July 29, 2011

RECORD-REVIEW "Talk of the Town" - July 29, 2011


By BONNI BRODNICK


Next time you’re in Scotts Corners, take a moment to visit Plum Plums Cheese Shop to see the new exhibit by Pound Ridge artist Jay deVeau. It's an amazing and inspiring story that brings his work to the fore. Jay grew up with his three brothers and two sisters on Highview Road, but unlike his siblings, he wasn’t interested in art until an event changed his life. “In 1984, I had a terrible car accident that limited my physical ability. I found that one of the only things I could do was paint pictures,” Jay wrote in his artist statement. “It’s fun to see how I’ve improved over the years and how that improvement ‘spurs’ me on,” he continued. “Painting pictures and then writing about them has made me feel productive even though I have a disability. Originally I thought that I had to restore myself physically to even think about working, but as time passed, I finally found something that I could do and be proud of.” The Jay deVeau exhibit, curated by Lisl Steiner Monchek, will be at Plum Plums starting August 6. Stop by and be inspired by this extraordinary painter from Pound Ridge.


Feeling frisky? Want to take a fashion foray with Boho, city, or 70s chic jewelry? How about going Resort Ready with turquoise sea drop earrings, a Birds of Paradise necklace or colorful enamel bangle bracelets? Does a Marrakesh bib necklace sound in order? Carol Piscatelli, a former Wall Streeter and financier, loves jewelry and design and has found the perfect match as a kingpin stylist with Stella & Dot jewelry. “It’s a terrific line that has a broad spectrum of styles, from delicate to funky to big and bold,” said Carol, who has partnered up with Jill Bergman, who represents Arbonne, a Swiss skin care line made from luxurious botanical ingredients. (In learning more about this line that uses only organic extracts of such things as cucumber, birch leaf, watercress and clover blossom, am I one of the only people who didn’t know that some mascaras are made from guano, a.k.a. bat poop? I’m never using mascara again. Ever.) For more info about Stella & Dot jewelry, including setting up your own Stella & Dot business, social network marketing, and upcoming trunk shows, go to www.stelladot.com/carolrose or contact Carol directly at carol4rose@aol.com. To learn more about Arbonne skin products that help revitalize, hydrate and protect your skin (and who doesn’t need that at this point in the summer?) go to www.jillbergman.myarbonne.com.

Pound Ridge Library is planning for the future and you can be part of it. The Board of Trustees and staff request all in the community to take a brief survey to voice your opinion about future Library services. It’s easy as pie. Go to www.poundridgelibrary.com. See the top paragraph? Hit the link for the “website survey.” It can either be completed online or printed and returned to the Library. Paper versions of the survey are also available at several locations throughout town, including the Town House, Key Bank and Scotts Corner Market. “Feedback from our residents and library patrons is not only valuable, but vital,” said Library Director Marilyn Tinter. “Their input is an important and valuable resource as we continue to seek ways in which we can improve library offerings that benefit the entire community.”
... And while we’re on the topic of our wonderful town library and community, “Talk of the Town” sends a warm welcome to the new Interim Principal of Pound Ridge Elementary School, Tim Gembka. He has generously offered to appear at the Library during some of the upcoming children’s events so that he can meet parents and PRES students before first day of school. (I didn’t say those last four words.)

July 24, 2011

RECORD-REVIEW "Talk of the Town

July 24, 2011

"TALK OF THE TOWN"
By Bonni Brodnick


Don’t miss the Pound Ridge appearance of the Malcolm Moore Band and the debut of their new album, “Reanimation,” a mystical journey based on dreams and the supernatural. The eight original compositions that tell the tale of spiritual renewal will be performed at North Star Restaurant on Thursday, July 28 at 9 p.m. by Malcolm—in all lead vocals, drums, percussion and sequencing—along with his four band members Alex Kelley (guitar), Karl Sterling (drums), Sally VanHarken (backing vocals) and Jim O’Mahony (keyboard). Grammy Award nominee Roman Klun produced “Reanimation,” which has been called “spectacularly transcendental,” “truly divine,” “extra sensorial,” and “a sonic feast for the imagination.” If you’re out of town and en vacance this week, “Reanimation” is available at CD Baby, Amazon and iTunes. (When you receive it, take note of the beautifully designed cover, which includes an acknowledgement to the very special Shirley and her inspiration, “Every day is beautiful.”) For more information on “Reanimation,” check out www.malcolmmooremusic.com or the artist page at the record label, www.innsbruckrecords.com/theartists/malcolmmoore.

