Friday, June 19 “1776.” Bedford Historical Hall, 608 Old Post Road, Bedford; bedfordny.gov. As part of the town’s Rev Up 250 celebration of the American Revolution, this site-specific production will take place in Historical Hall. Presented in partnership with John Jay Homestead, Friends of John Jay, Bedford Hills Historical Society, and the Town of Bedford, in association with Katonah Classic Stage, LitlHorn LLC; 7:30 p.m. Performances also on June 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28. Jon Stewart. The Bushnell Performing Arts Center, 166 Capito Ave., Hartford, CT; bushnell.org. The comedian and political commentator; 7 and 9:30 p.m. Bedford and Pound Ridge Celebrate Juneteenth. Bedford Hills Community House, 74 Main St., Bedford Hills; bedfordny.gov. Live music, dance, community art-making and reflection honoring Juneteenth and exploring local history within the broader story of America's 250th anniversary. From 3:30 to 5 p.m. Saturday, June 20 Lewisboro Celebrates Juneteenth. Lewisboro Town Park, 1079 Route 35, South Salem; lewisborony.gov. Live music, crafts, food, crafts and more. From noon to 4 p.m. Truck Day. Bedford Village Elementary School, 45 Court Road, Bedford; bedfordfreelibrary.org. Trucks of all shapes and sizes. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Town of Bedford Shredder. 343 Railroad Ave., Bedford Hills; bedfordny.gov. The mobile shredder can shred paper, paper clips, rubber bands, staples and black clips. Not accepting non-paper items (CDs, tapes, DVDs, hard drives, etc.). Proof of residency required. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sensory-Friendly “Toy Story 5.” Bedford Playhouse, 633 Old Post Road, Bedford; bedfordplayhouse.org. The gang is back, this time dealing with toy technology; 4 p.m. Wild Facts About Wild Mushrooms. Lewisboro Library, 15 Main St., South Salem; lewisborolibrary.org. Family-friendly presentation on all types of wild mushrooms; 2 p.m. An Evening with Kelli O’Hara. Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ride Road, Katonah; caramoor.org. O’Hara will perform music from the American Songbook, Broadway and pop standards; 7 p.m. Movies Under the Stars: “Dog Man.” Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla; parksevents.westchestercountyny.gov. Family-friendly entertainment begins at 5 p.m., movie begins at sundown. “Dear Evan Hansen.” A.C.T. of Connecticut, 36 Old Quarry Road, Ridgefield, CT; actofct.org. The groundbreaking, deeply personal Broadway musical that explores the power of connection, identity, and the search for belonging in the digital age. Various show times. Through June 21. Take It Or Leave It Shed. Bedford Hills train station, Lot 8, Bedford Hills’ bedford2030.org. Recycle and reuse. From 10 a.m. to noon. John Jay Farm Market. Held in downtown Katonah, Lot 2, entrance at Coldwell Banker. Fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, seafood, breads, specialty items and more. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pleasantville Farmers Market. Memorial Plaza, Lot 10, Pleasantville; pleasantvillefarmersmarket.org. Year-round farmers market that runs on Saturday mornings and includes cheese and bake stands. From 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, June 21 Dedicated Men of Zion Celebrating Juneteenth. Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ride Road, Katonah; caramoor.org. With roots in gospel and their Eastern North Carolina church upbringing, the group’s harmonies blend gospel’s emotional truth and purposefulness; 4 p.m. Big Equipment Day. Muscoot, 51 Route 100, Katonah; muscootfarm.org. Learn all about the machines that help a farm. Get up close with tractors, mowers, and other equipment that do some of the biggest jobs here on the farm. All are welcome. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Muscoot Farm Farmers Market. 51 Route 100, Katonah; muscootfarm.org. Featuring over 25 local vendors every Sunday until Nov. 15. Bicycle Sunday. Westchester County Parks sponsors 6.5 miles of car-free and traffic-free Bronx River Parkway for cyclists, joggers and walkers. The route runs between Scarsdale Road in Yonkers and the Westchester County Center in White Plains; thewpf.org/bicycle. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, June 22 “Hamilton.” Lewisboro Library, 15 Main St., South Salem; lewisborolibrary.org. A live stage recording of the award-winning Broadway musical; 1 p.m. Tuesday, June 23 “Dolly All The Time”: Author Annabel Monaghan. Bedford Playhouse, 633 Old Post Road, Bedford; bedfordplayhouse.org. Moderated by Erin Somers, the author will discuss her fifth novel; 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 24 End of School Bash. Pound Ridge Town Pool, 199 Westchester Ave., Pound Ridge; townofpoundridge.gov. Bring your own float and enjoy the party with a DJ. From 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, June 25 “It Happened in Westchester County.” Pound Ridge Library, 271 Westchester Ave., Pound Ridge; poundridgelibrary.org. “Revolutionary Places and Stories in the McDonald Interviews” relates the history of several locations connected to the Revolutionary War in Westchester County, through firsthand accounts of people who lived through the seven long years of the war. From 7 to 8 p.m. Conversation Café. Bedford Hills Free Library, 26 Main St., Bedford Hills; bedfordhillsfreelibrary.org. The library is hosting a series of “conversation cafés” to hear ideas for future planning from the community. From 5:30 to 6:30 p.m Summer Reading Kickoff. Katonah Village Library, 26 Bedford Road, Katonah; katonahlibrary.org. Kids K-5 are invited to join the KVL summer reading program; painting, tattoos, live music, games, photo booth and more. From 4:30 to 6 p.m. “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.” Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Road, Pleasantville; burnsfilmcenter.org. Celebrate 25 years of the iconic movie. Included admission to the Pride Parking Lot event with food trucks, a bar and more. From 5 to 7 p.m.; film at 7 p.m. Friday, June 26 Isaac Mizrahi. Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ride Road, Katonah; caramoor.org. The entertainment and fashion icon, accompanied by his jazz band will perform tunes interspersed with unfiltered storytelling for Pride Month; 7:30 p.m. REV UP 250 Star Spangles Splash. Bedford Hills Memorial Park Pool, 60 Haines Road, Bedford Hills; bedfordny.gov. Family-friendly “patriotic-themed” games, food, karaoke and more. From 6 to 9 p.m. Happy Hour at The Aldrich. Aldrich Museum, 258 Main St., Ridgefield, CT; thealdrich.org. Explore the galleries, hands-on activities and wine and beer. From 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 27 American Roots Musical Festival. Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ride Road, Katonah; caramoor.org. The annual festival will fill the grounds with Americana, folk, bluegrass and more. All day, beginning at noon. Lewisboro Fireworks Spectacular. Onatru Farm Park, 99 Elmwood Road, South Salem; lewiborony.gov. Live music, food trucks, kids activities and fireworks! From 6 to 9:30 p.m. Summer Reading Kickoff. Bedford Hills Free Library, 26 Main St., Bedford Hills; bedfordhillsfreelibrary.org. Enjoy a bubble show, crafts and more, then pick up your summer reading challenge kit. From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Irish Cultural Celebration. Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla; parks.westchestercounty.gov/heritage-festivals. Family-friendly event with music, food, crafts and more. From noon to 6 p.m. Creating Threads of Connection. Hammond Museum & Japanese Stroll Garden, 28 Deveau Road, North Salem; hammondmuseum.org. Exhibiting artists discuss the process and inspiration of their unique garments; 3 p.m. Sunday, June 28 African American Cultural Celebration. Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla; parks.westchestercounty.gov/heritage-festivals. Family-friendly event with music, food, crafts and more. From noon to 6 p.m. COMING SOON Saturday, July 4 Lewisboro Independence Day Celebration. Lewisboro Town Pool, 1079 Route 35, South Salem; lewisborony.gov. Bouncy castle, lawn games, live music and more. From 2 to 6 p.m. Pound Ridge Road Race, Poolside Concert & Fireworks. Road race starts at Pound Ridge Elementary School at 9 a.m. Concert at Town Pool. From noon to 3 p.m. with the Happy Crabs; townofpoundridge.gov. The Marshall Tucker Band. Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CT; ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The ‘70s band is known for incorporating blues, country, rock and jazz into an eclectic sound; 8 p.m. Thursday, July 9 An Evening with the Atlantic’s John Swansburg. Bedford Free Library, 32 Village Green, Bedford; bedfordfreelibrary.org. Managing editor of the Atlantic, Swansburg will lead a discussion on “The Unfinished Revolution.” Wine, snacks and copies of the Atlantic; 5 p.m. Sunday, July 12 Hispanic Cultural Celebration. Kensico Dam Plaza, 1 Bronx River Parkway, Valhalla; parks.westchestercounty.gov/heritage-festivals. Family-friendly event with music, food, crafts and more. From noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 19 Teddy Bear Tea. Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ride Road, Katonah; caramoor.org. Bring the family and favorite stuffies for tea, sweets and a craft; 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 28. Art Garfunkel. Ridgefield Playhouse, 80 East Ridge Road, Ridgefield, CT; ridgefieldplayhouse.org. Known as the “voice of a generation,” Garfunkel performs; 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5 South Salem Fire Department Parade & Carnival. Parade starts at Spring Street and ends at the firehouse; 6 p.m. Carnival runs through Saturday, Aug. 8. Thursday, Aug. 6 Louis Cato. Bedford Playhouse, 633 Old Post Road, Bedford; bedfordplayhouse.org. An intimate event with Cato and his trio; 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13 Jon Batiste. Westville Music Bowl, 45 Yale Ave., New Haven, CT; westvillemusicbowl.com. The maestro performs; 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6. Bedford Music Festival. Caramoor, 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah; caramoor.org. A full day of live music. Friday, Sept. 18 Josh Johnson. The Bushnell Performing Arts Center, 166 Capito Ave., Hartford, CT; bushnell.org. The stand-up comedian; 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 Leslie Odom Jr. Grace Farms, 365 Lukes Wood Road, New Canaan, CT; gracefarms.org. The award-winning artist performs an evening of music that features selections from the American Songbook, pop favorites, musical theater classics and songs from “Hamilton.”; 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2 Community Center of Northern Westchester Benefit. St. Matthew’s Church, 382 Cantitoe St., Bedford; communitycenternw.org. More information coming soon.

