THE RECORD-REVIEW "Talk of the Town"

By BONNI BRODNICK

It’s tee time! The Pound Ridge Golf Club, which was ranked #2 in Golf Magazine’s 2008 list of “Best New Courses You Can Play,” is now open for the season. Dust off your clubs and check out this world-class layout crafted by legendary designer Pete Dye, who is considered to be among the most influential golf course architects of the last five decades.

Some of the course’s highlights include the par-3 15th hole, where you’ll find elements of natural beauty inherent to the entire property on one hole, including a tremendous rock backdrop. The par-4 5th hole puts a premium on precision and strategy, and the par-5 16th hole has an uphill length that requires careful thought for the second shot.

Until the weather warms up, first tee time is at 10 a.m. There are a limited number of golf plans and passes still available for the 2009 golf season. For more info, call the pro shop at 764-5771 or visit poundridgegolf.com and click BOOKGOLF. Reservations can be made for the entire season, and the club house is now open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. I think we can finally put winter behind us.


Take 2: It’s tea time! Get out the teacups and sugar cubes. Mrs. Larkin’s renowned scone-atopia is back. Her honkin’ scones in Wild Maine Blueberry, Cranberry-Orange and Chocolate Chip, along with her supremely addictive Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies, will be at Pound Ridge Farmers’ Market (right in front of Joan Silbersher’s Antiques & Tools of Business & Kitchen) in Scotts Corners starting April 19.

Can’t wait that long? Stop in and visit Near & Natural in Bedford Village and the Sunoco station in Pound Ridge to get an early start on munching the very finest.


Artist Wendy Moore has a new exhibit called “Light and Shadow,” which features landscapes and still lifes in oil. “The paintings include scenes of the Pound Ridge-Bedford area as well as of Nantucket--places that I love,” Wendy said. “I want to communicate on canvas the joy and excitement I feel from observing the inspiring atmospheric effects of light in nature.” Her work has a beautiful palette as you can see by going to her website, wendymoorefineart.com.

“Light and Shadow” will be at St. Paul's on the Green, 60 East Avenue, in Norwalk through to May 31. The opening reception is on Tuesday, March 31, 7-8:30 p.m. Locally, Wendy’s work is shown at the Lionheart Gallery in Pound Ridge.


Congratulations to Pound Ridge swimmer Alex Forrester who rounded out the top three butterfly winners at the Austin Grand Prix swim meet as she clocked in with touching the wall at 1:00.37.


Ever hear of chair, or sitting, yoga? It’s designed to provide the benefits of deep breathing, stretching, and strengthening to those who may have exercise limitations. It’s also a terrific form of exercise for those without limitations. The safe and gentle postures can be done at the office, on a train or plane, and if you’re brave and have lots of self-confidence, even in the dentist’s waiting room.

Curious to give it a try? Marlene Gallagher, who has taught various levels of yoga for over 7 years (and who has long been an inspiration to many), is conducting chair yoga classes at Pound Ridge Community Church. All in the community are welcome to sign up for a series of either 6 or 12 classes that meet on Tuesdays and Fridays from 12:30-1:30 p.m., beginning Tuesday, March 31. To reserve a seat, contact Marlene at marlene29@optonline.net or 232-3062.


Next Wednesday is a day celebrated around the globe with hoaxes and practical jokes of varying sophistication on friends, family, colleagues, neighbors and “Talk of the Town” readers.
To read the following missive, stand in front of a mirror. Hold up the newspaper so that “Talk of the Town” faces the mirror.

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RECORD-REVIEW "Talk of the Town"

March 21, 2009

"Talk of the Town"
By Bonni Brodnick

Pound Ridge writer Josina van der Maas is conducting a series of monthly workshops, “Writing the Memoir,” at Hiram Halle Library. Her own book, “Papa’s Papers,” a personal narrative about growing up in Holland during World War II, reveals her earliest childhood memories as idyllic. Then came mobilization, the War, the dangers and deprivations, and the difficult post-war economic recovery period. When faced with limited options for her future, Josina decided to come to the United States to attend college. The memoir ends with her arrival in New York when she was 18. It’s a wonderfully told story.

