Guide Me Home 2 Westchester, NY - Home

A Wonderful Source of Learning and Fun The Warner Library

2012-10-30T17:20:30Z

The elegant building on North Broadway in Tarrytown serves the villages of Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, and others who might be interested in its programs.

There is something for everyone in the program offerings that follow:

The Alexander Technique
Ways to ease tension and balance and identifiying harmful postural habits.A fun craft event
Teaching participants how to make beaded earrings. Make a pair for yourself and donate a pair to the Women's Shelter!Opera duets, trios,and more
A study of the variety of performances that bring opera to life.Readings of poetry and prose with the authors of Westcher PreviewDance Smarts
Hip-hop and funk, MTV style.Book Discussion Group
Second Thursday every monthCrochet basics for teensMovies
Some selections include Moonrise Kingdom and To Rome with Love.The Muse in Bronnzville
Explores the creative awakening in Chicago's south sideFor Halloween the library will be offering trick-or-treat stations

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

Kissing up to Sandy....10543

2012-10-29T12:36:04Z

And why not? We need all of the help we can get, and as you can see from this storefront in Mamaroneck 10543, the owners have piled sandbags to help keep any potential water at bay. We are all praying that those sandbags will not be required.. The temperature is currently 57° with a coastal flood warnings in effect.

My prayers are with the Larchmont and Mamaroneck residents who might be affected. I just heard that parts of Mamaroneck are already flooding..

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Halloween in Katonah 2012!

2012-10-25T16:35:12Z

Halloween in Katonah!

Sunday, October 28th

Katonah Chamber of Commerce's Halloween Fest

2- 4 p.m. in Parking Lot #2 (Behind Mrs. Greens)

There will be food, a costume contest, a pie-eating contest, a best dressed dog parade and many other great activities.

KVIS - Face painting and costume exchangeCharles Department store - Apple pie baking contestAllstate Insurance - Costume contestKatonah Art Center - Mask - makingMust Love Dogs - Dog paradeNoka Joe's - SoupTrustco Bank - Apple cider and fresh donutsSweetooth - CupcakesHoulihan & Lawrence - Halloween candy bucketsGirl Scouts - Pasta jewelry craft + cookie sale

Come in costume and have some Halloween fun! Also on Halloween enjoy the traditional happy time trick or treating in the Village among the Victorians!

My Halloween Haiku:

Crisp leaves underfoot

High hopes in their happy hearts

Halloween is here!

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

Paine to Pain Trail Half Marathon - Fall 2012

2012-10-25T06:00:00Z

I know, I know, a little late (it took place on Sunday, October 14th), ... but I had to post some photos from a great event..

It was the 5th Annual Paine to Pain Trail Half Marathon - first gunshot at 9 am! SO many athletes compete (approx. 704 starters this year and 694 finishers) that the race has different 'waves' of runners starting at their comfort level of race miles per hour. There were just 50 runners 4 years ago... oh how it has grown!

New Rochelle is GREAT

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The Annual Larchmont 10538 Rag-A-Muffin Parade October 20th, 2012

2012-10-25T05:00:00Z

A huge event each year for the little ones (and not so little) is the Rag-A-Muffin-Parade. Sponsored by the Larchmont Recreation Dept. and the Larchmont Fire Department, it is wonderful time to strut one's stuff.. Today's event was well turned out... There were brave heroes, heroines, witches, our feathered friends and even Fred Flintstone!

Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Second Annual Larchmont Scarecrow Festival - Sponsored by Friends of the Larchmont Public Library

2012-10-25T05:00:00Z

There are currently some wonderful scarecrows on display outside the Larchmont Public Library through Wednesday, October 24th. Sponsored by Friends of the Larchmont Public Library.. Perfect! friendsoflarchmontlibrary.org/scarecrow Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Presidents both Past and Perhaps Future 10538?

2012-10-25T00:00:00Z

Saturday, October 20th was the annual Rag- A- Muffin Parade down Larchmont Avenue, 10538. Sponsored by the Larchmont Recreation Department and the Larchmont Larchmont Fire Department, it was a wonderful opportunity for young and (sometimes not so young) get to get dressed up in their costume finery and strut their stuff! There was even a past President and perhaps a future President present.... but don't worry, there was also a police officer on-hand to keep the crowds at bay.. Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Via Vanti Restaurant & Gelateria, Mt. Kisco, New York - Express Your Inner Italian

2012-10-24T16:20:44Z

Carla Gambescia is a Force of Nature. Whether she is planning a Gelato Tasting/Cycling Tour through Piemonte, Italy or a new flavor in her line of Gelatos which have won Best Gelato in New York, she is Vivaldi's Four Seasons rolled into one energetic connoisseur of life and all things Italian.

Housed at the charming Mt. Kisco Train Station since 2008, her restaurant Via Vanti is a delight to the eye as well as to the palate. There the five senses along with the four Seasons combine to become a showcase of "Sprezzatura" - effortless genius. The warm wood decor envelops you into the magic of Venice, Italy. From the tiles and the hanging etched panels inspired by the facade of The Doges Palace, to the hand blown glass light fixtures fired in Murano, plus the royal red and gold heraldic banners boasting the symbol of the Patron Saint of Venice - St. Mark, you are in for a visual as well as an epicurean treat. The decor is then also further inspired by the "Zanni," the clowns and tricksters of the Commedia dell'Arte.

Via Vanti means "The Way Forward." Her cuisine is Improvisational Italian as inspired by the birthplace of Improvisational Theatre - Venice. The food is based in the deep traditions of Northern Italian cuisine as it was the earliest fusion cuisine - that which was brought back by Marco Polo and the Arab Traders.

In her quest for seasonal menu ideas she asks "How do people want to eat?" The answer is they want the freshest of ingredients, healthy choices, with light clear flavors.

While there we first enjoyed The Beatrice Pizzette. Beatrice was the Muse of Dante and therefore there is a certain purity - sliced figs, crumbled gorgonzola, toasted walnuts with a drizzle of Italian honey which was perfect for this early Fall day. All of her Pizzettes are on a thin, crisp crust with the full gamut of Italian delicacies combined with fresh herbs and inspired by the artists, scientists and famous families of the Renaissance - Michelangelo, Dante, Beatrice, The Borgia (Family), and Galileo. I am looking forward to enjoying the new seasonal offering - a pumpkin pizzette! It was followed by "The Lamburghini" a luscious lamb burger graced with gorgonzola butter, caramelized onions served with rosemary potatoes and Italian slaw. There are also turkey, salmon, sirloin, and chicken burgers. There are also very attractive seasonal soups, salads, grazing plates, "breadless" panini, pastas, chicken, fish and beef offerings. The names, combinations and preparations on this menu sport so much creativity that I do not want to spoil it for you. The menu is a treat to read!

The ambiance is very interactive. Carla and her cuisine give you permission to play, to enjoy. There are also Jazz Nights. Carla is very dedicated to "Guiding Eyes for the Blind". She sponsors a fundraiser called Dogs in Party Hats which also supports their "Healing Autism" program. www.dogsinpartyhats.com. The prizes? A Year of Gelato - a pint of gelato or sorbetto each month for a year! Plus there is a "Party Dog Gift Pack" of goodies for your "Pup Star."

When the main course is over you are encouraged to do the "Passagatta" - the after dinner stroll to the Gelato case which houses her 18 flavors and you are invited to unlimited tastings until you find the perfect pairing to complement your meal. The flavors truly explode on your palate. When people leave they have enjoyed a respite, are energized and ready to continue on and forward having enjoyed the restaurant with the highest Zagat rating in Mt. Kisco! VIA VANTI!

Via Vanti! Restaurant
2 Kirby Plaza at The Train Station
Mt. Kisco, N.Y.
914-666-6400
www.viavanti.com

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

What does $670,000 Buy in New Rochelle, 10804?

2012-10-24T08:51:59Z

The Broadfield area of New Rochelle, 10804 offers some charming homes in a desirable area. One such home recently closed for $670,000, 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and was 2467 square feet. While there was no garage (it had been converted into a lovely family room), what set this particular home apart was the beautifully designed kitchen by the Award winning team of Joan Schindler Designs. Perfect!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Don't Forget the 3.8% Potential Tax on property sales in 2013

2012-10-24T08:48:24Z

As the end of 2012 is drawing near, I am now entering into closing dates for 2013....And to that regard, I am reminding my clients that they might be impacted by the new 3.8% sales tax derived from some investment property sales . Some examples have been published by NYSAR, and the information makes it quite easy to understand for all. Firstly, the 3.8% new tax will be utilized to offset some costs for the Obamacare and Medicare overhaul plans.

The Tax will apply to individuals who earn an adjusted gross income (AGI) of over $200,000 and couples (filing a joint return) who earn an adjusted gross income of over $250,000. The new tax will apply to dividends, interest, rents (less expenses) , capital gains ( less capital losses ).

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle Huguenots Varsity Baseball Team Fundraising for 2013!

2012-10-24T00:00:00Z

Every local sports program always needs funding, and the New Rochelle Huguenots Baseball Varsity Team is no exception. As I was frequenting my local supermarket over the weekend, I saw some dedicated Varsity baseball players and their great coach, Peter Annunziata, outside the store, asking for donations..

The Coach is planning a trip during Spring Break, 2013 to Vero Beach in Florida where they will be competing against some of the best teams in the country.

The coach mentioned that he had 15 players stopping by and assisting throughout the day, but photographed here with Coach Peter Annunziata (far left) are Daniel Dasgusta (Catcher), Jared Almonte (Short Stop), Joshua Stern (Pitcher), and Kevin To (Pitcher).

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle 10804 - Fall is here!

2012-10-23T14:04:11Z

The colors of the fall are so exquisitely vibrant that I could not resist taking a few photos as I was driving around New Rochelle, 10804.. This is Beechmont Lake just a mile or so from downtown New Rochelle, our train station and shopping area. Located in the desirable Beechmont area, New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Four Chimneys, New Rochelle 10804 - as featured in Westchester Magazine

2012-10-05T12:17:18Z

It isn't often that a special and exceptional home enters the market place. Four Chimneys is such a home- or I should say, "estate."

Located in New Rochelle, 10804 just 30 minutes to New York City, this McKim, Mead and White waterfront merits its lofty pedigree. Sited behind gates on a cul-de-sac. 1.79 acre with peaceful views of Sheldrake Lake. Exquisite architectural detail blends with up-to-the-minute amenities.

Re-purposed for the active, modern family, recreational opportunities abound. Massive gym (or ballroom, depending upon your needs), indoor half basketball court, putting green and sport court. Amazing infinity pool blends seamlessly with the lake. A unique, timeless compound. As featured this week in Westchester Magazine Being offered at $5,400,000.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

116 Lyncroft Road 10804 Public Open House October 7th, 1-4 p.m.

2012-10-02T21:09:00Z

There will be a public open house on Sunday, October 7th from 1-4 p.m. at 116 Lyncroft Road, New Rochelle, 10804. This classic 3,588 square foot Center Hall Colonial sits majestically on 0.54 acre of lush park-like property with room for a pool and more! With its close proximity to all houses of worship, this 6 bedroom, 3.5 bath elegant home offers original architectural detailing, crown molding and custom millwork with an easy flow and comfortable design for today's lifestyle. A beautiful new kitchen with granite counters and large breakfast room area for casual dining compliment the formal dining room, sunny living room with fireplace, and den with a cozy fireplace and sliding doors to the tranquil backyard..

The master bedroom features a sitting room, a sitting porch overlooking the tree-lined street and a brand new master bath. With 4 bedrooms and 2 baths on the second floor, and 2 bedrooms and a bath on the third floor, this home is perfect for large gatherings and guests.

The basement offers wonderful finished space that will enchant with great storage and a utility room. There is a new central air conditioning system, new custom storm window inserts, copper lined gutters, gas heat and a detached 2-car garage.

This beautiful home was featured in the 1999-2000 television series "Now and Again" starring Eric Close and John Goodman. It is easy to understand why it was selected!

Built in 1916, and just 30 minutes from New York City. Welcome home! Being Offered at $1,279,000.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The Katonah Museum of Art, The Katonah Village Library & The Katonah Office of Houlihan Lawrence Present: "Crosstalk"

2012-09-25T09:14:42Z

A year ago, I wrote about some of the exciting events happening in the Town of Bedford and Katonah. A busy year has flown by and now some of these favorites are back! Please review the past post and don't forget to visit these and many more events happening in our beautiful community.

Presenting our exciting 2012 line-up:

September 27 at KVL: Cold Ones for Mad Men Scott Vaccaro, brewmaster, Captain Lawrence with Doug Pippin, ad manOctober 25 at KMA: Center Stage and Front Page Jane Alexander, actress with Milt Freudenheim, New York Times reporterNovember 15 at KVL: Dog Thoughts and Catwalks Alexandra Horowitz, dog cognition researcher with Joyce Corrigan, fashion writerDecember 13 at KMA: Sound Bytes and Tasty Bites Fred Silverman, news executive with Jenny Rosenstrach, parenting blogger & cookbook authorCo-sponsored by the KMA and the Katonah Village Library. CrossTalk begins with a wine reception at 6:30 pm, followed by the program. Prepaid reservations recommended. $20 in advance for each event, $25 at the door.

CrossTalk 2012 is supported by Houlihan Lawrence Katonah Brokerage.

Contact the Katonah Museum for tickets by visiting their website www.katonahmuseum.org or call 914-232-9555 x 0.

Enjoy!

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

Public Open House 10804 - 111 Wildwood Road

2012-09-14T16:05:46Z

Public Open House 10804, 111 Wildwood Road, New Rochelle Sunday, September 16th, 2012

The only Larchmont Woods Normandy Chateau with a drawbridge and 40' turret. This bespoke home with its Chef's kitchen, polished bluestone slate spiral staircase, limestone floors, mahogany trim, onyx and marble bathroom clearly reflects the designer home-owner's special touches. There is a patio, courtyard & fountain too! Originally built by a big game hunter for his wife in 1926. Being offered at $875,000 and the public open house is on Sunday September 16th 1-4 p.m. Yes, you can have it all. Just 35 minutes from New York City.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

10804, Infinity Pool, 1.79 Acres Waterfront View, Putting Green, Waterfall - Approx 9000 Sq. Ft.

2012-09-14T14:33:26Z

There is a very special home located in New Rochelle 10804 - Four Chimneys.

With town home prices soaring in New York City, it is nice to know that there is an idyllic estate nestled in a cul de sac, on 1.79 of an acre.. overlooking Sheldrake Lake and just 30 minutes from New York City. This McKim, Mead & White waterfront merits its lofty pedigree. An amazing infinity pool blends seamlessly with the lake. A basketball or sports court, putting green, waterfall and perennial garden beautifully compliment the approx. 9000 square foot home with 7 bedrooms, 7 baths, indoor half basketball court and huge gym (or ballroom) that bespeaks elegance... a unique, timeless compound. The compound is being offered at $5.4 Million.

Interactive FloorPlan Presentation

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle Elementary Schools 10801,10804,10805

2012-09-11T18:58:00Z

How many Elementary Schools are there in New Rochelle you might ask? There are 6! There are approximately 11000 students in the entire New Rochelle public school system, a staff of over 1400, (comprised of approximately 400 employees, and a 1000 administrative, teaching and professional staff.

The George M. Davis Elementary School is located at 80 Iselin Drive, 10804. and offers a magnet overlay program in the performing arts, in addition to teaching Mandarin in Kindergarten. The William B. Ward School is located at 311 Broadfield Road, 10804, and offers an International Peace theme, and a dual language program in Spanish, with Mandarin being offered in Grade 4. The Jefferson Elementary School is located at 131 Weyman Avenue, 10805 and offers a dual language program (Italian, Spanish) and teaches Mandarin starting in Kindergarten. The Trinity Elementary School is located at 180 Pelham Road, 10805, and offers a communication, technology and arts magnet program, and a CILA (Curriculum and Instruction Dual Language Program) in Spanish.