Many thanks to our cub reporters at Pound Ridge Pool for keeping “Talk of the Town” in the loop. We just learned that Joanne Johnson, the Pound Ridge Dolphin’s new undefeated head coach, has said she is so impressed by the swimmers who rise to the challenge of “swimming up.” The term is when the team does not have enough swimmers of a certain age category and Coach asks a younger swimmer to jump into the older category to save giving away valuable points to the other team. One swimmer in particular, Leni Hibler, has displayed great effort in the face of swimming up. He has lived in Pound Ridge for one year with his mom, dad and four siblings … all water lovers. Kudos from the bleachers to this young athlete for his determination to be such a dependable team player. Point in fact: a swimmer in a freestyle race for Leni’s age group would have to swim one length of the pool. When Leni is asked to “swim up,” he eagerly swims FOUR lengths of the pool … and occasionally against 18-year olds. Oh, and did we mention that Leni is 9?

Have houseguests coming to town this weekend? Treat them to something especially Pound Ridge-ish with delicious butter-rich Mrs. Larkin's Scones. Her yummilicous selection includes Wild Main Blueberry, Chocolate Chip and Cinnful scones. Some of the rotating flavors are Grains, Seeds & Berries; Cranberry-Orange; Rhubarb; Lemon-Poppy Seed; Lavender-Blueberry; and Lemon-Ginger, and her famous Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies. All of the baked goods are made by hand from natural ingredients, in small batches, by the lovely Mrs. Larkin herself. In addition to being available at Pound Ridge Sunoco snack shop, Erica's Kitchen in Bedford Village, Frannie's Goodie Shop in Mount Kisco and Farmer's Table in New Canaan, Conn., you can find the renowned scones and cookies at the Pound Ridge Farmers Market (hosted every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. by Joan Silbersher’s Antiques & Tools of Business & Kitchen on Westchester Avenue), or on Saturdays at the John Jay Farm Market on July 23rd, September 24 and October 15 beginning at 9 a.m. Special orders can be placed a week in advance by contacting Mrs. Larkin at 764-7699 or mrslarkin@mrslarkins.com.

Just when you thought the sight of Pound Ridge in July was about as beautiful as it gets, stop in to Plum Plum’s Cheese Shop on Westchester Avenue to see a selection of photographs by Curtis Lew. Currently on display is his “Designed by Nature” series of botanical photographs, as well as three shots from his “Americana” group, which feature shots of elemental American architecture. For more inspiration, go to www.curtislewimages.com and be sure to turn up the sound. You’ll be enchanted by both the imagery and the perfectly curated accompanying music.

July 16, 2011

RECORD-REVIEW "Talk of the Town"

By BONNI BRODNICK

The Pound Ridge Dolphins are in full swim. Each meet features special diving and swimming events and at each event, a selected announcer gives the play-by-play lap-by-lap. The recent “Voice of Pound Ridge” (VOP) announcing the dives and scores was first timer, Matt Schwartz, who recruited fellow lifeguards Jen Dillane and Kylee Hanson to assist. Pool Director Stacey Schriro worked the skedge to allow Matt time to serve as VOP while performing his other duties as lifeguard. What does one need for this frontline gig? Great calm. The job can be stressful as announcer’s attempt to read numbers and names of divers amidst splashing water and flying score sheets. Matt was a top VOP because of his remarkable unflappability. The divers won their portion of the meet and the Pound Ridge Dolphins went on to win the entire competition against our good neighbor, Bedford Village. The Dolphins are showing real kick as they launch another great season of swimming and diving.

The July issue of NoBluesNews is up. Grab your laptop and go to http://www.nobluesnews.org to tune into this monthly non-profit publication that compiles happy heartwarming stories of inspiration. This month, some of the NoBluesNews stories include “Simple Satiating Solutions: A Man Who Uses His Noodle,” “A Very, Very Fine House: These Roses are Sweet as Can Be,” and “Random Hacks of Kindness: Caring that Computes with Us.” Check out Aelita Andre’s recent paintings, and be sure to get to page 9 for the incredible surprise. Wander more through the website and the “Book of Quotes” section that talks about times when you overhear people saying quotable, sometimes hilarious, things that you might not remember the next day. Point in fact: the other day I was at a local Starbucks and an octogenarian was perusing a recent issue of People magazine. With great seriousness she commented on The Duchess Kate’s fashion sense, Kate Hudson’s new baby boy, Victoria and David Beckham's new baby girl, Angelina Joli’s lip/face and J Lo’s hip/waist ratios. It was priceless. Many thanks to NoBluesNews.org founder Dana McCorvie for her focus on levity. And you can quote her on this: “Relax. Enjoy. Smile. Connect. Grow. Life is what you make it. Make it good.”