The next “Writing the Memoir” workshop—which is open to writers of all abilities—takes place on Saturday afternoon, March 28 at 3 p.m. at Hiram Halle Library. For more information, call 764-5085 or go to http://www.poundridgelibrary.org/.

My husband asked my father for my hand in marriage in the Rose Room at the Algonquin. As an engagement gift, my sister gave this newly betrothed couple a pen and ink drawing of the legendary room, complete with two cocktails on the rocks at a round table amidst the Corinthian columns, grandfather clock, needlepoint pillows and upholstered sofas. The only thing missing was The Algonquin cat. Twenty-three years hence, for some reason, it all came unglued. (The matted drawing, not the marriage.)

Elaine and Nick Vazzana, owners of the new Pound Ridge Framing & Fine Art in Scotts Corners, knew how to make it all better. As specialists in custom framing, restoration and conservation, our Algonquin drawing is back on the mat.

Pound Ridge Framing offers a wide selection of Larson-Juhl frames and sells gifts, fine crafts, glassware, and limited edition Giclees. Nick, who was formerly a television news reporter and founder of a multimedia publishing company for the school market, is also an artist. He caringly restores paintings, as well as creates his own (which are on display and for sale, which is another reason to stop by the shop.)

While you’re there, take a peak at his book, “Van Gogh in Paris”—a history/fiction blend that tells the transformation of the artist during his two years in Paris. Nick incorporates his knowledge of the masters and creates texture and passion to Van Gogh’s fascinating life.
You’ll get the whole picture when you go to Pound Ridge Framing & Fine Art at 69 Westchester Avenue, on the left side of the building from Pinocchio’s Italian Restaurant. Call 764-3401 for more info.

“Duck, the Other Meat” is the upcoming Albano’s Appliance showroom continuing education and cooking class on Tuesday, March 24 at 7 p.m. Chef Jehan deNoue will demonstrate butchering and dressing the bird, along with the preparation of house-cured duck prosciutto in salad, duck confit with risotto, and duck magret with orange sauce.

To sign up for what promises to be a truly ducky evening, call Patty at 764-4051.

High school seniors across town are anxiously waiting the next mail delivery. Why? Oh, just because one of the letters might be completely and mind-blowingly life changing. College acceptance/rejection letters will be here any day. (Is this why my special senior is slightly nerve-wracked at the moment?)

“If you’re a graduating high school senior who has done worthy community service, take your mind off of the mailbox for a moment. Distract yourself by filling out an application for the Pound Ridge Lions Club Annual Community Service Awards. Deadline for submission is April 3. If you need an application, check with your high school scholarship chairperson or the guidance department. You may also receive an application form by contacting Lion Vivian Falco at vivian.falco@gmail.com or by calling 764-4988. The generosity of the Pound Ridge Lions Club extends near and far. (RRrrrrrroar.)

Our town library is special for a myriad of things, but one of them recently is a unique, hand-decorated silver tree ornament placed by an anonymous library angel on a bush on the left by the walkway. The silver ball has a handwritten message, “Friend of a friend.” Rumor is starting to circulate that if you touch the ball, good cheer and friendships will come your way. (And there’s no late fee.)

RECORD-REVIEW "Talk of the Town"

By BONNI BRODNICK

Are you dyeing? Are you suffering from fried hair, too? Are you seeking coiffed redemption? Hair stylist Robert Ciri is doing a new extensive process for re-conditioning hair with Aestelance moisturizing products. It’s been a long winter. Treat yourself to a deep treatment so that you don’t have to duck the paparazzi in Scotts Corner Market. To miraculously beautify thyself, make an appointment with Robert at 764-4077.