By LOGAN KREISBERG Family members, friends and faculty gathered in the tented Venetian Theater at Caramoor on Tuesday to celebrate the 220 graduates of John Jay High School’s Class of 2026. “Today, we celebrate not only the diplomas but the remarkable achievements and character that define our graduating class,” Principal Steven Siciliano said. He set the tone for a ceremony honoring the Class of 2026’s academic, athletic, artistic and civic achievements, while also reflecting on the experiences that define the milestone of graduation. Andrew Yoon Jr. gives a wave to the crowd as he receives his diploma. JIM MACLEAN PHOTO “But your accomplishments extend beyond academics and awards. This class has shown extraordinary kindness, uplifting one another and fostering a positive climate and culture within our school,” Siciliano said. “To the best of our ability, we tried to have something for everyone as this class took to heart our district pillar of belonging.” A theme of the ceremony was the representation of the John Jay community as a circle. From the class’s addition to the charm collection dangling from the Key of Knowledge, to the focus of the senior class address delivered by Sophia Wilder, the symbol served as a reminder of the connection between students, faculty and alumni. The ceremony exhibited many traditions that have become part of the John Jay experience. Graduates wore caps and gowns that matched the school’s signature colors, with boys in purple and girls in white. A cappella groups the Noteables and the Treblemakers provided musical performances during the ceremony. References to the school’s frequently closed bathrooms in multiple speeches drew laughter from both students and faculty. The importance of these shared traditions and experiences extended into Salutatorian Casey Leff’s speech, as she reflected on the aspects of high school that would remain meaningful. “Years from now, we won’t remember every grade we received, every homework assignment we may or may not have completed, or every college essay we drafted over and over in search of perfection,” said Leff, who will attend UCLA in the fall. “Instead, we’ll remember the memories and moments that made John Jay feel like home, like pep rallies and Jay Fest, community circles, and those insanely good chocolate chip cookies from the cafeteria.” Ariana Dufane celebrates receiving her diploma. JIM MACLEAN PHOTO Valedictorian Hellen Dollar encouraged graduates to carry the perspectives and relationships they developed at John Jay into the next chapter of their lives. “Our class has always been told that we’re the future generation of change makers — the ones to solve the many, many problems our world is currently facing,” said Dollar, who heads to Dartmouth College. “We’ve hated the weight of this responsibility, but we can begin by being open to different perspectives and meeting people who make you think critically about yourself and the world around you.” Katonah-Lewisboro Superintendent of Schools Raymond Blanch certified the diplomas for the Class of 2026. Each graduate then crossed the stage to receive their certificates, which exposed the decorated caps of many of the graduates, bedazzled with the names and logos of their future colleges. Once diplomas were conferred, the graduates returned to the stage to move their tassels from right to left and throw their caps in the air. Earlier in the ceremony, Earth science and physics teacher James Panzer told graduates that they had reached a point where they could now help “raise the village” that helped raise them. “Congratulations to the village, and congratulations to every senior on this stage that continues to raise it,” Panzer said. Logan Kreisberg, Harvey School Class of 2026, is a summer intern at The Recorder.

By MARTIN WILBUR As the nearly yearlong campaign for the 17th Congressional District’s Democratic primary concludes Tuesday, the winner will move on to oppose two-term Republican Rep. Mike Lawler in November’s general election. With so much background noise as the campaign neared its end, The Recorder asked the candidates about their priorities, and their positions on major issues. John Cappello Since last September, when former Air Force pilot and U.S. Air Force attaché John Cappello was the last candidate to enter the race, the message that has resonated the most has been to clean up the government. That would include campaign finance reform, congressional term limits in the eight- to 12-year range, banning stock trading for sitting members of Congress, instituting a waiting period for former lawmakers to become lobbyists and having a strict code of ethics for the Supreme Court. “When I share these things, nobody on either side ever disagrees with those things,” said Cappello, who lives in Suffern. “That not only restores balance and accountability, but it matters that in the system, which we see on many levels, and it matters in that the individuals that we send to Washington will not serve themselves but they’ll be there for public service.” Cappello is one of 110 congressional candidates across the U.S. that is part of a coalition that backs those reforms, he said. Despite an emphasis on ethics reforms, Cappello is well aware that the cost of living crisis, which includes housing, health care and preserving Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, affects most Americans daily. For housing, he supports strategies such as tax incentives and credits for developers who build affordable housing, supporting construction of multifamily housing, particularly near mass transit, streamlining the review process and converting abandoned commercial properties into housing. Cappello is against speculation and corporate purchase of residential properties. Cappello said he supports full restoration of the Affordable Care Act funding that ended this year and caps for what people pay as a percentage of income on health care. “Whatever the plan is going to be, we need to steer more effort, more dollars to primary care, preventative care, mental health to avoid costly ER trips,” he said. The country also has to return to its long-held place as leaders on the world stage, he said. That includes ensuring that the nation’s values coincide with its interests. Committing to remaining part of NATO and displaying leadership in the Middle East is urgent, including working toward a two-state solution with Israel and the Palestinians. “I think there’s opportunity to turn that around and find that solution,” Cappello said. “There needs to be two states for two people. We have to find that. Palestinians deserve to live in peace and dignity; the vast majority of Israelis believe that and we have to find a way forward with that.” Cait Conley West Point graduate, combat veteran and special operations leader Cait Conley entered the race last year after being disillusioned at what has been happening in the country, from destructive tariffs to the president punishing his political foes and widespread corruption. For her, the administration and Congress have failed to focus on solving the critical issues of the day, including making life more affordable for struggling families. “Whether it’s ripping health care away from some of our most vulnerable, whether it’s ripping away funding for programs like SNAP, to making really poor decisions like the war in Iran, which is now jacking up prices at the pump, it’s all at a time when we’re already feeling we’re at the breaking point,” said Conley, an Ossining resident, who grew up in a blue-collar family. If elected, Conley said she would like to work on reversing some of the damage done by this administration, including restoring the premium tax credit and Medicaid and SNAP funding and ending the unnecessary conflicts, such as the Iran War. Also, lowering gas prices and the cost of prescription drugs is required, she said. Conley would also like to institute an American Service Home Loan Program for first responders, teachers, nurses and others to reward service workers. It would be similar to the Veterans Administration’s for former military members, she said. Conley said the federal government must rein in the monopolistic utility providers and forge ahead with renewable energy. She called the administration’s energy strategy “dumb and dangerous.” “We are losing to China in this race,” Conley said. Devising a new approach to provide health care coverage is essential as well, she said. Eliminating the for-profit insurance companies and ensuring that health care is a right for all Americans by developing a sustainable public option would encourage competition and lower costs, Conley said. “The Affordable Care Act was never meant to be the final destination, just an important step forward with more steps to come, and we have failed to make that progress since the ACA was first passed,” Conley said. Making sure more the wealthy pay their fair share in taxes would also help fund Medicare and Medicaid while demonstrating basic fairness, she said. The bungling of the Iran War has hurt the country economically, Conley said. She said the goal of preventing Iran from ever getting a nuclear weapon can be achieved by removing the political will for them to pursue it. For Israel, a two-state solution with the Palestinians is needed to increase the safety and security of everyone in the Middle East. Comprehensive immigration reform should include a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and