtoknow.htm). A stroke, or “cerebrovascular accident,” is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. This can happen because of a blockage in one of the brain’s blood vessels (ischemic stroke) or bleeding out of a brain’s blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). As the blood supply is disrupted, the brain tissue that it supplies starts to die.

Every minute that passes will increase the amount of brain tissue affected in a manner akin to ripples caused by a stone thrown into a pond. A stroke can lead to an entire spectrum of undesired consequences from paralysis and inability to speak to loss of life.

Getting a person immediate medical attention can save them. Learn to spot the signs of stroke, to think ‘FAST,’ and to test the suspected stroke victim in the following:

F-(Facial drooping) Have them smile. If half of their smile droops downwards, call 911.

A-(Arms) Have them lift their arms up. If one or both arms cannot be lifted up, call 911.

S-(Speech difficulty) Have them say anything. If their speech is slurred, sounds odd, or they don’t seem to comprehend what you are saying, call 911.

T-(Time to call 911) If ANY of the above is happening, call 911.

Another sign of a stroke is sudden loss of vision or trouble seeing in one or both eyes.

Once brought to the hospital, a stroke team or neurologist will rapidly evaluate the patient to decide if they have met an important window of time where certain treatments would help them. Once the medical team can minimize damage done by the stroke, the patient can focus on physical rehabilitation to regain strength.

Be someone’s hero. Learn the ‘FAST’ signs above, and act immediately by calling 911—if you suspect you or someone else is having a stroke. L

Kedar Sankholkar, MD, MS, FACC is Medical Director of Cardiology for Valley Medical Group New York.

He sees patients for consultation and performs various cardiac tests including stress tests, echocardiograms and cardiac monitors in his Manhattan office on 57th St. & 7th Avenue, across Carnegie Hall.

He is also an avid magician and triathlete. To book an appointment, call 212-HEART-DR (432-7837). @KedarSankholkar

@doc_of_cards RivertownMagazine.com / 47

Dr. Shannon (front row, second from right) lobbied with 175 other audiology professionals to improve access to hearing and balance care for Medicare patients.

BETTER ACCESS TO HEARING

HEALTH CARE FOR MEDICARE PATIENTS MOVES FORWARD STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY HUDSON VALLEY AUDIOLOGY

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n November 14th, Rockland County audiologist, Dr. Jeffrey Shannon, traveled with 175 advocates and health policy experts from across the country to Capitol Hill to advocate for legislation meant to improve access to hearing and balance health care services for millions of Medicare beneficiaries.

“Medicare Part B requisites for coverage have not kept pace with the best practices, which ultimately leads to delayed treatments and increased costs.” said Dr. Shannon. “These deficiencies place arbitrary restrictions on coverage for hearing and balance care, at a time when that care is most needed for the patient.”

48 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

In a rare display of bipartisanship, Republicans and Democrats from the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate recently introduced the Medicare Audiologist Access and Services Act (H.R. 4056 and S. 2446) to better deploy audiologists within the Medicare system, to allow patients their choice of qualified Medicare-recognized provider, and to eliminate the requirement for patients to obtain a physician order prior to seeking care from an audiologist. Provisions in the bill will bring Medicare Part B policies in line with private insurers and other federal agencies and programs including the Veterans Health Administration, the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program, and Medicare Advantage.

“I had the pleasure of meeting with Representative Nita Lowey’s office,” said Dr. Shannon. “For Medicare beneficiaries, enactment of the Medicare Audiologist Access and Services Act (MAASA) cannot come soon enough. Untreated hearing and balance conditions reduce quality of life and carry tremendous societal and financial costs. This bill will improve these outdated Medicare policies that will make it easier for seniors to get the help that they need. I applaud Representative Lowley for cosponsoring this landmark legislation and for working to advance it through Congress.”

Ten thousand Americans turn 65 years of age and become Medicare-eligible every day in the United States, and 25% of them have disabling hearing loss. Hearing loss is the third most common chronic condition for adults over 65 years of age, behind arthritis and hypertension. Individuals with mild hearing loss are three times more likely to experience a fall, and falls are the leading cause of injury and death for Americans over 65 years of age.

The audiologists at Hudson Valley Audiology continue to serve patients for hearing, tinnitus, and balance disorders while working at the state and national levels to improve awareness and to advocate for the patients they serve. If you have further questions about this bill or are in need of services, please contact our practice at (845) 354-2133. L Representative Nita Lowey Dr. Shannon celebrating six years of ownership of Hudson Valley Audiology in Pomona.

“For Medicare beneficiaries, enactment of the Medicare Audiologist Access and Services Act (MAASA) cannot come soon enough. Untreated hearing and balance conditions reduce quality of life and carry tremendous societal and financial costs.”

—Dr. Jeffrey Shannon

Hudson Valley Audiology Center 11 Medical Park Dr., Suite 205, Pomona, NY (845) 354-2133 hudsonaudiology.com

RivertownMagazine.com / 49

with Phil Bunton

I

Here’s another sign that scientists are wasting their times—and our money. I don’t really know what a cuttlefish is, but scientists have stuck 3D glasses on their heads and then showed them 3D movies.

The movies were of shrimp, the cuttlefish’s favorite snack.

Every time the cuttlefish saw the movie shrimp, they would go into full-on attack mode.

These killer shrimp movies are apparently as hot as Jumanji.

What’s their favorite movie?

Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. was reading a story in the paper about the hot new computer gadgets coming out this year.

For example, there’s an electronic cat for those who cannot have pets in their home. For some reason, these cute and cuddly computerized critters were one of the hot crazes at this year’s big computer show in Las Vegas. The cats are officially described as “cushiontailed therapy robots” and are said to be perfect pets for the elderly and people who live alone. The tails wag when you stroke the cat.

The inventors describe it as a “communication tool that doesn’t require words”. Then, the inventors describe the cat in about one thousand words! But, nobody explains why the cats don’t have heads. Sounds spooky to me.

50 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Listening to my grandchildren, I’ve discovered that kids have much more exciting science classes than when I was learning the subject. “Grandpa, was that way back before they discovered gravity?” they ask. Not quite, but close.

In my day, not long after the dinosaurs walked the earth, the most exciting things in science class involved the occasional minor explosion—and lots of stinky smells.

My science teacher was a timid guy called Mr. Wise—known to us as Whiz Bang because he loved creating explosions for us. He never told us anything about space or the moon or rockets—things we were actually interested in. He just did his little controlled explosions and amused us by creating farts in a test tube. Oh, the

sixties were so much fun. You had to be there.

I went to a posh private school where we had the misfortune of wearing bright blue uniforms. Every day, the neighborhood rascals would yell at us: “Yoohoo, it’s the boys in blue.” Then, they’d fling mud at us. Needless to say, I didn’t really enjoy going to school.

So, here are some school jokes for you: Luke comes home from his first day of school, and his mother asks: “What did you learn today?”

“Not enough,” Luke replies. “They said I have to go back tomorrow.”

Teacher: Daniel, I’ve had to send you to the principal every day this week. What do you have to say for yourself?

Daniel: I’m glad it’s Friday.

Why did the student throw his watch out of the window?

He wanted to see time fly.

Thought for the Month: If dogs were really man’s best friend, they wouldn’t let us pick up their disgusting poop for them! L

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RivertownMagazine.com / 51

YOU NEVER KNOW WHERE YOU’LL SEE RIVERTOWN SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS to info@rivertownmag.com or tag us on social media #rivertownmagazine

Clockwise from top: Neighbors of Palisades after an evening of Christmas caroling, with Santa at the Palisades Community Center; Jose Cardona, Eileen O’Brien-Cardona, and Barbara Weber in Hawaii; Kailee McArdle at Stush in the Bush in Free Hill, Jamaica; “Ask Adam” Blankfort with bartender D’andre Dante Hamilton at Royal Decameron Club Caribbean, Runaway Bay, Jamaica.

52 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Clockwise from top left: Peggy and Bernie of Pearl River and grandson Jake spent the day beach biking at Folly Beach, South Carolina; Barry Carl at the Shangri La hotel in Chiang Mai, Thailand; Jo Baer, retired owner of Baer & McIntosh Real Estate in South Nyack, with her husband Peter in New Orleans at G.W. Fins. Eugene and Michael Peron of Pearl River, at a Bob Seger concert in Tacoma, Washington.

RivertownMagazine.com / 53

IN LOVE WITH THIS PLACE NYACK’S ROMANTIC LANDSCAPE STORIES AND ILLUSTRATIONS BY BILL BATSON

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any factors determine where we live in these modern times—school, work, family, love. Some relocate with great deliberation, others are involuntarily dislocated. Eventually, most settle down somewhere, like children playing musical chairs, plunking down in the only untaken seat, when the music stops.

But our lower end of the Hudson Valley is different. If you leave this place for long enough, you’ll see the folly of your ways and want to return to her embrace. Many are clever enough, or lucky enough and stay put. We are close enough to the metropolis to make a commute less than onerous, but far enough away to allow the commotion to become a memory by the end of the day.

There are ways to make a living here, shops owned by neighbors not multinationals. Arts flourish. PTAs fundraise. People do bicker, but the social and civic fabric that seems irreparably shredded in other parts of the

56 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

world is mostly whole here—enabled by the constant mending of fellowship.

We live near parks that are unparalleled in size and grandeur. We are encircled by a tasting menu of pleasing geological features: mountains, rivers, lakes, creeks, marshes.

These lands become like family. They inspire great works of art and advancements in science. They give us materials to build, water to drink, air to breathe, food to eat.

The following five excepts come from the Nyack Sketch Log, a weekly love letter I pen to the villages that make up my Hudson Valley home. You’ll meet partners who made art together, entrepreneurs and artisans who create items essential to romance, a gardener who grows non-profits, and women who dine for the causes they believe in. Hopefully, the more we learn about each other and the environment that supports us, we will fall more deeply in love with this place and make a vow to always protect her.

The Hook from the Tallman Mountain State Park As we sharpen our powers of observation by carefully regarding nature’s landscape, we might become more aware of her needs and more zealous in her defense.

M

y family used to have a Memorial Day picnic every year in Tallman Park. We had to arrive at the park in the wee hours of the morning, in order to secure a bench with this sweeping view of the river, the bridge and our beloved Nyack. Sheltered by Hook Mountain to the north and Tallman Mountain to the south, Nyack has been an ideal place to build a life since this was a tranquil Lenaape fishing village in the days before Henry Hudson sailed up the river then called the Mahicantuck in 1607.

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Garden of Civic Virtue May 2014 “I like rose gardens, but I

don’t like the formal look they often have. I’m a messy gardener. I like plants that self-seed. However, some plants can easily take over.”

C

ultivating vegetation and historic preservation are two of the organizing principals of Florence Katzenstein’s life. As the founder of historical societies on both sides of the Hudson River, Katzenstein has dedicated the last 45 years to preserving the region’s past for the benefit of future generations. Katzenstein hosts an annual plant sale for the Nyack Garden Club, welcoming the public to view her picturesque property and support the club’s public planting projects.