There are 3 Magnet Schools in New Rochelle. The Barnard Early Childhood Center, 129 Barnard Road, 10804, which offers instruction adapted from the Reggio Emelia Model. There is a special designed four year sequence program (language, arts, creative problem solving, higher order thinking skills starting in pre-kindergarten.... that is accessed through a lottery (and a commitment through Grade 2).

The Daniel Webster Elementary School located at 95 Glenmore Road, 10801, offers a Humanities (Sociology, Jurisprudence, Economics, Philosophy and Historic Perspectives through Literature) Magnet program. There is an expanded langiage program (French or Spanish) and Mandarin. There is also 14 weeks of Studio Arts (visual, dance theatre).

The Columbus Elementary School is located at 275 Washington Avenue, 10801, and offers Science, Math & Technology magnet program. Open houses for the magnet programs are usually held in March of each year.

Posted by: Gay Rosen

A House For All Seasons 9 Ivy Place, Katonah, NY 10536 Public Open House Sunday September 23rd 2-4

2012-09-11T16:17:00Z

There is a home in Katonah that is simply enchanting. To start it has a wonderful location. It is a minute to the historic thriving Hamlet of Katonah, Metro North Trains, the Saw Mill River Parkway & 684. It is also a minute away to those life enhancing entities of Katonah's Museum Mile - The Katonah Museum, The John Jay Homestead and the Caramoor International Music Festival www.Caramoor.org Just those three cultural institutions will entertain, educate and provide a wonderful social atmosphere for all ages for many years. I have often said my children were raised at The Katonah Library and The Katonah Museum. We never missed a chance to feed Tina the Turtle in The Children's Room in the Katonah Library and never missed a show at The Katonah Museum. The Katonah Museum www.KatonahMuseum.org. is the social and intellectual hub of the area. Now with so many more programs including Stroller Tours to wonderful lectures and a Book Club selection and discussion group based on each exhibit there is something for everyone. There are also rocking Second Saturday Parties out in the Sculpture Garden, Opening Night parties, Jazz in the Garden events and too many events to mention here! Now if you need fabulous bread and cheeses and more on the weekend you can run down to the great Farmer's Market at The John Jay Homestead www.johnjayhomestead.org Simply go to my 90+ Award Winning Articles on life here and you will see what I mean! Along with my popular website www.KarenFromKatonah.com.

Yes, back to Ivy Place. If I were to make a list of features a Dream Home should have I would want a home with:

A great location to minimize driving time throughout the day and to be able to enjoy all of the amenities that Katonah has to offer - Check!A home on a private cul de sac - Check!A Rocking Chair Front Porch - Check! Easy living on one level - except with a large Bonus Room on the Upper Floor with bath to use as a home gym, home office or for your older children. This house is so solid you will never know that it or they are even there! Check! Check!A large gracious Master Bedroom with 2 Baths - Check!A second Master Suite w/Bath for Guests, Mom or a favored Child - Check!Another spacious bedroom with new Hall Bath - Check!A Cozy Den with Wet Bar - Check!A Great Room with high ceilings, beautiful Hickory wood floors and a fireplace - Check!A brand new eat-in Granite /Stainless Kitchen with a breakfast bar - Check!A large Formal Dining Room with a Fireplace - Check!An Enclosed Screened Porch that I would want to live on 3 Seasons of the year - Check!A Fenced Park Like Property with herb gardens, a wall of Rhododendrons, and other mature plantings which enhance the serenity. Check!A Spectacular Pool Setting set away from the house complete with a Lattice covered outdoor living room - a perfect escape! Check!Katonah Lewisboro Schools, great town events, ice skating at The Harvey School, The Bedford Town Parks with wonderful Day Camps, Tennis Courts, gorgeous pools... Check! Check! Check!

Enjoy all of the photos, the rest of the Twilight shots of this very gracious 3870 sq ft home plus NEW - Interactive Floor Plans. Click on the little cameras in the room and the room photo pops up so you can start placing your furniture!

View full listing at www.KarenBenvinRansom.HoulihanLawrence.com

All of this for only $899,000!

Public Open House Sunday September 23rd 2-4

Contact me at , or 914-232-1212 x342.

As you can see, this house is the whole package!

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

Four Chimneys, 10804 - McKim Mead & White Waterfront home - $5,400,000

2012-09-06T11:35:04Z

Located in New Rochelle and just 30 minutes to NYC, this McKim, Mead and White waterfront merits its lofty pedigree. Sited behind gates on a cul-de-sac. 1.79 acre estate with peaceful views of Sheldrake Lake (a 60 acre nature reserve and perfect for fishing, swimming, kayaking and non-motorized boats). Exquisite architectural detail blends with up-to-the-minute amenities.

Re-purposed for the active, modern family, recreational opportunities abound. Massive gym (or ballroom), indoor half basketball court, and outdoor putting green, waterfall and sport court. Amazing inifinity pool blends seamless with the lake. A unique and timeless compound with 7 bedrooms, 7 baths, library, formal dining room, informal dining room, kitchen with den, great room, 6 fireplaces....Being offered at $5.400,000.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The Ward Acres Community Garden 10804

2012-08-13T16:25:28Z

Don't have a garden? Want to plant some flowers or vegetables? Want to plant some organic vegetables and help feed the hungry? Then look no further than the Ward Acres Community Garden, New Rochelle 10804. Open from approximately February 15th to November 1st, and first established in 2009, with 88 separate 10x10 plots, it was created by volunteers with the support of the New Rochelle Department of Parks and Recreation, and New Rochelle residents can rent plots for a small yearly fee each season. Six of the plots are utilized for the H.O.P.E. Community Services Soup Kitchen, shared plots are also available. Some of the plots are used as teaching tools by the Ward Elementary School (great idea!) for grades K-5.

Plot renters are asked to cultivate and maintain their plots during the season, in addition to donating 12 hours of service to the Community Garden. It has been a great success, and the volunteers have worked extremely hard to raise much needed funds for the seasonal water installation. One of the goals, is to grow the vegetables utilizing organic gardening principles, and from walking past the garden, you can readily see tomatoes, flowers, sunflowers, and so many vegetables blooming! Another goal is to share ideas and tips with fellow gardeners, and to harvest some vegetables to help feed the hungry of New Rochelle. The Community Garden is located off Broadfield Road opposite the Ward Elementary School.

For more information and an application to rent a plot click here

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Ward Acres, New Rochelle 10804

2012-08-13T16:08:01Z

You would think you were further away from the city, but Ward Acres, New Rochelle 10804, offers 62 acres of foot trails is just 35 minutes by train from New York, and it is so tranquil! Ward Acres is located off Sussex Road and Quaker Ridge Road, and you never know what you might encounter! I have seen deer and foxes in the area which to me all add to the charm and enjoyment. Paw's Place, the New Rochelle dog park is also located in Ward Acres, as is the Community Garden.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

My neighborhood 10804

2012-08-13T14:19:37Z

As I walking my little pooch at 6 a.m. this morning, I started to reflect on the neighborhood, so quiet and tranquil at that time of day. How could I describe it? The street name is Paine Avenue, New Rochelle 10804... as Thomas Paine once (very briefly) lived here, and was given a cottage as a special thank you from the powers that be after 1776. We even have a Paine Lake.

I used to laugh as there was a time when two dentists and two endodontists lived on the street at the same time... dentist - "pain" old joke I know but still humorous to me. There has been a judge who once resided on the street, attorneys galore, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, a past High School Principal, a sultry jazz singer and actor, a well known Speech Pathologist lives here and has a great vegetable garden each year, and "Howdy Doody" once lived on the street (Buffalo Bob Smith), and past buyers were delighted to have found a Howdy Doody mural on the basement studio wall where he used to film his show in the early days ....I wonder if it is still there..

There is the couple -I am always amazed at this, who walk their tiny dog each morning, with a coffee cup balanced in one hand, the poopy bags in the other, and of course holding that leash.. How can you walk, talk, drink and scoop the poop all at the same time? I see them as being very devoted, and it is lovely... but still amazed at the coffee cup thing..

On a neighboring street, someone has a tennis court (quite a few in the area, and swimming pools (one an indoor pool) also), but this particular tennis court is nearly completely surrounded by bushes. I say nearly as I noticed the other day the home-owner playing tennis in what appeared to be either the skimpiest of shorts or underwear! Ha! Perhaps he was trying to put his player at a disadvantage and throw off his/her game! We have equestrians living on the street, hockey dads, baseball dads, philanthropists, an Olympian, animal lovers galore, and we even had a cat lady living on the street many years ago.

I can recall that I had wanted to organize a street garage sale at one point... and of course I received the dutiful phone call from a neighbor who wanted to make sure I got the permit, and then started to ask how many years I had lived there, what did I do, what did my husband do, how many children, where did I come from, and you get the picture.. That person, may she rest in peace is no longer with us... I also have the neighbor who asked I inform another neighbor that their children are too loud (since I am in real estate and all that and those property prices...you know...) I politely declined and mentioned I love happy noise and in truth, don't ever hear them! We have horticulturists, we have owners who have English gardens, exotic gardens and even a Japanese garden.

Iona College track athletes seem to have an affinity with Paine Avenue perhaps because we have a few gentle hills perfect for running, and there was the annual half-marathon "Paine to pain" that started at the Thomas Paine Cottage in the spring.

There are Tudor homes, colonial homes, Mediterranean homes, Victorian homes, Georgian Colonial homes and some splits and ranches when residents of long ago had sold of portion of their larger lots, and the smaller homes were built. We have stunning homes, homes owned by Embassies, and some homes that have been sold by banks, homes in all price ranges as a result of our economy. We also have a private tennis club - the New Rochelle Tennis Club located at 100 Valley Road.

We have a neighborhood Home-owners association. A truly thankless job for our great President, who keeps us informed on what is happening within the community, and will feature guest speakers when appropriate. We have great neighbors. We had entrusted our house keys to one neighbor in the event we were ever locked out of our home. This particular neighbor, who had taken us under her wing when we moved in many years ago, has invited us in for dinners celebrating school graduation, or just to unwind, and has always been the perfect neighbor to have. We returned home after one vacation, to discover that we could not find our keys. We asked our neighbor for the set we had left with her, and she had replied that she had forgotten they were ours, and had thrown them out! Ha!

But our neighbors care. Many years ago, a cousin and his friend came to stay. They found themselves walking down the street with their knapsacks on their backs, and the police showed up, asking what they were doing in the neighborhood. Someone had called to report the strangers. My (English) cousin was impressed, amazed and dutifully scared! Another cousin (his brother) came to stay also a few years later, and it was at the time President Clinton was seeking a home after his elected office. There was a rumor that he was going to look at a certain home in the area that had a duck pond at the time, guard dogs, a pool, etc. People from the neighborhood were lined up outside the home from 7 a.m. waiting to catch a glimpse. When they did arrive around 10 a.m., President Clinton and Hillary alighted from their limousine, and shook the hands of everyone present. Very impressive and a lasting memory. But we look out for each other. We are diverse, and come from all countries, all walks of life. we are America... and perhaps that is why--

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House 10804, 111 Wildwood Road, New Rochelle Sunday, August 12th, 1-4 p.m.

2012-08-10T15:51:46Z

The only Larchmont Woods Normandy Chateau with a drawbridge and 40' turret. This bespoke home with its Chef's kitchen, polished bluestone slate spiral staircase, limestone floors, mahogany trim, onyx and marble bathroom clearly reflects the designer home-owner's special touches. There is a patio, courtyard & fountain too! Originally built by a big game hunter for his wife in 1926. Being offered at $875,000 and the public open house is on Sunday, August, 12th, 1-4 p.m. Yes, you can have it all.

Just 35 minutes from New York City.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Neri's Bakery, Port Chester

2012-08-09T11:30:26Z

Whenever I am in the Port Chester area, I always pop into Neri's, a very well known bakery in the area. My sinful pleasure each time I go there, is to purchase the apple horse shoe, full of apples, delicious, moist and not overly sweet... I was there just over a week ago, and purchased two horse shoes (one for my office), and a fresh loaf of bread cost for just $13.50! Definitely not city prices.

There is always a line, and it is cash only. The cakes and breads are look amazing... I am afraid to try something new... then I fear I will be buying more sinful pleasures! All Good.

Located at 31-37 Pearl Street, Port Chester, New York 914.937.3235

Westchester is good too!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Going to the Olympics! - New Rochelle's High School Chorus

2012-08-06T08:42:13Z

What would seem like a monumental task to anyone else, is just "old hat" to Mr. Derrick James, Music Teacher at the New Rochelle High School. Two years in the preparation, both he and Mr. David Jutt have taken approximately 50 high school chorus students (mostly 10th-12th Grades) to England, to perform at the Olympic Park this week!

I met briefly with them on Saturday, as they were giving out T-shirts for the trip, and the enthusiasm, excitement permeated the air. What an undertaking! The group will be gone for approximately 9 days, and will be performing not only at the Olympic Park but also at the American Cemetery in Normandy. They hope to visit Stonehenge whilst there, and will be staying in Croydon whilst in England.

Mr. James has taken members of the chorus to the Beijing World Expo back in 2010, and to Italy in 2008. Just another example of how New Rochelle has GREAT teachers like Mr. James and Mr. Jutt, and how they strive to make a difference to our students and community.

Mr. James' personal message is "Music makes the world go around." I think he follows through figuratively and literally!

New Rochelle truly is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Rosen House Tours at Caramoor - Support The Holiday Teas!

2012-08-02T17:08:35Z

While acting as a Docent for a tour at The Rosen House Music Room for several Fridays before the Friday night concerts in the Spanish Courtyard, I was cheered by the thought that Full Rosen House Tours will be offered for The Holiday Teas!

The tours were halted about two years ago for reevaluation, refurbishing and research at The Rosen House at Caramoor .

The Holiday Teas and Musicales will be held starting at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, November, 29th, Friday, November 30th, Saturday, December 1st. Thursday, December 6th (SOLD OUT!), Friday, December 7th, Sunday, Dec. 9th, Thursday, December 13th, Friday, December 14th, and Saturday, December 15th. Tickets are $45.00 for adults, $30.00 for children 16 and under. Tickets just for the Concert are $16.00 for adults and $8.00 for children 16 and under.

On the Tour of The Rosen House, a Mediterranean-style villa, built between 1929-1939 that I describe as San Simeon East - although on a more intimate scale, visitors learn the story of Walter & Lucie Rosen. They were an amazing couple that fostered their love of music within their own home and shared it with ever growing circles of the local area which grew to its International status of today and definitely is prime story telling. In addition to that, touring the Rosen House is a feast to the eye! Walter Rosen was a collector of fine and decorative art objects as well as entire period rooms which he incorporated into the design of his country home, Caramoor , now known as the Rosen House. There is the story of two American Families and their contributions to society, their successes, romance, history and heartbreak.

The tour is followed by a 45 minute Holiday Musicale in the majestic Music Room - a live concert filled with Holiday Favorites, and sing alongs . Tenor Brenton Ryan accompanied by Maureen Zoltek , Baritone Jonathan Estabrooks with piano accompaniment and The Charis Chamber Voices Ensemble are the featured artists featured during this time. Call for more information as to their date of their performances.

The Concert is then followed by a sumptuous tea out on the Summer Dining Room which will be cozy warm for you! The tea features tea sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves, and an array of Holiday Desserts. Beverages will include a selection of teas and hot chocolate complete with marshmallows if desired!

Let's support this mini Renaissance of The Rosen House and share their story, their love of Music, the Arts and their legacy!

Call for more information. 914-232-1252 or go their website.

