SeniorVoice Winter 2017-2018
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TAKE HOME
WESTCHESTER
Connecting BOOMERS and SENIORS to the Best Local Information
23 Great Ways to Spend Your WINTER DAYS The BEST
EXERCISE for a Healthier Life Planning for a
LONGER
Retirement Preventing Financial Abuse
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Enjoy a Mini Vacation in Scarsdale
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from the publisher
SeniorVoice WESTCHESTER
Sure, we could enter another winter season listless and melancholy about the prospect of cold, short, dark days and what our heating bill is going to look like. But how about turning those misconceptions on their head - with positive thinking! That's exactly the mindset we had when developing the content for this issue. And I believe we've delivered on that goal. First, we kick off this issue with a wonderful piece about how our local libraries are reinventing themselves (page 8) as community centers. No longer "just" a place to take out books, there is extensive programming at many libraries, affording all sorts of opportunities from hands-on crafting to lifelong learning. We hope you will feel inspired to check out your town's library or even one in another town (really, that's okay) to meet new people or to simply participate in an organized activity. Next up - to help you make the most out of the season - is our 23 Ways to Spend Your Winter Days (page 12). Here, you'll find a selection of fun, doable ideas to bring some added warmth into your life. Compiled by our regular columnists Ali Jackson-Jolley and Maryanne D’Amato, there is something here for everyone: from maple sugaring, cooking classes and a new luxury cinema to chocolate cruises and curling! And it doesn't end there. I'm pleased to share with you my day at The Culinary Institute of America (page 16). You may know them for their restaurants or for their student chefs. But did you know about their one-day and weekend cooking and baking classes, where people of all ages who love to cook or want to learn to cook (or bake) can come for a truly unique experience? If that's still not enough to take your mind (and body) away from the cold, check out our expanded calendar of events (page 32): from support groups, mall walks, and live comedy to concerts, soap-making workshops and musicals. Finally, join in the spirit of this season and every season by "paying it forward." Turn to page 21 to find some volunteerism suggestions: bound to keep you busy, help others in our community, and warm your heart. Happy Holiday Season! As always, wishing us all love and peace,
Susan E. Ross Publisher and Certified Senior Advisor® publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com
PUBLISHER
Susan E. Ross publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com 914.380.2990
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Susie Aybar Adria Goldman Gross Morris Gut Ali Jackson-Jolley and Maryanne D’Amato Lisa Keys Susan G. Parker Colin Sandler Alice Tseng Paul Tramontozzi To the professionals, businesses, services, medical practices and others who are receiving single or multiple copies of this magazine: This magazine has been provided free and we encourage our readers to take the copy home with them so they can refer to it for future use. If you would like to receive additional free copies for your clients, patrons, or patients, please let us know. To our readers: We are able to publish and distribute this magazine through the support of our advertisers. Please let them know you reached out to them because of Westchester Senior Voice. Opinions expressed in articles appearing in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Publisher is not responsible for errors in advertising or claims made by advertisers. We do not knowingly accept any advertising that violates any law. Opinions, articles and advertising appearing in this magazine should not be construed as endorsement by the Publisher of any product, service, or person. Volume 2.5 Winter 2017-2018 Copyright © Voice Media LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Westchester Senior Voice Print ISSN 2469-5203 Online ISSN 2469-5211 Publishing Quarterly plus an Annual Guide Find us for free in close to 1,000 locations throughout Westchester or online at: www.WestchesterSeniorVoice.com
We welcome your feedback, inquiries, and submissions via email or USPS. We reserve the right to publish all letters to the editor and/or publisher without approval of the sender. VOICE MEDIA LLC WESTCHESTER SENIOR VOICE PO BOX 301 WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605
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SENIOR SERVICES AT PHELPS HOSPITAL Phelps Hospital offers a wide range of inpatient and outpatient services designed specifically to meet your needs. Senior Health physicians and nurses specialize in: • treating conditions of the older adult • preventing the functional decline that often occurs with age • evaluating memory loss For more information about our geriatric services, call 914-366-3677. Phelps is a NICHE hospital (Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders). That means our hospital nurses have specialized training in: • caring for the elderly • promoting sensitivity to the aging process among staff • recognizing age-related changes • communicating with patients and their families • providing mental and physical stimulation for patients while hospitalized Vitality offers programs that address the physical, psycho-social, spiritual, emotional and intellectual needs of the older adult. Programs include The Breakfast Club, Mind Games and Senior Steps (free monthly health screenings). For information on Vitality programs, contact Ellen at 914-366-3937 or ewoods3@northwell.edu. 701 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 www.phelpshospital.org
contents Winter 2017-2018
Photo: The Culinary Institute of America
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TOP IDEAS FOR WINTER FUN
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FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD
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EXERCISE AND OTHER HEALTH NEWS
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our advertisers 25 agewell new york 29 alice tseng, reverse mortgage professional 39 bethel homes and services 17 braemar at walkill 23 brightview tarrytown 25 burke rehabilitation hospital 27 burke rehabilitation hospital 11 caremount medical 9 concept care 20 crickett care 21 dorot westchester 33 elder care connection 20 fieldhome 9 firstlight homecare 7 giannasca & shook, pllc 19 the knolls 31 medicaid solutions 35 my second home 30 nancy gould, long-term care insurance 5 phelps hospital-northwell health 2 the plaza at clover lake 11 premier residences of yonkers 33 rideconnect 7 riverspring health-hebrew home 35 seniors helping seniors 21 susan parker, esq. 3 tranquility spa 39 vna of hudson valley 27 wartburg 40 waveny lifecare network
westchesterseniorvoice.com
We've pulled together a potpourri of great ways to spend some winter days. Check out our selection and start filling in your calendar because there's something here for everyone!
Read about Susan's day at The Culinary Insititute of America in Hyde Park (p. 16). Learn more about meal kits: the latest cooking craze that eliminates the hassle of shopping (p. 18). And, of course, find great new recipes from our food blogger (p. 38).
A comprehensive article on how exercise can be your key to a better life, as explained by area experts. Plus a look at what you should know about hepatitis C.
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departments 8 spotlight: your local library 22 wellness advocate: exercise 24 health & wellness: boomers and hepatitis C 32 entertainment and community calendar 38 in the kitchen: garlic-nut biscotti columns 10 community: rideconnect 20 the seasoned palate: french cuisine 26 legal matters: financial elder abuse 28 money matters: housing planning 29 home equity advisor: medical expenses 30 medicare advisor: original v. maps 31 medicaid advisor: pooled income trusts Westchester Senior Voice connects boomers and seniors with the local professionals and businesses that serve them. Within our pages, we aim to inspire, educate and exchange information in an embracing, respectful and Inclusive way.
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Learn more about how we can help you live forward at 800.56.SENIOR or by visiting riverspringhealth.org. winter 2017-2018
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spotlight
It's All Happening At Your
Local Library! By Susie Aybar
avocation she developed many years ago as a way to de-stress after work. According to Carolyn Reznick, director of the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library, “Many of the folks who come to our programs are officially seniors. But I would rather describe them as recently retired, still very active Baby Boomers for whom the library is a place to meet people, indulge in deferred interests, and stay active and stimulated.”
Pictured here: Susan Liss (l) and Donna Giarnieri (r) at the Water Color Painting group at the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library in North Salem
or decades, Denise Wells did not F have much time. Each day she left her North Salem home at 5:00 a.m. for work in New York City and returned at 6:00 p.m.. She retired last year from her job as the Bursar for Queens College at CUNY. Soon after, she began reconnecting with her community by spending time at her local library in North Salem. She started volunteering at the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library and now attends a watercolor painting group. Libraries across the county are ramping up their class offerings and no longer consider themselves only a place for
people to come to borrow books. They provide valuable programming to all age groups and have become a social center in their communities. The painting class at Ruth Keeler began last spring and is now facilitated by Nina Bertolino, a local artist. The group gathers weekly and, depending on the weather, paints inside the library or outdoors in its picturesque backyard. The class is not exclusively for retirees, but many older adults attend given its mid-morning time slot. Denise enjoys the group because it enables her to socialize while also dedicating time to her watercolor hobby: an
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Ruth Keeler has numerous options for boomers and seniors. There are history and fiction book groups, as well as a writing workshop run by Westchester writer, Ali JacksonJolley. Also, there is a gardening club and a Mahjong drop-in time. The library has services such as homebound book delivery and free Medicare presentations by Westchester Seniors Out Speaking.
Wendy Archer, the adult services manager of the Scarsdale Public Library, says that Scarsdale Library has become more of a gathering place over the past several years. Archer believes that the library’s space and programs are essential in supporting the Scarsdale community’s values of “lifelong learning and community involvement." Scarsdale Library has a variety of programs. These are sometimes coordinated with the local Scarsdale Seniors group. Some of the library’s most well-attended programs are Nancy’s Book Group (a monthly book club with over 30 members), an adult coloring program, and a film program.
winter 2017-2018
or decades, Denise Wells did not have much time. Each day she left her North Salem home at 5:00 a.m. for work in New York City and returned at 6:00 p.m.. She retired last year from her job as the Bursar for Queens College at CUNY. Soon after, she began reconnecting with her community by spending time at her local library in North Salem. She started volunteering at the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library and now attends a watercolor painting group.
Caring for You & Those You Love, in Home & Hospital Settings
Libraries across the county are ramping up their class offerings and no longer consider themselves only a place for people to come to borrow books. They provide valuable programming to all age groups and have become a social center in their communities. The painting class at Ruth Keeler began last spring and is now facilitated by Nina Bertolino, a local artist. The group gathers weekly and, depending on the weather, paints inside the library or outdoors in its picturesque backyard. The class is not exclusively for retirees, but many older adults attend given its mid-morning time slot. Denise enjoys the group because it enables her to socialize while also dedicating time to her watercolor hobby: an avocation she developed many years ago as a way to destress after work. According to Carolyn Reznick, director of the Ruth Keeler Memorial Library, “Many of the folks who come to our programs are officially seniors. But I would rather describe them as recently retired, still very active - Baby Boomers for whom the library is a place to meet people, indulge in deferred interests, and stay active and stimulated.” Ruth Keeler has numerous options for boomers and seniors. There are history and fiction book groups, as well as a writing workshop run by Westchester writer, Ali Jackson-Jolley. Also, there is a gardening club and a Mahjong drop-in time. The library has services such as homebound book delivery and free Medicare presentations by Westchester Seniors Out Speaking. Wendy Archer, the adult services manager of the Scarsdale Public Library, says that Scarsdale Library has become more of a gathering place over the past several
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community
Changing Lives...
One Ride at a Time By Susan E. Ross
hen David Bubser's wife passed away, he sunk into a deep depression. To make matters worse, his declining vision meant that he could no longer drive. To pull himself out of it and to get his life back, he turned to RideConnect, a program of Family Services of Westchester that relies on volunteers to provide free rides to people aged 60 and older.
Pat Keane, a volunteer driver and retiree from Bedford Hills, has observed that loneliness and isolation are common themes among the clients, adding that "I get as much out of it as they do." Another volunteer takes an older couple to visit their daughter who is in a nursing home with early-age Alzheimer's. RideConnect is the only way this couple has to visit their daughter on a regular basis.
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Bubser now uses the ride service not only to get his shopping done, but also to get to his volunteer position at My Second Home, an intergenerational adult day program that his wife had attended. According to Karen Ganis, the director of RideConnect, "Dave is a poster person for paying it forward; he now volunteers and changes other people's lives." Because of Bubser's story and others, RideConnect was awarded the 2016 Star Award for Merit by the National Volunteer Transportation Center, in recognition of RideConnect's excellence in helping people maintain their independence and quality of life. Ganis points to another client, a 101-year-old woman who has outlived her husband, children, and siblings, saying, "She has us [RideConnect]." RideConnect volunteers drive clients wherever they need to go within Westchester County (some also go into southern Putnam County, Greenwich, and New Canaan): to veterinary appointments, the library, exercise class - not just to doctors appointments. "If all we do is take people to the doctor, they're
RideConnect now operates with 200 volunteers - up from 100 just a year ago. In 2016, the not-for-profit handled 15,971 rides and referrals, and RideConnect volunteer Joanne Zavadosky drives Mario 2,200 clients. That's the reaSpartos to visit his wife, who resides in a nursing home. son Ganis easily offers this observation: "All of our volunteers not really living," says Ganis. Nancy Kessler, are angels here on earth; each volunteer is a volunteer driver and the owner of Memoirs Plus, says she loves the fact that she doesn't paying it forward in a really big way." provide rides only to medical appointments: Despite a steady increase in volunteers, "I take people to the grocery store, the hair RideConnect still has to turn away about salon, the senior center to play bridge." 100 people a month who are seeking rides. The organization is happy for volunteers Volunteers build relationships with the people they drive. Unlike sitting in the back to take on as many or as few rides as they seat of a taxi, with someone who's not nec- can manage. Says Ganis, there are teachers who volunteer only in the summer; essarily communicating with them, drivers engage with their riders: listening to stories others provide rides only in the evening, on about who they are and what they've done. weekends, or once a month. But each one makes a difference, one ride at a time. For volunteers and clients, the ride itself is n n n a social opportunity, a way to connect with Volunteer drivers for RideConnect are others in the community. Plus, volunteers subject to a criminal background check help defray living expenses for those on and a DMV check. Once on board, they a fixed income. Taxis from town to town, even within towns, can be costly. A $50 taxi are assigned a user ID and password, and can self-assign their rides. To volunteer or ride to get groceries can be a burden, and to inquire about rides, call 914-242-7433. grocery delivery defeats the purpose of Visit their website to learn more: www. enabling people to get out and about and rideconnectwestchester.org to feel a part of the world.