Joe Cavise, Pound Ridger and artistic director of Off Center Dance Theatre (OCDT), will host the 7th Annual Invitational Dance Concert on Saturday, March 21 at 7 p.m. at Rye Country Day School’s Dunn Performing Arts Center. Joe’s troupe—which includes Camille Swersky, a fellow Pound Ridger and Fox Lane high School student—will hoof it with other dancers from NYC’s Arts in Motion (AIM), New England Academy of Dance, and members from Connecticut Ballet.

Joe, who has been hailed as “Westchester’s Dance Man” by nationally published Dance Teacher Magazine, has a career that spans 30 years, including a 4-year run with the original Broadway cast of “Cats.” Dance Cavise, whose studio in Mamaroneck is now in its 20th season, has both on-stage and in-community presence. The company will offer a complimentary performance for invited youth and senior groups on March 21 at 4:30 p.m. Interested groups can arrange tickets by calling Gina at OCDT at 381-8080.

Proceeds from a silent auction during the two March 21 performances will benefit the troupe’s interactive outreach projects for various organizations throughout the Tri-state area, including those serving children at risk.For information on tix for either the complimentary or evening performance, visit www.dancecavise.com.

Did you know that the Pound Ridge Neighbors and Newcomers Club isn’t just for newbies? (Ann Johansmeyer has been a “Newcomer” for 20 years.) The primary mission of the group is to help foster relationships among folks in the community.

The non-profit group hosts fun social events and casual get-togethers, like seasonal parties, book clubs, wine tastings, and the ever-popular “Real Men Do Cook.” Club members include singles, couples, families, empty nesters, and new residents.

Next on the docket is the PRNNC Annual Wine Tasting on Thursday, March 19 at 7 p.m. Come join hosts Gem and Pete Chema, and organizers Janice Bergstein and Kathy Boyle, for a culinary tour of fine Spanish wines led by Tish, who is celebrated for pairing wine and fun since the 20th century. Imbibing attendees will have an opportunity to purchase wines featured that evening for a discount. There will also be a Spanish “pot-luck” dinner, so please bring a tapas.

Take a trip to Spain without the hassle of JFK for a mere $30 per couple and $20 per individual. For more info, contact Janice (at 714-0403 or jbergstein@houlihanlawrence.com) or Kathy (at 517-4200 or kboyl@chapinhill.com).

If you’re looking for something crazy to do, but don’t want to go too far over the line, head north to Croton Creek, a charming steakhouse and wine bar in a restored 100-year-old building in Croton Falls. Two of my fave gal pals took me there for a b-day brunch and the food/company was savory indeed.

On Thursday, March 19 at 7 p.m. at Croton Creek, Collin McLoughlin will perform new music from a second CD, some from his first CD, and a few covers in an unplugged coffee house-style performance. This young musician writes beautiful, soulful songs that stay with you. If you see me driving around in a red Mini Cooper, and my lips are moving but no one is in the car, I’m likely singing along to “You Had Your Shot” blaring from the iPod.

For more info on Croton Creek and Collin’s upcoming appearance, call 276-0437 or go to www.crotoncreek.com. To memorize some of his lyrics before the gig, check out http://www.myspace.com/collinmcloughlin.

Have you ever stood in a pub, or a patch of clover, and thought, “Why am I here?” Or worn a button that says, “Erin Go Braugh” and felt like a culchie for not really knowing what it means? (When I was in grammar school I thought the phrase was something racy about going bra-less. You live. You learn.)

There’s a new product called “Instant Irish Accent Mouth Spray.” One spritz and you instantly have an Irish brogue. Woah? That’s right. According to the label, “It activates invisible language receptors in the mouth” and in seconds you, too, can have a flawless accent straight from Blarney. Just in time for St. Patrick’s Day.

THE RECORD-REVIEW "Talk of the Town"

By BONNI BRODNICK

Richard L. Major, Pound Ridge historian extraordinaire, has just come out with a wonderful book, “A History of the Betsey Hunt House.” Published under the auspices of the Nancy Wasserman Memorial Fund for the Pound Ridge Historical Society, the book lovingly shares the history and mystery of the home in which Dick and his wife, Joan, moved into in 1962.