Walter and Florence Katzenstein moved to their Upper Nyack home in 1985, so that Walter could be closer to his factory in Congers. Florence founded the Hastings Historical Society in 1970.

When she saw that no such organization existed in Nyack, she founded The Historical Society of the Nyacks in 1994.

History and horticulture have found fertile soil on this riverfront estate.

From 1751 to 1905, six generations of the Williamson family occupied the land that is now the 500 block of North Broadway. The land yielded fruit, flowers and vegetables that, for a period, were harvested by slaves.

In 1905, the property was purchased

by Joseph Hilton. Hilton’s wife, Ida, founded the Nyack Garden Club in 1912.

The Hiltons added cottages for their two daughters.

In 1925, Pierre Bernard, also known as the Great Oom, started an ashram utilizing half a dozen old estates in the Nyacks that his devotees bought for him, including the Hilton estate, called “The Moorings”, with its main house, two cottages and carriage house. The South Cottage is now the Katzenstein home.

The home and garden are immortalized in a major Hollywood film. Scenes shot in the garden and patio appear in Woody Allen’s 2014 oscar winning effort, “Blue Jasmine.”

Women Dine For a Cause

September 2019 You go to a private home, bring a dish

and a check, and a community group receives the nourishment.

W

hen non-profits faced across the board reductions in funding in 2014, a group of women came together to break and raise some bread. Women Dine For a Cause have held almost 30 fundraising gatherings in the last five years.

Their no-frills affairs are in stark contrast to traditional fundraising, where organizations must spend big bucks to raise bigger bucks. With Women Dine for a Cause, you go to a private home, bring a dish and a check, made out to a charity, and the community group receives the nourishment.

Nyack Sketch Log met with one of the founding members, Paula Davis, to learn more about their low-overhead, highimpact community-based fundraising paradigm.

How did women dine for a cause start dining?

We got started five years ago when the Rockland County decreased funding for all non-profits. A few women got together to brainstorm how we could help. The founders were myself, Emily Dominguez, Liz Kallen, Donna Schmidt, Rochelle Spooner, and Enid Weishaus.

Where and when was the first gathering?

It was at my house. At first, we didn’t know what we were doing. We didn’t take into account what happens if it rains, what do we do with the extra food, how many people will come.

It was all a mystery, but it was spectacular because over 100 women came. Marla Pasquale sang and she was fabulous and Caroyln Fish spoke for Center for Safety & Change. And most importantly, we raised money to support the Center’s work.

How many dinners have you held?

We’ve had almost 30 dinners, that average about 80 women at each and we’ve raised over $80,000 for Rockland County non-profits.

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Nyack Sweets November 2019

Lisa Chang transforms water, flour and sugar and the lessons of her Italian immigrant mother, into the decadent concoctions that kiddies and foodies dream about.

N

yack Sketch Log got a golden ticket tour of this confectionery kingdom, learning how a fashion designer became the baker her mother always intended her to be.

Where did you get your baking chops?

My mother is a master bread and cookie maker. She immigrated from Italy and raised 4 girls and made us make food and treats from scratch our whole life. She still surprises me with new and delicious things!

Are you the only confectionist? Does anyone help produce your concoctions?

I’m a one woman show when it comes to the baking, dipping and decorating. Although my mom has definitely helped me out a bunch. I have had some help from some wonderful friends and family too when I need it especially with packaging!!

60 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

When did you launch Nyack Sweets?

I actually worked in fashion for 15 years as a designer and later a product developer. Once I started having children, it started getting harder and harder to keep traveling for work and leaving my babies home.

I always loved to bake and I started making my children elaborate birthday cakes. Friends started asking me to make their children’s birthday cakes and it just took on a life of its own.I’ve been making sweets in Nyack for close to 9 years now, but I made it official in 2017 with Nyack Sweets!

What’s next for Nyack Sweets?

I have lots of ideas! For one I think I’m finally ready to start talking to brides and doing more wedding cakes and favors!

A

rt lovers from around the world flock to Nyack to visit the childhood home of America’s preeminent realist painter, Edward Hopper. After graduating Nyack High School, Hopper left the village to pursue his career, but would return, often, to visit his sister Marion.

Marion lived in the house until her death in 1965. The artist died on May 15, 1967 and his wife of over 40 years, artist Josephine Verstille Nivison passed away a year later.

The demise of this entire cohort of the Hopper family over such a short span put the future of the family home in jeopardy. After Marion’s death, the house became an abandoned eyesore inhabited by squatters.

The house was saved from destruction in the early 1970s by an ad-hoc coalition that included neighbors, Rotarians, labor unions, students and artists. In 1979, former Hopper House Board Chair Alan Gussow wrote “half of all the business blocks standing in Nyack in 1950 were built in the 1880s and 1890s” during Hopper’s

childhood. These brownstone brick facades, when bathed in the light reflected off the Hudson, produced the saturated tones that form the color palate in many of Hopper’s most important paintings, such as Early Sunday morning.

In Hopper’s world, the landscape shares equal billing with the human figure. Often the setting is the leading lady. The preservation of Hopper’s house allows us to view the artist in relation to his aboriginal setting.

Thanks to a local tradition of historic preservation and the absence of over-development, the majority of the village that you see today is very close in scale and population density to how Nyack was in the early 20th century, when Hopper was a child.

Today the Edward Hopper House Museum and Study Center offers a climate controlled gallery space with a packed schedule of world-class exhibitions and events, managed by a professional staff led by Executive Director Jennifer Patton.

Edward Hopper

July 2014 Edward Hopper, his wife Josephine Nivison,

and their cat Arthur.

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Fairy Tale Home September 2014

Children’s book authors Berta and Elmer Hader had a love-at-first-site reaction to Grand-View-on-Hudson.

O

nce upon a time, a couple who wrote and illustrated children’s books built this fairy tale house. Berta and Elmer Hader used the materials they had in abundant supply: imagination, stone from the quarry on the property, marital bliss and a love for the environment. Nestled into the steep slope of a hill above the Hudson River, the house still stands as proof that dreams do come true.

For over 50 years, the Haders held creative court on Willow Hill. The couple met at an artists’ colony in San Francisco in 1912. When Elmer went to Europe to fight in World War I, Berta came to New York to work at McCalls and Good Housekeeping magazines.

In a column for a local charity journal in 1962, the Haders described their love-at-first-sight reaction to Grand-View-on-Hudson.

“Every bend of the road disclosed green lawns, flower gardens and clapboard houses—many of them like pictures in Godey’s Lady’s Book (the most widely circulated magazine in the period before the Civil War). We sat down to rest on a low stone wall, where we could see the river. A few young people in canoes paddled along close to the shore...we decided this was just the place.”

The land was purchased for a pittance because it was believed that the grade of the hill was too steep for construction. According to Grand View historian Terry Talley, “part of the down payment was paid by Elmer by doing a portrait of the lady who owned the property.”

The couple married in 1919 upon Elmer’s return from the war. Berta wore a wedding gown embroidered by the daughter of writer Laura Ingalls Wilder. The Haders helped Wilder publish the first volume of her seminal series, “Little House on the Prairie.”

Between 1921 and 1925, the Haders welcomed a steady stream of friends to help build their story book home. When completed, the dining room/ studio was, according to various estimates, 60’ by 40’ feet with a 25’ ceiling. A stage was installed at one end of the grand room for skits, readings and musical performances. Apparently, Elmer did not require much convincing to produce and pick his banjo, that like his bohemian bungalow, was built with his own hands.

Books,Gear & House Portrait Commissions shop at: nyackgift.com

nyacksketchlog Bill Batson has published a sketch and short essay about the Village of Nyack every Tuesday since 2011 on nyacknewsandviews.com. His family has been in Nyack since the 1890s. Bill serves as the Marketing Manager for the Nyack Chamber of Commerce and the Artist-In-Residence at the Nyack Farmers’ Market where he sells and makes art, organizes events, and develops promotional tools for the Chamber.

Bill is an advisor to the Nyack Center, a trustee of the Historical Society of the Nyacks, and chair of the Nyack Commemoration Committee, a group that erected a Toni Morrison Society Bench by the Road monument in Nyack’s Memorial Park in 2015.

Bill chairs the press and publicity committee for the Nyack branch of the NAACP. From his Nyack Sketch Log column, the Flash Sketch Mob, a crowd sourced, en plein air landscape art project, and the Nyack Record Shop Project have emerged. A lifelong artist and activist, Bill is dedicated to using the arts to promote preservation, commemoration, cultural education, and community empowerment. To learn more, follow his weekly column or visit billbatsonarts.com.

Follow Nyack Sketch Log on Instagram and Facebook.

RivertownMagazine.com / 63

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RIVERTOWN’S LOVE STORIES

WITH ROMANCE IN THE AIR, FIVE LOCAL COUPLES SHARED OUR CHAIR TO REMIND US THAT LOVE KNOWS NO BOUNDARIES— NOT AGE, SEX, DISTANCE NOR TIME.

BY JEANNINE DERAMO | INTERVIEWS & PHOTOGRAPHS BY NINA SKOWRONSKI

66 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

DAN: I WANT HIM TO DO WELL. IT’S IN MY HEART. RICHARD: AS TIME PASSES, I FEEL THE LONG GAME IS REALLY IMPORTANT. TO BE THERE FOR EACH OTHER NOW BUT ALSO TO PLAN ON BEING THERE FOR THE FUTURE. IN THIS CRAZY WORLD, NOTHING IS GUARANTEED. IT COULD BE GONE IN A MOMENT. WE APPRECIATE THAT WE ARE SO LUCKY. LOVE IS SOMETHING YOU DON’T TAKE FOR GRANTED.

Dan Sherman and Richard Skipper Piermont, NY Richard was a singing waiter at Manhattan’s Marie’s Crisis in 1990 when Dan was a patron there on Memorial Day weekend. Dan caught a glimpse of Richard and, on a hint from the bartender about slow business days, Dan returned Monday night and waited until the end of Richard’s shift at 5 AM. The pair went to breakfast and then a spontaneous theater and dinner date that same night. “We literally have been together since that day we met— thirty years ago,” shares Richard. “I knew the moment I met him that this was somebody special. For me, it was love at first sight.” They both wanted to settle down, and Richard and Dan were one of the first hundred same-sex couples to get married in New York.

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LOLA: HE’S ALWAYS

BY MY SIDE. I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT HIM. RICHARD: DEFINING ‘LOVE’ DOES NOT DO IT JUSTICE. BUT YOU KNOW WHEN IT HAPPENS, AND YOU JUST CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT THAT PERSON WHEN IT DOES. Lola & Richard Esnard Piermont, NY It was 1972 at Hunter Mountain’s happy hour when Lola and Richard—fellow skiers, yet total strangers—both reached for the final canapé on the hors d’oeuvres platter. Their hands touched as each encouraged the other to take the last one. Lola chuckles, “I can’t remember who actually got it, but that started the conversation. Then he showed me his new boots, and how soft they were. Our hands touched inside the boot and little sparks flew.”