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OUR VIEWS ON SENIOR LIVING
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f you could take a snapshot of any given day here, you’d find a lot going on. Join weekly news discussions and art classes with exhibits by talented resident artists. Jewelry-making classes with friends who are the real gems. Movies in the Cinema Room, higher learning in our Computer Center. Weekly ‘retail therapy’ outings and of course, Happy Hours with live music on Thursdays. It’s the social life you’ve always wanted, at the affordable price of your dreams.
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A FIVE STAR INDEPENDENT, ASSISTED LIVING AND MEMORY C ARE COMMUNIT Y
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TO n THEnWATER nTAKE n ME n n n n (Rye Brook)
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Never learned to swim or want to improve your skills? This program, at the gorgeous indoor Doral Arrowwood pool, will provide a full body workout and give you a huge head start for summer. (646-480-2118; takemetothewater.com)
23 Great ways
A MAZE IN POTTERY (Briarcliff Manor)
to spend
Feeling crafty? For a creative afternoon, drop into this paint-your-own studio with over 300 pieces of pottery to choose from (starting at as little as $4 per item). Go solo, bring a partner or organize a friends afternoon in the studio. And perfect timing for that special Valentine. (914-502-0088; amazeinpottery.com)
PLANETARIUM AT THE HUDSON RIVER MUSEUM (Yonkers)
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Bundle up for a wintery walk on this former railroad bridge-turned-walkway which extends 212 feet above the river. At 1.28 miles, this is the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world! And there's more... nine Discovery Zones, including Little Italy and Highland Landing, will make for a greater experience. (walkway.org)
Why schlep to the city to see a great show when we’ve got this fun alternative in our own backyard? Broadway caliber talent, free parking and dinner - all for an easy to digest price. Winter shows include Annie Get Your Gun, The Christmas Voyager, and A Chorus Line. (914-592-2222; broadwaytheatre.com)
When bookstore meets full-service restaurant, you get Barnes & Noble Kitchen: the brand new B&N concept store in Westchester. Grab a meal, a glass of wine or craft beer, or just a cup of something hot, then hit the stacks in search of your next read! (914-723-3416; barnesandnoblekitchen.com)
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WALKWAY OVER THE HUDSON (Poughkeepsie)
WESTCHESTER BROADWAY THEATRE (Elmsford)
BARNES & NOBLE KITCHEN (Eastchester/Scarsdale)
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Get out of the cold and into the Hudson River Museum. which includes Glenview Mansion, a historic 1870s structure overlooking the Hudson River, multiple art galleries, and everyone’s favorite — the planetarium, where you can catch a star show every weekend. (914-9634550; hrm.org)
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n n n n n n FAHNESTOCK WINTER PARK (Carmel)
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Head to Clarence Fahnestock State Park where you’ll find 11 miles of well-groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You can rent equipment there and enjoy a cup of hot cocoa at the warming hut. (parks.ny.gov/parks)
Your Winter Days By Ali Jackson-Jolley and Maryanne D’Amato
COOKING CLASSES AT SUR LA TABLE (White Plains)
THE ARDSLEY CURLING CLUB (Ardsley)
Learn to whip up some cozy comfort food this winter at Sur La Table in the Westchester Mall. Participate in a “handson” class or catch a demonstration class... and watch one of Sur’s talented chefs work their magic. Classes, offered at a variety of times and starting at only $69, emphasize technique and are limited to 16 participants. (914-220-9816; surlatable.com)
PINOT'S PALETTE (Tuckahoe) Hankering to explore the painter in you? Under the tutelage of a professional artist or art student, come paint and sip one of the select wines - or just paint - during a two or three-hour session. The studio is open for early evening classes on Wednesdays through Sundays as well as on Sunday afternoons. (914-3804801; pinotspalette.com
Since 1932, this local club has been running curling leagues and classes. Check out this Winter Olympic sport, which dates back to medieval Scotland, and involves ice, brooms, and polished stones. Need more of an explanation... think shuffleboard on ice. Meet other interested people in their senior’s league. (914-591-8019; ardsleycurling.com)
MAPLE SUGARING AT WARD POUND RIDGE (Cross River) Come mid-February, maple sugaring season begins! At the Trailside Nature Center in Ward Pound Ridge. you can try your hand at sugaring every Saturday, then reap the rewards at season’s end with a pancake and sugaring-off party. (914-864-7322; friendsoftrailside.org)
BEAR MOUNTAIN INN & SKATING RINK (Bear Mountain) Spend a few hours perfecting your figure-8s at this awesome open-air public rink. Then head up to the lodge for an adult hot chocolate made with peppermint schnapps. (bearmountainicerink.com) winter 2017-2018
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YEAR-ROUND FARMERS MARKET (Pleasantville) When the earth is frozen and the last of the fall harvest is long gone, the Pleasantville Farmers Market moves indoors to the Pleasantville Middle School Cafeteria. On Saturdays, beginning in early December, you can comb the heavenly supply of fresh fish, indoor-grown produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, organic meats, and more. (pleasantvillefarmersmarket.org)
BRUNCH AT RESTAURANT X (Congers) If football isn’t your idea of a perfect Sunday, how about an extra special brunch with a side of rustic charm? Grab a table by the fireplace at Restaurant X and let your taste buds bask in the bevy of silver tray laden culinary delights! (845-268-6555; xaviars.com) Prefer to stay in Westchester? Take in the stunning scenic Hudson River views at another Peter X. Kelly restaurant: X20 on the Hudson, in Yonkers. (914-965-1111; xaviars.com)
HARBOR LINE TASTING CRUISES (NYC) Climb aboard a classic yacht for one of a variety of fun and interactive tastings this winter. Departing from Chelsea Piers, choose among Wine, Cheese, Chocolate!; Romantic Reds and Deep Dark Chocolate; Champagne Valentine's Day Cruise; and Holiday Wine Tasting. They also offer winter sightseeing cruises, hosted and narrated by a member of the American Institute of Architects. (212-627-1825; sail-nyc.com)
ROCKEFELLER CENTER CHRISTMAS TREE (NYC) The annual grandaddy of all tree lightings takes place on November 29th this year—but you can visit this magnificent specimen of holiday cheer all season long. Stick around to watch the skaters or lace up and get out there. (rockefellercenter.com)
RISE ABOVE FLOTATION (Mt. Kisco) The next time you need a break from it all, try the Tranquility Pod, a specialized sensory deprivation chamber, designed to create deep relaxation. Visit Rise Above Flotation to empty your mind and let it all melt away as you float in this zero-gravity environment. (914-241-1900; riseabovefloatation.com)
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IPIC THEATER (Dobbs Ferry) Give your Netflix account the night off and head over to this new luxury cinema in Dobbs Ferry. It’s got in-cinema dining, creative cocktails, and reserved luxury seating for ultimate comfort. (ipictheaters.com)
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TRANQUILITY SPA (Scarsdale) Enjoy a luxurious facial treatment, body polish or massage, a Massage For Two with your partner, or treat yourself to “A Day of Pamper.” Try Dermaplaning to manage fine lines and help lighten age spots, and Hydrafacial to infuse your skin with moisture during this dry winter season. Open 7 days. Gift Certificates for all services now available online. (914-713-0066; TranquilitySpa.com)
AFTERNOON TEA AT THE PIERRE (NYC) Sip your winter blues away while enjoying a fine selection of teas, scones and sandwiches at this somewhat pricey, but oh so lovely indulgence, at the legendary Pierre. If you want to go all out, we suggest the Royal Tea Service which includes a glass of bubbly. (212-940-8113; thepierreny.com)
iFLY WESTCHESTER (Yonkers) Want to go skydiving but not interested in risking life or limb? Check out iFly indoor skydiving, at Ridge Hill Shopping Center, where you can slip on a flight suit and enter a vertical wind tunnel which simulates a true free fall experience without the plane! (914-449-4359; iflyworld.com/ westchester)
FOOTBALL AT THE POURHOUSE (Ardsley) Looking for the great place to catch some Sunday football? Try the PourHouse, where you can grab some lunch and all the action of the season on one of the 13 HDTV’s.(914-693-9707; ardsleypourhouse.com)
SPRINGWOOD: HOME OF FDR (Hyde Park) Take a tour of this Hudson Valley landmark which was home to our 32nd President. FDR was born, raised and is buried on the grounds of Springwood. The fascinating guided tours offer so much more than a history lesson and the grounds deliver spectacular winter views of the mighty Hudson River! (845-229-9115; nps.gov)
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photo: courtesy of The Culinary Institute of America
Cooking Enthusiasts Meet Up in Hyde Park
My Day at the Culinary Institute of America
Chef DelleRose
asil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, parmesan cheese. Those are some of the ingredients that go into making a healthful pesto sauce. You can follow an online recipe, buy a jar at your local market, or experience the joy of creating your own as part of a cooking team at one of the country's foremost culinary schools. Roughly 60 miles north of central Westchester, The Culinary Institute of America is home to over 2,700 full time students and also offers a full roster of year-round learning opportunities for day and weekend visitors.
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On a sunny Saturday morning a few months back, I drove from White Plains to the sprawling 170-acre CIA campus in Hyde Park, NY, arriving in about 70 minutes: just in time for freshly baked muffins, croissants and coffee before classes began. I took a seat among the weekend cooking warriors who were gathered in Roth Hall - a former Jesuit novitiate, to share some eats before everyone headed off to the cooking course they had signed up for. Along with 13 other participants registered for the Healthy Cooking At Home course, led by
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By Susan E. Ross
Chef Paul DelleRose on this day, I headed over to a corridor of professional kitchens. Our assigned kitchen, with its oversized refrigerators, ovens and stovetops, was equipped with everything needed to create an afternoon meal. In our case, that amounted to an abundant 14 dishes. Other food enthusiasts followed their teaching chef to cooking classes in Mediterranean Cooking, Italian Cooking at Home, Everyday Grilling (a seasonal offering) and CIA Favorites. There was a Young Chefs course for parents/grandparents and kids, as well as a variety of baking
winter 2017-2018
BRAEMAR AT WALLKILL
| SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR ASSISTED LIVING Since opening in 2015, Braemar at Wallkill has provided Hudson Valley with a new experience in assisted living. Located on a beautiful six-acre property in Middletown, NY, with convenient access to Highways 17 and 84, Braemar at Wallkill offers seniors the best in care at an equally attractive price. Visit us today and see the comforts and programs that make Braemar at Wallkill a true home for our residents. 21 Riverside Drive | Middletown, NY 10941 845-695-5600 | Wallkill@BraemarLiving.com www.BraemarLiving.com courses including Everything Chocolate, Pies and Tarts, and Gluten-Free Baking. My fellow participants in Healthy Cooking arrived alone and in groups for the one-day course: a young man who was a professional cook in North Carolina; a mom with her three grown daughters from Pennsylvania; a woman from a nearby town and another from Florida; a couple from Connecticut; and, of course, a few of us from Westchester. Skill level among the group ranged from novice to professional. The commonality among us came from the desire to learn and to expand our cooking repertoire: whether that meant acquiring skills or reaching beyond our standby recipes. The class kicked off with Chef DelleRose demonstrating how to make whole wheat ravioli, with a white bean and kale filling. DelleRose has been at the CIA for 10 years and says that the institute is "trying to move to more health-forward, health-conscious" cooking through the use of substitutions: the ravioli affording an example of this new cooking philosophy. After a unanimous thumbs-up tasting, the 14 of us split into groups and headed over to our work stations, where we donned our CIA-provided chef hats and aprons.