The Betsey Hunt House, located in the historic district of our town’s hamlet, is on the State and National Register of Historic Places. After years of intensive research, Dick learned that the house was built between 1777 and 1823. He brings the readers on an inquisitive journey that not only introduces us to (among many) Betsy and Alsop Hunt, Major Ebenezer, Lewis, Horatio and Ezra Lockwood, but also shares with us two interesting coincidences: “My wife and I were married at the Presbyterian Church, Fifth Avenue and 12th Street, NYC. This church was the successor of the Wall Street Church of which Betsey Hunt was a member from 1811 to 1827. Secondly, my great-great grandfather, William Waring, on my maternal side, was a third cousin to Betsey Lockwood Hunt.”

A History of the Betsey Hunt House,” which is illustrated with archival documents, newspaper clippings, portraits and photography, is $35 a copy and can be purchased at the Pound Ridge Museum on Westchester Avenue.

Remembering friends’ birthdays is always special. Joan Silbersher, along with friends and neighbors of Robin Hood Road and Sherwood Road, do it right with a thrice-annual “Ladies of the Neighborhood Birthday Dinner.” In February, May and September, the gals gather to celebrate birthdays in that part of the year. Everyone chips in $10 for birthday cake, and the remainder goes towards a Poundridge Nurseries gift certificate to the hostess.

The tradition began in 2006 when Barbara Earle arranged a neighbors’ dinner to celebrate Joan’s birthday. “It was a wonderful idea and a most pleasant evening,” she said. “It was natural to parley the concept into a continuing series, gathering and celebrating birthdays.”

Today the group includes February revelers Donna Carlson, Toby, Morris, Lynn Botsford, and SaraAnne Grossman; May celebrants Lillian Petruccione, Philippa Perry, and Ann Gastrich. Barbara, Linda Goldman and Joan take the cake in September. The lovely Phyllis Berman, who passed away in February, was also member of the group and will surely be missed for her spritely spirit and great conversation.

Longtime film buff Norman Senior has put together a list of feature films for the Hiram Halle Library 2009 Winter Film Series that were the last made by leading actors. This year focuses on a central theme called “Swan-Song Films.” (Whenever I see the word “swan” in the same sentence as “film,” I think of singer Bjork wearing that infamous gown to the Academy Awards in 2001. Do you remember that magic moment on the red carpet?)

On Friday, March 13 at 7:30 p.m., grab a seat for “The Straight Story,” starring Richard Farnsworth in his last flick. With a tent to sleep under and riding a lawnmower for transportation Alvin (Oscar nominee Richard Farnsworth) sets out to cover the 300 miles to his estranged brother's house in a five week-long journey of healing and remembrance. The film, by director David Lynch, celebrates the unshakable determination of a human spirit and the lasting bonds of family. For more info, go right back to that phone and call the library at 764-5085 or go to http://www.poundridgelibrary.org/.

March = St. Patrick’s Day = four leaf clovers = the Girl Scout trefoil = Girl Scout Cookies. Get my drift? It’s time to order your annual supply of Peanut Butter Patties and Thin Mints. Those are my personal faves, but there are also Samoas, Trefoils, Do-Si-Dos, Tagalongs, Lemon Cremes, and Sugar Free Chocolate Chip. A new cookie for 2009 is the Dulce de Leche with milk caramel chips and stripes.

The cookie sale theme this year is “Cookies 4 a Change.” As part of this, the girls in Laura Henry’s troops #3001 (3rd grade) and #2929 (4th grade) will also take orders for Operation Cookie Drop which sends Girl Scout cookies to U.S. military personal serving in our country and abroad.

Girl Scouts will be taking orders until March 23. Get off your sit-upon and contact your favorite local Girl Scout or Mrs. Henry at donhenry@optonline.net. Cookies are $3.50 a box and will be delivered in April.