Lola was working in Paris at a job she loved. Richard, committed to making the relationship work, wrote her letters and called her every day. During the courtship, he visited her twenty two times in Paris, and the couple met up often throughout Europe.

RivertownMagazine.com / 69

JAMES: I JUST WANT TO MAKE SURE THAT SHE IS HAPPY, AND SHE IS GETTING WHAT SHE NEEDS. ANGELA: COMMITMENT. THERE ARE HARD TIMES WHEN YOU COULD JUST WALK AWAY, BUT WE DON’T BECAUSE WE ARE COMMITTED TO EACH OTHER. Angela & James Kimak Sparkill, NY Angela and James met and married in 1984 in Montclair, NJ. Lovers of the outdoors, they accepted an offer from a friend who owned a boat and set sail from Petersen’s Boatyard up the Hudson River. This began their love affair with the Rivertowns. Angela and James say, “We absolutely loved it. It felt exotic. We sailed under Hook Mountain, and it was just magical. We decided on the spot—let’s get a house here.” After ten months in an apartment in South Nyack, they bought their first home in Piermont where they stayed for fourteen years. Then they moved to a house in Sparkill where they’ve resided for the past twenty one years.

“We are very connected to the river,” James says. The Kimaks have become permanent fixtures in the community, sharing their gifts. You can find James’ acclaimed paintings on display at Art Suite NY Gallery in Piermont, and you can often catch his performances at The Turning Point with his Old No. 7 Band. Angela is an art teacher and department chair at Sleepy Hollow High School.

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SONYA: LOVE MEANS PUTTING THE OTHER PERSON FIRST—EMOTIONAL GENEROSITY. PATCH: THERE ARE SO MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF LOVE AND LOVING RELATIONSHIPS. ROMANTIC LOVE COMBINES ALL OF THOSE. YOU BECOME FAMILY. YOU SHARE YOUR FRIENDS. YOU GO THROUGH LIFE TOGETHER. THERE IS A CERTAIN COMFORT AND SAFETY IN REAL LOVE THAT IS LONG LASTING. Sonya Harum & Patch Darragh Piermont, NY Sonya and Patch met in 2014 at a rehearsal in New York City for the Off-Broadway production of Appropriate. “When we played the parts of the boyfriend and the girlfriend, we instantly had a connection and got to know each other intimately through the process.

But it was not a showmance. Neither of us were single when we met, and we were both faithful.” Yet, Sonya admits, “I couldn’t act on it at the time, but the moment Patch walked into the rehearsal room for the play, I knew I was in love.” About six months later, at the Obie Awards, they rekindled their friendship. “The veil was finally lifted,” says Patch. Sonya adds, “And we’ve been together ever since.”

RivertownMagazine.com / 71

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FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT RESOLUTIONS & THE 2020 ELECTION STORY & PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY THE MAHONEY GROUP

E

From left: Kevin Mahoney, Managing Director; Kristen Koluch, Senior Vice President, Investments; Chris Mahoney, Managing Director; Mark Marotta, Managing Director; Phil Murphy, Managing Director.

ach year, pressures of the holiday season mount before Thanksgiving leftovers are even put away.

We all know the feeling. The arrival of Black Friday (What a name!) pounds home the need to do your holiday gift shopping. Social calendars fill with obligations while work schedules are crammed with “year-end” tasks to be completed. And, new year’s day is a welcome respite— except for one thing: those pesky new year’s resolutions.

The most popular resolution, time and time again, is to “lose some weight,” but another one in the perennial Top 5 is to get our financial houses in order. And while that takes some effort, there are simple actions we can all take to see immediate improvement in that department.

Here are three great steps for beginning the year on solid footing: 1.

Set goals. These aren’t “resolutions.” These are longterm objectives focused on the most important things in your life: health, family, work, retirement, and more!

Everything significant to your life should have a “plan” with a timeline that includes steps you’ll take to make the goal a reality.

74 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

2. Establish a consistent savings and investing program.

The first step is to know where your money goes. So look through your checkbook and credit card statement.

Get a handle on that. Once you begin a regular program, you’ll be surprised and encouraged by how quickly you make progress! Usually, as your savings account grows, your comfort level goes up too. That’s important for investors because the markets are inherently volatile and a bulging savings account will often provide that additional net of safety.

3. Review (or sign up for) your 401k or another contributory retirement plan at work. Rebalance (or establish) an appropriate long-term asset allocation and stick to it. Avoid trading the account or making changes based on market dips and surges. This is a lifetime plan and must be viewed in the context of 20-years, 30-years, 40-years or more!

Now that it’s 2020, we hear the hesitant voices of investors who worry about the health of the market in a presidential election year. Is this a good time to invest? Should I wait until after the election so that I know what’s coming next?

From left: Mark Marotta, Managing Director and Chris Mahoney, Managing Director.

Well, we dusted off the history books and looked back over the years for some guidance. We looked at every election year from 1948 to 2016, and during that span there were 18 presidential election years with surprising market results.

According to the Ibbotson yearbook of stock and bond market returns, the stock market was up in 16 of those 18 election years!

While that certainly doesn’t mean 2020 will be an “up” year, it does mean we shouldn’t expect an inherent downward trend in the market. We shouldn’t fear the market just because it is a presidential election year!

This concept is simple but not easy adds Chris Mahoney, Managing Director. “Many investors who have a bad experience in the markets suffer from lack of a plan and the discipline to execute properly. We specialize in both!”

Mahoney adds, “What this business is really all about and the reason we enjoy coming to work every day is that our work gives us the opportunity to help people every single day—election year or not! That’s the most worthwhile objective of all.” R Opinions expressed in the attached article are those of the author and are not necessarily those of Raymond James. All opinions are

“Last year was a challenge for investors,” says Phil Murphy, Managing Director at The Mahoney Group of Raymond James in West Nyack. “After a big run-up in the summer, stocks fell sharply from about October 1st through Christmas and then staged a huge rally as the Dow gained over 1,000 points on December 26th of 2018. That’s very difficult for the average person to navigate, and that’s why I love this business; it presents the opportunity to help people.”

as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Investing involves a risk and investors may incur a profit or a loss. Keep in mind that there is no assurance that any strategy will ultimately be successful or profitable nor protect against a loss.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), commonly known as “The Dow” is an index representing the stocks of 30 companies maintained and reviewed by the editors of the Wall Street Journal.

One cannot invest directly in an index. Past Performance does not

Murphy’s “opportunity to help” is greatest in volatile markets.

That’s because even though the cause of the volatility is different year to year, the behavior (and mistakes) of investors is the same during those volatile periods. This is often detrimental to their success.

“You can’t make headway jumping in and out of investments.

Our philosophy is to have an asset allocation that makes sense for each client and then to keep it in place through rebalancing. When stocks go down, we’ll add to them. When they go up, we prune,” explains Murphy.

guarantee future results.

The Mahoney Group of Raymond James 1 Crosfield Ave, Suite 102, West Nyack, NY (845) 512-1111

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HERO OF THE

MONTH CHARLES MAZE

C

harles Maze is an amazing man. To start, he is in the Rockland County Hall of Fame for his exploits on the gridiron. He was a fullback and linebacker on Coach Cassarella’s North Rockland High School football team that won 27 straight games from 1970 to 1973. But Gary Parahus, the owner of Gary’s Gutter Service, made Chuck Maze his hero for his exploits off the field.

Chuck is the Executive Director of the Rockland County YMCA with 41 years of service providing countless programs to children, teenagers, young adults, and adults. Headquartered at the Nyack Y, Chuck directs 25 program sites throughout the county with one of them being a summer camp held at Kruckers in Pomona. He has many qualified instructors, coaches, and volunteers on his staff who help children with their

76 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

homework, arts & crafts, and teach sports. Afterschool programs are held at five different locations: Suffern, Clarkstown, Nyack, South Orangetown, and North Rockland.

Did you know there are over 800 YMCAs in the U.S. with over 2,000 branches and 22,000,000 members? Each Y is unique and runs programs that the community needs.

The Nyack Y has a Junior Yankee Baseball League and former NBA player, Mel Davis, sometimes comes to the Y to talk to the kids. The Nyack Y also has a Skills Development Program for children and adults in volleyball, basketball, tennis, handball, rowing, and swimming. It works together with local high school students for practice in building skills. The Y also has a fencing academy.

“Today’s youth faces a lot of challenges and distractions that may sometimes

lead to substance abuse. Fortunately, the Y offers educational and leadership programs that develops selfconfidence, leadership, and fitness.

We have a Youth in Government Program for high school students that has 50 participants. They learn how to turn a bill into a law, and they go to Albany and meet with legislators. It’s a wonderful program for developing future lawyers, politicians, and those participants, who in the future, will continue to be engaged in their communities,” says Chuck.

If you want to donate, volunteer, or get fit and improve your health, call Chuck Maze at (845) 358-0245. The Nyack YMCA is located at 35 South Broadway in Nyack. Chuck Maze was honored and presented with a plaque at La Terrazza in New City. R

Exp. 02/29/20

Exp. 02/29/20

Exp. 02/29/20

ASK THE LENDER

SCOTT FORMAN DIVISIONAL VICE PRESIDENT

TAX TIME FOR HOMEOWNERS… CAN I CATCH A BREAK? Tax season is upon us. Luckily for homeowners, the government rewards (albeit, not as well as it used to) those who have borrowed money toward the purchase or refinance of a home, and they are willing to refund you. Here are a few things to review when speaking to your accountant.

Mortgage Interest – Look at the break down on your December statement. A big portion of the payment goes toward interest. Fortunately, the government allows you to recoup some of that by deducting the interest you have paid. Your loan servicer will send you an IRS form 1098; hold onto this for your accountant.

Property Taxes – Another considerable write-off is your property taxes. Your mortgage interest statement should list the amount of taxes you have paid. If you’ve chosen to pay your taxes outside of your mortgage or do not have a mortgage, contact your local tax office for your statement.

Points – If you have purchased or refinanced your home in the last year, and you have paid points to secure a lower interest rate, or paid a loan origination fee in 2019, it’s tax deductible! Your lender should have provided you with a copy of your settlement statement. If not, give them a ring to retrieve a copy and provide this to your accountant.

Scott Forman is a Divisional President for

CrossCountry Mortgage, Home Improvements – Inc., managing a lending The larger home credits group of 40+ locations are for Energy Saving nationwide. Forman grew improvements. Solar up in Rockland County and power and other Energy currently resides in New Saving improvements Jersey where he is the can yield you multiple Co-President of The advantages from federal, Montvale Chamber of state, local levels and Commerce. even from your utility company. It is always recommended to check with your accountant prior to starting these projects. Other home improvements are not the great write-offs they used to be. Nominal credits are given for exterior improvement (ex. new windows and doors). However, you’ll want to save all your receipts in everything you do, as it may help later on with your exclusion credits.