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

Realign Your Space and Your Life - The Study of Vastu - the PhD of Feng Shui

2012-08-02T16:41:30Z

Today I met with Marianne Denniston , an LEED Accredited Interior Designer and Vastu Design Consultant who has incorporated the design elements she is known for into the world of Vastu. Vastu , the PhD of Feng Shui is the 10,000 year old Vedic Science of architecture, planning, design of buildings and exterior spaces. According to this study, the earth is covered by an electromagnetic grid whose lines are receptors for solar, lunar and stellar energies. A living energy exists in every building. The goal is the alignment of the property and structure to the grid that is a 9 x 9 grid of 81 cells which is comparable to latitude and longitudinal lines.

Think of Leonardo Da Vinci and his mathematics, geometry, architecture and engineering skills. Remember his "Vetruvian Man?" Perfectly balanced.

An aligned house design starts with the family's or the businesses' core and goals. Note is taken of the date of incorporation of a business and birthdates of the owners of a residential property in order to align the energies with the alignment of the solar system at that time in history. For an existing property, forces are realigned by the use of Vastu tools in rectification.

People absorb the benefits of alignment and begin to experience less stress, remove blockages and operate successfully in their business and personal endeavors. There are even stories of seemingly endless lawsuits being settled and peace restored to the unit be it a family home or place of business. These tools include the use of keystones, copper tubing and yantras . For example, copper tubing is used in order to ground and neutralize frequencies. A keystone is used in resetting for alignment purposes the boundaries of your property although it will not change the actual dimension of your survey or your tax lot.

From her testimonials: "My neighbor and I had our houses Vastu'd in the same week. There was a shift in energy that made us all relax and be present. Things started expanding, flowing and changing. One's business increased. I'm traveling more. Another is settling a lawsuit. My boyfriend and I are so connected its scary! What's wild is that we all felt it at the same time!"

From a second Bedford resident I personally called upon: "After Marianne Vastu'd our house, it felt more balanced, especially energetically. Remember this is a house on the historic registry, so it has a past. The entities that we and others had experienced - and heard!! - were gone. And, most importantly, my significant other and I were and are increasingly in harmony. The overall aura has changed and very definitely positively."

It has also helped students with study problems. Speaking of children...If you do not want them to rule the roost, be sure to have YOUR bedroom and not theirs in the Southwest corner of your home. Just do not put your bath in the North East corner of your space...then again those energies can be corrected…

Marianne Denniston, LEED AP Interior Design 575-779-1608 www.mariannedenniston.com

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

The Remington Flyers Return Triumphant

2012-08-01T15:13:20Z

Anyone living in New Rochelle for any length of time, would know of the Remington Flyers. SO, it was no surprise to have seen a lemonade stand within the local Shop-Rite store on Palmer Avenue a while back raising money for their upcoming Florida trip and competition. Not wanting any lemonade, but having my check book handy, I made a very small contribution , and was thrilled to not only receive a thank you note, but also a lovely photo from their trip.

Knowing Quay Watkins (the Executive Director), I was invited to pop by the Remington Boys and Girls Club the other night to see the Remington Flyers celebrate their recent successful trip to the National AAU (Amateur Athletic Union) Championships which were held at the Disney Wide World of Sports in Orlando, Florida from July 7-15, 2012.

It was such a lovely night as Mr. Walter Brown, Coach (extraordinaire) made every single athlete, coach, volunteer, chaperone (and me!) within the room feel very special. HE is special (I hope to see the Walter Brown Highway one day to commemorate the speeds he generates from his athletes! Ha! Or at the very least the Walter Brown Boulevard - come on, New Rochelle). Coach Walter’s program has been a great feeder program for our High School Track Team, and his former athletes have gone onto obtaining college scholarships and more. A representative from the City of New Rochelle, Councilman Jared Rice, was also there, as was the new President of the Board of Directors of the Boys and Girls Club of New Rochelle -Mark McCabe (we all know and love Mark!) Four of Mark’s children were Remington Flyers, and Mark’s daughter Maura will be running track at Stonybrook University this fall.

The Remington Flyers was founded in 1986 by Coach Walter, who thought it a good idea to start a running program for girls 6-12 after school. Little did he know that within a few months, there would be 25 athletes in the program, and it just took off from there - but it wouldn’t have without Walter’s devotion, dedication, and patience. There are approximately 75% girls in the program and 25% boys, and as someone commented to me “the athletes really listen when Walter speaks. They are respectful." Coach Walter has such a low-key and calming influence way about him (perhaps it is all of that running), but his easy-going manner has a wonderful affect on his athletes, and the success of the program speaks for itself).

19 athletes (16 girls, 3 boys) went to Florida to attend the AAU Championships, and they returned with 2 National Champions (Sabiha Dodd and Ilenn Soto) , and 30 medalists. What is so amazing are the stats. Approximately 205 teams participated, and when you compare a team from Puerto Rico who arrived with approx. 125- 150 athletes, compared to the Flyers’ 19, and from those 19 athletes, you have one athlete, who returned ranking Number One, and a team that ranked in the Top 10 in team scoring, and was one of the top 25 teams, it is pretty amazing.

The tables were nicely decorated, and the athletes, while waiting for dinner and the delicious looking cake, couldn’t wait to see some videos of their two week trip, and hear the stories recapping it all.

I had the opportunity to speak briefly with Angela Ayala, age 11, who participated in the 11-12 sub midget category. Angela came in 7th in Turbo, 6th in High Jump, 7th in Discus and her medals sure looked quite heavy , but Angela wore them with pride.. I then had the privilege to speak with Ilenn Soto, age 10. Ilenn obtained six medals , coming in 1st in the girl's bantam Turbo Javelin, 2nd in Shot Put, 4th in the triathlon (1st in the triathlon shot put) and 7th in High Jump. Pretty impressive? Well, there is more, Ilenn is now a National Champion.

Sabiha Dodd, just 7, was another National Champion, won turbo javelin in her age division. Sabiha also medaled in hurdles and the shot put. Linise Greene took 2nd in the Team Division (Bantam, 10).

Other medalists were Ayana Champion, Linise Greene, Jarron Greene, Jada Dieudonne, Eko Dodd, Tehya Rose and the 4x100 relay (Eko and Sabiya Dodd, Aleigha Thomas, Ron-Niah Wright). Other athletes who helped in the standings were Angela ALaya, Shane Jacobs, Ebony Ayala, Tanjiha Maxwell, Eurasia Bryan, Mariah Latty, Max Lantigua and Deanna Kerr.

The team stayed in townhomes to offset the huge costs of going there, but were under the watchful eyes of the chaperones whose days started at 5:30 a.m. preparing breakfast for all. It was noted that 1,000 miles away from home, the tooth fairy visited three times whilst the team was away, their favorite dining spot was “The Golden Corral“ and their favorite ride was at Magic Kingdom - Space Mountain. Swimming was a daily event with the weather permitting, and the Faith Harvest Worship Center hosted a special dinner for the athletes one night.

Funding has always been an issue, and they were basically $5-6,000 short prior to the trip commencing, but through Herculean efforts, they came through. Awards were given to the Remington Men’s Club, the Smith Family (Marcia and Kevin) and the New Rochelle United Methodist Church as well as the Remington Women’s Auxiliary whose special and generous donations helped make the trip possible.

Donations are always welcome, and sorely needed, and their old van can no longer be used for long distance trips. Checks can be sent to the Remington Flyers C/O Walter Brown, Remington Boys Club, 116 Guion Place, New Rochelle, N.Y. 10801.

remingtonflyers@msn.com
914-636-1862

Program Year:
Winter Season: First week of November through end of February
Spring/Summer season: Mid March through July

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Swim Across America- Larchmont 2012

2012-07-30T15:54:27Z

I am so proud of my fellow associates! Pam Joyce (Team Yo Adrian) and Sonya Cronin were going to swim this past Saturday in the great yearly "Swim Across America" event raising much needed money for cancer research. The charities benefiting from this year's event are:

Swim Across America Laboratory and DeMatteo Research Laboratory at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Cancer Support Team (Westchester County based organization)Morgan Stanley’s Children's Hospital of New York - Presbyterian at Columbia University Medical Center Tommy Palazzo Fellowship at Columbia University

However, one slight snag! The water was so choppy that the event had to be cancelled, and some kayakers (who cheer and support the swimmers ) had to be towed back! Not so for our very own Katie McLoughlin who battled the waters successfully (and cheerfully!) BUT, it was still a success, as the Larchmont Daily Voice reported, over 1,000 people showed up, and this race culminated this years's swim events through the Long Island Sound Chapter, and they expected to raise One Million Dollars.

My associates had been diligently training for the event along with the 500 or so other swimmers, and needless to say, we are all very proud of them! They all know cancer survivors, have lost friends and love ones to cancer, and were motivated through love and the desire to help others!

Go Larchmont!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Reflections on the Olympics

2012-07-26T09:27:00Z

As I watch on television the Olympic torch being carried with pride and great fanfare through the streets of England, it made me reflect on my past experience with the torch.

As a parent of a two-time Olympian, it was with so much pride that we traveled to watch our son, A.J. in his first Olympics in Turin. He was participating in luge, a winter sport, and the event would take place in Sestriere, an alpine village in the province of Turin… (where you will find the most delicious chocolate and hazelnut confections -), and is just 11 miles from the French border. He was the second youngest athlete to participate in that event that year, and we were so excited (not as much as he of course!)

Thinking it smart to arrive two days prior to the Olympics would commence, thus avoiding the usual delays, we leisurely traveled into Turin to pick up our event tickets… No six hour lines as was reported in London, there was no delay and all was organized (which was surprising!) What really made us chuckle was the torch. It does bring tears to your eyes to watch the torch bearer running past with all of the fanfare. In Turin, there was music playing, horns blowing, and so much excitement. I took the usual photos and video… Then, several hours later, we were privileged to see the torch again, in another part of the city... And then the following day, we were privileged to see the torch yet again… We were wondering if they would run out of special torch bearers, and it sort of became comical to see the torch going by five times, six times… but it all added to our enjoyment.

My husband hadn’t driven a stick-shift in many years, and sadly it didn’t all come back to him…We must have stopped and started so many times with the gears squeaking. I was so sure we would be rear ended by another car but apart from the usual horn blasting, we were fine.. It was rather comical at the border check-points though…oh yes.. Let me digress….

As soon as the Olympic site is chosen, the various countries, corporations reserve blocks of villas, homes, hotels, and for a parent and visitor, it is nigh impossible to find economical accommodations. The larger and best endowed countries will offer reasonable accommodations (from their reserved block) to the parents not too far from the various venues. However, the smaller countries like Great Britain had nothing to offer… I had searched and searched the summer previously for a hotel room, and finally found a 17th century hotel in a tiny town about an hour outside of Sestriere, nestled in the Italian Alps. Since we were taking my other two sons, and AJ’s girlfriend with us, I thought I should pop over a few months before to check out the accommodations, for I knew that if my sons were not happy, then we would not be happy.. Alas, the hotel was indeed dated from the 17th century. The common room/reception room/breakfast room was once the stables for the home, and you could still smell the horses and cows lingering scent… There was a communal bathroom, only one restaurant in the village, no nightlife, and I knew that this was not for us…

Just two months before the event, I lucked out! I found in Serre Chevalier, across the border in France, Tadpole Holidays which offers last minute accommodations to people like us! Owned by a Frenchman, and his Scottish wife, a reasonable fee included bed and breakfast (in a small duplex condo - time shares but which were available for rent), dinner at their pub "Le Frog" (all French, delicious and choice of local wines). Research your countries! We were in business! Buses were to have left from Briancon every few hours to take us over the Alps, into Italy and to Cesana a small town leading up to Sestriere (no cars would be allowed to either enter or park anywhere near the Olympic venues), where buses could take us to somewhere near the event (we still had a 20 minute walk once there and a ski-lift ride too..all fun), - but luckily we were early for a 11a.m. bus which would take us on our 3 hour trek to get to see our son compete in his 4 p.m. event. It turned out, they did not have the overflow of crowds for the Olympic events they had expected in France, and that 11 a.m. bus was THE bus for the day….

A fellow American hotel guest, had plans to watch six or so events in the course of a few days.. Well, she had left the US last minute, ran into delays, missed two events by the time she arrived, and she hadn’t counted on the time it would take to travel from A-B in a foreign country.

When our bus arrived at the French/Italian border, the gendarmes stepped onto the bus and asked to look at our passports… They had already seen us sputtering through with our rental car the two days prior, and so when they saw the passports, they exclaimed “Ah yes, the family Rosen- you are not driving today?” Ha! Everyone laughed… Perhaps my husband not as much, but it was very funny..

SO many funny and great memories… A wonderful trip in so many ways. But if you can read between the lines, those hours of travel time to and from the Olympic event each day which did not bother us - we were THERE! The lack of accommodations (although we had found THE best place and felt as if we were staying with family - the Restaurant “Le Frog” was situated at the bottom of the ski slopes, so my sons could go skiing - we ENJOYED ourselves there..but if the Olympic powers that be could realize that the parents undergo great hardships in many ways to get their athlete to the Olympics, to allow them to follow their dream, and if they could ensure that there are accommodations available - nothing more…but just a little courtesy to the parents… that would be GREAT! We lucked out, as I persevered, and had searched searched on the internet for months, and we would not have changed a thing….but other parents were not as lucky… and we heard of their experiences. How they had shown up at one of the small hotels, only to find their accommodations was a garage…

I am so excited that the Olympics are in London, and I can hardly wait to watch the opening ceremony.. I saw the usual streaker on the internet running in front of the torch bearer at one point.. And a newspaper article mentioned they should not run with the torch just take a bic lighter to it the night before and light it - but that is typical British sarcasm and humor (humour)...The excitement that the Olympics generate is unbelievable, and I just hope that that everything goes off without too many glitches! There will be delays, and they should be expected so everyone should plan for them (just like in real estate!) and people should not let any glitch mar the enjoyment. While I am not traveling to the Olympics, and neither is my son (who was invited to participate in an Honorary status - but cannot afford to go), I did order some memorabilia, so if I can’t go the Olympics, then the Olympics will come to me!

GO Great Britain!

GO US!

Good Luck all…

Posted by: Gay Rosen

YOU are such a Turkey!

2012-07-25T15:35:19Z

I recently saw two wild turkeys crossing Quaker Ridge Road in New Rochelle, and they stopped traffic! It was a first for me I must admit, and had to take some photos. Since then, I spoke with a friend in Mamaroneck, and she has a family of nine turkeys in her backyard!

I am also a tad ashamed to mention, it made be think of Thanksgiving.... but I also appreciated seeing them! Just another reason to live in New Rochelle, close enough to the city, but far enough away to enjoy nature!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Paw's Place - Ward Acres New Rochelle - a tranquil place- and not just for pooch!

2012-07-25T15:18:37Z

Having recently adopted the perfect pet (Binky - photo shown) from the New Rochelle Humane Society, I decided to obtain a permit for Paw's Place, a park for dogs, located in Ward Acres, which would allow me to take him to the park (from dawn to dusk) for the small fee of $50 a (calendar) year. The rues are pretty simple:

All dogs should be healthy, vaccinated, current with all shots, wearing a collar and ID at all times, and owners must be carrying the valid dog permit for the park also.Owners must clean up after their dogs (have to admit some owners seemingly had forgotten when I was there today)No picnicking, and dogs cannot dig holes...Limit of four dogs per personChildren aged 13 and under must be supervisedSmall dogs are (yes, there is one!) restricted to dogs 30 lbs or less, but owners can use larger area if desired.Owners are responsible for their dogs and injuries caused by them.Aggressive dogs are not permitted - owners must remove their dog at the first sign of aggression

We ventured there yesterday...not many dogs as it was mid afternoon, which was fine with me as I wanted the first visit to be a quiet one. Binky loved it! It was so tranquil, and he was so tired when we arrived home. It was the perfect place for him to socialize with other dogs, run around and have some fun.