Be sure to check out the upcoming exhibit, opening on July 23 at Pound Ridge Library, “Shelters, Caves and More,” which features drawings, paintings and small installations by Susan McCaslin. The work is inspired by the Leather Man, a local vagabond famous for his handmade leather wardrobe of hat, scarf, clothes and shoes. He spent the last six years of his life traveling the same circuitous route every 34 days, a 365mile route that passed through at least 41 towns between Connecticut and New York, and sleeping caves and shelters along the way. Even though the gentleman, whose real name is thought to be Jules Bourglay of Lyons, France, did not speak to people, many fed him and helped him survive. In my book, “Pound Ridge Past: Remembrances of Our Townsfolk,” former Pound Ridger Malcolm Fancher recalled, “My Aunt Evelyn used to tell me about how the Leather Man would come to the house. He lived in the hills, traveled all around the county, and stopped by houses. People would give him food. Apparently he had a bad love affair in France and he came over here … People weren’t afraid of him. He’d just come for food and be on his way.”

McCaslin finds her inspiration from the Leather Man's legend. She is drawn to everything from his solitary nature to his few possessions, such as cups and pipes, which he fashioned from cast off metals. For more information on this fascinating exhibit, call the library at 764-5085 or contact susan@susanmcclaslin.com. The text that accompanies her artwork will surely give viewers an historical perspective on the curious tale of the Leather Man.

July 10, 2011

4th of July in Pound Ridge

BEDFORD RECORD-REVIEW / "Talk of the Town" - July 10, 2011

By BONNI BRODNICK

The 4th of July festivities in the Town Park were held on a perfect summer evening. Many had staked their spots on the field during the afternoon and began floating in a few hours before dusk for picnicking and rendez-vousing with friends and neighbors. The fireworks, which were particularly excellent this year, blazed the sky to ooohs, ahhhs and wahoooos from the crowd, many of whom were sporting the patriotic red, white, and blue. “I love the fireworks,” said Michelle Horan, age 6. “They’re different colors and they all pop out.” Her friend, Clare (“No ‘i.’”) Patterson, also age 6, said, “I love the 4th of July because my family can celebrate it with me. I love my family and I love celebrating with my brother, Bradley. He’s 5.” Nora Dockter, a 4th grader, was readily prepared for the fireworks with big headphones. Her little sister, Lucy, had “neon squooshable earplugs, the kind that you squeeze into your ears, and then they puff up. The fireworks can damage your hearing, you know.” She also wanted to note that Lucy’s birthday was July 5 “… so it’s like the fireworks are for her.” (Happy birthday, Lucy!) A group of 8th graders summed up the evening. “It makes me happy to see all the people come out to support the town,” said Aaron Winkler. His pal, Emmett Robbins added, “The 4th of July is a great time to bond with my friends and family. It’s just a good time to LOL.”

There are many organizations doing quietly noble things for our community. One that hovers at the top of the list is the Pound Ridge Lions Ambulance Corps, comprised of 25 dedicated volunteers. At the ready, the corps has two ambulances, is primarily funded by contributions, and receives no funding from any governmental agency. New members and financial support are always needed and welcome. It’s a terrific volunteer opportunity, and many of the college kids who enlist for the summer as EMTs are inspired to pursue med school. “It’s really nice to have the kids on the team when they’re in town,” said Marty Kremer, captain of the Ambulance Corps.
At the recent Lions Club Park dedication on Westchester Avenue (check out the innovative, well-designed slate benches), we also caught up with Elaine and Larry Smith, Ambulance Corps volunteers for the past 40 years. She recounted how the first ambulance was a used Cadillac from Mount Kisco and that headquarters was in a little tin shed behind Albano’s Appliance. The town is currently awaiting the arrival of a brand new ambulance. The current one, which is about 10 years old, is being donated—complete with stretchers backboard, bandages and spare tires—to a small rural community in coal country. “This ambulance has served Pound Ridge well. By giving it to another community, it’s a win-win for all of us.”
The PR Lions Ambulance Corps is especially in need of volunteers during the daytime. For background information, go to www.townofpoundridge.com/emergencyservices/pound-ridge-lions-volunteer-ambulance-corps. You can also contact from Captain Marty Kremer at 764-1505 or martykremer@optonline.net, or President Tammy Rainford at 764-9107.