Before making any decisions on tax matters, always check with your accountant.

To learn more about using mortgage options as a financial tool, reach out to an experienced lender. R

Thank you to everyone who has sent in their questions!

If we pick yours to answer, we will send you a $100 Home Depot Gift Card.

E-Mail: info@FormanTeam.com * All loans subject to underwriting approval. Certain restrictions apply. Licensed Mortgage Banker — New York State Banking Department.

Licensed by the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. NMLS 3029, Scott Forman NMLS 12460 (nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

78 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

FOR THE LOVE OF LONGEVITY:

MAINTAIN THAT YOUTHFUL GLOW WITH SKINCO BEAUTY BY SANDI K. CHOE, FNP, BC STORY BY JEANNINE DERAMO | PHOTOGRAPHY BY NINA SKOWRONSKI

“The light in here is spectacular,” notes Rivertown photographer, Nina, upon entry to SKinCo’s windowlined treatment room. But, it becomes readily apparent that Sandi is a main source of that “light.” Her radiant eyes and brilliant smile instantly convey her passion and assure you that you have come to the right place.

Sandi’s extensive medical knowledge and compassionate manner stem from her 25-year long career, first at Nyack Hospital and currently at Good Samaritan Hospital. “I decided to become a Nurse Practitioner about seven years ago. Right away, I knew I wanted to do aesthetics.”

After completing training and earning her certification, Sandi launched SKinCo. “I knew I wanted to have my own business, and I love it. I really love it.” Along with that passion are checkmarks in all the boxes for a top-notch certified cosmetic injector: comprehensive medical experience, tender bedside manner, and education on cutting-edge procedures.

Sandi, however, is selective in her menu of services. “I don’t want to jump on board and do a million different things and hire a bunch of people. I want to be handson with my clients and perform the procedures myself.

So, I am fully concentrating on Botox, Restylane (fillers), and PDO (Polydioxanone) Smoothing Threads.”

Truly unprecedented in the Rivertown area, SKinCo now offers an exclusive concierge service. As a working professional, Sandi understands the time constraints and needs of working women and men. For a nominal fee, Sandi will travel and perform her services in the comfort of your home, on your schedule.

“People just don’t have the time, and I’m very flexible.

If you want me to come in at 8PM, Monday night, I’ll be there.” Sandi continues operation of traditional office hours as well. For more information on the procedures, or to schedule your free consultation with SKinCo, call (914) 980-4701 or visit skincobeauty.com. L

Sandi K. Choe, FNP, BC

Name SKinCo Beauty Address 200 East Eckerson Road, Suite 280, New City, NY Phone (914) 980-4701 Site skincobeauty.com Social / Website

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MEET THE MASTERS

BY STEVE ZUCCATO | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY D.S.Z. BARBERS

.S.Z. Barbers Inc. (DSZ) is a barbershop tailored to administer the craft of hot lather shaves, beard trims, and of course, the haircuts you’d expect from classically trained barbers. With eight master barbers on staff, all of our services are executed with your satisfaction in mind. Here are some of our most reliable barbers that have been with DSZ since we opened.

and texturing his clients hair to make it easy for them to style at home. It’s important to Steve that his customers never feel rushed and that he always offers ample time to cut their hair properly. Even before becoming a shop owner, Steve always spent extra time with each of his clients as he values their patronage and always offers a complimentary shampoo after the cut.

STEVE MASTER BARBER and PROPRIETOR

FLORI MASTER BARBER

Specialties: Children’s haircuts, traditional scissor cuts with natural tapers, hot towel shaves

Specialties: Pompadours, trendy European styles, hot towel shaves

The first person you encounter when walking into the shop, Steve is the barber who remembers everyone’s face, name, and favorite football team. As the driven proprietor of DSZ, Steve is a perfectionist when it comes to his trade and truly leads by example with his dedicated work ethic.

He spends extra time with his scissor work, shaping, layering,

Flori is a talented Master Barber who learned and perfected his trade while working in Europe. His European sense of style and skills are made known in his detailed work, and he has superior chairside manner to match. Flori is a real character in the shop with a fun sense of humor and a great sense of style. When a customer is looking for a new style, Flori has the artistic ability to shape their hair differently than most barbers can imagine. His hand technique with the straight razor is unmatched. Flori has a fast-paced schedule yet does a superb job accommodating all of his customers.

D

STEVE ZUCCATo owner of D.S.Z. Barbers Inc in Nyack, (845) 348-1500 80 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Master Barber Flori

Master Barber & Proprietor, Steve.

In Flori’s opinion, a professional barber can deliver a great haircut in a short amount of time; he has created a large client base that prefers to be in-andout quickly and values the ability to walk in without an appointment.

CARL MASTER BARBER Specialties: Skin fades, clipper cuts, beard trims Carl is a Rockland County native who has worked in local barber shops since 2010. He is a secondgeneration New York State Master Barber with both of his parents being in the industry. He is wellrounded and kind-mannered with his clientele and very knowledgeable about his trade. He is able to communicate well regarding the delivery of a range of hair styles and knows which products works best with different hair types—a skillset that every client truly appreciates. Carl was the first hire at DSZ, over five years ago, and he keeps his appointment book busy by servicing his specialty skin fade one after another.

Carl contributes impressively to DSZ as he is duly licensed and can offer everything from traditional men’s barbering services to trendy clipper cuts. R

Master Barber Carl

RivertownMagazine.com / 81

RIVERTOWN FILM AT NYACK CENTER

WED. FEB. 12 – 8PM AT NYACK CENTER

AMAZING GRACE Directed by Alan Elliott, Sydney Pollack USA, 2018, 89 minutes, concert film, rated G Community Partners: Nyack Library, Nyack NAACP, Nyack Center, and Nyack Sketch Log. NAACP members will receive the Rivertown Film member discount on tickets.

A 1972 concert recording of Aretha Franklin’s best and biggest-selling gospel album shot at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Watts, the film features astounding footage of Franklin at her mightiest—backed by an inspired, and inspiring, choir. Pollack’s direction has the wild warmth of the black action film genre that was just taking off in 1972 and captures Franklin’s incandescence.

Generosity of spirit guides the film.

“This is obviously one of the great music films, less epic in scope than, say, The Last Waltz, but as glorious in communal feeling and South Los Angeles zeal as Wattstax (the natural partner for a double feature) and as musically imaginative as Stop Making Sense. What distinguishes Amazing Grace, what lifts it to the penthouse is a mix of energy and moment.”

– Wesley Morris, The New York Times 82 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

“It stands as a mighty historical document, a balm to the soul, and proof of genius.”

– Ty Burr, Boston Globe “Franklin’s voice remains so pure and galvanic that [this] is one of the few movies you could watch with your eyes closed, though you would hardly want to.”

– Justin Chang, Los Angeles Times “As a document of an iconic musician’s skills, the film is essential. But Amazing Grace is far more than that: watching it is a transcendent, spine-tingling, uplifting, utterly joyous experience.”

– Anastasia Tsioulcas, NPR “A concert documentary lost for decades in technical and legal wranglings but finally brought to the screen with every bead of sweat, every spangle, every soul-squeezing note intact.”

– Leah Greenblatt, Entertainment Weekly “It’s the closest thing to witnessing a miracle — just some cameras, a crowd and a voice touched by God.” – Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

ASK YOUR REALTOR

WED. FEB. 22 – 7PM AT ROCKLAND CENTER OF THE ARTS

By Frank Mancione of Lydecker Realty

27 S. Greenbush Road, West Nyack.

Rivertown Film is honored to be a Community Partner for: LOST IN THE STARS Directed by Robert Delaney USA, 1988, 51 minutes, documentary, FREE

Question: I’m in the process of selling my home and our buyers just did their home inspection. They’re asking for lots of repairs and credits for various things the inspector found. What advice can you give on what is customary in terms of negotiating the buyer’s inspection issues?

A portrait of Maxwell Anderson, the great 20th century playwright and a resident of South Mountain Road from the 1920s until the 1950s. His plays, musicals, and movies include Key Largo, The Bad Seed, What Price Glory, Anne of a Thousand Days, and High Tor. Lost in the Stars (1948), for which this film is named, was written with another South Mountain Road resident, composer Kurt Weill. Included are rare interviews with former Rockland residents Burgess Meredith and Helen Hayes.

Meet the Filmmaker: Writer/Producer and Rockland County resident Richard Connolly. Presented at Rockland Center for the Arts as part of the exhibition “American Modernism: 20th Century Influencers in Rockland,” January 12 – February 23.

WED. FEB. 29 – 8PM AT NYACK CENTER

RIVERTOWN FILM’S 6TH ANNUAL INSPIRED! People who create are inspirations to us all. But what inspires them? On February 29th, fifteen local artists in varied disciplines will share their sources of inspiration, each using ten slides and twenty seconds per slide to explain them.

Join us for a fast-paced night of creativity and enjoy some of the many ways that artists find inspiration. A benefit for Rivertown Film. R

Information Broadway at Depew, Nyack, NY All films presented digitally 845.353.2568 or rivertownfilm.org Tickets at the door, in advance from 800.838.3006 or online at rivertownfilm.org.

Unless otherwise noted: $12 general admission, $9 for students, seniors and general Rivertown Film members, $8 for student and senior Rivertown Film members.

Check locations and ticket prices for each event.

Call for group tickets.

Answer: None of our homes are perfect—as hard as we may try to keep them in perfect condition. All real estate transactions are different and depending on the bargaining positions the buyer and seller are in, the negotiations can play out in different ways. One of the most important things you should do is to employ an experienced realtor who has been present at many home inspections and has “seen it all.”

The home inspector is hired by the buyer and his or her job is to report their findings regarding several aspects of the home such as the foundation and structure, electrical system, heating and A/C systems, roof, plumbing system, exterior siding, evidence of termite damage, etc. Issues that involve the following are ones that buyers can reasonably expect the seller to make some repairs or provide a credit for: 1) systems which are not working (such as central A/C or appliances), 2) health and safety (such as mold, aluminum wiring, or asbestos) or 3) issues that may lead to imminent damage to the home or property—such as structural issues, water leaks, or termite infestation. The seller can usually stand more firmly against repairs and credits on other things the buyer may ask for which do not fall into these categories.

Good examples of such buyer’s requests are requests to replace heating systems or roof shingles that are older but still functioning properly, exterior paint that is chipping, or other cosmetic issues.

Sometimes, an inspector will point out something that does not meet current building code such as the railing on a deck.

In these situations, the seller should find out whether the issue raised is covered by documentation at the local building department. If the deck, for example, has a Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) stating it conformed to building standards when built, the seller would have no obligation to modify it since it would have a “grandfathered” status.