other immigrants who have been contributing members of their communities for years, Conley stated. The direction of the country, with anti-democratic policies and corruption, has alarmed Conley. “I’m in this fight because I believe the future of our democracy is truly at risk and I believe we need to make some major changes,” she said. Beth Davidson Rockland County Legislator Beth Davidson, a 20-year resident of the county, said the top priority in her campaign is how life has become too expensive for families in the district and around the country. A former Nyack Board of Education member, Davidson said the current administration’s values are out of step with most Americans. “I always said as a school board member, show me your budget and I’ll show you your priorities, and Donald Trump’s budget shows that his priorities are completely out of whack, and he has said he doesn’t think about the average American,” Davidson said. “It’s time to stop the career of Mike Lawler who never stands up to Donald Trump, and certainly didn’t when (Trump) said that about struggling families in the Hudson Valley.” She said she hopes to be part of a Democratic Congress to fight for the end of the president’s tariffs, which first raised costs before the Iran War, restoration of the full SALT deduction, capping out-of-pocket prescription drugs and supporting child care, elder care and parental leave legislation. Davidson also skewered the administration for proposing a $1.5 trillion defense budget to fight wars most Americans opposed, while SNAP and Medicaid see cuts or more stringent requirement guidelines and health care costs spiral. She supports a public option to allow anyone to buy into Medicare. “It’s about reorganizing this budget and investing in programs that people depend on to live dignified lives that they can afford,” Davidson said. Davidson said the initial reports of the tentative agreement with Iran doesn’t seem to be much different than the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal negotiated by President Barack Obama. Any peace deal depends on the U.S. being a trustworthy partner, something that the country’s allies haven’t seen with the current administration’s erratic strategy and statements, she said. Davidson said she isn’t shy about calling out Israel for their abuses in Gaza, but it also needs to defend itself against forces that started the latest conflict on Oct. 7, 2023. She noted that Trump has failed in starting the Iran War with Israel without a plan. “I’ve said from the beginning that Donald Trump has failed in this important moment, being too weak to stand up to Bibi Netanyahu, who is tremendously unpopular in his own country,” Davidson said. However, the United States must not desert one of its most critical allies in Israel. It must exercise diplomacy so that the Palestinian people have a path to self-determination, which should include a two-state solution, she said. The candidate said immigration reform must provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers, updating the asylum process and cracking down on fentanyl and human trafficking. She also wants to pass legislation that requires federal agents to display identification and prohibit the use of masks. Effie Phillips-Staley Whatever the outcome of this primary on Tuesday evening, Tarrytown Village Trustee Effie Phillips-Staley will harbor no regrets. From speaking her mind on a range of issues to having dedicated volunteers enthusiastically getting her message out, there are seemingly no misgivings. Despite having relatively little money compared to Conley and Davidson, there are also advantages to that, she said. “I remain hopeful and proud of this campaign because we are beholden to no one and only the needs and the issues that people define for us, and that’s really why we’ve had a large surge despite all of the work done by the establishment to crown someone early,” Phillips-Staley said. The rising cost of living and the pulling of funds from critical programs that help lower-income families is among the most critical of issues for Phillips-Staley. To combat that and to fund food assistance, Medicare for All and her goal of building five million new homes in the U.S. over the next 10 years to address the housing crisis, she would impose a 3% wealth tax on those with assets over $50 million and a 6% tax for those with more than $1 billion. Plugging tax loopholes that are used to shelter wealth from taxation is vital. Many of the wealthiest have made their fortunes in the U.S. and should be willing to give something back, Phillips-Staley said. “The middle class and the working class carry a disproportionate burden in terms of what we pay in taxes,” she said. “We want the people who have made the most and pay the least percentage-wise, to reinvest in our nation.” Phillips-Staley vowed to champion micro-grids and community solar projects to combat the prohibitively expensive rates of utility companies. She is equally outspoken when discussing the Middle East conflict between Israel and the Palestinians. Phillips-Staley is unapologetic for saying that violence, whoever perpetrates it, must be renounced, and that the millions of innocent people on each side have a right to safety and security. She is also supportive of a two-state solution. “I understand when some people push back on me around the perception that being supportive of Palestinians, of innocent Palestinian lives is equivalent to not being supportive of innocent Israeli lives,” Phillips-Staley said. “But that is not the case. Human rights are universal and we have to call it out every single time.” She is also cautious about the announced cessation of hostilities with Iran. Phillips-Staley pointed to the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal that took robust negotiations over a long time, something that appeared to be absent this time. “The real work is yet to come and I don’t have an enormous amount of faith in this administration because it seems to think that things can be done easily,” Phillips-Staley said. Mike Sacks Sacks, an attorney and former law and political correspondent for Fox 5 News, looks at the 2026 mid-term elections as a likely watershed moment in the nation’s history, comparing it with the public’s reaction to the Great Depression in the 1932 elections, which ushered in the New Deal, and in the 1960s that helped spawn President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society legislation. He derided Republicans who respond to today’s challenges with more tax cuts that benefit mainly the wealthy, which has helped drive the country’s inequality. Life has been made far more difficult for most as health care, housing, food and gas prices continue to spiral, at least partially due to the Iran War. But with the growing unpopularity of Republicans, and in particular President Donald Trump, Sacks said a majority of voters will be thirsting for significant change this fall, which would set the stage for the 2028 presidential election. “We’ve now been, I’d say, for at least 10 years, in this era of zombie Reaganism, which was once understood as necessary, or at least politically desirable back in 1980 and 1984,” said Sacks, a Croton-on-Hudson resident. “Republicans have been keeping it in a state of suspended animation, when it’s no longer politically desirable, by rigging our political structures so they don’t have to adapt to a new political reality.” Critical changes must be made starting with a new Congress next year to invest in programs that would improve people’s lives. Sacks is a supporter of the Medicare for All Act, restoring funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid. That can be achieved by cutting back on what he characterized as a bloated defense budget and stopping “stupid, unjustified and illegal wars.” Sacks also pledged to support reproductive freedom by fighting to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act and to require all earned income to be subject to the Social Security takeout, not just the first $184,500, which is the cap in 2026. There should be a wealth tax imposed on those earning more than $1 million in investment income in a year and a small tax on fortunes exceeding $50 million, he said. Immigration reform would include a pathway to citizenship for the estimated 11 million undocumented people in the country, focusing on stopping human traffickers and illegal drugs and the abolishment of ICE, Sacks said. In the Middle East, Sacks said he is a proponent of a two-state solution and that the U.S. must be a leader in promoting safety and security for Israelis and Palestinians and an end to Israeli occupation. “I see no other way than to seek a two-state solution, even though it may seem out of vogue in the progressive vanguard and naïve to right-wing interests that back the expansionist, messianic and anti-democratic Israeli regime,” Sacks said. Regardless of the outcome of an apparent agreement with Iran, the next Congress is going to have to deal with the upheavals that have been caused amid the changing landscape. “I’m running for office because my background in the media and attention economy and my deep understanding of the country and our history made me want to help deliver us from the anti-democratic movement and turn the rage into a new era where we have a government, a federal government dedicated to help people and make all their lives better,” Sacks said.