A new cycle has officially begun in Pound Ridge. On Westchester Avenue, next to Pound Ridge Wines and behind Pinnocchio Pizza, Spin Cycle Spin + Fitness Studio is open and a seat awaits you. Lara Keidel Gentile, owner and certified spin instructor is a therapist and fitness instructor with a specialty in eating disorders, addictions and mood disorders. After a 10-year career as a psychiatric social worker, she came to the field of fitness seeking to change her lifestyle as well as continue helping people to achieve their goals. “She is such an effective motivator no matter what level of fitness you are,” said spin-ee Elizabeth Harrington. “Lara took me—someone who feared spinning—to a full convert.” Spin Cycle offers introductory classes for those who have never tried spinning and want to check it out, to full-blown expert level. In addition to group classes, semi-private and private sessions are also available. In all settings, you will receive individual guidance and attention. And first classes are always free. For more information on the schedule, check the website, www:spincyclepoundridge.com, or contact Lara directly at lara@spincyclepoundridge.com.

Seeking a good read poolside, at the beach, en vacance or while waiting to pick up the children at day camp? Pound Ridge Library will have its summer Book Sale at the library this Saturday, July 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Books galore for adults and children. Let them stack up, too. Summer is the best time to delve in to reading for pleasure.

July 6, 2011

Jewels of July

Extol the beauty of summer. Celebrate having a summer cocktail on the patio with someone you love. Embrace that the deer aren't decimating your garden. Watch the lightening bugs fire up at sunset. Sip summer. Live the dream.

July 3, 2011

Summertime in Pound Ridge

THE RECORD-REVIEW
"Talk of the Town"
By BONNI BRODNICK


Come gather ye patriots, ye family and friends. Take note that the summer is in its full swing. Around you are gardens in full bursting bloom. The fireflies illuminate the dark of the night, and the summer is a happenin’. So pull out your calendar for the days to come and note Saturday’s feast of activities. In the morning at 9, get ready, start, go on a 5k-road race that boasts a new course. Start in the Town Park, and you’ll end there, too, for a route that takes you from Westchester Avenue into Scott’s Corners, through one of the parking lots behind the business district, return to the Avenue until you reach Fancher Road, where you’ll jump on the bike path and race down the marked route of endurance. Land right at the park where you’ll finish on the field. And what if you’re no runner but you want to have fun? Fast and slow walkers are welcome, too. ... Don’t go away, there’s much more to do. There will be fireworks at dusk for the annual Independence Day. You can stake your place in the Town Park at around 5-ish, so bring a blanket and picnic. Meet up with good neighbors and friends by the score to watch fireworks light up the sky. Yes, the summer is a happenin’.
The Pound Ridge Garden Club is here for us just when things start to heat up. As we bask in the sun and refresh with iced tea and lemonade, don't forget your gardens need refreshment, too. Here are some tips to keep plants well hydrated and beds free of invaders through summer: A deep soaking twice a week is far better than daily top watering. It's also a good idea to water in the early morning. This enables the leaves to dry during the day. If you water at the end of the day, leaves will be damp all night, encouraging the growth of damaging mildew. This is especially true for vegetable plants such as tomatoes, beans and cucumbers.

Don't get lazy about the weeds. Pull them out before they can go to seed and vastly multiply. Keep an eye out for invasive plants, too. You can find lists of these on various on line gardening and nature sites, and some of the plants listed may surprise you. Berberis, or barberry, which is commonly used in local landscaping due to its hardiness and deer resistance, is now considered an invasive. Birds eat berberis berries and thus spread the seeds, leading to overgrowth in our woods and along roadsides, which crowds out native plants. Another important seasonal tip: Don’t forget to smell the roses.
Three cheers to the Pound Riggers (and my fellow crew mates)—Kathy Petreski, Jennifer Stahlkrantz, Ann Marie Drpich, Joyce Matern, Eva Lozina, Mea Sgaglio, Pamela Kushner and Jennifer Chernus—for taking up the challenge of crew. It was a pleasure to row with them and we actually made it to the finish lines on race day. For a number of reasons these women rock: all are well into their 40s and most in their 50s, and they took up the sport with enthusiasm to try a new physical challenge. Amidst crazy schedules with work and children, they were dedicated to showing up for practice two nights a week at Norwalk River Rowing Club. On beautiful evenings in the harbor, the Pound Riggers watched one another’s backs as a team. Christine Drpich, just back from Rollins College for summer break, was our steady coxswain who showed patience and fortitude as she steered and coached us about location on the course, stroke rate per minute, and calling power 10s at just the right moment. As the team cut the waters and blistered their hands, counting on one another to pull together in every way, there was no half-derriere effort from anyone. Every single rower gave it her all … every single practice. Go Pound Riggers!

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