He couldn't wait to go back today - what is there not to like? A water fountain, a container on a tree with some bags in case you forgot.. and lots of shade too with benches for the owners...

Thank you, New Rochelle - Paw's Place is great! We give it a four paws up!

Permits can be obtained at the Parks and Recreation Department at City Hall (914.654.2087) from 8:30-4:30 Monday to Friday.

New Rochelle residents pay $50. Non residents pay $100 (up to four dogs)

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Not Your Mama's Museum! The Katonah Museum of Art- Second Saturday Fests & Kite Festival!

2012-07-20T11:56:33Z

Just when I think I have covered all that The Katonah Museum has to offer they top themselves!

Last Saturday was the celebration of July's "Second Saturday" - a program open to members and non members alike. There is a nominal admission ($10.00 for members, $20.00 for non members - so join!) which garners you entrance to the Museum and Sculpture Garden, a chance to see their latest show, enjoy great music, and indulge in complimentary great hor d'oeuvres, beer and wine. This month's program featured "Blond Ambition" as the band and did I mention dancing? Yes, the music was so great there was a lot of fun dancing in the Sculpture Garden under the extended arms of the massive Joseph Wheelwright Tree Figures! A great night to be outdoors away from AC and simply enjoying the evening breezes.

What did I enjoy most? Inviting as my guests, two young couples that had been my client's in my role as Realtor in the purchase of their lovely homes in our area. What did I talk about when seeing area homes? "Wait until you see what The Katonah Museum has to offer your whole family in the areas of education and fun! Plus there is the John Jay Homestead, Caramoor, our great hamlet of Katonah, Tina The Turtle at The Katonah Library, The Fireman's Parade & Carnival, the gorgeous Town Pools and wonderful Day Camps...remember it is always more than the House!" Next Second Saturday: Saturday, August 11, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Wait - this Saturday - 7/21 - in keeping with the theme of the current exhibit "Rising Dragon - Contemporary Chinese Photography" there is a totally new fun event - "Kite Festival @ the Katonah Museum and The Harvey School." Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. at each half hour you will create a kite in a workshop at the Museum (success guaranteed according to their brochure!) and then drive to our neighbor The Harvey School to practice flying your kites with professional kite flyers! At noon there will be Giant Chinese Dragon Kites, and at 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. there will be Fighting Kite Exhibitions. There will also be games and a Kite Candy Drop at 2 p.m! Let's Go Fly a Kite!

Before the candy drop - do not worry parents - there will be two over the top food trucks (if you do not bring your own picnic or brown bag lunch) available in order to purchase a great lunch before the candy drop! Each Saturday through the summer there is the "Ladle of Love" all electric food truck - great lunch fare from their popular Mt. Kisco Restaurant - in the Sculpture Garden from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plus since this is all about Chinese Kites, the Rickshaw Dumpling Truck will return and have their awesome dumplings at The Harvey School from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m!

As a Mother of two College/Post College Kids - remember it's all also about the memories!

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

My Home is Listed- Can't Wait for the Multiple Bids!

2012-07-11T16:43:08Z

I think that most sellers dream of a multiple bidding situation as it just confirms their personal belief that their home is perfect, and should warrant the attention of so many buyers vying to buy it... However, when should we have multiple bids? Should bidding in certain situations be handled on a bid by bid situation?

In Westchester, we can usually bring up the subject of multiple bids when there are three bids (in writing) on the table. Some agents jump the gun, and when they are informed by agents that bids will be forthcoming- and then they do not materialize.. then those agents are left with egg on their faces - and potentially lower bids thereafter... As I explain to my clients, it is always best to wait until you have those bids in writing with proof of funds before you start suggesting a highest and best situation.

I once experienced this situation with a client who, upon hearing of interest from several agents, thought we should implement the highest and best scenario. If you ask for highest and best, and then don't receive those bids, we all look foolish. As it happened in that particular case... only one bid materialized. It is hard for some sellers to understand why caution is important.

I realize that when buyers do not like homes it is as if - to a seller - they are insulting their child, but buying a home involves personal needs, both financial, logistical, number of bedrooms, stairs, floor plans, backyards, storage space, etc. So many finite details that even when a buyer places a bid, they might then consider the negative factors compared to the positive factors for them, and while they can afford more, might see the house worth X amount less than list price - if even just to negotiate as low as they can - simply because in this market - they can.... It is all business.

If a seller would like a highest and best situation then pricing of course is most important. Pricing a home very competitively so the buyers see the value of the home both in price and what it offers compared to similarly priced homes. The market will always tell you where you stand. If priced well - there is the potential for multiple bids. if priced too high... you could still (perhaps) have multiple bids if the home is simply glorious but those bids might not be higher than list price... I received 10 bids on one property, and five bids were under asking, and five bids were at asking or over... SO, you never know...

Sometimes, when I receive two to three bids or so, I might suggest to my clients to look at each bid independently of each other. For instance, if they ask for the highest and best, then they are locked into the bid they choose (if honorable) - with the other bids being back-ups until the first bidder is not performing..... However, if they look at the merits of each bid -without having a highest and best, negotiating with each agent/buyer on an individual basis, then they are not closing the door to other offers or those existing bids, and then they can always accept a better bid should one come along and/or the other agent(s) improves his bid accordingly. Also, you do not just want the highest bid, you always want the BEST bid - in terms, etc. Unless there are no contingencies, you are also relying on the appraisal aspect too.. I have obtained accepted offers with having lower bids than the other agents BUT I took the time to ask when the sellers wanted to close, and by offering a later close date, obtained the accepted offer(s)..

Selling a home can be exciting and it can be traumatic. Having a seasoned real estate professional in your corner can help the process.

Larchmont and New Rochelle are GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The Beechmont Area 10804

2012-07-10T14:52:38Z

John and Eugene Lambden planned the Beechmont area (Beechmont Woods) in 1902 for the City Realty Company. Beechmont Lake was created in 1902 by damming the Pine Brook, and borders the Eastern side of New Rochelle and Larchmont. Forest Knolls and Larchmont Woods are to the Northeast of the Lake, Paine Heights and Forest Heights are to the North of Beechmont Lake. North Avenue is on the western boundary of the Beechmont area. In recent times, Iona College has purchased many homes in the Beechmont area close to the College, and are readily apparent by their maroon Iona color trim.

The Beechmont area has always been a prestigious area in which to live, and offers the George M. Davis Elementary School. Home prices can range anywhere from $600,000 (an unusual price) to the $2 Million range depending upon the condition and size. My last sale in that area brought forth multiple bids.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Paine Heights, New Rochelle 10804

2012-07-10T14:35:45Z

This whole area (Paine Heights, Wykagyl Park, Forest Heights), used to be called the "estate area" but with the now buyer's market, I am saddened to state that whereas the cheapest home would have cost $999,000 a few years ago, many homes are selling in the $6's, $7's and upwards depending upon their condition, etc.

Known for the wide tree-lined boulevards and early 20th century homes featuring Mediterraneans, Colonials and Tudors, Paine Avenue was named after Thomas Paine who was awarded 320 acres by New York State for his service to the country. Only two acres remain from that original parcel, and his original small modest home which burnt down in 1793 was rebuilt and is now called the Thomas Paine Museum & Cottage, housing artifacts from the 19th century. The Paine Cottage and Museum are across the road from Paine Lake, a favorite haunt for ducks and geese.

Home prices range anywhere between the now high $5's to over 2 Million Dollars.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

It's Happening at The Homestead! John Jay Homestead, Jay Street (Rt. 22) Katonah, N.Y.

2012-07-06T14:20:05Z

Long considered the Grande Dame of Museum Mile, The John Jay Homestead is keeping up with it's Cultural Sisters: The Katonah Museum Of Art and Caramoor. John Jay was President of the Continental Congress, second U.S. Secretary for Foreign Affairs, first Chief Justice of the United States, and second Governor of New York State.

Last weekend I enjoyed my time at The Farmers Market at The Homestead, which runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday through Saturday, October 13th. It was such a success during its first season last Summer that there are 13 additional vendors. It is a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors even if you are not tempted by the many unique offerings - but who can resist the makings of an easy Summer meal? Last week, I snapped up my favorite Wave Hill Ciabatta bread and have enjoyed the baby kale and bok choi chosen from the several tables of Farmer Vendors. A new acquaintance was rushing home to get the pasta pot boiling to make her fresh pasta and pesto for lunch. My new favorite vendor is Healing Home Foods based in Pound Ridge, N.Y. I tried and purchased their flax crackers that are compressed with sundried combinations of Walnuts, Zucchini, Arugula, Tomatoes and more! That was only the "Savory Side" of the tent - next week I will venture to the " Sweet Side!" Her products are gluten free, vegan and organic. A refreshing cup of Burren Farm Herbal Lemonade to enjoy while strolling makes for a perfect day. And yes, there is even ice cream (gelato) - thanks to Johnny Gelato!

The Katonah Museum of Art had activities for children to enjoy which were in keeping with the current exhibit "Contemporary Chinese Photography," plus offered free totes, tee shirts and a raffle for Free Family Memberships and free passes. I understand that Caramoor will have craft instruments for children to make to keep them occupied when they are the featured "Non Profit of the Week." For the first time there are tours of the Homestead during Market Hours available on the hour with purchase of a ticket at the Visitors Center. Speaking of Quality Time for the Family!

Friends of John Jay Homestead and the Rotary Club of Bedford-Armonk held it's July 4th celebration of America's founding at their First Independence Day Fair on the grounds of The Homestead. They had the reading of the Declaration of Independence and you were able to sign a copy for a true sense of History. Family fun included demonstrations of sheep herding, bee keeping and blacksmithing, crafts, hayrides, games, live music, log cutting and plenty of food from the grill. It was very busy and a good idea is to bring your own picnic and enjoy the great music!

There was also an apple pie contest. What is more American than Apple Pie? I know - The John Jay Homestead!

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

How to Keep Cool

2012-07-04T15:58:16Z

Here are some suggestions for a hot summer day.

Of course there is always the movies where the AC is great. Right now I can recommend,"Beasts of the Southern Wild." The heroine is a six year old who has the charm and smile to stop monsters in their tracks. Her name is Hushpuppy and she lives with a group that prefers a way of life separate from the more civilized world. The action takes place in an area called "The Bathtub." It will keep you cool.

Visit the Warner Library. It has a very comfortable reading room and offers an amazing number of activities. You can find book clubs for adults and children, help with computer skills, help with english language skills, craft activity, just a few of the offerings. Also, you can borrow a Kindle and ebooks, as well as requesting books you would like to read.

Find a neighbor or friend with a pool. They usually like company swimming. Find out about community pools.

Grandma's solution, put ice on your wrists and drink cold drinks.

Visit a beach. Stay under an umbrella and take dips into the water as often as you can. Remember the sunscreen.

Visit a "cool" realtor and buy a home that has central air conditioning

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

The Bayberry Area, New Rochelle 10804

2012-07-03T08:46:33Z

One of the first homes I visited when I first considered buying a home in New Rochelle was in the Bayberry area 10804, and I have regretted many times not purchasing there. Over the years, my children and I have made nice life-long friends there, and it has always been a great place for trick or treating (so much candy!)... I can recall many fun evenings traipsing around with my sons as guests of their Bayberry friends.

The Bayberry development was built in the mid 1950's and you will find many ranches and splits, but something unique also happened. The home-owners loved living there so much that rather than selling in order to purchase a larger home perhaps, they would expand, raise, enlarge and in short, just wanted to stay in the area. Bayberry boasts a large community pool, tennis, snack bar and offers a summer camp for the little ones. My sons have attended many birthday parties and graduation parties at the Bayberry pool.

There is a Home-Owner's Association and yearly dues, and should a buyer purchase a home within the community they should be aware that if the previous owner was not up to-date in paying their dues, then those (past) dues would then be the responsibility of the new home-owner. The Home-owner 2012 Dues are $600 and one would have to join the Association in order to join the pool. The Pool membership for 2012 is $850 per family. The summer camp costs are additional, but have always offered great value.

I have seen in these past few years the occasional home knocked down, and the larger Colonial built, but that has been unusual. Home prices have ranged in a better market in the $7's, $8's and $9's to home prices now being in the $5's, $6's and $7's.

Bayberry is located off Pinebrook Boulevard, and typical street names are Woodcut Lane, Bayberry Lane, Wood Hollow Lane, Meadowood Path, Highridge Road, and offers the William B. Ward Elementary School.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The Isle of Sans Souci, New Rochelle 10805

2012-07-03T08:23:29Z

Sans Souci - "Without Regret" or "No worries/carefree" is a beautiful and desirable waterfront community bordering the Long Island Sound in New Rochelle's 10805 zip code area. With typical street names such as Kensington Oval, Rodman Oval, Hampton Oval, Winchester Oval and Windsor Oval, the development was first built in the 1950's/1960's and over the years home-owners have extended and improved upon their homes in this great community.

Back in 1784, the neck of land in that area was sold to the Davenport Family (Lawrence and Newberry Davenport) who hailed from from Queens, Long Island, and Davenport Avenue still bears the family's name and hosts many beach and tennis clubs.

The original grand mansion home called "Sans Souci" (the community being named after it) was built for Newberry Davenport, designed by Davis, and encompassed lawns and gardens to Long Isand Sound in the romantic period of the mid 1800's. It was built in 1853, and listed in the National register of Historic places in 1980. There is a very active Home-Owner's Association, a private beach, pool, a bocce court, mooring and a gazebo too for the 125 home owners who belong to the active Association. The area is in the Trinity Elementary School District of New Rochelle, and homes have typically sold anywhere from the $7's to over 2 Million Dollars if they offer those beautiful water front views.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle's First Historic District 10801

2012-07-02T17:02:30Z

What is now known as New Rochelle’s Historic District and embodies Rochelle Park and Rochelle Heights, was once farmland and orchards until the 1870’s. The Manhattan Life Insurance Company bought the land in 1881 (through foreclosure proceedings), and while thought quite adventuresome, the owners decided to transform the somewhat rugged land to a beautiful residential neighborhood, unlike any other in New Rochelle!

An English Architect, E.A. Sargent designed the stone pillars leading into the now Rochelle Park area, and 115 building lots were laid out and nearly one third of the land was set aside for streets, sidewalks and pathways of grass. Originally as you entered into the community, there was a 54 foot wide driveway with an 8 foot blue stone sidewalk, and a 15 foot strip of grass planted with trees. All streets led to the Great Lawn with the exception of the Court and The Serpentine which was an intrinsic part of the design, and noted to be of great value within the park with its curved thoroughfare.

The Great Lawn was created for outdoor gatherings, and to also afford a grand vista of the surrounding area. It is interesting to note that in a House and Garden article (May 1904 article by Samuel Swift), he alludes to the “green breathing spot” and “the nearness of an ordinary town is quite forgotten.” (Even in 1904, people were beginning to appreciate the importance of green living. It was felt that The Serpentine offered imagination, elegance and though there could have easily been straight roads built throughout, The Serpentine was a reflection of the artistry of the landscape architect. The outcropping of rock was left to retain some rusticity, and 50 lots were initially sold for $2000 each so it would seem that the insurance company did realize a profit at the end of the day, once again confirming that real estate is the best long term investment.

As a way of protecting their investment, it was mandated that the houses built facing the Boulevard would cost no less than $3,000 and no more than $5,000. However, homes on other streets cost much more with stables, etc. After some 25 families bought and built in the community, the Rochelle Park Association was formed to take away the management aspects of the insurance company, and henceforth the Association held annual meetings, with each homeowner carrying one vote, and the insurance company having 30. The revenue of the Association was about $2,500 a year with each lot owner contributing $25, and this tax paid for the roads to be mended, the lawns to be maintained, but there was great discussion at the time that the homeowners were taxed doubly by the city and the Association. A solution was reached when the city, in realizing the park maintained about 2 miles of city roads within the park, stated in 1903 that they would light the park road free of charge!