One last thing to remember about home inspections is that issues of any significance are likely to be found by any reputable home inspector; these issues should be dealt with or they are likely to be revisited at a future inspection. R RivertownMagazine.com / 83

THEY GOT WHAT?!

By Donna Cox of Better Homes & Gardens Rand Realty Cell: 845-641-8613 Many homeowners call me wanting to know how much their home would sell for in today’s market. The primary factors that influence sales price are: current market conditions, recent sales, homes currently on the market and homes that didn’t sell.

is vital because it shows what buyers are actually willing to pay for a home like yours. Third, review homes currently on the market. Be careful because as these homes haven’t sold yet, the asking price may or may not accurately reflect their true value. Finally, review homes that were on the market but didn’t sell and evaluate the reasons why. By analyzing these factors, you can get a good idea of about how much your home may sell for. With that, here are the homes that sold in the Rivertowns in December. R

First, analyze the overall market price trends such as buyer demand vs. the number of homes on the market, etc.

Second, evaluate homes similar to yours that have sold. This

DECEMBER 2019 SALES IN THE ROCKLAND COUNTY RIVERTOWNS Style

Location

Address

BR

BA

List Price ($)

Sale Price ($)

Contemporary

U. Nyack

101 Lewis Dr

4

2.1

734,000

723,500

Contemporary

U. Nyack

103 Locust Dr

4

3

565,000

530,000

Two Story

U. Nyack

115 Larchdale Ave

3

2

500,000

470,000

Cottage

U. Nyack

404 Maple Ave

2

1.1

450,000

428,000

Colonial

Nyack

403 Tompkins Ave

3

1.1

399,000

403,500

Cottage

Nyack

4 Tillou Ln

3

1

369,000

389,000

Condo

Nyack

292 High Ave #D1

2

1

214,900

210,000

Co-op

Nyack

38 Fourth Ave #1A

1

1

168,000

165,000

Co-op

S. Nyack

2 Salisbury Pt #4C

1

1

229,000

229,000

Colonial

S. Nyack

91 Elysian Ave

3

1.1

315,000

312,700

Colonial

S. Nyack

85 Elysian Ave

2

2

349,900

300,000

Contemporary

U. Grandview 9 Tweed Blvd

4

4

1,575,000

1,350,000

Colonial

Grandview

66 River Rd

4

3.1

1,395,000

1,275,000

Townhouse

Piermont

109 Shad Row

3

2.1

879,900

807,500

Colonial

Piermont

38 Paradise Ave

4

2.1

399,000

400,000

Cottage

Piermont

331 Hudson Ter

1

1

289,000

287,000

Condo

Piermont

9 E Lawrence Park Dr #1

2

1

229,000

225,000

Colonial

Palisades

63 Washington Spring Rd

2

2

799,000

760,000

Ranch

Palisades

29 Swan St

3

2.1

465,000

450,000

2019 vs. 2018 - Single Family Homes

2019 vs. 2018 - Condos/Co-ops

The number of homes coming on the market increased 3.7% (250 in 2019 vs. 241 in 2018). The number of sales increased 13.9% (156 in 2019 vs. 137 in 2018). The average sales price decreased 10.9% to $687,173. The median sales price decreased 4.9% to $585,000. Overall, the average sales price in Rockland County (inclusive of the Rivertowns) was $492,355, down 0.9% over last year.

The median sales price in Rockland (inclusive of the Rivertowns) was $455,000, down 1.1% over last year.

The number of condos coming on the market increased 4.9% (86 in 2019 vs. 82 in 2018). The number of sales decreased 12.5% (42 in 2019 vs. 48 YTD 2018). The average sales price decreased 3.3% to $386,956. The median sales price increased 15.8% to $315,000. Overall, the average sales price for condos/co-ops in Rockland County (inclusive of the Rivertowns) was $250,971, up 3.0% over the last year. The median sales price for condos/co-ops in Rockland (inclusive of the Rivertowns) was $225,000, up 6.1% over the last year.

84 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

We are not looking for a salesperson.

It’s true. Rivertown is looking for a different kind of sales executive.

One with the drive to do good work, and a real connection to community.

Also, you should want to make money.

This position is not simply collecting ads— it’s building creative relationships.

Here are some of the qualities you have: amazing work ethic, stunning self-motivation, old-school organizational skills, and, well, just plain old-fashioned follow-through.

You like people and you want to help their businesses grow.

Engaging, upbeat, creative, a good communicator.

Perhaps you’re a fashionista, a foodie, a music head—or all three.

We’re looking for someone who can grow with us as we expand our presence— in print, online, and in real life—as we build a different kind of media group.

Are you the unsalesperson we’re looking for?

Positions are available in Rockland, Bergen, and Orange counties. Send your resume, portfolio, or just start a conversation—call us at (845) 521-5277 or email jobs@rivertownmag.com.

FEBRUARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS Saturday, 1st

Mardi Gras Dinner Show Pier 701 Restaurant & Bar, Piermont. 6-11PM, $85/person.

Take Your Child to the Library Day Orangeburg Library, 10AM-3PM. Mudbone Rockland Center for the Arts, West Nyack. 8PM An Evening with Christopher Tignor Garner Arts Center, Garnerville. Lecture and masterclass starts at 4PM, doors open for the concert at 7PM.

Sunday, 2nd

Free Constultation with an Immigration Attorney Haverstraw, by appointment only, call (845) 826-5022.

Filling Our Hearts Through Meditation Tappan Library, 6:30PM.

Family Open House: Watercolor Workshop Edward Hopper House, Nyack. 12-1PM.

Jim Kweskin and Samoa Wilson The Turning Point, Piermont. 7:30-9PM

Shakira Chin: Waters Along the LoHud Dennis P. McHugh Piermont Public Library, 2-4PM.

Rockland County’s Relay for Life Kickoff Blauvelt. 7-10PM.

No Mind + Lush Honey Olive’s, Nyack.

9PM-1AM. John Jay vs. Suffern Ice Hockey SportO-Rama, Monsey. Puck drops at 7:15PM.

Super Bowl Party Joe & Joe Nyack, 5-8PM.

Mighty Mugwort: From an Eastern and Western Herbalist Lens Two Rivers Acupunture & Wellness, Nyack.

7-9:30PM.

Monday, 3rd

Paws for Reading with Pepper Palisades Library, 4PM. Meditation on the Inner Light Finkelstein Memorial Library, 12-1PM.

Tuesday, 4

th

Native Americans of the Lower Hudson Valley Palisades Free Library, 7PM. Shamanic Healing Clinic: A Community Healing Event Nalini Shamanic Divination Healing, West Nyack, 6:30PM. Magical Melodies! Closter Public Library, 10-10:45AM. Knitting & Crocheting Circle Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, 1-3PM. 86 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

Pre Valentine’s Day Comedy Meets Freestyle Show West Gate Inn, Nyack.

7PM-12:30AM.

Friday, 7th

Bill Batson Presents: The Poetry of Place Orangeburg Library, 1-2PM.

Super Bowl Party Cloverleaf Inn Taproom, Orangeburg, 6:15PM.

Singles Night with Dennis CIallela Up Lounge, Nyack. 9:30PM-2:30AM.

Book Discussion: Ready Player One Tappan Library, 10:30AM.

Saturday, 8th

Wing Night Hillburn Fire Department, 7PM-12AM. Hopalong Andrew Family Concert Palisades Free Library, 3PM.

The Children’s Oscars Palisades Free Library, 2PM. Nathaniel Hintz at Industrial Arts Brewing Company Industrial Arts Brewing, Garnerville. 2-4PM. Celebrate Black History Month! Chiku Awali African Dance, Arts & Culture Finkelstein Memorial Library, 2-3PM.

Tuesday, 11th

The Office Trivia Bareburger Closter Plaza, Closter. 8-9:30PM. Valentine’s Day Stories & Crafts Palisades Free Library, 4:30PM. Magical Melodies! Nanuet Library, 1010:45AM.

DECOSTER Art Cafe, Nyack. 9PM-12AM. Moghab Machine EP Release Show Casa del Sol, Nyack. 9:30PM-1:30AM. Mike Cooney & Friends Rockland Conservatory of Music, Pearl River.

7-8:30PM. Roues Brothers History of Blues to Rock! The Turning Point, Piermont.

8-10:30PM.

Knitting & Crocheting Circle Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, 1-3PM.

Wednesday, 12th

France is for Friends & Lovers Wine Tasting River Lounge, Pearl River.

7-10PM. Wednesday Movie Matinee Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, 1PM.

Friday, 14th

Valentine’s Day at KARMA Karma, Nyack. 9PM-11:45.

Saturday, 15th

Doc Monomer’s Audio Salon VII Doc Monomer’s Audio Emporium, Nyack.

8PM-12AM. Second Annual Casino Night at Hudson Valley Hudson Valley Harley Davidson, Nanuet, 6:30PM.

Friday, 21st

Wednesday, 26th

Saturday, 22nd

Wednesday Movie Matinee Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, 1PM.

Free Indie Rock at Gentle Giant Brewery Gentle Giant Brewing Company, Pearl River, 7:30-11PM.

Life Line Screening West Gate Inn, Nyack, 9AM-4PM.

We Have A Show: Murder at Mardis Gras The Views at Mt. Fuji, Hillburn.

7-10PM. Free Show: Red Hymns/NoraStone/ Laterals Defiant Brewing Company, Pearl River, 8PM.

Freestyle Party with FDR Drive Band & DJ Dennis CIallela The Place, New City, 9PM-2AM.

Mardis Gras in Nyack Nyack, 9-11PM.

What’s That Sound? The Turning Point, Piermont. 9-11PM.

Wacky Science Ages 6-11 Demarest Library, 3:30-4PM.

Sunday, 16th

Jeff Boyer’s Big Bubble Bonanza Old Nyack High School, 2-3PM. Madarka at Industrial Arts Brewing Company Industrial Arts Brewing, Garnerville, 2-4PM. For All Eternity—A Valentine’s Concert Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, 2-3PM. (Rain date: February 23)

Tuesday, 18

th

Magical Melodies! Nanuet Library, 1010:45AM. Knitting & Crocheting Circle Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, 1-3PM.

Sunday, 23rd

JigJam USA Tour Piermont, 8-11PM.

Monday, 24th

College Planning: A Free Talk for 9th10th Graders & Parents Pearl River Public Library, 7-8PM.

Saturday, 29th

School of Rock Orangeburg at Gentle Giant Gentle Giant Brewing Company, Pearl River, 7-11PM..

PROF POLYMER’S COSMIC HORROR SWAP MEET Doc Monomer’s Audio Emporium, Nyack, 7PM. Amethyst Dreams Indoor365, Congers, 7:30-9PM. Sacred Sound Workshop Hudson Reiki, Edgewater, 10AM-6PM. Life Line Screening West Gate Inn, Nyack, 9AM-4PM.

On-going Events...

Business Circle with Katie Stoeckeler Peace In Piermont, Piermont.