Reader lists concerns about Scotts Corners water district To the Editor: Your article (“State OKs Scotts Corners water district,” June 5) regarding the comptroller’s approval of the Scotts Corners Water District omits several points. First, the Pound Ridge Board has effectively conceded that it will have to negotiate with Connecticut water authorities for an agreement to supply the water needed for this project. There can be no assurance that those negotiations will succeed nor as to the cost of the Connecticut water. Second, because of inadequate testing, the construction of this project may prove to be an environmental disaster. The excess water from the project will likely raise the water table and flood the septic systems in the area. Third, there is currently no applicable sewer system design nor a wastewater treatment plant design to deal with the excess water. Apart from hoping the courts put an end to this project, in my view, the only solution is political. The upcoming election in November offers an opportunity to remove the current town supervisor and replace him with someone who will have the common sense and leadership ability to stop this ill-advised project. Norman Bernstein Pound Ridge Route 35 parcel eyed for subdivision? To the Editor: We are writing to alert Lewisboro residents to a potential issue involving the Reynolds property at 831 Route 35 in Cross River. An environmental document provided by the Town of Lewisboro in response to a FOIL request indicates that the property may be considered for as many as 14 houses on approximately 15 acres. While current zoning may allow half-acre lots, many nearby properties are substantially larger and reflect the area’s rural and open-space character. Recent activity on the property, including test holes, construction equipment, and repeated noise, suggests that development-related due diligence may already be underway. This property also has community and historic significance. The adjacent Reynolds cemetery is well-known locally. Many neighbors knew the Reynolds sisters who lived on the property for many years, and their family’s long connection to this area is part of Cross River’s history. We are concerned about the potential impact of dense development on neighborhood character, stormwater and drainage, traffic and road safety, mature trees, open space, and the broader environmental setting. We urge the Lewisboro Town Board to review whether the current zoning for 831 Route 35 and the surrounding area remains appropriate before any subdivision proposal advances too far. Residents who share this concern are encouraged to contact the Town Board and ask for a zoning review. If zoning review does not resolve the issue, community members may also need to provide informed, fact-based input to the Planning Board if a subdivision application is filed. Ed Thieberger Preserve Lewisboro Grateful for Knicks watch party at oHHo To the Editor: oHHo owners and team — on behalf of everyone who attended, thank you for hosting such a wonderful Knicks Watch Party on Saturday night. What made the evening so special wasn’t just the game (but that was also very special), it was the spirit of community you created. Opening your doors free of charge and welcoming everyone to come together, cheer, celebrate and connect was an incredibly generous gesture. The atmosphere was energetic, friendly and fun, bringing neighbors, friends and fellow Knicks fans together in a way that truly reflected the best of our community. Events like this remind us how important small businesses are, not only as places to gather, but as partners in creating community. Your hospitality and openness did not go unnoticed. Thank you for investing in the community and giving us a memorable evening. I, for one, look forward to supporting oHHo and hope to attend more community-minded events in the future. Alison Monico Bedford Conley possesses crisis-tested decision-making To the Editor: Cait Conley is the strongest and most qualified candidate to challenge Mike Lawler in November. She is the only one capable of addressing the escalating risks from emerging technologies, the challenges we must navigate in national security and public safety, as well as the affordability crisis, healthcare access, and the protection of federal benefits. West Point graduate and 16-year Army veteran, Conley’s post-military career includes leadership roles as a national-security advisor focusing on protecting critical infrastructure, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity. She has worked in conjunction with federal, state, and local agencies to protect our families and livelihoods. There are only a handful of congressional representatives with the credentials needed for today’s technology-driven landscape. We need legislators with technical literacy and an understanding of challenges posed by global instability, cyberattacks, and artificial intelligence. Conley is equipped to assess risk and implement policies to protect our communities and critical infrastructure. She possesses crisis-tested decision-making and is the only candidate whose background aligns with the rapidly changing technological landscape. Beth Davidson’s experience as a local legislator is not a predictor of success at the federal level. Cait Conley’s experience in federal leadership roles positions her to be the most effective at negotiating and crafting federal legislation. Her work coordinating national security policy and engaging with Democrats and Republicans responsible for election-security and counterterrorism oversight demonstrates her ability to work effectively to protect our democracy and local economy. This background sets her apart as the best candidate to address district challenges, including rising food, housing, electricity and healthcare costs. She is committed to access to affordable education and investing in clean energy to protect our environment. Cait Conley is the leader we need to deliver solutions to the domestic, international, and technological challenges confronting our district and nation. It’s important to vote on June 23. Gina Reid Chris Maxmin, Capt., USMC (ret) Katonah Conley has a commitment and belief in America To the Editor: Like so many voters, I feel it is so vital to choose the candidate who can beat Mike Lawler. We have a choice between Beth Davidson, a career politician who is running a negative campaign rife with MAGA-like lies and innuendos, and Cait Conley who has consistently been talking to voters about the issues and her plans for a future that will benefit all of District 17. Cait Conley brings a unique combination of talents and experience to the task of governing. She’s worked with Congress on complex issues of national security and critical infrastructure, including the water supply. She’s shown leadership, winning three Bronze Stars during 16 years in the military. Importantly, she is the only one in the race with a knowledge of AI. She has worked with state and local law enforcement to protect families attending huge stadium events. She has worked to keep hospitals safe from cyber attacks. She knows the positives and negatives of AI and believes that, like any new technology, it needs to be regulated. She is opposed to building a data center at Indian Point. Cait Conley can beat Mike Lawler. She has a commitment and belief in America that appeals to voters of different backgrounds, Democrats and Republicans. With her boundless energy, Cait Conley will make a major impact for our district in Congress — and she’s the only candidate who can hit the ground running on Day One. Barbara Lalicki Briarcliff Conley best person to unseat Lawler To the Editor: Are you angry that Mike Lawler has supported this administration and co-sponsored the SAVE Act to take away our right to vote? I am writing to ask everyone to join me in voting for Cait Conley in the Democratic primary for CD-17. I believe that Cait is the best person to push Lawler into the private sector. Cait grew up in the district in a working-class family. She served 16 years as an active-duty Army officer, deploying six times to combat zones. Cait continued to serve as a public servant as director for counterterrorism on the National Security Council. Cait sees what we need and will fight for it. We need lower costs for utilities and prescriptions. We need to clean up corruption in government. We need a safe American democracy for all residents. We need to invest in education. We need access to affordable healthcare and a right to privacy in it. We need to tackle climate change as a national security and public health crisis. There have been things spouted by Lawler and then repeated by others that are not true. Vulnerable candidates will take action like that. Cait is solid. She has the endorsement of the majority of Democratic Committees in Westchester as well as many in Dutchess and Putnam. She has support from labor as well as national support (but is not taking corporate super PAC funding). Cait has plans for winning in every part of CD-17. She has a practical roadmap for addressing the needs of our district. We need someone who will serve our communities, our neighbors, and our families. Please look at Cait who has served and join me in casting your vote for her in the June 23 primary so we can have genuine representation in Congress. Mary Shah South Salem To flip CD-17, vote for Davidson To the Editor: With a few candidates running in the NY-17 Democratic primary to defeat incumbent Republican Congressman Mike Lawler, Beth Davidson is the best choice. Winning Rockland County is essential and Davidson is a 20-year Rockland resident, former school board member, Jewish community leader, and current county legislator with a strong record of public service. Known for her collaborative, bipartisan approach and strong local relationships, Beth has earned trust through years of advocacy, problem-solving, and results-driven progressive legislation. She is the only Democratic primary candidate who has run repeated, successful political campaigns against Republicans on Lawler‘s home turf. She has already proven her effectiveness. Her accomplishments include advancing gun safety measures, preserving open space, supporting tax relief for families, seniors, and veterans, and championing community protections. As a two-time cancer survivor, she brings firsthand experience navigating health care challenges alongside a reputation for resilience and follow-through. With deep district knowledge, authentic credibility, strong grassroots support, and established connections across key constituencies, Davidson is the only candidate with the political and legislative experience to win NY-17 in November. In contrast, her principal opponent, Cait Conley, moved to the district and registered as a Democrat just before announcing her candidacy, and she has rarely participated in her right to vote. She has never run for, let alone held, elected office, and she possesses little political or legislative experience. If we want to flip NY-17, vote for Beth Davidson. Lloyd Trufelman Katonah Conley an example of what’s best about America To the Editor: When I met Cait Conley, I recognized something in her that