The Association is still in existence, but the now $100 yearly fee is not mandatory, and all are welcome to the meetings. This suggested contribution goes towards the upkeep of the Great Lawn, etc. It should also be noted that while the community was open to all when it was first built, it was closed once or twice a year in order for them to claim Rochelle Park as a private community. The homeowners felt that if in paying that secondary tax, it afforded their privacy then it was well spent money to live in an area they cherished.

Rochelle Park and Rochelle Heights was named as New Rochelle’s first local Historic area in 1986 for the purpose of preserving the architectural details of the stately mansions.

This basically means that if any home-owners wishes to change windows, siding, shingles, roofs - any exterior changes or even landscaping then they must complete an application to the New Rochelle Historical and Landmarks Review Board (HLRB).

The Historic District covers The Circle next to the I’95 and goes from North Avenue to Potter Avenue to Fifth Avenue.

Homes range in all prices and over the years some of those majestic mansion owners have sold some land, and so you will find the mid century modern home (split level) home there too! We are also honored to have some famous people living and or who lived in our Historic District including Ossie Davis and Ruby Dee.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The Glenwood Lake Area, New Rochelle 10801

2012-07-02T16:19:56Z

The Glenwood Lake area, New Rochelle 10801 has always been very desirable and generally covers Lincoln Avenue to Webster, and over to Mayflower Avenue.

Glenwood Lake itself covers six acres, and is a great place where you can go and while away an afternoon in a tranquil setting. It was originally named after a Captain Bergholz who owned a marvelous estate along with his wife, Mary (the entry pillars still remain at Holly Drive). The lake's name was changed to Glenwood Lake when it was bequeathed to the city, and while the city owns the lake, the Glenwood Lake Association takes care of it.

They publish a newsletter entitled "The Back Fence." It is an authoritative newsletter, full of good tips, news on how the association has a 'clean-up day' around the lake - all to make it that always desirable community, rich in spirit and energy.

John Muir, a once prominent builder in the area, resided not far from the current location of the New Rochelle High School. He lived in Wykagyl Park , had a four car garage while the now Muir Place was originally a dirt road, and called Taylor's Lane. The city of New Rochelle paved the roads in the area, and Taylor's Lane was renamed Muir Place.

Muir Place is located just two blocks from the famous Daniel Webster Elementary Magnet School. (27th year - since 1982) teaching grade level Humanities classes with Studio Arts Programs, World languages - all in addition to the daily core curriculum of math, language arts, social studies, science, art, vocal and instrumental music, library and physical education. The Magnet programs are designed to attract students from all of the neighborhoods in New Rochelle to encourage diversity.

We have all noticed French Ridge - well that street was named after the H.Q. French Realty Company, which owned a great of property back in the days! Homes come in all ranges and prices.. You will find Colonials, split level homes, Mediterraneans, Tudors- Glenwood Lake has them all, and in all price ranges too - anything from the $400,000 range to the high $9's (in a different market).

Visit New Rochelle, visit our schools, view our homes. You will love it!

New Rochelle is great!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House 10804 999 Weaver Street, Saturday June 23rd, 2012 1-3 p.m.

2012-06-22T13:31:57Z

Enjoy your very own Shangri-la on nearly 1/2 acre with 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, a large terrace overlooking a 48X24' in ground pool, his/hers cabana with stove-top & shower, large eat-in kitchen/granite counters, skylight, formal dining room, a beamed family room with a fireplace and a large living room.

There is a first floor bedroom, second floor master bedroom with a bath, skylight and four closets. There are also three additional bedrooms on the second floor, a two-car garage, lower level with a walk out basement. Easy access to houses of worship, transportation, and just 35 minutes. to New York City. Taxes with STAR are $18,894. Being Offered at $710,000.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House 10804 - 2 Edna Place, New Rochelle 1-4 p.m. 6/24th

2012-06-22T13:29:53Z

Pop by 2 Edna Place on Sunday, June, 24th, 1-4 p.m. for a public open house at this lovely 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath 2467 square foot Tudor home with an exquisite kitchen designed by the Award winning team of Joan Schindler Interior Designs. Ms. Schindler won the coveted House Beautiful's Kitchen of the Year Award in 2007 for designing a wonderful kitchen in Connecticut. Her team has surpassed itself in this kitchen also. There is a six burner Wolf stove, custom cabinetry (of course), and a concealed foot stool under one of the cabinets.. The beamed living room embodies charm and elegance as does the open floor plan. The family room has easy access to the laundry room, powder room (which will be legalized), and there are French Doors to the patio... great for family get-togethers. The master bedroom features a dressing room, wonderful cabinet space, and the pristine home shows beautifully.

Being offered at $699,000, taxes are currently $16,791.00 not including the STAR deduction of $1532. If you can't make it this Sunday - call for your private showing. You will not be disappointed! Close to all Houses of Worship, parks, transportation and fine dining, and just 35 mintes from New York City.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

So Much to Cover in Katonah!

2012-06-19T12:28:03Z

I have not been writing for awhile. I feel very guilty. I am not sharing the incredible local lifestyle in The Town of Bedford - primarily in Katonah. Then I realized why. There is so much to do and enjoy in Katonah that it is hard to return to my computer and capture it all when I am heading out the door to yet another event! Plus, I could not find my trusty camera.... PLUS, with The Bedford/Katonah Real Estate Market being crazy active for the past few months - just taking care of my clients' homes either going to/ in contract/about to close/newly closed with all my supreme customer service - it just takes its toll! Then throw in a great Graduation Weekend in Vermont and returning successful college students preparing to leave once again and there you have it! What have I been enjoying?

Well, I grabbed my personal calendar to recap: The Katonah Museum keeps me on my toes! The lectures and study needed for the opening of their show "Rising Dragon: Contemporary Chinese Photography" was fascinating. Then the deluge - non stop activities! Marcy B. Freedman gave her last lecture in the Series "The Gift of Art." One evening we were graced by a visit with former Ambassador to China, Nicholas Platt who shared his impressions and insider's view to the re-opening of China during the Nixon/Kissinger years in 1972. His memoirs of that time living in old China with his family is the book "The China Boys." The exhibition inspired KMA Book Club for which we read and discussed "The Dissident" by Nell Fruedenberger happened the same time that there was a real life incident with a Dissident in China seeking asylum in the U.S.

Wrap that all up with the First Second Saturday Party of the Year with a Mah Jongg Party in the Museum and the Sculpture Garden. The tables were covered with red cloths, a fantastic Food Truck - "Rickshaw Dumplings" from NYC was there with amazing dumplings. We had Mah Jongg players circling our tables to watch our moves and it was "Game Night with Takeout" in that gorgeous outdoor space among friends both new and old!

Oh yes, and then there was the culmination of the KMA "Smart Girls Program" - done in conjunction with the Boys & Girls Club of Mt. Kisco where Fox Lane Students learned the exhibit, met with a professional photographer to study composition and technique, which was then enhanced with their own poetry. They deftly guided us through the exhibit and then we circled back to the Children's Wing where their photographs were on display. They then explained their work and read their poetry - advanced on all levels and these girls are truly meant to thrive - this was an experience which I am certain was life changing. Smart and Capable! This is a fraction of what there is at the Museum based on the current exhibit. Enjoy the exhibit until September 7th. There is even one more Sunday to catch a Tai Chi Class in the Sculpture Garden!

The Katonah Chamber of Commerce held an event at Lasdon Park on Somers where the "Spring Into Spring" event took place. It was a true Taste of Katonah where our local restaurants had generous and innovative samplings. Plus the great cultural institutions of Katonah - The Katonah Library, The Katonah Museum, Caramoor, had information , trivia games, Chinese calligraphy painting (Guess Who!) and more to do. Lasdon Park is a local treasure I had not known about. I hope to return for Watercolor Painting Classes in the Lasdon Home which is open for tours. It is where Michael J. Fox starred in 1987's "The Secret of My Success." The property has also been the venue for many Antique Shows, Summer Concerts, Special Events and Weddings!

There was also The Arts in Westchester Awards Ceremony which meant a quick run to White Plains!

The Fireman's Parade and Carnival in Katonah was enjoyed by many. It is a great personal joy to see the homeowners out front on their decorated porches and sharing their sidewalks with the many parade watchers including the new generations enjoying this great Katonah Tradition - dreaming of the rides and games they will enjoy at The Carnival.

There were concerts at Caramoor -including "The Friends' Garden Party" - a thank you to Donors - refreshments were provided under a tent with a performance by The Linden String Quartet. The Docents of Caramoor met for a reunion and house tour status luncheon at The Moderne Barn in Armonk. The news of the return of Holiday Teas and the Opening of The Music Room prior to Friday Night Spanish Courtyard Concerts was good indeed. Time to study my notes!

Noka Joe's and Little Joe's Children's Book Store have kept Katonah Avenue Hopping! They have broken/attempted to cheerfully break some Guinness World Records - in yarn wrapping, hopscotch playing and flip flop wearing! Their visits by local librarians for story book readings and Children's Book Author meet/greet and read events are wonderful.

What do we have to look forward to? The Opening of The Caramoor International Music Festival, Third Thursdays in Katonah when merchants will have special offers and demonstrations, and The John Jay's Farmer's Market opening this Saturday the 23rd 9 a.m. to 1 p.m!

Come to Katonah!

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

Happy Father's Day Weekend Everyone!

2012-06-16T00:00:00Z

Whether you are a Father, are celebrating your Father or the Father of your children, or are thinking about your Father, enjoy the day tomorrow...

And for all the families with children graduating High School and/or College this time of year Congratulations. A real estate mentor of mine once told me, the best things we can leave our children is an education and memories.

With that in mind, when our children were young, and we lived in Westchester already, we always enjoyed the special events at all the Historic Hudson Valley sites. Our children are grown now, but for all you young families out there, the events have gotten even more creative and fun for families. For instance, check out www.hudsonvalley.org for "Pirates of the Hudson: The Siege of Sleepy Hollow" from June 30-July 8th at Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow. And there's so much more.

So whether you're celebrating Graduation, Father's Day, or any special occasion, gifts are great, but don't forget to create memories along the way. They last longer.

Posted by: Susan Code

Ray Rice Day, Saturday June 16th, 2012

2012-06-15T16:54:50Z

I love writing this post each year... Tomorrow marks Ray Rice day again at the New Rochelle High School's McKenna Field. The event has been sold out for weeks, and will start at 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and there will be games, lunch, instruction, autographs, and fun for youngsters aged between 7 to 13 years of age. The event attracted over 600 youngsters last year, and is always a great success. Ray commented last year ," it's a great opportunity to give back." He has already done so much.

Ray has long been a hero of New Rochelle, has never forgotten his roots, and likes to involve the Pop Warner football athletes as much as he can - either by inviting them to the locker rooms at the Baltimore Ravens stadium, and offering a tour, or by calling the Pop Warner athletes. I can recall that when he went to Rutgers University, he would call the athletes on a Sunday morning offering them encouragement for their games that day. It was a weekly call the athletes looked forward to.

It was always with great pride that we would hear the commentator shout "Ray Rice from New Rochelle" each time he would play at a Rutgers football game. To us, he put Rutgers on the map! Ray was a star from the early age of 10 when he played in the Pop Warner Football League in New Rochelle. He went on to become a star at the High School, and the team went on to win the New York State Public Schools Class AA football title in 2003.

Ray played 38 games at Rutgers, scored 50 touchdowns whilst there, and he finished third in the NFL in yards from scrimmage (1,776) in 2010 and rushed for 1,364 last season.

Ray might only be 5'8" but he is a solid 210 Pounds, a great Running Back, and he fast, making his presence count. An excellent player, an excellent young man.

Ray Rice is GREAT. New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

My new BFF! Popular Text Messaging Acronyms

2012-06-15T16:40:29Z

While I know that LOL means Laugh out Loud, I also know it can mean Lots of Love. I recently had a funny/awkward experience. An agent had text messaged me "Congratulations" on an accepted offer, and I had written back "LOL" Lots of Love. When I saw her the following day at a Broker's open house, she hugged me but questioned the "LOL" Why did you write "laugh out loud!. Ooops! I explained that I had meant "lots of love." Our own private joke.... but it made me then think of all of those acronyms out there and what DO they mean? I thought I should delve deeper into the acronym world..

With text messaging fast replacing emailing - especially amongst the younger population, I found some pretty interesting sites...

Click here to see a site for teens... and I couldn't believe some of the acronyms such as CICYHW which means "Can I copy your Homework?" and MOS - Mom over shoulder (what was the teen writing?) . PIR - Parent in room.. and there were the cute ones like ZZZ - sleeping... mmmh! the teen types in his/her sleep?..

In searching the various sites on how to best text message.. I came across another site. On this site, I learned that MNC - stands for Mother Nature calls.... wow... too much info?

Yet in another site, I found a rather nice text message TTFN- ta ta for now. being British, I liked the sound of that one!

And then finally, by way of absolving myself , I found another site which cites LOL as either Laugh out Loud or Lots of Love! Phew.. I guess they won't take me away in a white coat just yet!

I guess there are always new horizons and new technology for us to learn... and so this is the EOD and G2G!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House 10804 - 2 Edna Place 1-4 p.m. Saturday, June 16th

2012-06-15T16:37:25Z

A pre-Father's Day gift! There is an public open house on Saturday, June 16th, from 1-4 p.m. at 2 Edna Place, New Rochelle 10804. The glorious kitchen was designed by the Award Winning Team of Joan Schindler Interior Designs (House Beautiful's Kitchen of the Year '07 in Conn.), and it will not disappoint! This 4 bedroom, 2 bath 2467 sq. ft. Tudor won't either! Close to all Houses of Worship, you will appreciate the custom built-ins in the den, beamed living room with fireplace, Formal Dining Room, and above ground family room with Sliding French doors to the patio. Master Bedroom has a dressing room and en suite bath, and there are three additional bedrooms and a hall bath. Just 35 minutes to New York City. Being offered at $699,000.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Explaining the Agency Disclosure Form

2012-06-15T16:30:45Z

Years ago, the buyer always assumed that an agent who was showing the houses for sale, (after all, she was that nice friendly agent) would automatically be representing he/she the buyer. Not so, Many agents were representing the seller, and as a result, the buyers were not properly represented with certain facts (problems within the home/lack of legalizations not being properly disclosed). New York State is a Caveat Emptor (Buyer Beware) state, and so it became a New York State law for the agent to disclose who he/she represented, and to properly explain agency upon the first 'substantive contact' with a buyer, and to give the buyer the choice of whether he/she be represented by a buyer's agent, seller's agent or whether he/she would consent to dual agency or dual agency with designated sales agent (buyer/seller). Confusing? It doesn't have to be.

It takes the mystique out of the process, and the buyer not only knows who represents who, but also has the documentation to prove same.

What are the different representations?

Years ago (again), (well not so many years ago), if an agent represented the buyer as a seller's agent, but say for instance, he does not even know anything about the property, it could be stated that the seller's agent, could have misrepresented that property, and ultimately, there would have been additional liability to the seller as a result of that misrepresentation. New York State wanted to lessen the vicarious responsibility to the seller. In 2012, you will find it quite hard to find a listing in the MLS that offers a seller's agent compensation. NY State would rather have each buyer be represented by a buyer's agent thus lessening the liability to the seller, and offering the buyer better representation.

When a seller engages the services of a listing Broker (the actual company), that seller becomes the Broker’s client. This means the broker and its subagents (agents within the office(s) represent the seller unless there is a designated buyer's agent. The Listing agent owes the seller undivided loyalty, utmost care, disclosure, obedience to lawful instruction, confidentiality and accountability. They must put the seller’s interest first and negotiate for the best price and terms for his/her client, the seller. (The seller may also authorize subagents to represent him/her in marketing the property to buyers.) We call them Broker's agents.