7:30-9PM.

Saturday, 15th -­March 7

Tuesday, 25th

Every Saturday/Sunday

Magical Melodies! Nanuet Library, 1010:45AM.

Tai Chi Saturdays Tappan Library, 12:30PM.

Offsite Adoptions by the Hudson Valley Humane Society PetSmart, Nanuet, 1-5PM.

Knitting & Crocheting Circle Finkelstein Memorial Library, Spring Valley, 1-3PM.

Wednesday, 19th

Game of Thrones Trivia Bareburger, Edgewater, 8P-9:30PM.

Thursday, 20th

Live Music Thursday with The Annie Mash Duo The Hill, Closter, 7:3010:30PM.

DESIGN | INSTALL | MAINTAIN 845.358.0817 | swlandscaping5@aol.com E SteveWeissLandscaping RivertownMagazine.com / 87

WINING & DINING RESTAURANTS 8 North Broadway 8 N. Broadway, Nyack.

845-353-1200. 8northbroadway.com The ‘76 House 110 Main Street, Tappan.

845-359-5476. 76house.com AJ’s Crab Shack & Bar 125 Main Street, Nyack. 845-643-8888.

Alain’s Bistro 88 Main Street, Nyack.

845-535-3434. alainspetitbistro.com Amici Restaurant and Pizzeria 303 Route 59, Nyack. 845-353-1650. amicinyack.net Basque Tapas Bar and Restaurant 587 Piermont Avenue, Piermont. 845-395-3100. basquetapasbar.com Banchetto Feast 75 W. Route 59, Nanuet.

845-624-3070. banchettofeast.com Bongo’s Fries 917-806-9063. bongosfries.com Broadway Bistro 3 South Broadway, Nyack.

845-353-8361. 3broadwaybistro.com Brookside Tavern 107 Route 303, Valley Cottage. 845-268-8797. brooksidetavern845.com Bunbury’s Coffee & Tea Shop 460 Piermont Avenue, Piermont. 845-398-9715 BV’s Grill The Time Nyack. 400 High Avenue, Nyack. 845-675-8740. bvsgrillny.com Caked Up 40 Main Street, New City. 845499-2929. cakedupcafe.com Confetti Ristorante & Vinoteca 200 Ash Street, Piermont. 845-365-1911. confettiofpiermont.com Crossroads Gastro 724 West Nyack Road, West Nyack. 845-512-8185. crossroadsgastro.com Del’Arte Restaurant 20 Mountainview Avenue, Orangeburg. 845-365-2727. delarterestaurant.com El Cuano 233 Main Street, Nyack.

845-405-9086.

Grub Asian 724 W Nyack Road Suite #3, West Nyack. 845-535-3580.

Hudson 303 116 NY-303, Tappan, NY. 845-848-2441. hudson303.com J Petal 85 Main Street, Nyack.

845-353-8500.

Joe & Joe Restaurant 65 East Central Avenue, Pearl River. 845-620-1800.

173 Main St, Nyack, NY. 845-535-3888. joeandjoerestaurant.com

88 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

La Terrazza Restaurant 291 S. Main St., New City. 845-638-0757. laterrazzarestaurant.com Lynch’s Restaurant 79 S. Liberty Drive, Stony Point. 845-553-9300. lynchsny.com Marcello’s Ristorante 21 Lafayette Avenue, Suffern. 845-357-9108. marcellosgroup.com Mount Ivy Cafe 14 Thiells Mount Ivy Road, Pomona. 845-354-4746. mountivycafe.com Mumbai Dreams 9 Ingalls Street, Nyack.

845-643-8333. mumbaidreamsnyack.com Nanuet Restaurant 211 Main Street, Nanuet.

845-623-7177.

OD’s Tavern 66 Main Street, Nyack.

845-358-0180. ods-nyack.com Organica Natural Foods 246 Livingston Street, Northvale. 201-767 -8182. organicanaturalfoods.com.

Pasta Cucina 32 S. Liberty Drive, Stony Point.

845-786-6060. mariospastacucina.com Petey Wheaty’s 145 S. Main Street, New City. 845-708-5554.

Pier 701 701 Piermont Avenue, Piermont.

845-848-2550. pier701ny.com Quinta Steakhouse 24 E. Central Avenue, Pearl River. 845-735-5565. quintasteakhouse.com Raku Sushi 138 Main Street, Nyack.

845-358-3222. rakusushiny.com.

Restaurant X & Bully Boy Group 117 N Route 303, Congers. 845-268-6555. xaviars.com Rivertown Taphouse 5 Roundhouse Road, Piermont. 845-848-2923. rivertowntaphouse.com Roost 623 Main Street, Sparkill. 845-3596700. roostinsparkill.com.

Sear House 411 Piermont Road, Closter.

201-292-4612. searhouse.com Sonoma Grille 100 Thiells Mount Ivy Road, Thiells. 845-354-8900. sonomarockland.com Sparkill Steakhouse 500 Route 340, Sparkill.

845-398-3300. sparkillsteakhouse.com Sushi & Kimchi 328 NY-59, Nyack.

845-535-3800. sushi-kimchi.com The King & I 93 Main Street, Nyack.

845-358-8588. kingandinyack.com The Whiskey Kitchen 60 Route 303, Valley Cottage. 845-535-3666. thewhiskey-kitchen.com

Two Henry’s at Hilton Pearl River 500 Memorial Drive, Pearl River. 845-735-9000 Union Restaurant & Bar 24 New Main Street, Haverstraw. 845-429-4354. unionrestaurant.net UNoodles Snack Bar 14 Main Street, Haverstraw. 845-947-7625. unoodles.net Vibes Cafe 17 N. Franklin Street, Nyack.

845-535-3750. vibescafenyack.com Vicolo Ristorante 216 Old Tappan Road, Old Tappan. 201-497-8777. vicoloristorante.com Y’s Lounge 296 NY-17, Hillburn.

845-357-4270. mtfujirestaurant.com West Gate Restaurant 26 Route 59, Nyack.

845-358-8100. westgaterestaurant.com Zarrilli’s Italian Seafood 580 Route 303, Blauvelt. 845-848-2260. zarrillisitalianseafood.com.

CATERERS Jason’s Kitchen 917-656-0456. jasonskitchen.net La Fontanella Ristorante Italiano & Catering 52-54 Route 303, Tappan.

845-398-3400.

Regency Banquet and Conference Center 425 E. Route 59, Nanuet.

845-512-1615.

Town & Country Caterers 922 Route 9W. Congers. 845-268-9291. townandcountrycaterers.com CAFES, DELIS, BAKERIES DD Patisserie 9163 Main Street, Nyack.

845-353-2031.

Dean’s Coffee Co. 39 E. Central Avenue, Pearl River. 845-920-8043. deanscoffeeco.com The Outside In Cafe 249 Ferdon Ave, Piermont. 845-398-0706.

MUSIC UP Lounge Restuarant & Bar 91 Main St. Nyack. 845.535.3266. Uploungeny.com.

West Gate Lounge at the West Gate Inn Nyack, 26 Route 59, Nyack.

845-358-8100. westgatelounge.com

• Food for your body, culture and information for your mind • Locally grown produce • Locally sourced prepared foods • Art, music, kids activities and environmental education

INDOORS at Nyack Center: JANUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 27

Free Parking in Artopee lot during Market hours • Free street parking until 11am

8 AM - 2 PM

RivertownMagazine.com / 89

SHOPPING & BUSINESS GUIDE See our full list of Rivertown approved businesses at RivertownMagazine.com ACUPUNCTURE New City Acupuncture & Wellness Center 125 South Main Street, New City, 845-579-2428, newcitywellness.com

ANTIQUES / COLLECTIBLES Awesome Antiques 2 B Franklin Avenue, Pearl River. 845-499-4593, 845-920-1244. awesomeantiques.wixsite.com

CLEANING Merry Maids 50 North Harrison Avenue #11, Congers. 845-684-4322. merrymaids.com

ART CENTERS Bell-ans Center of Creative Arts 4 Bell Lane, Orangeburg NY. 845-596-0870. bellans.com Penguin Rep Theatre 7 Cricketown Rd. Stony Point, NY. 845-786-2873

BEAUTY Lief Beauty Boutique 85 S. Broadway, Suite 7, Nyack. 845-641-9540. liefbeautyboutique.com Salon Allure 368 New Hempstead Road, New City. 845-708-5878. salonallurenewcity.com SKinCo. 200 East Eckerson Road, Suite 280, New City. 914-980-4701. skincobeauty.com

CLOTHING Dusty Rose 70 S Main Street, Suite 2, New City. 845-638-1133.

Maria Luisa 77 S Broadway, Nyack.

845-353-4122. Women’s clothing and accessories. marialuisaboutique.com

ASSISTED / SENIOR LIVING Artis Senior Living 146 Red Schoolhouse Rd., Suite D, Spring Valley. 877-385-6725. theartistway.com/rivertown Dowling Gardens 190 Kings Highway, Sparkill. 845-365-1662. Dowlinggardens.org Nyack Ridge 476 Christian Road, Valley Cottage. 845-268-2712. 845-268-6861. nyackridge.com Promenade at Chestnut Ridge 168 Red Schoolhouse Road, Chestnut Ridge 845-620-0606. promenadesenior.com Promenade Senior Living at Blue Hill 582 Veterans Memorial Drive, Pearl River.

845-735-6846. promenadesenior.com ATTORNEYS DeMoya & Associates 163 S Main Street, New City. 845-639-4600. demoyalaw.com.

Gary Lipton, Esq 55 Old Turnpike Road, Suite 304, Nanuet. 845-624-0100. garyliptonlaw.com Mediation Associates of NY & NJ, LLC 877-666-9601. starrmediation.com Starvaggi Law Offices 845-589-9456. starvaggilawoffices.com AUTOMOBILES & MOTORBIKES Audi Nyack 127 Route 59, Nyack.

845-689-3399.

Clarkstown International Collision 95 Route 304, Nanuet. 845-627-3100.

Kevin’s Ace Repairs 52 Main Street, Nyack.

845-358-4975.

90 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

BED AND BREAKFAST Bricktown Inn 112 Hudson Avenue, Haverstraw. 845-429-8447. bricktowninnbnb.com CAMPS / DAY CAMPS Amazing Grace Circus 130 First Avenue, Nyack. 845-721-5059. amazinggracecircus.org Rockland County YMCA Summer Camp, 35 South Broadway, Nyack. rocklandymca.org CARPET / FLOORING Carpets Plus Color Tile 205 Route 9W, Congers. 845-267-0800. carpetsplusofny.com CHIMNEY CLEANERS Pete’s Chimneys & More 845-267-3333.

CHURCHES / SYNAGOGUES St. John the Baptist R.C. Church 895 Piermont Avenue, Piermont.