reminded me of why I decided to enter Mount Pleasant politics five years ago. My family moved here to Valhalla from the Bronx in the 1970s and from my parents and siblings, to an endless number of uncles, aunts and cousins, our political views ranged from Republican, to Democratic, to Independent; but we were always bound by our values of decency, common sense, and service to our community. Cait Conley was born in the Hudson Valley and raised by her father who worked in construction, and her mother who worked at the post office. Cait went to school at West Point and graduated at the top of her class. She served 16 years in the Army and deployed six times overseas, earning her three Bronze Stars. She worked in counter terrorism during the Biden administration, putting her years of education and training to the purpose of keeping American citizens safe. To me, Cait Conley is an example of what is best about our country, and this is why she is my choice for Congress in CD17. After 25 years in the Valhalla Fire Department, and more recently as the only Democrat on the Mount Pleasant Town Board, I feel I have an understanding of my neighbors and this community. We have different ideas of how to get things done, but every one of us share the values of decency and common sense, and what Cait Conley has demonstrated beyond a shadow of a doubt, is her dedication to serving this country, and our community. Early voting started June 13, the primary is June 23. Cast your vote for Cait! Joe Bonanno Mount Pleasant ‘See through the foolishness’ and vote for Conley To the Editor: We are seeing in this community the result of Citizens United unlimited funding for electoral campaigns including negative campaigns. Mike Lawler, who is running for his life to keep his seat, has influenced some groups to fill social media with attacks against Cait Conley, who according to many seasoned politicians will easily defeat Lawler in the general election. The ads cite the sponsor as a group with the word “progressives” in their name. It’s hard to believe that any true progressive would stoop this low to spread this form of disinformation. The voters of NY-17 will be able to see through the foolishness and vote for Conley in the primary and again in November. Henry Zachary Bedford Conley is best equipped to win general election To the Editor: Like many Recorder readers, I love life in Bedford but I’m concerned about the state of our country. I’m worried about the toxicity of our politics, the absence of coherent U.S. strategies at home and abroad, rampant corruption, and the failure of Congress to fulfill its constitutional role as a check on the executive branch. For all these reasons and more, I’ll cast my vote for Cait Conley in the NY-17 Democratic primary for U.S. Congress. Compelled by a sense that there’s never been a more important time to be an engaged citizen, I’ve made it my business to meet all the candidates and closely review their backgrounds and platforms. Cait is clearly best qualified to represent our district. A person of integrity who has devoted most of her life to public service, she’s also very smart. A West Point graduate who went on to earn master’s degrees from both MIT and Harvard, she has the intellect we need more of in Washington at a time when the challenges facing our country are increasingly complex. It’s laudable that Cait has chosen to run a positive, issues-focused campaign. Her military service and grounded style position her uniquely well to compete with incumbent Mike Lawler in a purple district that includes many veterans, first responders, and military families. Cait comes from that community. She understands its values, has lived its ethic of service, and speaks authentically to the voters who will decide this election. As Democrats choose their nominee on June 23, I hope they’ll focus on the question of who is best equipped to win the general election in November and then serve effectively, responsibly, and honorably in Congress. That person is Cait Conley. John S. Needham Bedford Working mom supports Cait Conley To the Editor: As a working mom to two young children, a Democrat desperate for change in Washington, D.C. and co-chair of the Pound Ridge Democratic Committee, I don’t make endorsements lightly. But in the June 23rd Democratic primary for New York’s Congressional District-17, the choice is clear: Cait Conley. CD-17 is one of the most competitive Congressional seats in America, and flipping it is essential to Democratic hopes of retaking the House — a House that must serve as a check on an administration enriching itself at the expense of working families. Cait is our best chance to make that happen. I’m supporting Cait because: — She understands our communities’ needs. Cait grew up in a working-class family in the Hudson Valley and knows firsthand how rising costs of health care, groceries, gas, and other essentials strain families in our high-cost area. Her policy platform reflects this. — She’s a uniquely qualified leader. A decorated combat veteran and national security expert, Cait’s life’s work has been protecting our increasingly fragile democracy. She graduated from West Point in the top 2% of her class, then earned graduate degrees from Harvard and MIT. But her credentials aren’t the point — her judgment and toughness are. — She’s driven by values, not ego. Cait is not a lifelong politician or operative chasing power for herself or her party. Her commitment to public service is genuine, rooted in something deeper than political ambition. You feel that when you talk to her. She’s in this for the right reasons. — She can win. Cait is the Democratic Party’s best chance at defeating Mike Lawler in November and taking back the House. Her opponents know it. Early voting is happening now, through June 21. Primary Day is June 23. I urge my fellow CD-17 registered Democrats: vote Cait Conley. Hailey Davis Pound Ridge Conley’s words not just lip service, but backed up by action To the Editor:Democratic voters in this Tuesday’s Primary election have a critical decision to make. We have a field of several candidates who believe they will be good representatives in Congress, but only one will be an excellent congressional representative, and that is Cait Conley. I have met with virtually all of the candidates and understand their various viewpoints and approaches to government. Cait is the only candidate who can take on our Republican Congressman Mike Lawler in November and bring real representation back to the 17th Congressional District. Cait knows our communities and has proven throughout this campaign to be up to the challenge to represent the four counties that comprise this Congressional district. On a personal level, she is passionate, empathetic, engaged, and dedicated to working on the issues impacting Americans in our current political climate. Cait’s words are not just lip service, but backed up by tangible action. Cait is ready to hit the ground running to address the affordability crisis in our area, protect our healthcare, clean up corruption in Washington, and defend our democracy. The Lewisboro Democratic Committee enthusiastically endorsed her candidacy earlier this year, along with local and National leaders such as Gloria Steinem, Congressman Jason Crow, Congressman Pat Ryan, Former Congresswoman Gabby Giffords, Former Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, and numerous local and county Democratic Committees and unions. Cait Conley has earned your vote in the Democratic Primary on Tuesday, June 23. Jenn Castelhano Chair, Lewisboro Democratic Committee

By NEAL RENTZ The Lewisboro Planning Board was presented with a plan for a new restaurant, marketplace store and greenhouse with a gravel parking lot at its June 16 meeting. Old Post Tavern would be located on a roughly 2-acre property at 902 Route 35, Cross River. The complex would be in the hamlet center near the intersection of routes 35 and 121. Skaz Gecaj and John Swertfager are the contract vendees, and they discussed their proposal, accompanied by their architect, Mark Schulman, at the meeting. The owners of the site are Robert Valenti and Michael Mongiello. Gecaj said he and Swertfager worked on the concept for about one year. Schulman said the four parcels off Route 35 where the development would take place “sit on the western edge of the commercial zone.” In his March 26 letter to the state Department of Environmental Conservation, Town Supervisor Tony Gonçalves advocated for the plan. The proposed home for Old Post Tavern at 902 Route 36 in Cross River. THANE GRAUEL PHOTO “This project will add to my vision of turning this hamlet center into a destination for the Town of Lewisboro and surrounding municipalities while also being conscious of the natural environment,” he wrote “We are currently in the early stages of pursuing sidewalks, crosswalks and safe pedestrian access within the hamlet center and safe access to the middle school and high school campus location just north of this location on Route 121.” “Being adjacent to the recent purchase of the town municipal center building, which will soon house multiple town offices, we are looking to create a seamless flow between the town property and the Old Post Road Tavern property,” Gonçalves wrote. “This seamless connection will allow easier pedestrian access and shared parking and a connection to local small businesses/retail center the Richard Momsen Preserve and other local attractions including two other restaurants and a café.” Last year, the Town Board approved the purchase of the office building at 892 Route 35, Cross River, for several town government and court offices because the Katonah-Lewisboro School District is ending its rental agreement with the town for space at the former Lewisboro Elementary School. Schulman told the Planning Board this week that the plan is to create a market store in part of the building that formerly was the site of a restaurant, while building a new 60-seat restaurant and greenhouse. The new restaurant would be two-and-a-half stories with an attic, he said. Most of the food preparation would take place on the first floor, he said. The project would be “family-friendly, catering to the entire community,” Schulman said. Valet parking would be provided for restaurant patrons, with vehicles parked behind the building, Schulman said. Planning Board Chair Janet Andersen asked if the market store would be open evenings. Schulman said the market would only be open during the day, the restaurant would just be open for dinner in the evenings and the greenhouse, which would provide food for the eatery, would not be open to the public. Patrons of the market would use the parking lot that would be shared with those going to the town government building, he said. Schulman said the plan is to pipe the existing drainage ditch and fill approximately 3,388-square-feet of wetlands. To mitigate the loss of wetlands, he is proposing to create on- and off-site wetlands and the removal of invasive species. If approved, there would be two-square-feet of new wetlands for each square-foot removed, he said. The board will have a site walk of the property July 18 and continue its review July 21.