I teamed up with Maureen and Elaine and, at our cooking station, we assessed how to proceed with our assigned recipes: sautéed turkey kibbe kebabs; eggplant purée; hummus; and coconut macaroons. Healthy cooking with a Mediterranean flair. Maureen was less comfortable in the kitchen than Elaine and I, and didn't consider herself much of a cook. Not yet, at least. But it was all about the interest in learning, taking joy in the process, and having fun. The three of us found our groove and were soon checking our recipes for flavor, modifying and substituting spices and, on occasion, seeking out Chef DelleRose and his two assistants, who were unfailingly friendly and helpful as the day progressed. After each team completed their dishes and placed them at the buffet spread, we filled our plates with everything from asian grilled shrimp and buckwheat noodle salad, zucchini and chickpea tagine with couscous, and cocoarubbed pork tenderloin to the kibbe kebabs with eggplant purée, stuffed poblano peppers, chocolate polenta pudding cake, and more. With bountiful plates in hand, we headed back over to Roth Hall with our class to en-
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joy all the food made in our kitchen. Along the way, I was stopped by a young man from the Italian Cooking class who gleefully suggested that I marvel at and partake of the selection of foods on his plate. As we sat to enjoy the rewards of our efforts, Chef DelleRose thoughtfully shared what he enjoys most about teaching at CIA by saying, "I like to interact with people, show them the craft - what we do." He emphasized that his passion is cooking with eclectic flavors and seeking out global, fun foods to prepare and serve. And the participants in our class? The ones I spoke with, whatever their level of cooking, were eager to return for another class. Maureen wants to come back for Soups, as does Jane. Elaine, who's already taken five day classes at CIA, expects to return - perhaps for (Baked) Christmas Gifts. Me? I'm thinking about cake decorating - something far outside my skill set so why not! n
n
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Learn more about the CIA offerings by visiting their site www.ciachef.edu (once on the site, enter 'food enthusiast courses' into the search bar) or calling 845-452-9600.
westchesterseniorvoice.com
HERBED CHICKEN OVER ZUCCHINI RISOTTO Pictured: a Hello Fresh recipe card featuring herbed chicken over zucchini risotto
with Shallot and Blistered Tomatoes
The 411 on
Meal Kits Cook at Home Without the Shopping! HELLO
ZUCCHINI RISOTTO
Y
Shallot
Lighter than the rice-based version ou've hearing a lot supermarket. You will, however, need to butprobably just asbeen creamy and comforting
Zucchini
Chicken Breasts
Sour Cream
(Contains: Milk)
that would normally be difficult to figure when cooking on your own or eating out.
Whole
about Blue Apron and other meal kit do the cooking and clean up! companies, especially now that Amazon is Dill Grape Tomatoes Herbs de Itallian Cheese Blend 510benefits to ordering getting this business. what exactly CALORIES: There are many from a Meal kits provide an easy way to socialize MIN PREP: MIN TOTAL:But 10into 35 (Contains: Milk) Provence is a meal kit and might it be something meal kit delivery service. First, you can exwithout the expense of a restaurant. Since one you'd like to try? plore a variety of ethnic dishes without inmeal delivery equates to two servings, sharing vesting in pricey ingredients you may never time in the kitchen with a partner, friend or 35.13 Herbs de Provence Chicken Breast_NJ.indd 1 Meal kit companies deliver, right to your use again - such as fish sauce or exotic neighbor to prepare a home-made dinner can home, [almost] all the ingredients needed spices. You also receive the exact amount take the hum-drum out of an uneventful day. to prepare one or more meals that you've of the needed ingredients so there is no selected from their website. Recipe cards wasted food. Moreover, the recipes are There have been a lot of entrants into the to cook the meals are included in the professionally developed and the step-bymeal kit market - some have already come food delivery package and, typically, the step instructions with accompanying photos and gone - and it can be confusing which only ingredients not included in a meal are easy to follow. These meal kit services service to choose as the offerings are simikit are salt, pepper and cooking oil. So, also provide a much-needed remedy for lar. There may be a few bells and whistles when you order from a meal kit compeople who cannot get to the grocery store to differentiate them, including the types of pany, you are getting the exact amounts - or simply don't want to go. And recipes meals and the number of meals you need of what you need without going to the are marked with calorie counts: something to order. To bring customers on board, westchesterseniorvoice.com
18 winter 2017-2018
(Conta
The Knolls is the right size…in a perfect place. Wl Welcome tto Th The Knolls, K ll a senior i living community set amidst the striking natural beauty of Westchester County, where you’ll:
•
Remain close to family and friends, and close to everything you know and love about New York
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Find the right mix of amenities, services, programs, dining options and residence choices
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Enjoy life in a large, thoughtfully designed apartment, at a great value
many of these companies are sending discount coupons into your mailbox and promoting similar offers online. So keep an eye out for deals. Here are some better-known meal kit companies you may want to consider:
Appreciate the sponsorship of Bethel, a not-for-profit organization serving Westchester County seniors for more than 100 years
•
Love the assurance of a full continuum of healthcare services, available on campus
Perfect time to save thousands! This is an ideal time for a move to The Knolls. Our prices have never been lower and now represent Westchester County’s lowest cost of entry into a full-service CCRC.
we took a look, the offerings included balsamic fig chicken, parmesan-crusted fish with herbed potatoes and carrots, and creamy mushroom pork chops. You can select either three or four meals a week, with three meals/ six servings coming in at about $60.
MARTHA & MARLEY SPOON
BLUE APRON
(www.blueapron.com) Blue Apron promises meat with no added hormones, farm-fresh seasonal produce, and sustainably-sourced seafood. New recipes are created by their culinary team each week. A recent viewing of selections included Korean beef steam buns, roasted cauliflower pasta, and cornmeal-crusted shrimp Po' Boys with heirloom tomato salad. Price per serving starts at $8.99 per meal. Shipping is free.
HELLO FRESH
•
(www.hellofresh.com) Hello Fresh offers three meal plans including a standard one for two people, with a variety of meat and fish, and a veggie plan for two, with plant-based proteins and grains. The Hello Fresh marketers remind us that they're interested in making cooking fun, with dietitians creating new recipes each week. When
(www.marleyspoon.com)
Martha & Marley Spoon stands out as the celebrity meal kit company, with recipes from Martha Stewart. While they offer a subscription model like the other meal kit companies, you can also find single meals (two servings) like Moroccan spiced chicken with vegetables on Amazon.com, starting at $24 ($12/serving). Martha offers vegetarian and gluten-free meals. On the Marley Spoon site, you can order as few as two meals (four servings) per week for $48, with free delivery. As with the other meal kit services, you can skip weeks or cancel.
CHEF'D
(www.chefd.com) Chef'd differentiates itself by offering "meal solutions" that have been developed in collaboration with Weight Watchers to reflect their point system; the American Diabetes
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Call 914-721-0855 today to request a FREE Information Kit.
Valhalla, NY 10595 914-721-0855 • TheKnolls.org
Association for people living with diabetes; and Atkins for low carbohydrate meals. Orange beef stir fry, Polynesian steak with sweet potatoes, and kale, shrimp and quinoa salad were recent offerings. You can order as few as one meal (two servings) a week for about $24-$26. And for a small premium, you can get fish for every meal - that comes to about $82 for three meals (about $14 per serving). Chef'd provides free shipping and incentive discounts for ongoing orders.
PLATED
(www.plated.com) Plated's twice a week or more service allows you to skip weeks, swap recipes or cancel, and is good for every cooking level. First-time users can take advantage of incentive pricing that will significantly lower the $12 cost per serving. Some of their "back by popular demand" recipes include fish tacos and the Cuban beef bowl. There are dessert add-ons such as Snickerdoodle blondies which will take 30-40 minutes to prepare but are considered "easy" to make. Other meal kit companies to check out include: Home Chef, Sun Basket, Purple Carrot (which are plant-based meals), and Munchery.
westchesterseniorvoice.com
the seasoned palate
La Panetière Marks 32 Years
A Not-for-Profit Community of Caring Services
Field Home–Holy Comforter
Adult Day Care Short-term Rehabilitation Skilled Nursing Respite Hospice Care
The Seabury
Assisted Living
Memory Support
Respite
The Early Learning Center
On-Campus Intergenerational Child Care
By Morris Gut It was like taking a mini-vacation. Pulling up to La Panetière in Rye, I reveled in the lush flowery landscaping now taking on the hues of fall and the charm of entering the beautifully decorated dining room. I had not dined at proprietor Jacques Loupiac’s 32-year-old bastion of French cuisine on Milton Road in quite some time. I was looking forward to the experience.
On the border of Yorktown and Cortlandt Manor 2300 Catherine St., Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567 914-739-2244 www.FIELDHOME.com
J
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WHO WILL CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES WHEN YOU CANNOT?
A licensed home care services agency.
m
Assistance with activities of daily living.
m
Accompany clients on errands, appointments, outings.
m
We can help at home (private residence, assisted living facility, independent living facility), hospital or nursing home.
m
Private pay only, but we can also work with your Long Term Care Insurance provider.
J
m
www.crickettcare.info • info@crickettcare.com
I chose to visit for lunch when the house offers a reasonablypriced option: two courses for $25 or three courses for $32. For openers, I ordered a glass of Sauvignon Blanc that fit this mild late summer afternoon perfectly – with the help of Stephane, the maître d’. A good crispy small baguette and butter in a ramekin was delivered warm to my table. First course: a duet of red beet roots and Granny Smith apples, green mustard sorbet and a green herb salad. It rocketed my palate to foodie heaven! So refreshing and flavorful. Main course: sautéed Atlantic Halibut, one of my favorite fish, layered with basil crust, yellow wax beans, snow and sugar snap peas. Delicious!
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winter 2017-2018
For dessert: Napoleon of Arlette Biscuit with raspberries, chiboust cream and mixed berry coulis. A wonder of rich flavors! My compliments to Chef Dean Loupiac. Each course had been artfully plated. Gazing around this beautiful dining room during my meal was also pleasurable. It felt nice to be pampered a bit in the Gallic way, and proved to be the best way to visit Paris without leaving Westchester. Some points to take note of: The dress code has been relaxed so smart casual is fine. A new vegetarian menu has been added for those so inclined. And a three-course Sunday brunch is now offered from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. for $40 per person plus tax & gratuities. Brunch includes a complimentary glass of wine, Prosecco, or Bloody Mary. La Panetiere is located at 530 Milton Road, Rye. The restaurant is open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, Monday evening thru Sunday. Closed Monday afternoons. Lovely private party facilities. Catering. Bar/lounge. Take out. Major credit cards. Ample parking. Reservations advised. Phone: 914-967-8140. n
n n
Morris Gut is a restaurant marketing consultant and former restaurant trade magazine editor. He has been tracking and writing about the food and dining scene in greater Westchester for 30 years. He may be reached at 914-235-6591 or gutreactions@ optonline.net
Paying it Forward
House calls from a lawyer?
Volunteer Opportunities In and Around Westchester
Whether you have a lot of time on your hands or not so much, Westchester abounds in opportunities to pay it forward and give back to the community. Here are some organizations that could use your help:
AFYA Foundation
Inventory, sort and pack medical and humanitarian supplies, to be shipped to partners around the world, from this Yonkers warehouse. (afyafoundation.org)
Dorot Westchester
Help older adults as a friendly visitor or by delivering holiday packages. Cook for the homeless, join other volunteers to knit and crochet afghans... and so many more ways to help. (dorotusa.org)
Food Bank for Westchester
Volunteer on your own or bring a group to help in their warehouse or at events, and you can be part of providing the equivalent of six million meals annually. (foodbankforwestchester.org)
Guiding Eyes for the Blind
Volunteer for any one of a number of programs: from home litter care and early training and socialization to puppy raising and kennel assistance. (guidingeyes.org)
Mount Vernon Star Scholars
Mentor volunteers advocate for select students, helping with the admissions process and accompanying them on college visits. (mountvernonscholars.org)
Neighbors Link
The organization supports the integration of immigrants into our community, from ESL tutor-
ing to parent-child development classes. (neighborslink.org)
NYS Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
Volunteers advocate for and resolve problems for residents living in nursing homes and adult care communities. (914-682-3926)
Score Westchester
Do you have the skills - in marketing, IT, finance, etc. - to help small business owners succeed? Provide leadership and make new friends. (scorewestchester.com)
We take pride in providing excellent legal service—anywhere. Our specialties include elder law, Medicaid planning, estate planning, probate, and business matters. For more information, contact us today for an affordable consultation.
Susan Parker Esq. PC (914) 923-1600 susan@susanparkerlaw.com 520 N. State Road – Suite 301A Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510 www.susanparkerlaw.com
Tarrytown Music Hall
Volunteers scan tickets, usher patrons to their seats, and may help with the concession tables. They might also assist with painting and building maintenance. (tarrytownmusichall.org)
LOOkIng FOR The PeRFeCT maTCh? DOROT has Friendly Visiting and other volunteer opportunities
Transportation Volunteerism
RideConnect (rideconnectwestchester.org) and Westfair Rides' (westfairrides.org) volunteers drive people to medical appointments and other activities. You must have a suitable car and clean driving record.
Volunteer New York!
This organization is a hub for hundreds of volunteer opportunities in Westchester and the surrounding counties, whether your passion is to help youth, the homeless, caring for animals or the environment, and more. ( volunteernewyork.org)
Yonkers Partners in Education
Become a volunteer tutor with YPIE and help students with homework, prep for the Regents, and improve their grades. (Ypie.org) winter 2017-2018
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DOROT’s Friendly Visiting Program matches volunteers with older adults for weekly visits. Let us create the perfect intergenerational match for you. For more information about programs including visits, package deliveries, and Intergenerational Chess, visit us at dorotusa.org/westchester or contact our DOROT Westchester Director: Cippi Harte 914-573-8906 pcharte@dorotusa.org
westchesterseniorvoice.com
wellness advocate
Exercise Your Way to a Better Life By Susie Aybar “What happens if you are a ‘couch potato’ and you don’t really move about and all of a sudden you have to really exert yourself? It can be very dangerous because the heart is not used to it,” says Dr. Li. A person’s heart rate and blood pressure might shoot up with even slight activity.
BENEFITS OF EXERCISE
Tai Chi class at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, with instruction from Lisa Rawson - owner/director of Westchester Tai Chi Center, Inc. eople are living much longer these days. Sixty is truly the new 40,” states Dr. Yan Li, a cardiologist with Phelps Medical Associates/Northwell Health. As we grow older, there are gradual changes in many of our body systems and structures. Regular physical activity, combined with a proper diet, can delay these changes and slow the progression of many medical conditions.