845-359-0078. stjohnspiermont.org stjohnspiermont@optonline.net Tappan Reformed Church 32 Old Tappan Road, Tappan. 845-359-6506. tappanreformed.rcachurches.org The Reform Temple of Rockland 330 N Highland Avenue, Upper Nyack.

845-358-2248.

COMPUTER EagleTech Computers 62 S. Main Street, Pearl River. 845-735-1381. eagletechcomputers.com CONFERENCE CENTERS HNA Palisades Premier Conference Center 334 Route 9W, Palisades. 845-7326000. hnapalisades.com CONSIGNMENT STORES Designer Consigner 302 Route 304, Nanuet. 845-507-0245. designerconsignerny.com CONSTRUCTION APEX Contracting and Remodeling Solutions Inc. 457 North Liberty Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY. 914-262-7077 Empire State Builders & Contractors 18 West Route 59, Nanuet. 845-425-0003. empirestatebuilders.com Frank Fuchs Construction Garnerville 845-893-5448. frankfuchsconstruction.com COUNTRY CLUBS Edgewood Country Club 449 Rivervale Road, Rivervale, New Jersey. 201-666-1200. edgewoodnj.com DANCE STUDIO Coupe Theatre Studio 430 Market Street, Nanuet. 845-623-2808. coupedance.com.

Studio Jacked Dance Company 149 Main Street, Unit K, Nanuet. 845-623-5225. studiojacked.com

DENTISTS / ORTHODONTICS Dental365 Ira M. Bernstein, DDS 195 South Main Street, New City.

845-354-6969. GoDental365.com.

Pavone Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Anthony G. Pavone, DDS, MD, FACS 2 Medical Park Drive, Suite 6, West Nyack.

845-675-8008. pavoneoms.com Ramapo Oral & Maxillo-Facial Surgery 84 Rt. 59, Suffern. 845-35-2070. ramapomaxsurgery.com Rockland Pediatric Dental & Orthodontics 238 N Main Street, New City. 845-634-8900. rocklandpediatricdental.com Rockland Smile Builders 1 Mariner Way, Monsey, NY. 845-362-7645. rocklandsmilebuilders.com Smile For Life Family & Cosmetic Dental 27 Townline Road, Pearl River.

845-623-4848. thesmileforlife.com Smile More Dentistry 140 Oak Tree Rd, Tappan, NY. 845-675-1512. dentist-tappan.com Stony Point Dental, PC 32 S. Liberty Drive, Stony Point. 845-942-1600. stonypointdental.com Smile More Dentistry 140 Oak Tree Road, Tappan. 845-675-1512. dentist-tappan.com DOCTORS Advanced Audiology of NY 102 E Route 59, Nanuet. 845-501-7337. advancedaudiologyofny.com Clarkstown Pediatrics 35 Smith Street, Nanuet. 845-623-7100. 200 E Eckerson Road, New City 845-352-0527. Stony Point 845-786-5776. clarkstownpeds.com Clarkstown Medical Care 301 North Main St. New City. 845-638-0400.

Clarkstown Urology 301 N. Main Street, Suite 2, New City. 845-638-0400.

Crystal Run Healthcare (3 locations) 2 Centerock Road, West Nyack. 845-348-1100.

6 Liberty Square Mall, Stony Point. 845-786-5544.

48 New Main St., Haverstraw.

Dr. Igor Elman, DO 7-C Medical Park Dr., Pomona. 845-846-8209. mdvip.com/igorelmando Gramercy Pain Management 67 S. Main Street, Pearl River. 845-368-0800. gramercypain.com Hudson Valley Audiology Center 11 Medical Park Drive, Suite 205, Pomona. 845362-1350. hudsonaudiology.com

Hudson Valley Wellness Associates 16 Liberty Sq., Stony Point. 845-429-3100. rocklandweightloss.com Steven M Sockin M.D.,PC: Allergy and Asthma Care 500 New Hempstead Rd. #C, New City. 845-362-3222.

Rockland Ear, Nose & Throat Assoc.

2 Strawtown Road, West Nyack. 845-7271340. rocklandent.com Stony Point Medical 43 South Liberty Drive, Stony Point. 845-241-5700. stonypointmedical.com Walk-In Medical Urgent Care 236 South Main Street, New City. 845-678-3434. urgentcareofny.com Dr. Jeffrey Wechsler 153 Franklin Tpk, Mahwah, NJ. 201-529-5999 EDUCATION Head Start of Rockland, Inc. Preschool Education, Haverstraw, Nyack, Spring Valley, 845-429-4122. headstartofrockland.org Haverstraw Head Start 845-429-2225.

Nyack Head Start of Rockland 845-358-2234. Spring Valley Head Start 845-352-6671 ELECTRICAL CONTRACTING Hush Electrical Contracting 14 Wayne Street, Haverstraw. 845-942-4874; cell: 845-721-3476. hushcorp.com

Wells Fargo Advisors 17 Squadron Boulevard, New City. 845-638-4400. home.wellsfargoadvisors.com FIRE ALARM SYSTEMS / EQUIPMENT Bullet Security 400 East Route 59, Nanuet.

845-627-0300. bulletsecurityinc.com Inter County Alarm Systems 200 Route 303, Valley Cottage. 845-268-8900. intercountyalarm.com FLOWERS & PLANTS Tappan Zee Florist 176 Main Street, Nyack.

845-358-2544. tappanzeeflorist.net FUNERAL HOMES Sorce Funeral Home 782 West Nyack Road, West Nyack. 845-358-4433. sorcefuneralhome.com GRAPHIC DESIGN Arlene Levine Design 3 Main Street, Nyack.

917-312-7002. arlenelevine.com.

Brian Keenan Design 278 High Avenue, Nyack. 845-522-4951. huesofindigo.com.

GUTTERS Gary’s Gutter Service 4 Gala Court, Congers. 845-450-1006. garysgutterservice.com

EYE CARE Eyevolution 30 Cherrytown Rd, Kerhonkson, NY. 866-600-0859. pineridgeduderanch.com

HAIR & NAILS Christine Cordey Salon 66 S. Broadway, Nyack. 845-675-7950. christinecordeysalon.com D. Anthony Hair Studio 126 Main Street, Nyack. 845-535-3900. danthony.com DSZ Barbers Inc. 140 Main Street, Nyack.

845-348-1500. dszbarbersinc.com G.C. Hair & Co. 8 First Street, New City.

845-499-2552. gchairco.com Hair by Andrea 908-391-7704. hairbyandreanyack.com Maureen’s Hair Studio 646 Main St. Sparkill. 845-365-3257.

New Synergy Salon 8 Second Street, New City. 845-893-5803. blondehairexpert.com

FINANCIAL ADVICE Chestnut Investment Group 4 Executive Boulevard, Suite 204, Suffern. 845-3690016. chestnutinvestment.com O’Brien Capital Management 48 Burd Street, Suite 209, Nyack. 845-358-4930. obriencm.com

HEARING Advanced Audiology of NY 102 E Route 59, Nanuet. 845-501-7337. advancedaudiology.com Hearing Solutions of Rockland 219 S. Middletown Road, Nanuet. 845-623-5020. hearingaidsrocklandny.com

ENTERTAINMENT Pine Ridge Dude Ranch 30 Cherrytown Rd, Kerhonkson, NY. 866-600-0859. pineridgeduderanch.com New City Bowl & Batting Cages 90 N Main St., New City. 845-634-4977.

Nyack Boat Charter 845-535-1675 nyackboatcharter.com Rockland Band Camp 42 S Franklin St. Nyack. 845-353-4701. eyevolution.com

RivertownMagazine.com / 91

Hudson Valley Audiology Center 11 Medical Park Drive, Suite 205, Pomona.

845-362-1350. hudsonaudiology.com Pearl River Hearing 1 Old Middletown Road, Pearl River. 845-735-3277. pearlriverhearing.com HEALTH & FITNESS Dr. William Johnson, B.S, D.C. Nanuet Wellness and Weight Loss Center 221 S. Middletown Road, Nanuet.

845-623-0026. Nanuetfatloss.com. doctorwilliamjohnson.com Mind.Body.Massage 1 South Broadway, Suite B, Nyack. 914-772-4176. christeycurran.massagetherapy.com JCC Rockland 450 W Nyack Road, West Nyack. 845-362-4400. jccrockland.org Lazur LaVie 267 Main Street, Nyack.

845-623-6140. lazurlavie.com Nyack CBD Boutique 48 Burd Street, #204, Nyack. 917-863-2084.

Nyack YMCA 35 S Broadway, Nyack.

845-358-0245. rocklandymca.org Rosemary Narcisi Anne Penman Laser Therapy Center. 99 Main Street, Nyack.

845-675-7900. annepenman.com/nyack. nyannepenman@gmail.com Varsity House Gym 337 Blaisdell Rd, Orangeburg. 201-767-1305. varsityhousegym.com Wholeness Center 7 New Lake Road, Valley Cottage. 845-268-7532. wholenesscenter.com HOME IMPROVEMENT Beckerle (4 locations) 3 Chestnut Street, Spring Valley. 845-356-1600 79 Lake Street, Congers. 845-268-9248 219 Route 303, Orangeburg. 845-359-4633 59 Westside Ave, Haverstraw. 845-942-1492 Johnny Fix It 845-244-1776. johnnyfixit.com Maye’s Painting & Powerwashing 845-735-1001.

Nyack Wide Plank Floors 48 Burd Street, Nyack. 845-358-3566. wideplankflooring.com Westrock Pools 21 N. Middletown Road, Nanuet. 845-367-9377. westrockpools.com HOME & FURNITURE Furniture Medic 382 Route 59, Tall Pines Industrial Park, Airmont. 845-674-2329. furnituremedic.com Restoration 845-535-9249.

The Outside In 29 Ferdon Avenue, Piermont. 845-398-0706. theoutside.in 92 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

HOTELS DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton 425 E Rt. 59, Nanuet. (845) 623-6000, ext. 7020. hilton. com/doubletree/nanuet West Gate Inn Nyack 26 Route 59, Nyack.

845-358-8100. westgateinnnyack.com Time Nyack Hotel 2400 High Avenue, Nyack. 845-675-8700. thetimehotels.com Woodloch 109 River Birch Ln, Hawley, PA. 1-800-966-3562. thelodgeatwoodloch.com INSURANCE Bauer-Crowley 643 Main Street, Sparkill.

845-359-4114. bauercrowley.com Emerald Medicare 15 N Mill St, Nyack.

845-358-1220 MJD3 Associates LLC 7-11 Suffern Place, Suffern. 845-533-2255. mjd3insurance.com Juan Santos Farmers’ Insurance 48 S. Main Street, Pearl River.

845-735-1000. agents.farmers.com INTERIOR DECORATING Apex Contracting & Remodeling Solutions 914-262-7077.