Buyer's Agent - It is the Broker (Buyer Agent's) responsiblity to offer undivided loyalty, utmost care, disclosure, obedience to lawful instruction, confidentiality and accountability. The buyer's agent must put the buyers interest first and negotiate for the best price and terms for his/her client, the buyer. When I first meet a new prospective buyer and I must explain agency to them, there are several key points I always mention. One: the form is NOT a contract Two,:It is a NYS requirement that I discuss agency to every prospective customer/client I meet, and - Three: Why sign? "Wouldn't you want the person who is showing you homes to be fully representing you and not the seller?Dual Agency - An agent can represent both seller and buyer, with the knowledge that the agent cannot fully provide the full range of fiduciary responsibilities to both buyer and seller. The agent must explain to both buyer and seller that each is being represented by the agent, and they are giving up their right to undivided loyalty. The agent is NOT allowed to offer forth anything he/she might know about any financial obligations the seller might have. Dual Agency is becoming quite frowned upon, and the disclosure forms clearly state that the buyer and/or seller should carefully consider the possible consequences of a dual agency relationship before agreeing to same.I always liken it to an agent 'sitting on the fence' and endeavoring to be fair to both parties without suggesting to the buyer what to bid, and not informing the buyer what the seller 'needs' or if the seller is in any financial trouble... At the same time, the agent cannot inform the seller that the buyer 'can afford more..' so the whole situation can become quite tricky..Who is that agent really representing? Sometimes, it does work out fine (when you have known all of the parties for a long time and there is mutual trust), but as a rule I find that once I explain the ramifications of dual agency, the buyers will opt for a designated sales agent so they feel fully represented.The agent must always be honest to both parties. Dual Agent with Designated Sales Agents : This seems to work to everyone's satisfaction. Bearing in mind that the seller is actually signing with the Broker (Company), and the buyer is actually signing with the sales agent of the Broker (agent's company), when a buyer for instance wishes to place a bid on a property that the same company is representing, even though the buyer's agent might not even know the listing agent, etc.. but since it is the same company, it becomes a dual agency. The Company is actually representing both buyer and seller.... NYS has stated the agent can allow a designated sales agent to represent the buyer, and a designated sales agent to represent the seller's agent.... therefore protecting both buyer and seller.

The agency disclosure is a source of contention to many agents as it is hard to explain legal documentation to someone - a potential buyer and stranger- when you first meet them. However, it should be once again clearly noted that signing a disclosure form does not cost anything, It is not a contract of any kind, and at the end of the day, wouldn't you - as a buyer,. want to know who you are being represented by?

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House 10804 44 Dusk Drive, 1-4 p.m. Sunday 6/17

2012-06-15T16:27:34Z

Happy Father's Day! Please join me at a public open house on Sunday, June 17th from 1-4 p.m. at 44 Dusk Drive, New Rochelle 10804. Located in desirable Wykagyl Estates with its private tennis courts, you will really appreciate this 4 bedroom, 3.5 Bath extended Raised Ranch. There is a family room with fireplace, second family room/guest room with bath, living room, dining room, music room and a large eat-in kitchen with access to the great deck - perfect for entertaining. There is a 2 car garage, and the taxes WILL BE grieved! All good! With its close proximity to Houses of worship, transportation and just 35 minutes to New York City Perfect! 44 Dusk Drive is located in New Rochelle 10804 and is being offered at $649,000.

New Rochelle is great!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Power to Excel Award 2012

2012-06-13T17:35:23Z

This is the sixth year that we have given an award to a New Rochelle High School Senior. Inspired by my son, A.J., who as a dyslexic, struggled in school, could not decipher letters, read time - all with an IQ of 145 (and to this day has trouble with the seasons) and as a way of building his self esteem, we would suggest sports, baseball, football, and along the way we discovered that he loved speed and flight... Once again, in trying to build up his self esteem, and since he would be so quiet, in our wanting him to express himself, we felt that if he was doing something he loved to do, he would HAVE to express himself. SO, starting at the young age of 12, we sent him on seven different occasions to Space Camp in Alabama, and he loved it. In those days, you could pay a small ($20) fee to have the stewardess walk your child to the awaiting Space Camp rep, and perhaps it is the same today, only I am not so sure I would feel comfortable doing it today - but that is a different story!. A.J. loved Space Camp so much that at the age of 14, he won a scholarship in a contest for students 16 and under to attend a free week there, and won the Top Gun Award while there (pitted against students 16 and under). He always wanted to be fighter pilot, but because of his dyslexia and his requiring contact lenses, that particular dream was not a viable one. SO, typical of A.J., he didn't give up, and he joined the Civil Air Patrol also at the age of 12, and became Sergeant of the Year at the age of 14. His love of speed then directed him to the sport of luge when he was 11, and he became the Number 1 U.S Junior Luge Athlete at 14 for athletes 17 and under... but was never invited to participate in Europe...The coach told him to become Number One again, and he would send him to Europe, but without the European race training, different tracks.. that goal was an impossible one). The perseverance that A.J achieved through his academic struggles served him well, and while he had been accepted to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona, (he had learned to fly solo when he was 16 at a summer program at the University), he realized that while he could always attend college (luge cuts into every college semester), you only have a few short years in which to train for the Olympics and so when the U.S. dropped him at the age of 18 from their program... (as he never achieved the Number One spot again), he approached Great Britain. Anticipating his being cut from the program, and being British, I initiated the paperwork to make A.J. a British citizen. The U.S. does not recognize dual citizenship but Great Britain does. A.J., then found himself having to prove himself to Great Britain, training with mostly army athletes, which put A.J. in his element as he loves watching the History Channel and Military History. I can recall his going to Europe for a training camp that first year with his equipment, 60 lb luge sled, suitcase and backpack, and not speaking the different languages, only to discover that they never expected him there (a glitch had been made)... but they allowed him to stay anyway, and on two other occasions, his having to wait 3-5 hours at the airport to be picked up... but thankful he was being picked up! SO, at the age of 18, A.J. started traveling around Europe on his own, and he LOVED it! Great Britain realized that he wasn't the brash, loud American they (perhaps) were expecting, and with his quiet demeanor, was very quickly accepted by his fellow athletes. A.J. has now competed in 2 Olympics, Turino and Whistler, and is hoping to make it to Sochi, Russia for his third Olympics. Oh, and by the way, after he beat two of the U.S. athletes at the Turino Olympics (great guys but who had more training than he), the U.S. called him several times to invite him back... He never forgot his school struggles, and wanted to give something back to his school -the New Rochelle High School. A.J. has learned to speak clearly, has visited schools in Germany as a luge representative, been interviewed many times by different newspapers, television reporters, has dined on several occasions with Princess Anne, and even had lunch with Sherry Blair in Turin, and he no longer mumbles. His perseverance, tenacity and energy have served him well, and while he had received two awards from the High School, he realized that there were far more awards given to those students who have the highest of grades, but not to those other students who are also extremely bright but who perhaps don't get those straight A's, but who are just as exceptional. This past Monday evening, I had the privilege of awarding David Johnson, a New Rochelle High School Senior, the "Power to Excel" Award (a $250 check) on behalf of A.J. who is training in Canada. I am now in awe of anyone who speaks publicly... I did not realize there would be an echo as you speak into the microphone, and as soon as I started speaking, heard the echo, it went down hill from there. Yikes! I had the privilege of meeting David and his mom after the ceremony, and so apologized to him in person for messing up! (I assure you I negotiate well in real estate but not in public speaking!) - and I was so impressed by David's poise, humour and intelligence that I know that he will be a great success in life. Congratulations to you David, and to your nice mom! You definitely have the Power to Excel!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The College and University choices of the New Rochelle Top 25 Students

2012-06-13T17:22:22Z

Once again, the New Rochelle High School students excelled. I attended one of the Award ceremonies, and here are the Principal Scholar's Awards with an weighted GPA average ranging from 1.26 to 103.88.Sophie Davis School of Biomedical EducationColumbia Yale University - Engineering & Political ScienceFordham UniversityWake Forest UniversityMcGill University- BiologyCornell University Medical SchoolYaleHarvard - Engineering & MathNorthwestern - Math & ScienceBinghamton - Science MedicineColumbia - EngineeringMichiganAustin College- CommunicationsMacaulay Honors at City College of MedicineHarvardSUNY Stony Brook - FULL Tuition Scholar Biological EngineeringJohns Hopkins EconomicsYale- Film Making & SociologyAustin College - Chemistry & International RelationsCazenovia CollegeNorthwestern - Business Economics or PsychologySUNY Stony Brook - BiologyMiddleburyPratt Institute - EngineeringOne common recurring theme is the strong presence of math and science - which would mean New Rochelle has wonderful course instructors and programs.... Did you ever think differently!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

FREE Pit Bull Training by the New Rochelle Humane Society

2012-06-04T17:09:25Z

When you go into our local Humane Society, I would have to say that the vast majority of dogs are pit bulls. I am sure you could say the same for many animal shelters across the U.S. The New Rochelle Humane Society represents 17 neighboring towns with lost and stray dogs, and is a no-kill shelter, which is great. It is going one step further and is offering free pit-bull training at the Trinity Church, 311 Huguenot Street (corner of Huguenot & Division Streets), New Rochelle.

This free training is for owners of pit bulls and pit bull mixes but registration is required.

The training will be for four consecutive Thursdays, commences on June 7th at 6:45 p.m. To register, please call the New Rochelle Humane Society at 914.632.2925

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Turtle Park, Larchmont 10538

2012-06-01T17:04:53Z

I was very fortunate to be showing a property close to Turtle Park the other week, and was able to take photos of Turtle Park - probably the only time it isn't busy! It was 9 a.m. and as a rule, it is a grand meeting place for young children and their parents/caregivers/family... It is so popular that I always include it in my Larchmont tour with new clients, and as you can see the families leave their toys there for everyone to use. But, hey! That is Larchmont!

There is a fire engine, climbing apparatus, a slide and a seesaw - all conducive for a fun time, and all so close to Larchmont Village.

The correct name of the park is Vanderburgh Park, but since there is a large plastic turtle in the middle of the sandbox, everyone knows it as simply Turtle Park!

Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

That Fig Tree is MINE! - Sellers Beware

2012-06-01T16:59:30Z

An attorney once told me a little story. He was at the closing table, only to discover that a cherished fig tree was going with the sellers, and the buyers exclaimed "they were only purchasing the house because of that tree!" The attorney offered to purchase a new tree. Supposedly, everyone did.. but the point was - the buyer used that fig tree as collateral for a nice reduction in the price of the home and made it just another negotiation point.

SO, if you are the seller, make sure you are very explicit about the light fixtures, whether they stay or go, those window air conditioners (that are just one year old), the bookcase that you had 'screwed into the wall' for better stabilization, those exquisite draperies that were custom made (but can be altered for the next home) and those fig trees or those antique flamingos in the garden.. (are any of those figurines antique? (another discussion.)

I was once at a closing tale when the buyers asked for a credit for the window treatments... Luckily for me, I was able to produce photos and proof that the when they had purchased the home/placed the bid, there were no window treatments remaining... The attorney claimed that since it was not stated no window treatments in the exclusions, and the photos showed window treatments, they wanted window treatments or $3,000. My documentation proved us correct but those attorneys will try anything...

You never know...if you do not disclose what is/what isn't included... might cost you so much more at the closing table.

Larchmont and New Rochelle are GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

2 Edna Place, New Rochelle 10804, Public Open House Sunday, June 4th 1-4 p.m.

2012-06-01T16:50:40Z

This 4 bedroom, 2 bath 2467 sq. ft. Tudor won't either! Close to all Houses of Worship, you will appreciate the custom built-ins in the den, beamed living room with fireplace, Formal Dining Room, and above ground family room with Sliding French doors to the patio. Master Bedroom has a dressing room and en suite bath, and there are three additional bedrooms and a hall bath. Just 35 minutes to New York City . Being offered at $729,000. Public Open House Sunday, June 3rd, 1-3 p.m.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Choosing a Mortgage Broker

2012-06-01T16:36:21Z

When we meet buyers, and they obviously need a pre-approval to discern how much they can afford when purchasing a property, who do we recommend? And for what reasons?

My company favors Wells Fargo, and Houlihan Lawrence has a special relationship with Wells Fargo through Houlihan Lawrence's Thoroughbred Mortgage Service. The Wells Fargo Mortgage Brokers visit our office each week at our office meeting. They take the time to introduce changing laws, new mortgage products and to basically remind us of their (great) services. It would be very silly of me not to recommend them to a new buyer, and so I do, but I always recommend two other mortgage brokers also, as ultimately it should be the buyer's choice - not my own. I also know, though, that my Wells Fargo representative will be prompt in getting that pre-approval to my potential buyer, that she will be thorough, and that is really important also.

I always inform the buyers that should they utilize the Wells Fargo Broker for the pre-approval, and they then find a lower rate at another bank.. just give the courtesy to the Wells Fargo broker with whom they had originally spoken with to match that lower rate. You never know unless you ask, and if someone has already assisted you in giving their valuable time, then it's a nice thing to go back to them. Utimately, we are hoping our buyers obtain the best rate, the best experience with the most competent of mortgage brokers. It doesn't matter who they use, as long as they are happy.

Between FHA loans, construction loans, Doctor's loans... (did you know that a Doctor, three years or less out of medical School can qualify for a 10% only down payment?) Your local mortgage representative will always share pertinent information with you ... so refer..then let the buyer choose..

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

The Saga of Isabel

2012-05-31T16:54:36Z

Isabel decided it was time to move closer to her daughter in Nashville. Her house had not be redecorated for 30 years. First she hired a dejunker to help hide some items, and help get rid of others. Next she hired a decorator to help decide on color and painted the house a lovely vibrant off white. Next she removed the carpeting in the living room and dinning area. Beautiful oak floors are now seen. the house was sold in three days at an open house. Isabel went to Nashville and bought a condo without checking listed and solds and paid too much as she later discovered.

Unfortunately, a leaky oil tank was discovered during inspections. The oil tank was removed and replaced, however it was near some underground water. Results, Isabel has been waiting three months for approval from enviromental agencies. She has been paying mortgage payments on two properties. Lessons learned...Don't buy before you have closed, even if you have to rent...it is not over until it is over.

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

What is the Difference between an Assessment and the Assessed Taxes?

2012-05-25T17:00:17Z

One of the first questions I get asked from a potential buyer, is "What is the difference between an assessment and assessed taxes?" So many people get confused, and think that the assessment is either the tax amount, or there is an on-going payment due (yearly assessment) on the home.

What is an Assessment?

When a home is built, a valuation is placed on the property by a public officer or a board to establish a tax rate. That assessment is the charge or a levy which has been established by the town or city and is the basis on which the taxes are charged. The assessment does not change each year in New Rochelle for example unlike neighboring Pelham unless your property has been renovated to such a degree that the footprint has been changed or noticeable capital improvements have been made. The Town of Mamaroneck, however, is currently implementing a true market value assessment of each property, and so this spring - more so than other years, we are seeing a flurry of sales activity within that area, before the property taxes conceivably go up! It is entitled "Bringing Housing Equity to the Town of Mamaroneck" and some people are even hopeful their taxes will go down as a result of the revaluation project. It is being implemented to create fair and equitable property assessments at full market value

I have never seen as many homes on the market in Larchmont Manor which is well known for high-priced, larger properties. close to the Manor Park, Manor Beach and within a short distance to the village and trains. Like anywhere else, those properties that are seen as offering great value or offer charm, are still being sold in short order. I am seeing some families selling and downsizing but staying within the area, and I am also seeing families selling smaller homes and moving to the Manor and the waterfront. Larchmont holds so much appeal, and with it being located just 35 minutes or so from New York City, whether in a small home or large home, they just love the area.