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Forty-two graduates of Rippowam Cisqua School. ERIN WIK PHOTO Rippowam Cisqua School honored 42 graduates on June 11 under a white tent on Meyers Fields at its Bedford campus. After Head of School Colm MacMahon welcomed families, friends and faculty, ninth-grade Co-Presidents Renee Charles and Lilia Zouaoui, and eighth-grade student council representatives Selima Ortiz and Juliette Pearson, stepped up to the podium to deliver remarks focusing on community. English Department Chair Ridley Sperling ‘93, selected by students to deliver the graduation speech, followed, challenging them to never stop asking questions, question shortcuts, and last, to challenge themselves to think. “Really think.” MacMahon and Board Chair Abby Gerry presented diplomas, and Alumni Association Board Chair Forrest Mas ’04 welcomed the graduates into the RCS alumni association. With the formalities of the day concluded, the Class of 2026 proceeded out of the graduation tent to a recessional performed by The Cantitoe Quartet — made up of music teachers Carrie Brandt, Bill Fornara, Arielle Sherman and Josh Bookin. Graduates and their families then met in Wade’s Gym for the graduation luncheon.

By JIM MACLEAN John Jay’s Sloan Wasserman on her way to New York State and Federation titles in the steeplechase. JIM MACLEAN PHOTOS Three seasons, three times a state champion, and a triple crown finish with three titles in her final New York State high school meet made it a storybook ending to an amazing senior year for John Jay’s Sloan Wasserman. After winning her first New York State title in cross-country in the fall and leading John Jay to the team title, Wasserman then won the Federation and state titles in the 3,000-meter race at the indoor state championships. She capped off the year by winning the Federation and State titles in the 3,000-meter race, the 2,000-meter steeplechase race, and the State Class B title in the 4x800-meter relay race at the New York State track and field championships, June 13-14, at Victor High School near Rochester. With her three state titles, she now has five state titles and a team state title, she owns just about every distance record in John Jay school history, and she has one last high school meet before heading off to compete at Boston College next fall. The John Jay 4x800-meter relay team of (clockwise from top left) Wasserman, Mia Haimelin, Lila Rotter and Maya Serai pose with their signs as New York State Class B Champions. “In the steeplechase, I just took off and had a lot of fun; I was literally smiling for the last 100 yards, the crowd was cheering, it was definitely a good, fairytale ending,” admitted Wasserman. “It was really special to win both the 3K and steeple Federation and state titles in both races. I’ve had my share of ups and downs, but it was all worth it in the end and I’m really glad I was able to get this fairytale ending.” First up at the state meet would be the 3,000-meter race on Saturday, and she would be facing a lot of familiar faces from the same race she had won in March for the Indoor Federation and State titles. The Federation title is the combination of all the runners from Catholic, private and public schools in Class A, B and C, across the state. Wasserman stayed with the pack and then finished with a strong kick to pull away and cross the finish line with a time of 9:28.99, about three seconds ahead of Hannah Governor of Williamson in second place. “It was pretty much the same girls from indoors, and it was hot,” Wasserman said of her 3,000-meter race. “In the winter I was not nervous at all for the state meet, because I had never beaten those girls and I had nothing to lose. Definitely coming around to this state meet I was a little nervous to defend my title. Once I started the race I felt good, ran a tactical race, I only took the lead with about a lap to go and I took off, and it felt really good to win that race.” Next up would be the 2,000-meter steeplechase June 14, another hot and humid day. Wasserman came in as the top-seed and she pulled away from the field, crossing the finish line at 6:38.36, almost 10 seconds ahead of second-place finisher Anna Furman of Tri-Valley. She wasn’t finished yet as she would come back later in the day to anchor the 4x800 relay team to win her third state title in two days. It was a big change from last year’s outdoor state meet, where she was disappointed with a second-place finish in two races. “I hung the medals up on my door from last year to remind me every day,” admitted Wasserman. “It was a hard loss, hurt my spirits a lot, but it gave me so much drive, a burning desire to come out and win and I was able to beat people who beat me last year. It took a lot of hard work. I had not won anything at the state level. I’m most proud of myself for sticking with it. I haven’t quit a workout all year even when it was not going well. I realized that special things take a lot of hard work and time. That’s what I learned from all the wins and losses, special things take time, it took me four years to win a state title, and this year I won five.” Mia Haimelin takes the baton from Maya Serai in the 4x800 relay at the state championships. Wasserman had qualified to compete in three events at the state meet, but she elected to withdraw from the 1,500-meter race so she could concentrate on the relay event with her John Jay teammates on the final day of the two-day meet in Rochester. After a long rain delay, the quartet of eighth-grader Lila Rotter, ninth-grader Maya Serai, sophomore Mia Haimelin, and Wasserman were able to finish with a time of 9:15.71 to earn the New York State Class B title, about half a second in front of second-place finisher Cornwall. “It was a hard 800, and I was just happy we were able to win,” Wasserman said of the relay. “Mia ran a phenomenal race, she just kept picking people off and was incredible. The girls really carried us and I was happy I was able to bring us home.” Rotter ran the first leg of the relay for John Jay and finished with a 2:21.54 split. Serai followed with a 2:20.77 to move the Wolves up four places overall. Haimelin then turned in a personal best time for the 800 with a split of 2:15.14 to move the Wolves up six spots. That left it up to Wasserman in the anchor leg and she ran a 2:18.28 split to give the Wolves the Class B title in fifth-place overall behind four Class A schools. “It was like 10 minutes before our heat, and they said we’re going to run this heat, but everyone else has to go in the gym and wait,” Haimelin said of the delay. “I’m always the third leg and my job is to make up ground for the team. Maya made up a lot of ground and when she handed off to me it felt really good. I went out fast and somehow did a P.R., and I was shocked. Our goal was to win Class B and we were really happy. We were all locked in. The day before we came to watch Sloan race, she’s such a huge role model for us all, the whole team bonding experience carried us through.” “The relay has a lot more pressure, it’s for the team and not just myself and I don’t want to let them down,” added Serai. “Sloan is such a role model, her work ethic is incredible, seeing what she does. We push each other a lot and I wouldn’t be able to do what I’ve done without my teammates. My first time going to states and it was kind of nerve-wracking with all the rain delays. I was really nervous and just kept pushing, thinking about our team and our goal to win our class and it was definitely a great experience.” Despite the rain delays, the young John Jay team didn’t break their concentration and were able to get the job done to win the title. “They did a great job, I had a feeling that they would win and they did exactly what we planned,” John Jay coach Dey Dey said of his relay team. “The weather takes its toll, it was cold, they had already warmed up and the first heat was already done, but then they had to wait. The second delay was about two hours. The track was wet. Mia was the one who got us back into position. They all did great.” It was a perfect ending to a perfect year for Wasserman. With the victory in the relay, the Wolves also earned the chance to compete again at the New Balance National Championship meet on June 19-20 at the University of Pennsylvania. Wasserman was originally scheduled to compete in the U.S. under-20 championships in Oregon, but she will compete in the steeplechase and relay event instead. “The jump she made from last year is a lot,” Dey said of Wasserman. “She does everything right. In running, everything is based on training and I know she works so hard and she always tries to do extra and I have to stop her from doing too much. She did a great job in her races. They all did great. It was worth the wait. It was a great weekend and I’m happy for them.”