Mobility also changes as we age. As Jock Avolio, MD, PhD, a physiatrist and Medical Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Phelps/Northwell Health suggests, older adults may not exercise if they are in pain due to arthritis. Heart disease or diabetes can also influence someone's ability to be active. And cognitive changes, such as depression, can rob a person of the energy and the desire to exercise.
The amount of blood a person’s heart pumps per minute (cardiac output) decreases with age, making it harder to get oxygen to the brain and organs. Kathleen Siegel, an exercise physiologist and Director of Community Wellness at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in White Plains, says, “Sedentary behavior or lack of physical activity can accelerate declines in physical function. If you don’t use it, you lose it.”
Additionally, it is normal to lose muscle mass as we age. Peak bone mass is reached at age 30 and, after that, we start losing bone. This can sometimes lead to osteoporosis, making falls especially dangerous. Since balance starts declining in middle age, falls are more likely as well.
"P
Cardiovascularly, we can become deconditioned if we don’t exercise regularly.
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The benefits of exercise are numerous. According to Dr. Avolio, “Physical activity gives people a better likelihood of aging with less impairments and aging - physically and cognitively - with good function.” Physical activity can increase strength and endurance. Exercise improves posture, flexibility, bone density, and balance, which all make falls less likely. This is especially important since of the 300,000 people over age 65 who are hospitalized each year because of hip fractures - 95% of which are due to falling (according to the Centers for Disease Control), 50 percent of them are not able to live independently after their injury. Exercise helps lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar. This decreases the risk for a heart attack or stroke. Dr. Li suggests
Exercise Tips
•Any increase in physical activity is beneficial. •Start gradually and build up slowly to prevent injury. •Stay hydrated. •Get a simple piece of exercise equipment and watch a favorite movie or television show while exercising. Exercise with a buddy. You are more likely to continue an exercise routine if you have the support of family or a friend. Use a gadget such as a Fitbit to set goals and to give you incentive to continue.
• •
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that people with coronary artery disease, heart failure or heart arrhythmia can keep their conditions in check and might improve them with regular exercise, preventing surgical procedures and reducing medications. Physical activity can decrease mild depression and anxiety, ease stress and improve sleep quality. It can increase feelings of self-worth and improve cognition. Taking an exercise class can decrease feelings of social isolation.
TYPES OF EXERCISE According to Siegel, it is important to have diversity in your exercise program. "Incorporating different modes of exercise not only keeps it interesting but challenges your body to adapt differently.” Below are exercise recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine. Always check with your doctor before you start an exercise program, especially if you have a medical condition. 1. Aerobic/ Cardiorespiratory Exercise Adults should try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week (either five 30-60 minute sessions or three 20-60 minutes of vigorous intensity exercise). Use the “talk test” to determine the intensity of your exercising. Moderate intensity means you should be slightly out of breath but can hold a conversation. Vigorous intensity means you may only be able to speak a few words before gasping for air. Always make sure to warm up and warm down before and after aerobic exercise to prevent injury. Walking and swimming are good examples of aerobic activity. 2. Strength Training/ Resistance Exercise Adults should train each major large muscle group two to three days per week using exercises or machines. Older adults should start slow and do very light
intensity training. Two to four sets of each exercise helps build strength. For each exercise, doing 10-15 repetitions improves strength in middle age and older adults. Doing 15-20 repetitions will improve muscular endurance. Muscles need to recover for 48 hours in between workouts.
Brightview. Bright
Life!
3. Flexibility Exercise Flexibility exercises improve range of motion of joints and helps posture in older adults. They should be done two to three days each week. Each stretch should be held 10-30 seconds until the point of slight discomfort and should be repeated two to four times. Warming up the muscle with light activity or a warm bath will make this training more effective. Yoga and swimming help with flexibility.
Lives
Inspiring Bright for All Our Residents
4. Neuromotor Exercise or Balance Training Exercises involving motor skills (balance, agility, coordination, and gait) should be done two to three times weekly (20-30 minutes per session). Using a stability ball, walking “heel to toe,” or standing on one foot are simple exercises to help with balance. Tai Chi and yoga also improve balance, and help prevent falls. Dr. Avolio believes that people are more likely to stick with an exercise regimen when they actively participant in planning it. States Dr. Avolio, “No matter what your level of activity is and no matter what your previous exercise history has been, if you do physical activity and incorporate those elements [balance, strength training, flexibility and aerobic fitness], you are going to improve [your health].” n n n
Discover exceptional senior living for Mom and Dad • Respectful, customized care • Cultural and social events • Experienced associates • Luxury amenities • Gourmet meals • Specialized dementia care neighborhood Call Marianne or Kaitlin to schedule your personal visit.
914.400.1284 581 Old White Plains Road Tarrytown, NY 10591 www.BrightviewTarrytown.com
Susie Aybar, BSN, MFA, is a writer based in Westchester County. A published poet, Susie facilitates a “Healing Through Writing” class for people who are affected by cancer at Gilda’s Club in White Plains. winter 2017-2018
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health & wellness
ion l l i M 5 . 3 ns America
Health Alert
Hepatitis C
isk: R ' s r e Boom e likely 5x mor
By Louis Aurisicchio, M.D., FACG
epatitis C, a primary liver infection, H kills more people in the United States than any other infectious disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Yet testing for the presence of infection has remained woefully low, particularly among one of the country’s most vulnerable groups – Baby Boomers: those born between 1945 and 1965. Nearly 20,000 Americans reportedly died from hepatitis C-related disorders in 2015, and most of them were age 55 or older. Lack of patient and physician awareness of the need to screen for the virus, along with the disease’s “unapparent symptoms” are among reasons cited for lagging screening rates, even though the United States Preventive Services Task Force, in 2013, advised testing of all baby boomers for underlying infection. A July 2017 report in American Journal of Preventive Medicine indicates that 80 percent of the 3.5 million Americans who have chronic hepatitis C infection are baby boomers, and most of them are unaware they have the virus. Unfortunately, hepatitis C screening rates increased only slightly – from 12.3 to 13.8 percent -- in the two years following the national task force recommendations. Baby boomers are reportedly five times more likely to have been exposed to the virus, because they lived at a time when blood transfusion, injection procedures, and screening processes were not as advanced as they are today. To complicate matters, the hepatitis C virus was not clearly “discovered” and identified until 1989.
ABOUT HEPATITIS C Like any other type of hepatitis, infection with hepatitis C results in liver inflammation. Although the infection begins as an acute disease, from which some people may recover, the majority of patients become chronically infected. In fact, the virus is usually present for years in a patient without causing symptoms. The disease is linked to the development of life threatening disorders, including: cirrhosis of the liver, liver failure and liver cancer. Recent studies also have reported an association between the hepatitis C virus infection and an increase in miscarriages, premature ovarian deterioration, low birth-weight babies and cases of pre-eclampsia during pregnancy, as well as Parkinson’s disease and other neurological disorders. Contaminated blood is the primary source for transmission of the virus. Today’s bloodscreening practices make risk of infection through blood transfusion very low. However, the disease can be spread through: the sharing of personal grooming items like nail and cuticle clippers and razors, including those used by salons and barbershops; improper sterilization and reuse of equipment for tattoos and piercings; long-term dialysis treatment; and accidental needle sticks among health care workers. The practice of sharing needles among intravenous drug abusers is also a source of infection, and children born to mothers with hepatitis C can harbor the virus. NATIONWIDE TESTING NEEDED Fortunately, the virus can be detected by a one-time blood test, and effectively treated with a class of drugs known as direct-acting antivirals (DAAs). A study in a July 2017 edition of Lancet indicates that scientists also may be on track for developing a vaccine to prevent new hepatitis C
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infections. Meanwhile, a proposed nationwide effort to test for hepatitis C and implement widespread prevention and treatment services could eventually prove successful in eliminating the infection almost entirely, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. TIPS TO PROTECT YOU AND OTHERS To protect you and your family, ask your doctor about getting a hepatitis C blood test, especially if you are from the Baby Boomer generation. Should you discover you have the infection, prevent its spread: n Keep cuts and blisters covered. n Thoroughly wash hands, as well as any objects that may have your blood on it. n Don’t donate blood. n Avoid sharing your personal grooming and cleaning items like toothbrushes and razors. n Don’t consume alcohol. Alcohol increases risk of liver cancer in patients infected by hepatitis C. If you don't have hepatitis C, to avoid infection: n Do not use others’ grooming items. n Choose tattoo and piercing establishments that follow strict sanitary procedures. n If you're engaging in sex, make it safe sex. n n n
Dr. Louis N. Aurisicchio practices internal medicine at CareMount Medical. He is a board certified gastroenterologist and nutritionist. He graduated from Fordham University and obtained his medical education from the Universidad del Noreste in Mexico. After completing his residency in internal medicine Dr. Aurisicchio specialized in Gastroenterology & Clinical Nutrition at Our Lady of Mercy Medical Center. www.caremountmedical.com/aurisicchio
winter 2017-2018
If you imagin you could ch ed ange the world, you’re ready AgeWell New for York.
THE WAY TO AGE WELL IN NEW YORK Personalized, easy to understand, easy to live with Medicare Advantage Prescription Drug Plans
$0 or low cost Plan Premiums agewellnewyork.com
718-696-0206 TTY/TDD
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AgeWell New York, LLC is a HMO plan with Medicare and Medicaid contracts. Enrollment in AgeWell New York, LLC depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premiums and/or co-payments/co-insurance may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Premiums, copays, co-insurance and deductibles may vary based on the level of Extra Help you receive. Please contact the plan for further details. AgeWell New York complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. AgeWell New York complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. AgeWell New York cumple con las leyes federales de derechos civiles aplicables y no discrimina por motivos de raza, color, nacionalidad, edad, discapacidad o sexo. AgeWell New York 遵守適用的聯邦民權法律規定，不因 種族、膚 色、民族血統、年齡、殘障或 別而歧視任何人。ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-866-586-8044 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220). ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-866-586-8044 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援 助服 務。請致電 1-866-586-8044 (TTY: 1-800-662-1220). H4922_ PImagine4002 Accepted 09192017
act Your age at burke! Come join a fitness center specially created for those 40 years and older. Our mature trainers can help design a program that fits your needs and help you attain your individual fitness goals. Classes are included in membership. Join for 6 months and receive an additional 3 mOnths free with no enrollment fee. ($75 fee is being waived for a limited time)* *new members only. must present ad to receive discount. Offer expires July 31, 2017. membership limited to adults 40 years or older or those with a qualifying condition.
Call 914-597-2805 fOr details 785 mamarOneCk ave. building 4 White Plains, nY 10605 914-597-2805 WWW.burke.Org
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westchesterseniorvoice.com
legal matters
7 Ways to Prevent
Financial Elder Abuse By Susan G. Parker
5. Third Party Bill Payment. Instead of having the agent pay bills or putting bill paying in the hands of a caretaker, turn over bill paying responsibilities to a professional service. These services, which are often bonded, are becoming more common.
t seems barely a week goes by that I don’t hear a story about theft of assets from seniors. While forensic accounting can go a long way to find missing funds, the real problem with this type of fraud is getting the money back. We’ve all heard the stories:
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• Dad is healthy and of
sound mind, but hard of hearing. He relies on emails to communicate. Photo: Niels Steeman on Unsplash Daughter places Dad in senior living and fails to repair his broken Here are seven ways to prevent computer. Daughter loses her job and financial abuse: begins to use Dad’s funds as her own. 1. Provide Clear Instructions to Agent: Out-of-town son visits and discovers over Instructions for the agent are buried in the $200,000 in assets are missing. power of attorney form and rarely discussed. • Mom traditionally handled the family finances Make sure to give separate written instrucbut is now on pain meds battling cancer. Young- tions to the agent about what is and isn’t perest son visits often and cheers Mom who writes mitted. For example, the power only permits him checks and even co-signs a business loan $500 in gifts if there is no gift tax rider. This for him. When Dad takes over the finances, he is not $500 a year or $500 per person. This thinks the bank made a mistake because their is a total of $500 for the life of the power. home mortgage was paid off, but they now have a $300,000 30-year mortgage - and their 2. Require Two Signatures. Wheninvestment accounts are short $300,000. ever possible, appoint two agents who must sign together. This works well among • Mom, a wealthy widow who is legally blind, siblings and tends to keep people honest. enjoys a wonderful aide who takes her to lunch daily. Son is glad that Mom bought a new 3. Appoint a Monitor. Like a “trust proTempur-Pedic bed to ease her back problems. tector,” a monitor appointed by the power of atBut when he visits, there is no new bed though torney can provide valuable oversight. A CPA, it’s shown on the Macy’s bill. Upon further attorney or trusted family friend can receive checking, son also discovers Mom has made electronic copies of bills and statements to daily $200 withdrawals from the ATM – for over make it easier to check the agent’s activities. a year. Mom doesn’t know how to use an ATM. 4. Communication Among Advisors. What do all these scenarios have in comIf your attorney, CPA, banker and investment mon? They could have been avoided. With advisor communicate with one another, they can better planning, preparation and oversight, share what they learn about family dynamics managing the financial responsibilities of a or concerns affecting a client’s funds. Together vulnerable senior can be done safely. they can stay on top of things and prevent fraud. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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6. Split up the Responsibilities. When all caretaking and financial responsibilities are in the hands of one child, there is greater risk of fraud. Vulnerable seniors, afraid of angering or losing a caretaker child, will go along with changes to a will or deed. Sometimes compensation for the agent discourages resentment and theft, especially if one sibling is doing the lion’s share of the caretaking. 7. Background/Criminal Checks: When you hire an aide with financial responsibilities, go the extra mile and run a background check. It’s far easier to work to prevent the fraud than to be stuck with the aftermath. When one sibling robs the others of their legacies, family rifts may never heal. And the parent may not get the care or housing they’d planned for when their assets are stolen. n n n
Susan G. Parker specializes in estate planning, probate, elder law and business planning. She is licensed to practice law in New York and Florida and maintains a practice in Westchester County. She has authored four books on elder law and estate planning. 520 N. State Rd., Suite 301A, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510; 914-923-1600; susan@susanparkerlaw.com; www.susanparkerlaw.com
winter 2017-2018
Meadowview Assisted Living Makes Life Easier and More Rewarding Meadowview at Wartburg is a premiere assisted living community in lower Westchester. We’ve recently completed a $1 million renovation to our facility, where you can choose from studio, one- or two-bedroom apartments and a specialized memory care neighborhood.