California Closets 83 South Main Street, New City. 917-592-1001. californiaclosets.com INVESTMENT BROKER J. Christopher Haera - Wells Fargo 17 Squadron Blvd, New City. 845-639-7238. home.wellsfargoadvisors.com JEWELRY & ACCESSORIES Barry’s Estate Jewlery 295 Route 304, Bardonia. 845-624-7100. barrysestatejewelry.com KITCHEN & BATH EZ Kitchen & Bath 301 W. Route 59, Nanuet. 845-501-7123. ezkitchenbath.com Grande Central Showroom - Fine Decorative Plumbing Fixtures & Hardware (6 locations) 575 Chestnut Ridge Road, Spring Valley.

845-573-0080.

550 Saw Mill River Road Yonkers.

914-968-9200 1254 Park Avenue, New York. 212-876-0100 19 Bond Street, New York. 212-777-7984.

141 E 56th Street,New York. 212-588-1997.

(Showroom Only) 3619 White Plains Road Bronx. 718-798-9799.

(Warehouse Only) centralplumbingspec.com

LAWN & GARDEN Danny Clapp Landscaping 59 Schriever Lane, New City, NY. 845.638.3614. dannyclapplandscaping.net The Bonsai Shack at Down to Earth 1040 Route 45, Pomona. 845-304-2183 thebonsaishack.com Majestic Lawn Care 424 Buena Vista Road, New City. 845-708-2988 or 845-627-3880. majesticlawnandlandscape.com Michael L. Naclerio Landscaping 110 North Greenbush Road, West Nyack.

845-627-3880. nacleriolandscaping.com Steve Weiss Landscaping & Snow Plowing 137 NY-303, Valley Cottage.

845-358-0817. steveweisslandscaping.com LIGHTING & REPAIRS Lites Plus 210 E Rte 59, Nanuet.

845-215-9903. litesplusonline.com LIQUOR, WINE, BEER STORES Nyack Wine Cellar 43 S. Broadway, Suite 1, Nyack. 845-353-3146. nyackwinecellar.com LOCKSMITHS A. & N. Rappaport Lock & Alarm Inc. 31 New Main Street, Haverstraw.

845-429-8400. rappaportlocks.com MEDICAL SERVICES Montefiore Nyack Hospital 160 N. Midland Avenue, Nyack. 845-348-2000. montefiorenyack.org Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cell Therapy 577 Chestnut Ridge Road, Woodcliff Lake, NJ 201-478-1171 MORTGAGES CrossCountry Mortgage, Inc 102 Chestnut Ridge Road, Suite 200, Montvale.

201-505-0843. formanteam.com Wells Fargo Home Mortgage 50 Main St., White Plains. 914-286-4911. wfhm.com MOVING SERVICES Slattery Moving & Storage 845-727-1800.

NETWORKING Rockland Business Women’s Network (RBWN) 845-535-1011. rbwn.org PAINTING Maye’s Painting & Powerwashing 845-735-1001.

PEST CONTROL Pest Shield 51 Wayne Avenue, Suffern, NY. 845-357-4105. wekillbugs.net PHARMACY Koblin’s Pharmacy 96 Main Street, Nyack.

845-358-0688. mygnp.com PHOTOGRAPHY Samantha Finch 845-492-7739. photographybysamanthafinch.com PHYSICAL THERAPY Access Physical Therapy & Wellness 200 E. Eckerson, Suite 290, New City.

845-578-9898. accessphysicaltherapywellness.com Advanced Physical Therapy 36 College Avenue, Nanuet. 845-627-8220. advancedphysicaltherapyofrockland.com Englewood Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery 370 Grand Avenue, Englewood, NJ. 201-567-5700. englewoodsportsmedicine.com Joint Movements Physical Therapy 34 West Ramapo Road, Garnerville, NY. 845-271-4785. jointmovements.com.

PLASTIC SURGERY Glassman Plastic Surgery 978 NY-45, #5, Pomona, NY. 845-354-7878.

PLUMBING & HEATING CV Plumbing, Heating & Air 50 Fairmount Avenue, Haverstraw. 845-271-2301. cvplumbing-heating-ac.com PROPERTY TAX CONSULTANT Richard O’Donnell 914-779-4444. retiredassessor.com PSYCHOTHERAPIST Hudson Valley Psychotherapy 99 Main Street, Nyack. 845-500-8675. hudsonvalleypsychotherapy.com Dr. Sally Nazari 845-236-5612. drsallynazari.com REAL ESTATE “Ask Adam” Blankfort 97 S. Broadway, S. Nyack. 845-641-3255. adam.baerhomes.com Better Homes & Gardens Rand Realty 46 South Broadway, Nyack. 358-7171.

19 E. Central Avenue, Pearl River.

845-735-3020.

Donna Canfield - Weichert Realty 174 S. Main St., New City. 845-634-1668

Debbie Blankfort - William Raveis Baer & McIntosh 97 S. Broadway, S. Nyack.

914-522-5426.

Donna Cox - Better Homes & Gardens Rand Realty 46 S. Broadway, Nyack.

845-641-8613. donnacox.com Ellis Sotheby International Realty 76 N Broadway, Nyack. 845-353-4250. ellissothebysrealty.com Frank Mancione - Lydecker Realty 914-953-0494.

Friedberg Properties 213 Rivervale Road, River Vale, NJ. 201-666.0777. friedbergproperties.com HBC Landmark Realty 3 W. Cavalry Drive, New City. 914-447-0714.

Margo Bohlin - Better Homes & Gardens Susan Jackson - William Raveis Baer & McIntosh 12 Maple Ave, Warwick.

845-987-2000 Mark Dari - Better Homes & Gardens Rand Realty 268 S. Main Street, New City.

914-772-1471. mark.dari@randrealty.com Noemi Morales Barile - Coldwell Banker 845-494-5015. noemimoralesbarile.com Peggy Connolly - Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty 19 E Central Ave, Pearl River. 914-715-5675. bhgre.com R2M Realty, Inc. 8 Piermont Ave, Nyack.

845-535-4195. ready2mov.com Rand Commercial Services 268 S. Main Street, Suite 100, New City. 845-770-1205. randcommercial.com Rand Realty 268 S. Main Street, New City.

845-304-4140. margo@margobohlin.com Rand Realty 46 S. Broadaway, Nyack.

914-629-8581. marylukens.randrealty.com Riso Realty 15 N. Mill Street, Nyack.

845-729-1179. risorealty.com Robin A. Miller 845-596-0459.

Stephen McCardle - Compass NYC 646-641-3343, mcardle@compass.com Terry May - Better Homes & Gardens Rand Realty 845-729-3030. terrymayrealtor.com SCHOOLS, CAMPS & DAYCARES Head Start of Rockland, Inc 117 Route 9W, Haverstraw. 845-429-4122. headstartofrockland.org New City Jewish Center 47 Old Schoolhouse Road, New City.

845-638-9600. newcityjc.org

Nyack Basics at the Nyack Farmers Market 845-353-7062. nyackbasics.org.

Preschool Education - Head Start of Rockland, Inc. Haverstraw, Nyack, Spring Valley. 845-429-4122. headstartofrockland.org Haverstraw Head Start 845-429-2225; Nyack Head Start 845-358-2234; Spring Valley Head Start 845-352-6671 Rockland County YMCA Nursery School 35 S Broadway, Nyack, 845-358-0245. rocklandymca.org Rockland Music Conservatory 45 South Main Street, Pearl River.

845-356-1522. rcmny.org RCT Music Group 267 C. Main Street, Nyack. 845-358-1236. rctmusicgroup.com SECURITY SYSTEMS Bullet Security 400 E. Route 59, Nanuet.

845-627-0300.

Inter County Alarm Systems 200 Route 303, Valley Cottage. 845-268-8900.

SHOWER DOORS & MIRRORS Cook’s Glass Work 15 Van Wyck Road, Blauvelt. 845-359-9339. cooksglass.com SOLAR ENERGY Solstice Community Solar 866-826-1997. solstice.us/ny SPECIALTY SHOPS Design Air 120 Route 59, Hillburn.

845-357-3580. designairinc.com Sanctuary 60 S Broadway, Nyack.

845-353-2126. sanctuary-home.com SPECIAL SERVICES Foundations Recovery Community Center 25 Smith Street, #108, Nanuet.

845-215-9788.

Jawonio Health Center 260 N Little Tor Road, New City. 845-708-2000. jawonio.org Rockland Cemetery 201 Kings Highway, Sparkill. 845-359-0172. rocklandcemetery.org Sparks of Life - Jewish Center for Parkinson’s Susan Lust, Managing Director, SPARKStudio. 845-300-4511. sparkstudiony.net

RivertownMagazine.com / 93

SPECIAL ORGANIZATIONS Historical Society of the Nyacks 845.418.4430. nyackhistory.org Rockland Business Women’s Network 845-729-9497.

The Center for Safety and Change (formerly Rockland Family Shelter) 9 Johnsons Lane, New City. 845-634-3391. centerforsafetyandchange.org SPORTING GOODS A&J Arms 304 Route 304, Bardonia.

845-501-7200 or 845-825-0079.

AandJArms.com Ski Barn 846 Route 17 North, Paramus, NJ 201-445-9070 skibarn.com TAX & ACCOUNTING Joseph A. Lux, CPA 4 Francis Avenue, Nyack. 845-358-1929. joelux.com Gloria Papasophocles, CPA 60 Dutch Hill Road, Suite 11B, Orangeburg.

845-848-2690. gloriacpa.com

94 / Rivertown Magazine February 2020

THEATERS Antrim Playhouse 15 Spook Rock Road, Suffern. 845-354-9503. antrimplayhouse.com Penguin Repertory 7 Cricketown Road, Stony Point. 845-786-2873. penguinrep.org THRIFT SHOP Grace’s Thrift Shop 10 S. Broadway, Nyack.

845-358-7488. gracechurchnyack.org Nyack Hospital Thrift Shop aka New To You 142 Main Street, Nyack.

845-358-7933. montefiorenyack.org Tappan Zee Thrift Shop 454 Piermont Avenue, Piermont. 845-359-5753 TRAVEL AGENCIES Memory Queens, Cruise Planners 201-218-4410. memoryqueenstravel.com WAC Travel 85 S. Broadway, Suite 1, Nyack.

845-535-1300. italygreece.com VETERINARIANS Pearl River Animal Hospital 19 S. Pearl Street, Pearl River. 845-735-3213. pearlriveranimalhospital.com

Valley Cottage Animal Hospital 202 N. Route 303, Valley Cottage.

845-268-9263. valleycottageanimalhospital.com WATER SYSTEMS Culligan Water First Street, New City.

845-634-3336. culliganrockland.com WEDDING LOCATIONS Falkirk Estate and Country Club 206 Smith Clove Road, Central Valley.

845-928-8060. falkirkestate.com Paramount Country Club 160 Zukor Road, New City. 845-634-4626. paramountcountryclub.com WINDOW TREATMENTS Beacon Interiors 19 New Street, Nyack.

914-589-9270.

Westrock Windows 30 Lake Road, Congers. 845-268-0463. westrockwindows.com

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