By JOYCE CORRIGAN “Best in Show” celebrated floral designer Consuelo Pierrepont Spitler’s arrangement, right, inspired by Heide Follin’s “Into the Blue,” left. MARGARET FOX PHOTO Photographer Robert Mapplethorpe’s confrontational nudes rendered him not only the “enfant terrible” of New York’s 1970s-‘80s art scene, but the poster child for our never-ending debates about censorship and public funding. Yet it was his flower photographs that rooted him firmly in the mainstream art world. His haunting black-and-white calla lilies, orchids and tulips distilled the same technical rigor of his provocative portraits — and made it easier for museums and collectors who were desperate to acquire “a Mapplethorpe.” “The sculptural precision and composition genius of Mapplethorpe’s flowers were on a level with classical art traditions,” said Bedford’s Jill Brooke, author of the new book “The Genius of Flowers.” “Not only were they one of the central pillars that shaped how his work was appreciated, but they played a pivotal role in photography’s full integration into the contemporary art world.” Last week, flowers in art, as well as artfully arranged fresh ones, once again elevated the museum experience. The KMA presented “Art in Bloom” from June 11 to 14. Its centerpiece was a short-run exhibition pairing floral still life with arrangements from floral designers, each tasked with interpreting a single artwork using live flowers and plants. The four-day horticultural event included a cocktail party, hands-on workshops (including floral design and garden-themed art activities), family programs, and guided experiences in the galleries and sculpture garden. A Friday panel discussion, moderated by Christopher Brescia, invited horticultural creatives including Brooke, founder of the platform Flower Power Daily, sculptor Loren Eiferman and floral designer Garin Baura to discuss their favorite topic: the power of flowers to influence art and design, and enhance the emotional lives of everyone else. “Whether seeing a floral still life, or real flowers arranged in a vase, wearing a floral print, or hanging floral wallpaper — flowers have clinically proven to be a mood lift,” Brooke said. “As a counterpoint to all the AI angst, remember that flowers have found ways to survive the dinosaurs and every climate disaster; they are the original intelligence.” “Art in Bloom” was co-chaired by artists Carol Bouyoucos and Audrey Zinman, who, as members of the Bedford Garden Club, also have serious botanical credentials. Zinman, an award-winning decoupage artist, had recently participated in a very successful “Art in Bloom” event at the Vero Beach Museum of Art in Florida. First launched at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, in 1976, “Art in Bloom” grew from an event attracting 4,300 visitors into the museum's largest annual public program (pulling roughly 29,000 last year), and has inspired similar celebrations at more than 40 museums across North America. “We thought the KMA would be the ideal venue to introduce the idea,” Zinman recalled. “The floral designers are local and the artists were all KMA-selected, so it really brought the community together.” Unlike most exhibitions that are up for months, “Art in Bloom” lasted only a couple of days, which Zinman saw as an asset. “The ephemeral nature encourages the audience to reflect on the relationship between transience and creativity,” she said. “The arrangements looked different as blossoms bloom and change, offering a new visual experience each day.” Bouyoucos, who has gained acclaim for her digitally-layered botanical landscapes, always imagined “Art in Bloom” as a feel-good endeavor. “I’m most proud that the KMA saw the potential for this,” she said. “Art and gardening enthusiasts, supremely talented flower designers, and local artists all in one joyous collaboration.” “Art in Bloom” may be 50, but according to Brooke, it’s only now coming into full flower. “Industry experts estimate that the COVID pandemic inspired some 20 million Americans to take up gardening. We finally learned to stop and smell the roses,” she said. “It’s only natural ‘Art in Bloom’ pop-ups would be such reliable audience expanders and revenue generators.”

By JEFF MORRIS The town Planning Board continues to find that there will be no significant environmental impacts from a proposed multi-use development in Bedford Village. On June 8, the board reopened its review of 633-647 Old Post Road, a mixed apartment and commercial building planned for a vacant lot next door to the Bedford Playhouse, which is also a mixed residential and commercial structure. This review was a reopening of the public hearing last opened at a special meeting on May 21 at which the board went through Part 2 of the State Environmental Quality Review Act form. At this meeting, the board began to look at the draft of Part 3. As the proposal was not the only item on the agenda, Chair Deirdre Courtney-Batson set a fixed stop time of 8:45 p.m. for the discussion. Part 3 of the SEQRA review repeated and expanded on the same areas that had been covered in Part 2, focusing on impact on land and impact on surface water. Courtney-Batson pointed out that this project was not being impacted by the changes to SEQRA included in the recently passed state budget. Courtney-Batson noted the document uses the term “the proposed action” to designate the zoning petition request to rezone the parcel from a split zoning designation of neighborhood business and R2A — residential 2 acres — to a fully NB neighborhood business designation, as well as the proposal’s construction. It also uses “the proposed project” to designate the proposed mixed-use building — residential and retail commercial — with on-site parking, a new wastewater treatment plant, and related landscaping and appurtenances. “These two issues are combined,” she said. Impact on land The board agreed that, though the proposed action may involve construction on slopes of 15% or greater that cover approximately 8.3% of the project site, with 15.6% of the site having 10%-15% slopes and approximately 76.1% of the site having 0%-10% slopes, there are no slopes exceeding 25%, meaning no steep slopes permit is required under town code. That, said Courtney-Batson, justifies saying the project has ‘'no or small impact” on steep slopes. One area the board had judged would have “moderate to large” impact was that it “may involve construction that continues for more than one year or in multiple phases.” It agreed that the nature of the site and building construction will likely result in the construction process lasting at least one year; the applicant will be required to prepare a sediment and erosion control plan and engage in other mitigation and monitoring steps. Board member Jared Antin said he didn’t see it as a significant impact. “These are all reasonable mitigations that are routine for a standard construction process,” he said, but he noted that one of the biggest impacts of the construction is also the additional traffic that it is going to cause — though that was covered elsewhere in the form. The board continued through several other areas, finding there would be little to no impact. “The conclusion for impact on land that is suggested in the draft is that the planning board finds that the proposed action will not have a significant adverse impact to the land,” said Courtney-Batson, who noted anything they say is tentative until they’ve gone through the entire document. The board agreed with that conclusion. Impact on surface water A part of the proposal that the board had judged would have a moderate to large impact was some construction within a locally regulated freshwater wetland buffer. The wetland was originally flagged in 2019, and the board noted approximately 100 linear feet would be disturbed, with the Wetlands Control Commission reviewing the project and providing additional mitigation measures. The draft noted that “the wetland and the 100-foot wetland buffer have already been disturbed by man-made activity, including the removal of vegetation, regrading of soils of a drainage channel east of the property, installation of a sewage treatment plant, underground sand filtration system, and asphalt parking lots.” Due to the already disturbed nature of the wetland and buffer, and the propagation of invasive species, “the regulated areas do not possess a high degree of functionality.” The board agreed with this. The draft goes on to describe the already disturbed wetlands buffer, the existing asphalt parking areas, and notes the majority of proposed disturbances will occur on previously disturbed lands. It notes that the existing 1970-vintage sewage treatment plant does not comply with the current New York State Department of Environmental Conservation or Westchester County Department of Health standards, and that the proposed new plant will adhere to all standards. It concludes that the effluent from the new plant will be cleaner than the currently discharged surface water. There was further discussion of details in the draft regarding stormwater discharge, runoff, and maintaining the boundaries of the 100-year floodplain; all were considered dealt with as part of the plans provided for stormwater and flood control. The board accepted the conclusion that the proposed action will not have a significant adverse impact to surface water. There were no comments from anyone in the audience or via Zoom, so as promised, the discussion and public hearing were adjourned at 8:45 p.m. They are to resume July 13.