Lohman Village Townhouses Premiere Pet-Friendly Senior Living at Wartburg
Looking for a little less work, a little less worry, and a little more socializing? Tired of winter chores and upkeep? You and your furry family member can live hassle-free in a community that caters to pets. Your step-free townhouse allows easy outdoor access. Our Culinary Institute of America-trained executive chef prepares food to order and delivers to your door for your midday meal. Doggy bags extra!
For information call 914-513-5178 or visit wartburg.org
need a rehabilitation PhYsician?
burke Will get You back to the life You love introducing the new outpatient Physician Practice at burke if you’ve recently been discharged from the hospital or need ongoing care for a chronic medical condition, burke’s outpatient physicians are here to help. the new outpatient physician practice at burke offers patients the same renowned rehabilitave care we have been providing for more than a century. call (914) 597-2332 for more information or visit burke.org/physicianpractice.
services include: • acupuncture • electromyagrams (eMg) • Facet injections • neurological rehabilitation • oncology rehabilitation • orthotics • Prosthetics • spasticity treatment
785 MaMaroneck ave. building 8 White Plains, nY on the burke (888) 99-burke caMPus! WWW.burke.org
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money matters
How Housing Plays Into Planning For
A Longer Retirement By Paul Tramontozzi, CFP®
n my work as a Certified Financial Planner, I always discuss the topic of housing with my clients as they plan for retirement. Since, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, housing costs are the single largest expense for every age group - whether you're 50, 60, 70 or older, we need to consider what makes sense as we approach, or are already in, the retirement years.
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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS (CFPs) A CFP is trained to assess your financial situation, evaluate your investments, and develop a plan of action. This will include preparing a comprehensive financial plan, implementing recommendations, and monitoring the plan on an ongoing basis. There should also be an analysis of your estate plan, an evaluation of insurance coverage and products, and asset allocation recommendations for investment accounts. A CFP should always work in the client’s best interest and be clear of the scope of services being offered and any compensation for these services.
Evaluating housing costs is especially important given the fact that we are living longer and we may need to support an extended retirement. In Westchester County, we are also subject to the higher insurance costs, maintenance costs, and property taxes that come with higher home values. Certainly, if you're still in your working years, paying off any remaining mortgage debt should be a priority.
How does a CFP get paid?
The CFP may charge: 1. A fee only (flat fee or hourly) rate that could be for a one-time consultation or reoccurring. 2. A fee based on assets under management (AUM); the average fee is 1%. 3. A commission from investment products (less common) and insurance products.
Most people want to stay in their homes throughout retirement, but haven't thought about all the costs involved. We may need to renovate to maintain our home's value, household tasks may become more difficult - requiring the need to hire outside help, and we also have to consider modifications to keep our homes safe and compatible with our changing needs as we age.
If you're working or planning to work with a CFP, ask them about their fee structure (which may be combination of the fees noted above), and the scope of services they offer. Large accounts usually pay an AUM fee, with all financial planning services included. Paul Tramontozzi, a Certified Financial Planner at KBK Wealth Management, says he charges on a case by case basis, noting that, "If someone comes to me with no/very little assets, but needs a lot of guidance, I would charge a consulting fee." He also notes that CFPs are held to a fiduciary standard, requiring them to put clients' interests above their own.
Reevaluating your priorities may help you create the means to support a more fulfilling retirement. If you're concerned about maintaining your lifestyle in retirement, given the potentially increasing costs of staying in your home, the rest of this article is for you. The good news is there are plenty of options, especially when you consider that lowering your monthly expenses in retirement can be just as effective as an increase in income. One possibility, which may be difficult - but necessary - to consider is selling the family home. For most of us, it’s not an easy decision to sell the home where we’ve created a lifetime
of memories. But if you can get past that, the financial benefits could be considerable. Start with trading in those heating and lawn maintenance bills…and how about property taxes! Selling your home and downsizing to a smaller one may not only lower your expenses, but could actually increase your income: the added liquidity from the home sale could be reinvested into a portfolio that could provide additional income. Another option that may enable you to better afford your housing costs is to rent out extra space.
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Also, consider that home ownership is not always the best option for empty nesters. Housing decisions should take into account other factors: perhaps a move to a better climate or being closer to adult children and grandkids. Renting, for instance, allows you to test out a new community before you decide to purchase, and can save you unwanted costs in the future if you realize you made the wrong choice. Whether you decide to buy or rent your next home, your objective should be to do it on your own terms: before a financial situation dictates the move. When choosing your next home, consider how you will maintain or build a strong social network and be able to do the things you enjoy. Having easy access to health care, dining, and the activities you enjoy are all important considerations. If a car is a necessity, what will you do if driving is no longer an option? The Westchester County legislature’s recent decision to allow ride hailing services, like Uber and Lyft, may make getting around easier and less expensive.
Being able to envision what will be important to you in a home during retirement and having a better idea of what your housing expenses might be is an important first step in planning for a successful retirement. Take the initiative and speak with a qualified professional who can assist you with your plan. n n n Securities and advisory services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network, Member FINRA/ SPIC, a Registered Investment Adviser.
Paul Tramontozzi is a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP) professional with KBK Wealth Management, 28 West 44th St., Suite 1200, New York, NY. Paul is a Westchester resident and available to meet throughout the county for a complimentary financial consultation. He also gives talks to groups. Reach him at 212-944-8501 or PaulT@kbkwealth.com
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home equity advisor
Using Home Equity to Fund
Medical Expenses By Alice Tseng
y client, Dora, lives with her adult son, Ivan, who has special needs. After Dora's husband passed away, she was left to care for Ivan by herself. She had a good job in financial services and was always very careful to plan for her son's needs. She set up life insurance and made arrangements for him to stay in the family home after she's gone. Since retiring from her financial services job, Dora has generated some extra income with a part-time bookkeeping job.
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Still, Dora noticed that her expenses were not being fully covered. She was also suffering from a heart condition and her doctor was urging her to undergo corrective surgery. She felt she really needed to get some additional financial security before going in for such a big operation. So Dora took it upon herself to become better informed about how reverse mortgages work. She learned that she could borrow 45%-60% of her home's value, up to a maximum value of $636,150. There are no monthly repayment installments. The simple rules to a reverse mortgage are that all borrowers must be 62 or older; live in the property as their primary residence; and pay the ongoing property taxes and home insurance. The income qualifications are also much easier than regular mortgages, as they're designed to work with retirement income. Reverse mortgage rates are competitive and the borrowed balance accrues interest for the amount of time it is borrowed. The full balance only comes due when the last borrower leaves the property, either by moving out or selling, or passing away. Dora also learned the reverse mortgage program was created to help people convert locked equity to cash and leverage their house as a financial resource: for whatever the reason they need the money. Moreover, they are HUD-regulated, and FHA-insured.
As a former financial professional, Dora thought the program was a smart way to borrow against her own house. It would also provide her with some peace of mind. She could now fully afford her monthly expenses and the life insurance premiums to benefit her son, regardless of how her investments were performing in any given year. Dora closed on her reverse mortgage about a year ago. She had asked to set up an automatic $2,000 a month deposit into her checking account to ensure her monthly expenses were covered. That still left a large line of credit in case of any emergencies. Dora checked into the hospital for her heart surgery a month after closing. "It will be
a couple of weeks," she thought. "Maybe a month." Due to complications with her surgery, she didn't return home for three months. Ivan was scared being alone, but Dora’s friends checked in on him regularly, and he actually learned to be a bit more independent through this experience. Dora’s bank account had indeed been operating on auto-pilot all the months she was in the hospital. Enough money was coming in and all the regular payments were going out on time. She was able to afford extra care to help with her recovery once she was back home. Dora always knew to plan ahead, but she never knew how much she would appreciate the security she set up for herself. She was able to focus on her recovery, and not worry about how to pay for it. n n n
Alice Tseng, a licensed HECM professional with American Advisors Group, can be reached at 914488-9262 or at AliceInReverse@gmail.com
Start living a better life today! What would you do if you could: ü Eliminate monthly mortgage payments* ü Pay down high interest credit cards** ü Defer Social Security benefits**
Applying is easy!
Alice Tseng, NMLS 974322 Reverse Mortgage Originator Sponsored by AAG
888-988-6939 ext. 8451 ATseng@aag.com
*You must still live in the home as your primary residence, continue to pay required property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintain the home according to Federal Housing Administration requirements. ** Consult your financial advisor and appropriate government agencies for any effect on taxes or government benefits. NMLS# 9392 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). American Advisors Group (AAG) is headquartered at 3800 W. Chapman Ave., 3rd & 7th Floors, Orange CA, 92868. AAG conducts business in NY (Licensed Mortgage Banker-NYS Department of Financial Services; American Advisors Group operates as American Advisors Group, Inc. in New York.) AAG is an equal housing lender. A reverse mortgage increases the principal mortgage loan amount and decreases home equity (it is a negative amortization loan). AAG works with other lenders and financial institutions that offer reverse mortgages. To process your request for a reverse mortgage, AAG may forward your contact information to such lenders for your consideration of reverse mortgage programs that they offer. Borrowers are responsible for paying property taxes and homeowner’s insurance (which may be substantial). We do not establish an escrow account for disbursements of these payments. A set-aside account can be set up to pay taxes and insurance and may be required in some cases. Borrowers must occupy home as their primary residence and pay for ongoing maintenance; otherwise the loan becomes due and payable. The loan also becomes due and payable when the last borrower, or eligible non-borrowing surviving spouse, dies, sells the home, permanently moves out, defaults on taxes or insurance payments, or does not otherwise comply with the loan terms. These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
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medicare advisor
What's Best for You:
Medicare or a MAP? By Adria Goldman Gross
he first Medicare program was created and administered by the federal government in 1965. Original Medicare consists of hospital services (Part A) and doctor visits (Part B). This basic coverage has premiums and deductibles and does not cover prescriptions or medical services received outside of the U.S., except in very limited circumstances. Adding an optional Part D plan to cover prescription costs and a Medigap plan (also known as supplemental coverage)
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to cover the cost gaps in Original Medicare is strongly recommended. Without these additions, prescriptions and other out-of-pocket medical expenses can become costly. For those turning 65, sign up for Medicare during your Initial Enrollment Period (IEP): the seven-month window surrounding your 65th birthday. If you miss your IEP, you can enroll between January 1 and March 31, but coverage will not begin until July 1. During Open Enrollment, from Oc-
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Contact Nancy Gould for your FREE copy of Dignity For Life Include your name, e mail address, phone number
Nancy Gould CLU, CLTC (914) 242-3250
nancy.gould@acsiapartners.com
tober 15 to December 7, you can change health plans or pick up (or change) a Part D plan or a Medigap plan. You can also change plans during Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs), resulting from special circumstances, such as losing coverage from a job or when a Medicare Advantage Plan (MAP) is no longer available in an area. To ensure you don't have any gaps in coverage, do not discontinue a plan until receiving the paperwork guaranteeing your new coverage has started. The best time to buy a Medigap plan is within six months of enrolling in Medicare. During that time, you can buy a plan in your state even if you have pre-existing conditions. Dealing with multi-part Medicare plans can be tricky. A MAP is beneficial because the insured only has to contract with one insurance company to get the same coverage they would through Medicare Parts A, B and D. The cost is usually the same and negotiating denials and gaining approvals for care is direct and easy. Private insurance companies sell MAPs that are approved by Medicare. Enrollees pay the Medicare premium and the MAP may charge an extra premium that is comparable to supplementing Medicare Parts A and B. Every month, Medicare pays the private insurance company a fixed amount, and that company
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covers your costs, governed by the same standards as Medicare. But, the enrollee is no longer covered by Original Medicare and must adhere to referral and pre-approval requirements set by the MAP. Most MAPs offer extra coverage such as vision and hearing and dental. Whether enrolling in Medicare or in a MAP, make sure that desired doctors accept your coverage if going to a particular doctor is important to you. Keep in mind that doctors do not have to make or renew contracts with insurance companies or Medicare, so having to change health providers is always a possibility when staying compliant with a plan’s coverage. Any plan comes with pros and cons, depending on coverage needs. Knowing the right plan to enroll in requires selfassessment and researching which plan will provide the most comprehensive coverage. n n n
Adria Goldman Gross, FIPC, is author of Solved! Curing Your Medical Insurance Problems: Advice from MedWise Insurance Advocacy, and CEO of Medwise Insurance Advocacy. She helps people navigate the complexities of medical coverage contracts and helps those struggling to pay their medical bills. Call 845-238-2532 or visit www. medicalinsuranceadvocacy.com
medicaid advisor
Qualifying for Medicaid With
Pooled Income Trusts By Colin Sandler in collaboration with Life, Inc.
any people think they cannot qualify for longterm home care (including home health aides) paid for by Community Medicaid because their income is too high. Medicaid does have limits on monthly income, but there is a way to qualify for Medicaid benefits despite having what is commonly referred to as “excess income” or a “spend down.”
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The way to qualify is by using a Pooled Income Trust. This is a type of special needs trust that enables a person to remain eligible to receive Medicaid services without forfeiting their excess income to Medicaid. For 2017, the Medicaid limit is $825 for individuals and $1,209 for a couple. Any income received over this amount is considered “excess income.” If your excess income is deposited into the pooled trust each month, the trust will shelter the funds from Medicaid and you can qualify to receive home care services. The funds deposited in the trust can then be used to pay for your living expenses. FOR EXAMPLE: Karen has $2,500 in monthly income via Social Security and her pension. Medicaid says she can keep only $825. Therefore, her “excess income” is $1,675 ($2,500 - $825). The amount that will be deposited into the pooled trust monthly must be $1,675. This can be done via an electronic funds transfer (EFT),
whereby the client authorizes the pooled trust company to pull the funds electronically out of her checking account, so Karen and her family do not even have to worry about the hassle of mailing monthly checks. Once the pooled trust receives Karen’s funds, she is able to instruct the trust about how to use them. She may ask the trust to pay a portion to her landlord to cover her rent and another portion to her utility company to pay for her gas and electricity charges. Karen will still have the $825 to spend as she wishes. All pooled trusts have fees associated with administration of the account, so be sure to inquire about those before you sign up. Pooled trusts commonly use clients’ funds to pay for expenses such as rent, mortgage, property taxes, utilities, credit card charges, etc. The distributions from the trust must be for Karen’s benefit only. Therefore, her name must be on all bills submitted and the charges must be for her personal benefit. By establishing a pooled trust, Karen has retained all of her income (except for the monthly fee from the trust) and can manage her living expenses while her long-term care needs are paid by Medicaid. Filing for a pooled trust can be complicated and you will want to choose a reliable, trustworthy winter 2017-2018
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trust company that pays your bills on time and is responsive to your questions. You will also likely need help in completing the application and ensuring the proper paperwork is filed with the Westchester County (or your local) Department of Social Services. In addition to needing a properly completed application, there is a “disability” requirement associated with enrolling in the trust. There are several forms, including medical records, that also must be filed with the Department of Social Services. You may want to
consider having a professional assist you through this process. n n n
Colin Sandler, LCSW, CCM, is owner of Medicaid Solutions, 2127 Crompond Rd, Cortlandt Manor, NY. She has been providing advice on aging to seniors and their families for over 20 years. Email her at Colin@Medicaidsolutions. com or call 914-924-2566; www.medicaidsolutions.com n n n
LIFE, Inc. Pooled Trust Services administers a Medicaid pooled income trust to assist clients with qualifying for Community Medicaid. Get more information at www.lifetrusts.org or by calling 516-374-4564 ext.3.
Need help paying for home care? Know your options • Protect your assets and income
• Medicaid eligibility planning • Maximize benefits and services • Medicaid application filing • Pooled Income Trusts filing Call to see if you qualify for Financial assistance to help reduce the cost of long term care Colin Sandler,
MEDICAID
SOLUTIONS Advice for Aging
lcsw, ccm Senior Care Counselor and Medicaid Specialist
colin@medicaidsolutions.com
914.924.2566
2127 Crompond Road, Suite 100 Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567
www.medicaidsolutions.com
westchesterseniorvoice.com
calendar DAILY EVENTS DECEMBER 1-9: 8PM ARMONK PLAYERS- THE LIAR
Alternative facts, mistaken identities, devious servants and passionate young love collide in The Liar, an adaptation of Pierre Corneille’s hilarious seventeenth-century farce, Le Menteur, by acclaimed American playwright, screenwriter, and novelist David Ives. Whippoorwill Theatre, 19 Whippoorwill Rd. East, Armonk (GPS: Kent Place); armonkplayers.org DECEMBER 4: 7-9PM OSTEOPOROSIS AWARENESS
Provides support to individuals suffering from osteoporosis as well as information to those interested in learning ways to decrease their risk of their disease. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Billings Bldg #4/ Rosedale Room, 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-725-5229 or susanisworking@hotmail.com; burke.org/ community/community-calendar DEC. 4, JAN. 8, FEB. 5: 1-3PM WELL SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP
Provides peer support and education about the challenges and unique issues facing "well" spouses. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Billings Bldg #4/ Room 202; 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-9494936; burke.org/community/ community-calendar DECEMBER 6: 2PM MIND GAMES ARE FUN
Group games and puzzles using memory skills, visual recall, focus and speed. Board Room/ C Level at Phelps campus, 701 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow; 914366-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register. BEFORE HEADING OUT TO AN EVENT LISTED HERE, PLEASE CONFIRM THE DATE AND TIME AS SOME EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND, PARDON US, BUT THE OCCASIONAL ERROR MAY OCCUR.
DECEMBER 10: 3 & 6PM THE NUTCRACKER
An enchanting hour-long production, created for younger audiences, yet sophisticated enough for adults! Founded in 1978 by artistic director Diana Byer, New York Theatre Ballet has earned national attention for its artistry and elegant restorations and revivals of masterworks by great choreographers. Tarrytown Music Hall. 914-6313390; tarrytownmusichall.org DECEMBER 12 NEW YORK TENORS CHRISTMAS SPECIAL
An extraordinary, beautifully themed show, spotlighting the singing voices of a legendary singing policeman, Daniel Rodriguez, famed Irish tenor, Andy Cooney and the gifted Christopher Macchio. Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-592-2268; broadwaytheatre.com DECEMBER 14: 10:45AM OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT
For people with osteoporosis, providing education on nutrition, exercise, and activites of daily living.Phelps campus, N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Board Room/ C level; 914-3663937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register.
DECEMBER 16: 1:30PM TABLETOP HOLIDAY TOPIARY
Create a 2-foot tall, round topiary using fresh-cut greens, including boxwood, variegated fan arborvitae, cedar, and juniper with blue berries. Decorate with an assortment of hand-colored dried botanicals—hydrangea, herbs, pods, roses, nuts, and more— to suit your personal style. Your topiary will stay fresh throughout the holiday in a terra-cotta pot. Bring a box to transport your creation home. NY Botanical Garden, Watson Room 101, Bronx; 800-322-6924; adultednybg.org
DECEMBER 15: 10AM ALZHEIMER'S SUPPORT GRP
Supporting family caregivers with a loved one with Alzheimer's disease - you don't have to go it alone. Phelps campus, N. Broadway, 755 Building, Room 545, Sleepy Hollow; 914-3663937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register.
DECEMBER 17: 3PM NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE: FOLLIES
Recorded live in London and rebroadcast. Stephen Sondheim's legendary musical with Tracie Bennett, Janie Dee and Imelda Staunton. PepsiCo Theatre, Performing Arts Center, Purchase College; 914-251-6200; artscenter.org DECEMBER 17: 3PM SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER
DECEMBER 16 & 17 THE NUTCRACKER
Connecticut Ballet's enchanting annual production of The Nutcracker returns to The Palace. Called 'beguiling and a feast for the eyes' by Connecticut Post, Brett Raphael’s production features a giant Christmas tree, falling snow, spectacular sets and costumes, and a full corps de ballet.The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, CT. 203325-4466. palacestamford.org
DECEMBER 15 & 16: 8PM ROB MATHES HOLIDAY CONCERT
High energy evening of rock, jazz and blues - original tunes and holiday classics. PepsiCo Theatre at the Performing Arts Center, Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase; 914-251-6200; artscenter.org
you with a toast to the holiday season! Mingle with the stars at our popular backstage party. Scrumptious appetizers, wine tasting by Aries Fine Wines & Spirits, plus live music. Performing Arts Center, Purchase; 914251-6200; westchesterphil.org
DECEMBER 17: 3PM WINTER POPS!
Ted Sperling, conducting. Laura Michelle Kelly (created the stage role of Mary Poppins in London’s West End) on vocals. Special appearance by Kelly Hall-Tompkins, violin. Concert Hall at the Performing Arts Center, Purchase College; 914-251-6200; westchesterphil.org POST-CONCERT PARTY
Party with the Stars! Upper Lobby, following the concert. Conductor Ted Sperling welcomes
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Combined All Baroque program with Alexander Abayev, soloist, performing Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. The program also includes J.S. Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto no. 5, BWV 1050 in D Major and Johann Pachelbel’s Canon. A snow date for this concert has been set for Dec. 16. Iona College Christopher J. Murphy Auditorium, 715 North Ave., New Rochelle. 914-654-4926; thesymphonyofwestchester.org DECEMBER 17: 7PM SINBAD
Ranked by Comedy Central as one of the 100 Greatest Standups of All Time, Sinbad - who has starred in four HBO comedy specials - comes to the Paramount. Paramount Theater, Peekskill; 914-739-0039; paramounthudsonvalley.com DECEMBER 18 CELTIC ANGELS CHRISTMAS
Combined with stunning dance routines performed by tantalizing world-champion dancers, this show creates an unforgettable evening's entertainment! This family show is a holiday celebration of Christmas in Ireland featuring Christmas music from across the centuries, presented in inimitable fashion by some of Ireland's finest female performers. Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-5922268; broadwaytheatre.com
calendar
DECEMBER 20-22 CANDLELIGHT TOURS
Experience John Jay's historic Bedford House with these unique guided tours focusing on holiday traditions and decorations of the 1820s. Tours are offered at 5pm, 5:30pm, 6pm, 6:30pm, and 7pm. Reservations are required for timed tours as space is strictly limited. John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay St. (Rt. 22), Katonah; 914-2325651; johnjayhomestead.org
DECMBER 31: 7 & 10PM SHADOWS OF THE 60'S
Pays tribute to the tremendous legacy of Motown Super Groups: The Four Tops, Temptations, Supremes, a salute to the female stars and Smokie Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight. Paramount Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill; 914-7390039; paramounthudsonvalley.com
email ewoods3@northwell.edu for more information and to register. JANUARY 17: 12:10PM FREE CHAMBER MUSIC
From the Westchester Philharmonic. Held at the historic Grace Church, 33 Church St., White Plains. 914-251-6200; westchesterphil.org. JANUARY 20: 8PM CAPITOL STEPS
Extremely funny satirical troupe, and although not all of the members of the Steps are former Capitol Hill staffers, taken together the performers have worked in a total of 18 Congressional offices and represent 62 years of collective House and Senate staff experience. They have recorded over 30 albums, including their latest, Orange Is the New Barack. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org JANUARY 20: 8-10PM LOHUD COMEDY
Line up of popular comics perform. Friends of Crawford Park, 122 N. Ridge St. Rye Brook. 845-5359111; lohudcomedy.com
Volunteers Needed Making a Difference... One Ride at a Time!
RideConnect provides free volunteer transportation to older adults age 60+ in Westchester County. These rides enable clients to remain active and continue to lead fulfilling lives. Please consider giving the gift of mobility and independence! For more information on volunteering or to request a ride, contact us at (914) 242-7433. www.RideConnectWestchester.org
JANUARY 11: 10:45AM OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT
For people with osteoporosis, providing education on nutrition, exercise, and activites of daily living.Phelps campus, N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Board Room/ C level; 914-3663937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register. JANUARY 11: 8:30AM THE BREAKFAST CLUB
Free breakfasts with presentation by guest speaker and light exercise program. Covers music therapy, cardiology. Phelps Hospital, 701 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Cafeteria, G Level. 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register.
JANUARY 24: 6:30PM SUCCULENTS TERRARIUM
Use a selection of plump succulents, thick moss, and stones, housed in a geometric glass vessel, to make a delightful oasis garden, under the guidance of an instructor who literally wrote the book Terrariums: Gardens Under Glass. NY Botanical Garden, Watson Room 102, Bronx; 800-322-6924; adultednybg.org
JANUARY 16: 10AM SENIOR STEPS HEALTH SCREENINGS
Free Health Screenings for seniors. Appointment required. Phelps Hospital, N. Broadway, 755 Building, Pulmonary Lab, Sleepy Hollow; 914-366-3937 or
Caring for Your Loved One? Call us today!
Elder Care Connection
When Experience Counts, Count on Experience
Owned and operated by registered nurses.