By JEFF MORRIS Gillian Fox GABE PALACIO PHOTO A year into what she intends to be a long tenure as CEO of Caramoor, Gillian Fox spoke with The Recorder about successes, what’s coming — and some lingering frustrations. “It doesn't seem like it’s a whole year,” Fox said. “It has flown and simultaneously feels like I’ve been here forever; a very, very fun phenomenon.” The fun has been in experiencing “what a tremendously magical, one-of-a-kind place Caramoor is — and that extends to the community here. And that includes the board and the staff, but especially all of our guests, and it makes coming to work every day such a pleasure.” The challenge, and frustration, has been in combatting continued misperceptions about Caramoor — which she acknowledges remain in the community, despite redoubled efforts to spread awareness. “It’s frustrating to know there are many people who still haven’t been here in over 10 years, or whose perceptions of Caramoor date back to what it used to be like in the ’90s or in the early 2000s. Their understanding of Caramoor is not as updated or relevant today. And so that presents a challenge, right?” Fox says she really wants people to know the ways in which Caramoor is great for families, and is shouting it from the rooftops. “It’s frustrating to hear how many people still think that we only offer classical music — when classical music represents between 55 and 60% of our programming, which is significant, but there’s so much diversity of programming within that bucket.” It’s when she starts to riff on what Caramoor has to offer that Fox really gets rolling and her enthusiasm takes over. “We do so much incredible jazz and American roots and Broadway and we’re bringing back Dancing at Dusk this summer, and there’s so much opportunity for people to just explore and discover music that they might not have known that they would enjoy so much …” She is particularly excited about some of the upcoming shows at the beginning of Caramoor’s new season. “In the second week, on Thursday, June 25, we’ve got pianist Hélène Grimaud,” she said. “Hélène’s been here before. She’s actually a local resident, and the program that she is performing here, I heard her perform when I worked in Newport. So it's a really nice kind of full circle moment, and I know that that’s going to be just a total crowd pleaser.” But Fox says it’s actually Isaac Mizrahi the next night, Friday, June 26, who she’s the most excited about. “I heard him perform in New York City a couple of years ago and it was one of the most surprising shows, because he’s actually a fabulous singer,” she said. “And his storytelling! He’s so, so funny, and I think this is just one of those great unexpected evenings that I’m really hoping people come out for. Because if you haven’t been coming to Caramoor because you think, oh, they only do classical — this is a great example of why that’s not true.” Sunday, June 28, is the Knights and Conrad Tao. “The Knights have been a mainstay staple here,” Fox said. “They’re coming with Conrad Tao and performing Gershwin’s ‘Rhapsody in Blue,’ which is part of our kind of America 250 celebration,” Fox said. The first Dancing at Dusk will kick off July 8, with WindSync playing “Peter and the Wolf.” “This is another one that I feel really strongly about introducing our little kiddos to classical music,” Fox said. Need for continued support Fox said Caramoor has been supported “for almost its entire lifetime through the generosity of the community here.” She noted ticket sales barely scratch the surface of what it takes to operate an 81-acre estate and woodland gardens property. “And so we absolutely need to look at how to grow our operating budget such that we can continue to maintain and preserve this incredible place.” She said in order to do that, they have to grow their revenue streams. “Historically the giving has been a small, incredibly generous, dedicated group. To be able to extend that further into the community is I think our biggest opportunity to increase our revenue and to be able to continue to deliver more programs to everybody.” Efforts continue to work interactively with local schools. “Right now we do have our student strings program, which got us a mention in the New York Times. They went into about 12 schools in the fall and again in the spring, engaging with about a thousand children in our public school system. That has been incredibly meaningful, and we’re right now looking at ways that we can further expand our learning opportunities.” Fox says they’re finding ways to partner, not only with schools, but also with other nonprofits in the community. “I truly believe that working together, we can all be able to take advantage of each other’s strengths.” She says Caramoor’s value proposition is incredibly strong, and it doesn’t compete with other music presenters. “People aren’t just coming here because of what we’re putting on our stages, it’s the experience of what it feels like to come to a concert at Caramoor. It’s being surrounded by nature; it’s that even our biggest concerts are still incredibly intimate.” Fox thinks their biggest competition is everyday life. “We’re encouraging people to take the time out of their day to reconnect with the arts and culture, to reconnect with their families and the community at large, and kind of slow down a little bit.” Caramoor is located at 149 Girdle Ridge Road, Katonah. Visit caramoor.org for more information.

By AMY SOWDER Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard general manager Kristina Jahaly and farm manager Greg Rotter in the strawberry fields. AMY SOWDER PHOTOS Kristina Jahaly squatted down, cradling a red berry dotted with yellow-green seeds shaped like upside-down teardrops. “Isn’t that perfect?” she asked. “They’re so sweet, and you get that crunch.” Jahaly, general manager at Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard in North Salem, meandered through the 2 acres of strawberry fields on a hot, bright summery morning, plucking a berry here and there, tasting as she talked. “We don’t spray anything on the berries, so you can munch in the field,” she said. “We also pick for the store.” Harvest Moon is known for its U-pick apples, cidery, cider doughnuts, garden store, greenhouse dining space and fall, winter and spring festivities. It’s agritourism at its Lower Hudson Valley best. But come summer, the buzz is all about the berries. “We like to say they’re sun-kissed. They’re pesticide and chemical free,” Jahaly said. In June, droves descend on the farm to pluck their own strawberries each weekend. While many farmers markets and some farms, such as Rochambeau Farm in Mount Kisco, also grow and sell strawberries, Harvest Moon might be the only U-pick strawberry farm in Westchester County. “They’re easy to pick and taste good. They’re the first taste of summer,” said Greg Rotter, farm manager. This season he added about 6,000 new strawberry plants in 20 rows, planted on May 13. They grow about six varieties, including darselect, allstar, jewel, Dickens and Annapolis, chosen for taste, disease tolerance and staggered blossom times so the harvest window stays open as long as possible. That window is brief, and Jahaly hesitates to say exactly how long the strawberries will be available. It depends on the weather. Tickets — released just before each weekend — must be purchased in advance and usually sell out fast. The farm uses seaweed extract fertilizer, a natural biostimulant that improves soil nutrients and crop yields. To control weeds, Rotter rotates the strawberry patches on a three-year schedule, tills the soil after ripping out old plants to dry out mold and fungus, and plants white Dutch clover in some paths. He’s also been experimenting with hay and straw mulch over early plants instead of plastic. Using straw mulch to protect the berries and alleviate weeds is yet another old practice that’s new again. And it could be how strawberries get their name. Either that, or its name came from the Old English word “streawberige,” which describes how the plant’s runners spread and scatter (or “strew”) along the ground. “We put nothing on the veggies,” Rotter said as he stepped over a strawberry row and gazed across the fields. “That’s why you see so many weeds. At a small farm, we can do the weeding. It’s not all about dollars and cents.” And the result is a berry that tastes nothing like what you find in a supermarket. These have a floral aroma, intensely sweet flavor and a soft-but-firm bite. A little bug damage on a leaf here and there doesn’t change any of that. “You actually want the bugs,” Jahaly said. “That means no chemicals.” Besides eating them straight out of the field, the most popular ways to use strawberries include dipping them in melted chocolate, making jam, blending into smoothies, baking into desserts and tossing into leafy green salads. Or, those who want to try less obvious recipes can consider whipping up a strawberry lassi or strawberry-ginger limeade. For something savory with a twist, try a balsamic roasted strawberry and basil grilled cheese or strawberry tabbouleh. It’s a delicious way to get your recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. Harvest Moon’s paper-pulp quarts of strawberries are $12 each at the store. Tickets for the U-pick experience are $17 and include a quart of strawberries. When strawberry season winds down, July is for blueberry picking. Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard is located at 130 Hardscrabble Road, North Salem. Visit harvestmoonandfarmorchard.com for more information.