JANUARY 12: 10AM ALZHEIMER'S SUPPORT GRP
Supporting family caregivers with a loved one with Alzheimer's disease - you don't have to go it alone. Phelps campus, N. Broadway, 755 Building, Room 545, Sleepy Hollow; 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register.
Overwhelmed
JANUARY 27: 10AM SOAP MAKING WORKSHOP
Bring the bouquet of a summer garden indoors with handmade, naturally moisturizing glycerin soaps. You'll learn the traditional melt and pour process and combine fragrances of various dried herbs and essential oils—lavender, rosemary, mint, and more—to make four bars to take home. NY Botanical Garden, Watson Room 102, Bronx; 800-322-6924; adultednybg.org winter 2017-2018
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Services include: • Dementia Care • Senior Housing Options • Home and Companion Care • Home Management Customized programs to fit your needs Please call for a free consult today: 914-669-5200 or 203-703-9100 Visit ElderlyManagement.com for more information.
westchesterseniorvoice.com
JANUARY 27: 8PM AN EVENING OF CHAMBER MUSIC
Talented instrumentalists in an intimate setting. Conducted as always by Dr. John T. King, this music will warm even the coldest of winter’s nights. Hitchcock Presbyterian Church, 6 Greenacres Ave., Scarsdale. 914-7251678; newchoralsociety.org
JANUARY 27: 8PM LIZ CALLAWAY
Liz Callaway is a terrific cabaret and concert artist, who earned her chops on Broadway, Off Broadway (where she received a Drama Desk nomination for her performance in The Spitfire Grill), and in regional theatre across the country. She made her Broadway debut in Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along, received a Tony Award nomination for her performance in Baby, and for five years, won acclaim as Grizabella in Cats. She has also starred in the original casts of Miss Saigon, The Three Musketeers, and The Look of Love. Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org FEBRUARY 1 NEIL BERG'S 100 YEARS OF BROADWAY
Recreates the greatest moments from the finest shows of the century featuring the actual stars of shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, CATS, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Jekyll & Hyde. These amazing performers light up the stage with songs from the hit shows in which they starred. Neil Berg presents brilliantly revived arrangements of Broadway classics as well as thrilling numbers from Broadway’s newest hit shows. Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-592-2268; broadwaytheatre.com
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a multitude of styles. PepsiCo Theatre at the Performing Arts Center, Purchase College; 914251-6200; westchesterphil.org FEBRUARY 4: 3PM SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER
Infectious indie-mambo band Orkestra Mendoza updates the Latin big band tradition, merging
FEBRUARY 9: 8:30AM THE BREAKFAST CLUB
The annual Family Concert, featuring competition winners, student composers and familyfriendly ticket prices. Iona College Christopher J. Murphy Auditorium, 715 North Ave., New Rochelle. 914-654-4926; thesymphonyofwestchester.org
Free breakfasts with presentation by guest speaker and light exercise program. Covers music therapy, cardiology. Phelps Hospital, 701 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Cafeteria, G Level. 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register.
FEBRUARY 5: 7-9PM OSTEOPOROSIS AWARENESS
FEBRUARY 9: 10AM ALZHEIMER'S SUPPORT GRP
Provides support to individuals suffering from osteoporosis as well as information to those interested in learning ways to decrease their risk of their disease. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Billings Bldg #4/ Rosedale Room, 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-725-5229 or susanisworking@hotmail.com; burke.org/ community/community-calendar FEBRUARY 7: 2PM MIND GAMES ARE FUN
Group games and puzzles using memory skills, visual recall, focus and speed. Board Room/ C Level at Phelps campus, 701 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow; 914366-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register.
Supporting family caregivers with a loved one with Alzheimer's disease - you don't have to go it alone. Phelps campus, N. Broadway, 755 Building, Room 545, Sleepy Hollow; 914-3663937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register. FEBRUARY 10-11 VALENTINE'S WEEKEND
Stroll thru the expansive Haupt Conservatory, talk to guides about the many aphrodisiac plants that can be found, and have a custom love poem penned for you. The Hudson Garden Grill will feature a special prix fixe menu as well. NY Botanical Garden, Bronx; 800-322-6924; nybg.org
FEBRUARY 8: 10:45AM OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT
Women are From Venus. Moving swiftly through a series of vignettes, the show covers everything from dating and marriage to the bedroom. This hysterical show will have couples elbowing each other all evening as they see themselves on stage. Sexy and fast paced, this show is definitely for adults, but will leave au-
FEBRUARY 10: 8PM C.J. CHERNIER & THE RED HOT LOUISIANA BAND
C.J. Chenier, a Creole born and raised in an indigenous American culture with its distinct language, cuisine and music, delivers a soulful vocal and accordion! Chenier, a Grammy® nominated musician and recording artist, has performed alongside many internationally recognized artists including his Grammy® awarded father, Clifton Chenier “The King of Zydeco,” Paul Simon, The Gin Blossoms, and John Mayall. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org FEBRUARY 10: 8PM MUSIC OF THE CARPENTERS
Singer Lisa Rock and her 6-piece band are bringing the music of The Carpenters back to the stage with their spot-on renditions of Carpenters like “We’ve Only Just Begun” and “Rainy Days and Mondays” The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, CT. 203325-4466. palacestamford.org FEBRUARY 11: 3PM WESTCHESTER PHILHARMONIC
For people with osteoporosis, providing education on nutrition, exercise, and activites of daily living.Phelps campus, N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Board Room/ C level; 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register.
FEBRUARY 9: 8PM MEN ARE FROM MARS
FEBRUARY 2: 8PM THE NEW GOLDEN AGE OF LATIN MUSIC
diences laughing and giggling like little kids! The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, CT. 203325-4466. palacestamford.org
FEBRUARY 10: 10AM ESSENTIAL OIL PERFUME WORKSHOP
Discover the history of perfume and the therapeutic benefits of essential oils in this hands-on workshop. Learn scent-blending techniques and how to identify and keep perfume notes. Formulate three unique signature scents using wax, carrier oils, and essential oils, and take home one solid perfume, a 2 oz. aromatherapy spray, and a rollon perfume. NY Botanical Garden, Watson Room 101, Bronx; 800-322-6924; adultednybg.org
westchesterseniorvoice.com
BEFORE HEADING OUT TO AN EVENT LISTED HERE, PLEASE CONFIRM THE DATE AND TIME AS SOME EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND, PARDON US, BUT THE OCCASIONAL ERROR MAY OCCUR.
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Ted Sperling, conducting. Kelly Hall-Tompkins, violin. Beethoven: Romance No. 2 for violin and orchestra; Saint-Saëns: Introduction and Rondo capriccioso; Beethoven: Symphony No. 3 ("Eroica") Concert Hall at the Performing Arts Center, Purchase College; 914-251-6200; westchesterphil.org.
FEBRUARY 16: 8PM RED WINE
Red Wine is one of the most important European bands with a style that encompasses traditional and contemporary Bluegrass, Country, Gospel, and Swing. Since 1984, they've performed at major international festivals, played concerts all over Europe, and gained a strong following. Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org
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I n d e P e n d e n c e | d I g n I t y | c h o I c e | Since 1998
FEBRUARY 16: 8PM MARC COHN
Bonnie Raitt declared, "Marc is one of the most soulful, talented artists I know. I love his songs, he's an incredible singer, and I marvel at his ability to mesmerize every audience he plays for." Paramount Theater, Peekskill; 914-739-0039; paramounthudsonvalley.com FEBRUARY 17: 8PM VELVET CARAVAN
Savannah-based Velvet Caravan is one eclectic ensemble! Combing gypsy, honky tonk, swing and Latin, this band plays upbeat tunes from all over the world, with a sense of humor. Black Box Theatre at the Performing Arts Center, Purchase College; 914-251-6200; artscenter.org FEBRUARY 20: 10AM SENIOR STEPS HEALTH SCREENINGS
Free Health Screenings for seniors. Appointment required. Phelps Hospital, N. Broadway, 755 Building, Pulmonary Lab, Sleepy Hollow; 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@northwell. edu for more information and to register.
An Intergenerational Adult Day Program providing dementia care
Why be home alone?
Come spend the day with us — exercise your brain and warm your heart.
Mount Kisco • 914-241-0770 White Plains • 914-422-8100 www.fsw.org/msh
FEBRUARY 22: 8PM THREE DOG NIGHT
Claiming 21 Top 40 hits and three No.1 singles, they are renowned for songs including "Joy to the World," "Black and White," and "Shambala." Paramount Theater, Peekskill; 914-739-0039; paramounthudsonvalley.com
My Second Home is a program of Family Services of Westchester and receives funding from Westchester County Department of Senior Programs & Services
MUSIc & MeMoRySM Certified Care Facility Partner • Dementia Care 2016 Adult day Services Innovator Award from national Adult day Services Association (nAdSA)
FEBRUARY 23: 7PM PURCHASE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
Made up of the talented students of the Conservatory of Music to create a memorable concert. Recital Hall, Performing Arts Center, Purchase College; 914-251-6200; artscenter.org
FEBRUARY 23: 8PM CHICAGO CITY LIMITS
Imagine walking out onto a blank stage. There is no script, no set, no preconceived ideas. Suddenly the stage lights flash and the show starts. Some call this the Actor's nightmare, others call it Improvisational Theatre. Just sit back, relax and get ready to call out whatever is on your mind...a word...a phrase...an idea. Audience, start your engines! The Palace Theatre, Stamford, CT. 203325-4466. palacestamford.org FEBRUARY 24: 8PM VIC DIBITETTO
Grand Prize winner on TV's "America's Funniest People" and star of a Hulu original talk show. If you've never seen him live, be prepared. Vic DiBitetto is a super high-energy comedian who's made audiences rock with laughter in clubs and casinos all over the country. Tarrytown Music Hall. 914-6313390; tarrytownmusichall.org
Companion care at home like no one else can ... Only Seniors Helping Seniors® matches your needs, interests, and schedule with skilled, compassionate care providers – all over 55 years old – who understand firsthand the changes that come with aging. Let us help you maintain a sense of well-being and connection to the life you love.
Unique, at-home care including: 4 Companionship in your home. 4 Flexible help: a few hours a week or full days 4 Assistance with day-to-day needs: light
housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders 4 Daily errands: groceries, pharmacy, post office 4 Transportation: medical appointments, recreational outings, social visits
914.263.7716 www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/NWestchesterPutnam
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westchesterseniorvoice.com
Serving Westchester& Putnam Counties, New York
FEBRUARY 25: 10AM SOAP MAKING WORKSHOP
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MONDAYS IN DEC: 12PM ADULT CHESS & CHECKERS
TUESDAYS AT DORRY'S WEEKLY TABLE TALK
Bring the bouquet of a summer garden indoors with handmade, naturally moisturizing glycerin soaps. You'll learn the traditional melt and pour process and combine fragrances of various dried herbs and essential oils—lavender, rosemary, mint, and more—to make four bars to take home. NY Botanical Garden, Watson Room 102, Bronx; 800-322-6924; adultednybg.org
Drop in and play. No registration needed. Not interested in chess? Bring a friend and play checkers, backgammon or another game of your choice. We have two small chess and checkers sets or bring your own. In the Community Room. John C. Hart Memorial Library, Shrub Oak. 914-245-5262 ext 227; yorktownlibrary.org
An evening of conversation, coordinated by Dorry's friends at Memorial United Methodist Church, Kol Ami, Sisters of the Divine Compassion and WP Examiner. 5:15 to order and eat. Or come 6-7pm for talk only. No reservations req. Dorry's, 468 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-682-0005; juliedc@igc.org
FEBRUARY 25: 3PM AMERICAN RHAPSODY: THE GERSHWIN SONGBOOK
THRU DECEMBER 23 CHRISTMAS TREE SALE
TUESDAYS: 1PM MAHJONG TOURNAMENT DAY
Gershwin's music remains as fresh and irresistable as it did during the jazz age. World class musicians are led by Michael Andrew, bringing this music to life in a brand new program. Concert Hall, Performing Arts Center, Purchase College; 914-251-6200; artscenter.org
ONGOING EVENTS DECEMBER 2017 THRU FEBRUARY 2018
DEC 1, 2, 8, 9, 22, 23, 29, 30 JANUARY 6 & 13: 7-10PM BAR CAR NIGHTS AT NYBG
For adults only, join in the festive outdoor adventure, with an after-dark viewing of the Holiday Train Show; sip a cocktail as you journey through a series of station stops, including pop-up acts featuring some of NYC's favorite street performers. Special ticket req. NY Botanical Garden, Bronx; 800-322-6924; nybg.org MONDAYS: 10AM WALKING WITH SENIORS
Walk at your own pace and enjoy the company of others. Benches available along the walkways. Wear sturdy walking shoes. Free, but sign up is required. Hergenhan Recreation Center, 40 Maple Ave, Armonk; 914-273-3325
North White Plains Fire Company No. 1 Christmas tree sale fundraiser. Fridays: 4-8pm. Sat & Sun: 9am-6pm. 621 North Broadway, White Plains; 914-949-3575. DECEMBER 13 & 27 JANUARY 10 & 24 FEBRUARY 14 & 28 10-11:30AM ALZHEIMER'S CAREGIVER GRP
Registration is required for tournament day: contact Pam Hoffman at 917-318-1312 or email ossiningmahjongg@aol.com. Ossining Library, Art Gallery, 53 Croton Ave, Ossining; Any questions about the program call the library at 914-941-2416 ext. 327; ossininglibrary.org
Encourages caregivers to maintain their own personal, physical and emotional health as well as optimally care for the person with dementia. In addition, they may provide a needed break from care giving responsibilities. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Billings Bldg 4/ Room 204; 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-253-6860 or pgaston@alz.orgburke.org MONDAYS: 10:30AM WINTER WATERCOLORS
Explore making winter scenes with water colors & salt –to create dramatic effects! The winter brings us crystal images and we will make them as well. Bring your watercolors and your imagination, and learn to make great effects in your art work. $30 instructor fee paid at the first class. Call to register. Somers Library, Route 139 & Reis Park; 914-232-5717; somerslibrary.org
2ND TUES. OF MONTH:10AM COLORING FOR ADULTS
Relax with a good book...a coloring book! Join us in the Maker Space to participate in the latest trend in relaxation! Coloring pages, colored pencils and markers provided. Light refreshments. Yonkers Library/ Riverfront Branch One Larkin Center. Registration rec. but not required at 914-375-7966 or register online at ypl.org.
DECEMBER 10-30 MR. DICKENS TELLS A CHRISTMAS CAROL
The classic tale that brings the travails of Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim alive. Taken from Dickens’ original script, actor Michael Muldoon, plays Charles Dickens and tells the well-loved tale as visitors travel throughout the main floor of Lyndhurst mansion “meeting” the different spirits and characters. Performances are approximately 60 minutes. Lyndhurst, 635 So. Broadway, Tarrytown. 914-631-4481; lyndhurst.org
DECEMBER 22-JANUARY 14 THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME
From the Academy Award-winning composing team of Alan Menken (Aladdin, The Little Mermaid) & Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin) comes a lushly scored retelling of Victor Hugo’s (author of Les Miserables) epic story of love, acceptance, and
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ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCIATION CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS Call 800.272.3900 with questions or to RSVP for a group near you: Cortlandt Manor 10-11:30am; First/third Wed. of month The Seabury at Fieldhome 2276 Catherine Ave. Call Diana Penna: 914.737.2255 Hawthorne (for spouses only) 10-11:15am; Second/fourth Thurs. Morningside House, 50 Broadway Call Lisa Goldman: 914.769.0953 Mount Kisco (adult children only) 6:30-8pm; Fourth Wed. of month Presbyterian Church, Millwood Road Mount Vernon 11am-1pm; Fourth Saturday of month Grace Baptist Church, 52 S. Sixth Ave. New Rochelle 7-8pm; Third Wednesday of month Willow Gardens Memory Care 60 Willow Drive Call 914.253.6860 Purchase 10-11:30am; First Wed. of month Alzheimer’s Association 2900 Westchester Ave., Suite 306 Kristen Bonistall: 914.253.6860 Purchase 10-11:30am; Second/fourth Monday Alzheimer’s Association 2900 Westchester Ave., Suite 306 Debbie Disbrow: 914.253.6860 Sleepy Hollow 10-11:30am; Second Friday of month Phelps Memorial Hospital Center 701 N. Broadway Tuckahoe 10-11:30am; Third Monday The Fountains at RiverVue One RiverVue Place Tuckahoe 6-7:30pm; Third Monday Emanuel A.M.E.Church, 6 Van Duzen Pl. White Plains 10-11:30am; Second/fourth Wed. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital 785 Mamaroneck Ave. Billings Building, Room 204B White Plains 6:30-8pm; Second/fourth Tuesday Call Judy Wank: 914.457.5250 Yonkers 2:30-4pm: Third Tuesday Five Star Premier Residence of Yonkers, 537 Riverdale Ave. Call Jennifer Colby to register at 914.423.7200 ext. 168
what it means to be a hero. The Hunchback of Notre Dame showcases the Disney film’s Academy Award-nominated score. White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Place, 3rd flr, White Plains. 914-328-1600; wppac.com
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DECEMBER 28-JANUARY 28 ANNIE GET YOUR GUN
Set in the Wild West, where Frank Butler is the sharpest sharpshooter around and the heart-throb of Buffalo Bill's traveling Wild West show. Frank meets his match in the rough and ready tomboy sharpshooter, Annie Oakley. Romantic sparks fly. Irving Berlin’s score of memorable hit songs, including “Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better,” "Doin' What Comes Natur'lly,” and the showstopping hit, “There’s No Business Like Show Business.” Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914592-2268; broadwaytheatre.com
THRU FEBRUARY WED-SUNDAYS: 1 & 3PM GLENVIEW TOURS
OPENS FEBRUARY 8 A CHORUS LINE
Recipient of the Pulitzer Prize and nine Tony Awards including Best Musical, is one of the true masterpieces of live theater. A celebration and true-tolife depiction of performers and their struggle to achieve greatness on the Broadway stage. Memorable musical numbers include "I Can Do That," "At the Ballet," "Dance: Ten; Looks: Three," "What I Did for Love", Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-592-2268; broadwaytheatre.com
JANUARY 9-20 WOODY SEZ: THE LIFE & MUSIC OF WOODY GUTHRIE
The tumultuous tale of “America’s greatest folk poet” is told using Guthrie’s own words and over two dozen of his indelible songs, including “This Land Is Your Land,” “Union Maid,” and “This Train Is Bound for Glory.” Westport Country Playhouse, Westport, CT; 203227-4177; westportplayhouse.org THRU JANUARY 21 WALK WITH ARTISTS: THE HUDSON VALLEY & BEYOND
Examines the key role played by artists in bringing views of nature indoors, while inspiring our own outdoor itineraries. Forty paintings and prints from the Museum’s permanent collection from the 19th century to today, more than half recent acquisitions on view for the first time, underscore the centrality of landscape in our thought, then as now. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914-963-4550; hrm.org BEFORE HEADING OUT TO AN EVENT LISTED HERE, PLEASE CONFIRM THE DATE AND TIME AS SOME EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND, PARDON US, BUT THE OCCASIONAL ERROR MAY OCCUR.
Walk through Glenview Mansion, the Hudson River Museum's river home and explore it in the context of Civil War times in Westchester. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Ave., Yonkers. 914-963-4550; hrm.org FEBRUARY 10-MARCH 4 I HATE HAMLET
By Paul Rudnick. Andy seems to have it all: a hit television series; a beautiful girlfriend; the perfect New York apartment; and the chance to play Hamlet in Central Park. However, Andy’s TV series has been canceled; his girlfriend is eccentric; his apartment is haunted and he HATES Hamlet. M&M Performing Arts Company brings another fast paced show to Lyndhurst. Performed in alternating repertory with a 90-minute adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet. Performances in Grand Picture Gallery of Lyndhurst Mansion, Tarrytown. 914-631-4481; lyndhurst.org
THRU FEBRUARY 25 THE PLAYFUL UNIVERSE OF IGNACIO ITURRIA
Ignacio Iturria is one of Uruguay’s most accomplished artists. For more than four decades, he has examined society in a profound and poetic manner, creating work that invites us to view the world with amusement and hope. In his small theatrical stages, Iturria creates universes inside of which he transforms found objects and uses trompe-l’oeil. Part of the exhibition features a living studio in which the artist will work in collaboration with college students. The new works created will be added to the retrospective as they are completed. During the course of the residency, visitors will be invited to enter the space and meet the artist. Neuberger Museum of Art at Purchase College. 914-2516100; neuberger.org winter 2017-2018
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FEB. 17-MARCH 4/ HAMLET
Red Monkey Theater Group and M&M Performing Arts Company present Shakespeare’s greatest tragedy in a fast-paced, 90-minute adaptation presented with intimate staging. The energetic, scaled-down production aims to remove as many barriers as possible between the Bard’s words and the audience. Performed in alternating repertory with I Hate Hamlet at Lyndhurst Mansion. Tarrytown. 914-6314481; lyndhurst.org
westchesterseniorvoice.com
VARIOUS LOCATIONS/TIMES DEMYSTIFYING MEDICARE COVERAGE WORKSHOPS
Reviews Medicare coverage, including supplemental and drug plans, Medicare Advantage and cost-saving programs. Workshops run in single sessions at the N. Salem, Harrison, Sleepy Hollow, West Harrison, Pleasantville, Pound Ridge, Irvington, Valhalla, Montrose, Yonkers, South Salem, Eastchester, Shrub Oak, Ossining, Scarsdale, and Pelham libraries, Cortlandt Town Hall and Croton Rec. To find the date and time near you, see calendar at westchesterlibraries.org/westchesterseniors-out-speaking or contact Westchester Seniors Out Speaking at 914-231-3236 or sbic@ wlsmail.org. WSOS is a project of the Westchester Library System.
THRU APRIL, 2018 TREASURES OF THE EARTH
Takes visitors on a tour of the breathtaking splendor, wonder, and science of minerals. Approximately 100 dazzling specimens from the exceptional Robert R. Wiener Collection will be on display, ranging from enormous interconnected cubes of pyrite to dazzlingly clear crystals of selenite to fi ery red hexagons of vanadinite. Bruce Museum, 1 Museum Dr., Greenwich, CT. 203-869-0376; brucemuseum.org
TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS: 8-10AM MALL WALKS
Window shop as you get and stay in shape with indoor walks. Special guest speaker first Friday each month at 9am (Food Court, Level 4). Adm. and parking free for members of mall walk program. Sign up at horse fountain near Crate & Barrel, Level 2, Tues and Fri mornings during program. Westchester Mall, White Plains. Info: 914-231-4645.
in the kitchen
Garlic-Nut Biscotti with Whipped Feta and Blistered Tomatoes Original recipes from Lisa Keys, The Good Grief Cook
GARLIC-NUT BISCOTTI
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened 2 tablespoons sugar 3 eggs 1½ cups all-purpose flour ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal 2 teaspoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 2 cloves garlic, grated 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh flat leaf parsley or ½ teaspoon dried 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh basil or ½ teaspoon dried ¼ cup California sun-dried tomato bits (not marinated) ¼ cup chopped almonds Heat oven to 350 ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until blended. Add eggs; mix well. In another bowl, combine flour, cheese, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, garlic and herbs. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed just until the dry ingredients are moistened. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and almonds. Divide the dough in half. On lightly floured surface, roll and shape each dough half into a 12-inch loaf. Place loaves on prepared baking sheet, spacing them 3 inches apart. Bake 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Transfer loaves to a cooling rack. Cool 10 minutes. Slice loaves diagonally into ½-inch slices. Place slices in a single layer on the cookie sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until toasted. Serve warm or cool with whipped feta and blistered tomatoes (see below). Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired. Makes 2 dozen biscotti. A perfect appetizer served with a glass of wine.
WHIPPED FETA
8 ounces feta cheese 3 tablespoons heavy cream 1 tablespoon roasted garlic Grated zest of 1 lemon 2 tablespoons chopped flat leaf parsley Combine all ingredients in food processor until well blended.
BLISTERED TOMATOES
1 tablespoon olive oil pinch of crushed red pepper flakes 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
1 sprig fresh rosemary 1 pint grape tomatoes 1 tablespoon honey
Heat oil in cast iron skillet or heavy pan over high heat. Add rosemary sprig and tomatoes. Let tomatoes cook, undisturbed, for 1 minute or until blistered. Gently stir and let cook another minute allowing them to brown, but not break down. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds or until just golden. Remove from heat. Stir in honey. Lisa Keys is a multi-award-winning cook, a Food Network Chopped champ and blogger of www.GoodGriefCook. com. When Lisa is not blogging, cooking or competing, she can be found in her garden tending to the fresh ingredients she uses in her recipes. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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part of
The Most Affordable Assisted Living in Westchester
At the Heart of Senior Living
Quality & Affordability It’s an Easy Choice!
877-309-9796
Bethel Springvale Inn winter 2017-2018
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Call About Our Move-in Specials 62 Springvale Rd., Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520 bethelwell.org
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Where “Main Street” is Memory Lane. The Village at Waveny provides award-winning Assisted Living with a therapeutic approach to memory and dementia care. Just across the state line in New Canaan, Connecticut, our world-renowned indoor “Main Street” is a bustling site for meaningful interaction, fun activities and fulfilling programs for seniors. Discover more about everything we have to offer, including long-term care and short-term overnight respite stays for caregiver relief, by calling 203.594.5302 or visiting waveny.org. And, enjoy long-range confidence knowing all Village residents have priority access to Waveny’s entire non-profit continuum of care, including Waveny Care Center, our 5-star Medicare and Medicaid accredited skilled nursing facility, should personal or financial needs ever change.
J
ust a stone’s throw from New Canaan’s vibrant town center, The Inn offers distinctive independent senior living that celebrates wellness, dignity and choice. And, all residents at The Inn enjoy priority access to Waveny LifeCare Network’s entire continuum of care, including personal care services through Waveny at Home, and our 5-star skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, Waveny Care Center. Call 203.594.5450 or visit us at waveny.org to discover more about life at The Inn. Schedule lunch and a tour, and come visit us today.
73 Oenoke Ridge New Canaan • Connecticut