Larchmont & New Rochelle are GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle 10804, Public Open House 2 Edna Place 1-4 p.m. 5/27/2012

2012-05-25T16:37:56Z

2 Edna Place Public Open House, 1-4 p.m. The glorious kitchen was designed by the Award Winning Team of Joan Schindler Interior Designs (House Beautiful's Kitchen of the Year '07 in Conn.), and it will not disappoint! This 4 bedroom, 2 bath 2467 sq. ft. Tudor won't either! Close to all Houses of Worship, you will appreciate the custom built-ins in the den, beamed living room with fireplace, formal Dining Room, and above ground family room with Sliding French doors to the patio. Master Bedroom has a dressing room and en suite bath, and there are 3 additional bedrooms and a hall bath. Just 35 minutes to New York City. Being offered at $729,000. Public Open House Sunday, May 27th, 1-4 p.m.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle High School Tour for Realtors - May 23, 2012

2012-05-24T21:27:23Z

Having three sons who graduated from the New Rochelle High School, I have long been aware of the great and varied classes that are offered. However, when the local Real Estate community was invited to partake in a tour and information program this morning, I attended - as it is always nice to be up to-date on what our local high school is accomplishing.

The event was quite impressive.

First, Mr. Organisciak, Superintendent of Schools, addressed the 40 or so agents who were in attendance.

He mentioned that with 11,000 or so students throughout the New Rochelle public schools, and with over 3,300 students at the High School, the size can seem intimidating to some parents and perhaps students. However, if you were to ask the students if they feel safe at all times, then the answer would be a “Yes.” There is a security staff of approximately 25, the school boasts 150 surveillance cameras, and with those monitors being staffed at all times, there is a quick response to any potential issues that could arise in a school of this size with students aged between 14 and 18 years of age! The Realtors couldn't wait to experience the students leaving one class for another at the start of a new period, and were so impressed how orderly everything was.

The High School is the largest high school in Westchester, and yet the School Board, Principal, and teachers are striving to keep the classroom sizes as small as possible, with an average of 27 students to a classroom, and they have instituted within the four Houses, smaller learning communities (given colors), allowing teachers to pay attention to the children on a more personal basis, and hopefully catching those children that need the additional attention, The last school budget passed with a 70% rating, and the district is continually working hard to improve the school stats. Mr. Organiscial mentioned that 10 or so years ago, New Rochelle ranked 56 or in the country. However, with other cities having Charter Schools, etc. the stats become rather skewed as those cities group all of the area school stats together, and so while New Rochelle’s ranking has seemingly dropped, if you were to be objective, you would realize it is all in the presentation. In fact, 27 students this past year were accepted into Ivy League Schools, the highest number from any area school.

Mr. Organisciak also noted that New Rochelle is looking to the future, and offers Mandarin Chinese in Kindergarten classes through 12th grade, offers a dual language program at Jefferson Elementary School in Italian and Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese has been offered as an elective for the past three years at the High School. Other foreign languages offered at the High School are French, Latin, Spanish & Italian.

Mr. Donald Conetta, the Principal at the High School mentioned how the school offers 24 AP classes, and within the PAVE Program (Performance and Visual Arts Education), Orchestra, Band, Vocal, Fine Arts, Theater and Dance are offered. Some students take two different programs within PAVE, and after they graduate, receive a diploma which has helped gain acceptance into prominent colleges and universities.

Business programs are also offered in a student’s freshman year, and many students take the business courses such as Business Dynamics, Business Law, Sports and Entertainment Marketing, Travel, Tourism, & Hospitality Marketing as an elective. The science program keeps the students engaged, focused and passionate , and the 70 clubs available such as "Brain Cancer Awareness Club, Coalition for Human Rights, G.R.E.E.N. Club, National Honor Society, Model Congress, Mock Trial Club, Science Olympiad, Protecting Animal Welfare, etc. also offer more opportunities to experience and enjoy.

The agents were broken up into four groups, and each group had the privilege of partaking in a tour by a Senior. Our Senior, was Shane Davis, a very intelligent, affable young man, who is currently the President of IGNITE, (a mentoring program that supports incoming 9th Graders), is studying Architecture, and will be the Pratt Institute this coming Fall. Shane, walked us around the school, pointing out the theatre, the Planetarium, the art exhibits, the science classes - all very impressive. As Shane is about to graduate the High School, his one wish was the school would install some solar powered trash compactors - he would love a greener environment. As we passed current Senior’s photographs in the hallway outside of the auditorium, Shane mentioned that he has been invited to help design a showcase for all of the memorabilia the school has collected over the years. We were all very impressed by his demeanor.

I think I can clearly state that we all left being very impressed with our High School. And it certainly made me proud that I live here.

New Rochelle Queen of the Sound. The educational programs being the crown on the Queen, and our High School the Jewel in that Crown!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Mount Vernon Animal Shelter, Westchester, N.Y. Walk, Lose Weight, Feel Good...PLEASE HELP

2012-05-23T17:55:29Z

I have a friend and neighbor, Beth McCabe, a great mom, who gives one of her most valuable assets, her time, at the Mount Vernon Animal Shelter. Beth and other volunteers tirelessly go to the shelter week after week, to assist, walk and train the dogs so they can be adopted. She is a very big advocate on training the dogs and how it has helped the dogs get adopted. The staff and volunteers really take the time to get to know each dog, so they are able to make the proper placement that matches human to dog, and this takes both time and dedication, and it is something that the Mount Vernon shelter is striving to improve upon.

Beth mentioned to me last week that so many of the volunteers have lost so many pounds walking the pooches. What a great by product to helping at the shelter!

The dedicated core of volunteers are there to simply help in any way they can. When I popped in the other day, it was raining cats and dogs (forgive the pun), and yet Beth and seven other volunteers were working hard at the shelter, assisting the one employee who was there - a very nice young man, Sean Carol. Sean (see the pic) loves working at the shelter. He commented to me "I go home feeling so much satisfaction at having helped these wonderful animals." He loves his job, and has been there for over seven years now. It showed. He lovingly told me the stories of some of the cats and dogs currently there.

As I entered the shelter, I immediately felt both Sean's energy and the volunteers energy emanating throughout. I stopped to say hello to one cat (who they had found wondering near an ATM machine a month or so ago), and then another reached out from his cage to say "don't forget me!" Beth and another volunteer, Trish Ray, brought "Envy" into the training room. "Envy," a gorgeous but very skinny female pit bull, was both well behaved and sweet. Beth explained that Envy was supposed to have been put down, but due to their invaluable training program, they are now able to seek that special family to adopt her. Envy, like other pooches, were/are used to breed for financial gain and then thrown away. She was shy when they first met her, but just look at her smiling face in the photo above. She thrives on attention and love. Go figure! Don't we all....

To any pet lover, it doesn't take much to see the love and care that exists and is so evident at the shelter . The three full paid staff (one in charge of the training program) at the Mount Vernon Animal shelter are working against the clock though. The sad news is that the shelter is a kill shelter. The volunteers work extremely hard to save, train and get those pets adopted.. In fact, two recent dogs that had been trained were taken to a pet adoption day, and were adopted! If only there were more volunteers to assist. It may have been raining the other day, but the shelter certainly shines when the volunteers and staff are there!

If you would like to volunteer - please either complete an application on the website or contact Beth McCabe at 914.216.2190.

If you would like to adopt, please contact the Animal Shelter at . If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution, please contact the shelter by clicking here.

The Mount Vernon Animal Shelter is located at 600 Garden Avenue, Mount Vernon 10550. 914.665.2444 Cat Adoption hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. Dog Adoption hours: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Beechmont Lake, 10804, Everyone wants to enjoy it!

2012-05-22T17:08:03Z

I live close by Beechmont Lake, 10804, and so I am always driving by the lake on my way to meet clients, go to my office, go grocery shopping, etc. Today was so beautiful that I had to stop to take a few photos...

Not only do we have the prerequisite geese who lay claim to the area, but we have ducks, a heron (looks like) and even turtles! I have been noticing them for a few weeks now, and I was surprised... In researching their particular species (they appear to Red-eared sliders), I discovered that they obtained their name not only because of their coloring, but because thy have the ability to slide quickly off rocks when another animal or human approaches. Such was my case. They disappeared as soon as I was eight feet away...

The sad tale to this story is that they are indigenous to the South, and so perhaps they were purchased as pets, and someone discarded them into the lake. If that is the case.. what a shame... They at least seem to be very happy together and look to be thriving - right now.

Ah, but then they are in New Rochelle - Queen of the Sound!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

So, What is the Neighborhood Like?

2012-05-22T16:34:44Z

I think that all of us who takes out buyers, will undoubtedly hear the question sooner or later of "so, what is the neighborhood like?" We, of course, are not allowed to comment on the neighborhood based on Fair Housing Rules and Regulations. But, how can we satisfactorily assist those buyers legally and ethically? The question itself is wrought with hidden questions. Are they asking for safety reasons? Family friendly reasons? School reasons? Are there lots of parks? Recreation? Gyms? Or they are asking for less savory reasons such as discrimination?

I always suggest that they drive around at different times of day, evening, afternoon and morning to see how busy the areas are, the traffic, how noisy, how many children they can see playing, etc., Speak to neighbors too if they wish about local favorites. If the question is centered around the school district, then I can always direct them to great web sites like SchoolMatters.com.

If their concern is one of crime, then I can always suggest they contact the local police department and ask about crime in that particular area. We, as agents, are always taught not to be the source but rather the resource, and have the clients research themselves. If they are being discriminatory, then I would rather they seek another agent!

Nowadays, there are concerns with regard to flooding issues too. Buyers can have their insurance companies research as to whether any flood claim was sought by a home-owner too. The FEMA maps are great tools to see if a home is located within a flood zone, and any agent can look that up on behalf of a client.

Buying can be a challenge, but an agent is there to find the right home, at the right price, and to assist wherever possible. You can ask your agent about mortgage specialists, local attorneys, great shopping in the area, and transportation information, and of course those sales stats too, and lastly - to obtain that home you want at the best possible price!

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Narrowing Down that Search - Home Buyer Information

2012-05-22T16:33:50Z

When my husband and I were first looking for a home, it was pre-computer/internet days, and we were clueless. We simply asked an attorney who we knew, and he answered "New Rochelle." That was it! SO simplistic, and sometimes that is the best answer. If you all know where you wish to live, it makes the whole process that much easier. However, nowadays, with all of the internet info, the choices can make the whole process so confusing, so where to start?

Obviously, different areas have different priced homes and so there is no point in choosing a particular area if you cannot afford a home there. Also, do you like boating? Hiking? Suburbs? More rural areas? Are you seeking a home closer to the city or further away? So, look to where you can afford, and then seek out information on the different school districts.

I had no preconception on schools when we were looking. I wasn't to know all of my children would be either dyslexic or have learning differences. We never thought ahead that far. In retrospect, I should have interviewed several school districts to see how large the classroom sizes were, the 4th grade reading and math scores, etc. and that would have helped me tremendously. If a family already has school age children, then are also probably cognizant as to their own children's particular needs and likes/dislikes, and so they are one step in the right direction in choosing a school district.

Some schools districts have better art and music programs, others offer bi-lingual programs... all important points to find out prior to buying a home in that area. I would suggest that once you know how much you can afford, have chosen your school district or school districts, then you can focus on that home search.

Your next step is finding a good agent one who will help you throught the entire process.

For New Rochelle tours, you can call the various elementary/middle or High School at the phone nubmer given on the web sites - ask for the Principal's office, and he will direct you accordingly.

For Larchmont/Mamaroneck, you can contact the School District there and you will be directed to the right person/department also.

Larchmont and New Rochelle are GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

When do we Negotiate on the Plasma TV?

2012-05-22T12:25:43Z

I was actually asked that question by some buyers a few years ago. I did not sell them a home.... I sort of dropped them when I discovered they were not approved for the amount on their pre-approval letter. It would seem they had "neglected" to inform their Mortgage Broker when they sought the pre-approval that they had school loans, but somehow in between obtaining the accepted offer, and before having to spend their money on an inspection, they "remembered" and asked the mortgage broker to submit their info to underwriting to "double check..." They were actually approved for $50,000 less because of student loans, and so we had to withdraw our offer. Since I am always honest with my clients, I would like them to be honest with me too, and so we parted ways. That, and since they had asked about the Plasma TV, I did not get that nice feeling in my stomach. It simply isn't the way I do business.

We, as agents, meet all kinds of buyers in the process, but unless the buyers are completely honest with themselves, then the transaction can be more difficult than required.

It is imperative that a buyer seek a good mortgage broker early on, and get that pre-approval. One, it informs the agent that they are serious about purchasing since they have extended themselves into researching a mortgage broker. Two, a buyer will know exactly how much they can afford/cannot afford before they waste anyone's time. I have been informed by buyers that they are approved for X amount.. no worries, only to discover that their pre-approval turns out to be actually more or less in some cases.

Three. A buyer will need that pre-approval on hand when their agent of choice places a bid on their behalf. Imagine how upset you would be only to discover that since your pre-approval was not available, you lose the house you wanted as you could not move forward in a timely fashion.

Four. Very simply, but I have also come across buyers who wanted to "make sure" with their accountants prior to purchasing. I just had that situation with a coop sale. I did not know the buyer or represent her, but it took her over a month of negotiations, requests, to move forward. We then heard that she was meeting with her financial planner, and he informed her not to buy. What a waste of everyone's time... so if you need to check with anyone other than your mortgage person - do so, prior to looking.

Buying a property can be stress free- if you seek the a good agent, have a good mortgage person on hand and a good attorney.

Five. Nothing wrong in asking to purchase the TV... but just negotiate on the home!

Larchmont and New Rochelle are great!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Thank you New Rochelle for my Victory Garden!

2012-05-22T12:19:22Z

In an effort to slow down motorists on the street, the New Rochelle powers that be decided to build several islands at several intersections on Paine Avenue. It cost the city $100,000 and I personally felt it was a waste of our money, but that is another story. However, one neighbor and friend decided to make the most of it! An island was built next to her home, and the city enlarged the property area adjoining her home to slow down everyone. It was a nice little wedge of land, and so my neighbor's son and she decided to grow a vegetable garden.

So, for the past several years, I have seen cilantro, green bell peppers, zuchini, carrots, corn, tomatoes, pumpkins, basil, lettuce, chinese cabbage, cucumbers, garlic and so much more being grown. It is so nice to walk by and see everything in bloom. Even nicer that my friend is taking advantage of the extra land. Definitely her little victory!

We have a Paine Heights Neighborhood Association also, and our Assocation takes care of those islands....

New Rochelle, a GREAT place to live!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House Larchmont, 10538- 5 Overlook Terrace 2:45- 4:45 p.m. 5/20/2012

2012-05-18T17:45:24Z

5 Overlook Terrace, Larchmont, 10538, was built by William Randolph Hearst for Marion Davies. This home reflects a romantic moment in time yet updated to captivate today! Stunning front door beckons you to enter this 3 Bedroom 2500 sq. ft. Mediterranean with 2.5 baths, eat-in kitchen & breakfast nook, butler's pantry, Dining room/Family room, Living Room with a gorgeous Carrera marble fireplace, enclosed porch and a wonderful deck with an arbor perfect for entertaining. The Master bedroom offers a nursery, bath and a large walk-in closet, 2 Additional Bedrooms and a Hall Bath compliment the second floor. There is a one car garage, and is very close to the Larchmont village and just 35 minutes to New York City. The Public Open House will be held on Sunday, May 20th, from 2:45 p.m.- 4:45 p.m.

Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House 10804, 44 Dusk Drive

2012-05-18T17:40:20Z

44 Dusk Drive, 10804, which is located in desirable Wykagyl Estates with its private tennis courts, you will really appreciate this 4 bedroom, 3.5 Bath extended Raised Ranch that just goes on and on! It is large! There is a ftiled entrance foyer, and tiled family room with a fireplace, second family room/guest room with a bath, a living room, dining room, music room and a large eat-in kitchen with access to the great deck - perfect for entertaining. There is a two car garage, and the taxes WILL BE grieved! All good! With its close proximity to Houses of worship, transportation & just 35 minutess to NYC. Perfect! Being offered at $649,000, there is a public open house on May 20th, 1-3 p.m.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House, 10804, 5/20 - 1-4 p.m. 111 Wildwood Road

2012-05-18T17:17:15Z

The only Larchmont Woods Normandy Chateau with a drawbridge & 40' turret! This bespoke 3 bedroom 3047 square foot home with its Chef's kitchen, polished bluestone slate spiral staircase, limestone floors, mahogany trim, onyx and marble bathroom clearly reflects the designer home-owner's special touches. There is a patio, courtyard & fountain too! Originally built by a big game hunter for his wife in 1926. Yes, you can have it all. C/O being obtained for 3rd bathroom. Just 35 minutes from New York City. Public Open House 1-4 p.m., Sunday, May 20th, 2012. The home is being offered at $895,000.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

2 Edna Place 10804 - Public Open House 5/20, 2012 2-4 p.m.

2012-05-18T17:01:39Z

The glorious kitchen was designed by the Award Winning Team of Joan Schindler Interior Designs (House Beautiful's Kitchen of the Year '07 in Conn.), and it will not disappoint! This 4 bedroom, 2 bath 2467 sq. ft. Tudor won't either! Close to all Houses of Worship, you will appreciate the custom built-ins in the den, beamed living room with fireplace, Formal Dining Room, and above ground family room with Sliding French doors to the patio. Master Bedroom has a dressing room and en suite bath, and there are three additional bedrooms and a hall bath. Just 35 minutes to New York City . Being offered at $729,000. Public Open House Sunday, May 20th, 2-4 p.m.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Warner Library in Tarrytown

2012-05-17T17:39:50Z

I have often thought,"What will happen to libraries as they compete with e-books?"After visiting the Warner Library in Tarrytown, I had no fear that libraries would not be able to compete.
Here are some of the wonderful resources available there:There are 10 computers and a computer lab which can help you with a variety of internet tools.You can enroll in online courses in English,read and listen to stories, improve your vocabulary.You can borrow a kindle and e-book.You can reserve a popular book.There are many dvds and movies.There is a very helpful staff to guide you to your book needs.There is a series of musical events and lectures.Children's Room story telling, math challenges for middle schoolers,Yoga for kids, and more.If chess is your game, you can meet with the chess club.

The Warner is truly a community treasure providing information to meet recreational, educational, or professional needs.

The library became a reality because of the generosity of Worecester Reed Warner and his wife Cornelia.It opened in 1929 and bears there name. It is truly a handsome building, and a great resource.Plan a visit and enjoy the beautiful reading room...

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

Welcome to Victory Boulevard, New Rochelle 10804

2012-05-17T12:10:36Z

I heard something so nice the other day that I had to share... Clients (and now friends) purchased a lovely home on Victory Boulevard, New Rochelle, 10804. We obtained the three bedroom home for $550,000. It had been purchased by the previous (builder) owners for far less, and they had then totally transformed the kitchen, bathrooms, basement etc.. and my clients benefited from those renovations. I had negotiated lower on their behalf (of course), and also because the taxes were so high (we are going to grieve them at the end of this month).

So, I called to wish Kamu (a physician) a Happy Mother's Day, and to check in with regard to the tax grievance issue, and during our conversation, my clients mentioned how they were made to feel so welcome on their street and in their new abode. One neighbor had brought over a fruit bowl, another brought over a plant for their garden, and they had received nice cards from other neighbors. My friends are loving their new home, but more than that - the manner in which their neighbors have welcomed them..

My friends said "Gay, we were invited over to several of our neighbor's yards to see what they have done with their gardens." I was so impressed.... but perhaps not... for that is how New Rochelle is, warm, welcoming, diverse, and Queen of the Sound.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

What is the Process after you Place your Bid?

2012-05-17T12:06:20Z

What is the Process AFTER you Place your Bid?

I recently had a different experience. I shouldn't say different, as I am finding that younger people are well versed on real estate (in the written sense) and will be the first to inform you how they know so much more than you do. While I applaud their intelligence, their being savvy and well read, sometimes, it can also hinder the process.

SO, to set the record straight in Westchester, New York, what do buyers do once they have placed their bid, and have that accepted offer? This is also assuming that in order to obtain that accepted offer, the buyer has provided their pre-approval from a respected banking institution.

1) Order the inspection. Your agent should have already prepped you with regard to suggesting 2 or 3 well known inspectors in the area. YOU choose the one who is the best fit for you (bu do not choose on price... choose on credentials), or utilize an inspector that you wish to use.. perhaps someone who has been recommended to you by a friend...

2) Make sure your inspection is completed shortly after the accepted offer. Sellers's agents should and will be marketing the home until the contracts are fully executed by both buyer and sellers.. so if you take your time in having the inspection, then do not be surprised if another bid materializes.

3) You should have placed your bid on all of those obvious (visual) items/defects you saw when you viewed the home.. Perhaps older windows, an older hot water heater, etc. The inspector is there to inform you of the condition of the house, what needs to be fixed today and are of immediate importance (perhaps more negotiation), and items that need to be fixed in a few years as regular maintenance ( no need to negotiate on these items). He will also point out areas of environmental issues... Sellers must take care of mold, termites, radon.. and a leaking roof.. These are items that the buyer would not be expected to see during their visits - (they are latent issues). However, it should be noted, that if there are multiple bids, then certain issues like asbestos (if it is sealed and contained) might not be a negotiable item.

4) Once the inspection has been performed, the inspector will usually inform the buyer at that time of those points he needs to negotiate upon... Whenever a buyer states that he is waiting for the report that informs me he will be negotiating more.... I always advise my buyers to let me know of their concerns the day of the inspection, let me negotiate then.. for if we have to wait a few days to receive that report.. then we could lose the house to other buyers... Don't lose the momentum.

5) As a listing agent, my attorney sends out the contract the same day as an accepted offer... As a buyer's agent, we are beholden to the seller's attorney... If he drags his feet, he might lose my buyers.. or we might lose out.. At the end of the day, it is in everyone's best interests to move things along as quickly as possible to sign those contracts.

Always choose attorneys who will not be vacationing for the next few months, agents who will be there for throughout the process, and a mortgage brokers who is well qualified. also.

Lastly, listen to your agent! In the scenario I recently experienced, the buyers knew more than everyone else, did things in their own order, and it prolonged the contract signing by an additional two hair-raising weeks...

Westchester is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow

2012-05-14T06:29:36Z

Do you know the unique attractions of living in Tarrytown or Sleepy Hollow?

If you live in Philipse or Sleepy Hollow Manor,you can walk to the train station. Also it is a great place to jog with views of the Hudson River. Kingsland Point Park is also within walking distance.Recently it had a million dollar renovation and the former bath house can be rented for special occasions and is very attractive party place. Also, many groups have annual barbeques. There are many ball fields and also some swing equipment. The Light House is also an attraction, and has guided tours at times. The Rockefeller Preserve is off of Route 117. It has many trails for walking, jogging, and birding. Bring your camera for some wonderful photos. If you are an energetic hiker you can get up to the Stone Barns on one trail. On the way you will see Angus Cows, pigs and piglets, sheep, chickens and vegetable gardens.

I have heard they sell very fresh eggs at the shop. At the snack bar you can also buy lunch snacks and salads. Another shop has gifts and toys. It is a great place for a nature walk with your children or grandchildren and on weekends they are sometimes allowed to take the eggs from under the chicken,which is exciting for all.

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

Public Open House 10804 - 1-5 p.m. 2 Edna Place

2012-05-11T15:00:00Z

Happy Mother's Day! Pop by 2 Edna Place on Sunday, May 13th, 1-5 p.m. and Mom will love this lovely 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath 2467 square foot Tudor home with an exquisite kitchen designed by the Award winning team of Joan Schindler Interior Designs. Ms. Schindler won the coveted House Beautiful's Kitchen of the Year Award in 2007 for designing a wonderful kitchen in Connecticut. Her team has surpassed itself in this kitchen also. There is a 6 burner Wolf stove, custom cabinetry (of course), and a concealed foot stool under one of the cabinets.

The beamed living room embodies charm and elegance as does the open floor plan. The family room has easy access to the laundry room, powder room (which will be legalized), and there are French Doors to the patio... great for family get togethers. The Master Bedroom features a dressing room, wonderful cabinet space, and the pristine home shows beautifully. Being offered at $729,000, taxes are currently $16,791.00 not including the STAR deduction of $1532. If you can't make it this Sunday - call for your private showing. You will not be disappointed! Close to all Houses of Worship, parks, transportation and fine dining, and just 35 minutes from New York City.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

You Snooze - You Lose! Larchmont 10538

2012-05-10T15:39:58Z

Larchmont 10538 is very desirable! It is close to New York City (just 35 minutes by train), offers great recreation (boating, a beach, sports, a beautiful park), fine dining, a movie theater, and all easily accessible from the train station. The population (per the 2010 census) was over 5800 and growing. There is a French American School, and is well known as having a European flair with Brits and French residents. With Larchmont consistently being listed as one of the most popular places in which to live in the United States, it is no suprise that if an interesting property enters the market place, buyers must move forward quickly before it is gone.

Such was the case of 4 Hillside Road, Larchmont, 10538 just a few minutes away from the village and trains. It entered the market one day and was offered at $1,299,000, featured 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, and obtained an accepted offer that same weekend. So, as we sometimes say "You snooze you lose!"

Larchmont- a great place in which to live!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle 10805 - What does $1,050,000 Buy?

2012-05-10T15:32:38Z

New Rochelle is a city of over 77,000 (as per 2010 stats), and growing.... Like any urban city, there are expensive properties, inexpensive properties, and properties priced in between! Having lived in New Rochelle for over 33 years, I am amazed at the ongoing (wonderful) transition of our great city, and I am always enthusiastic about representing any seller who wishes to sell their home here, or for that matter, any buyer who wishes to purchase here. Our school stats speak for themselves - as do our scholastic programs and high school courses. Every child has different needs, and so every potential school district should be interviewed by a new buyer of course, but if you were thinking of purchasing within our fair city, what would you get for $1,050,000?

35 Beachfront Lane, 10805 just sold for that amount, and it was a bargain! Over 3000 square feet, radiant heated floors in the kitchen and master and hall bathrooms, a finished tiled basement with a tray ceiling (perfect for that media room), and a lovely deck surrounding a goodly portion of the rear of the home. The breakfast room had wondrous water views, as did the second floor balcony which is accessed from the second bedroom. A second floor laundry room was also advantageous to the buyers, as well as the 4 bedrooms in totale, and the 3.5 baths. 2 Gas fireplaces, a one car garage, and a private beach shared by the other residents of Beachfront Estates, a private gated community. While it was in contract, I received several phone calls from frustrated agents whose clients had wanted to purchase the home. Where were they? They waited too long to purchase, and missed out on a beautiful home.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

I had a Closing Today - Yum!

2012-05-08T12:17:10Z

I live in New Rochelle, 10804, Westchester... a wonderful city in which to reside.. and I have done so for over 33 years. However, sometimes, I have closings for those Westchester properties in New York City... just 30 minutes away (express train this evening), and throughout the three hours that I sat there at the closing, I was salivating thinking about the Oyster Bar in Grand Central Station!

In 1913, the Grand Central Train Station first opened its doors -the same year as the Oyster Bar on a site that had been a run down train depot. Today, Grand Central Station is a vibrant place to visit, enjoy and applaud. In 1913, it was considered an engineering marvel. In 2012, with its food court, the restaurants, the food market, it is still grand... However, the Oyster Bar declined in the ensuing 64 years... and was actually bankrupt and empty for two years, until in 1974, Jerome Brody entered into a lease situation with the MTA, and the rest is simply history.

The Oyster Bar serves over 25 -30 different varieties of fresh oysters daily... (I chose the Malispina -the British Columbia Oyster above). It is a well known meeting and tourist destination as well as a great place to visit for great FRESH oysters.... all while on your way to New Rochelle and Larchmont of course.... so close to Manhattan... my express train ride took just 30 minutes...

Larchmont & New Rochelle...are great!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Getting gardens ready in spring

2012-05-04T06:47:19Z

Now is the time to work on your gardens for a good result this summer.

First make sure your flowerbeds are weeded and nourished with compost. Next, feed your evergreens and shrubs. Don't forget the roses. Last, and most difficult, in our area is our lawn. Weed control and fertilizer are recommended. I find the Lawn Doctor is very helpful with problem lawns.

Good luck to all!

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

New Rochelle's Humane Society's "Paws for a Heart" Celebration May 17, 2012

2012-05-02T16:34:42Z

Don't forget the New Rochelle's "Paw for a Heart" Celebration May 17, 2012, from 6:30 -9:30 p.m. to be held at the Pelham Country Club in Pelham Manor, N.Y. You could ask yourself why Pelham if it is the New Rochelle Humane Society? Well, the New Rochelle Humane Society services 17 communities in Westchester County including Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Eastchester, Elmsford, Greenburgh, Harrison, Hartsdale, Hastings-on-Hudson, Irvington, Larchmont, Mamaroneck Village, New Rochelle, Pelham Manor, Rye, Rye Brook, Scarsdale and Tarrytown. 50% of its' funding comes from the animal control services provided to the local towns and villages, and the balance of its much needed revenue is derived from fund-raising activities such as the May 17th celebration. The Human Society, now in its 101st year is a no kill shelter, and the slogan "From our home to yours" is well deserved.

Tickets are just $100 each, and donations are always welcomed. For more information on donating tiems, please contact Toni Boelsen at (914) 632-2925 or email Toni@NewRochelleHumaneSociety.org. The evening promises delectable 'bites' a silent auction, live auctions, and an evening you will be licking your paws over!

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Mamaroneck 10543 - "A Taste of Mamaroneck" 6th Annual Wine Tasting Tour

2012-05-02T06:18:48Z

Cheers! Mamaroneck's 6th Annual Wine Tasting Tour, Sunday, May 6th 1-5 p.m.

Being organized by the Mamaroneck Chamber of Commerce, this upcoming Sunday, May 6th, Mamaroneck will have its 6th Annual " A Taste of Mamaroneck" Wine Tasting Tour from 1-5 p.m. Tickets are just $50 per person, and the tour will commence at 1 p.m. when trolley (yes, a trolley!) will leave Harbor Island Park in Mamaroneck, and make a delectable and delicious tour of the following restaurants : Lum Yen, Zitoune, Gusano Loco, Spicy Shallot 2, Turkish Meze, Vinefera, Piri-Q, Roasted Peppers, Café Mozart, Boiano Bakery, Chocolations, Westchester Sandbox Theatre, Sound Shore Liquor Pantry, Haiku, Hash O Nash & Enzo’s. Bring your appetites, have some fun and enjoy!

Visit their website or contact the Chamber office at 914-698-4400 or email for tickets before the event. If you wish to purchase on May 6th, registration starts at 12:30 p.m. at Harbor Island Park.

Posted by: Gay Rosen

56.75 Acres for sale - 400 Lake Drive 12572 - Just 15 mintes from Rhinebeck!

2012-04-27T16:36:02Z

GREAT opportunity to purchase your own land - be it for recreation, hunting or simply a family retreat! Including Lake Rights (perfect for boating and/or swimming), some wetlands and those wondrous woods! This parcel of 56.75 Acres of land also boasts double road frontage and wonderful views. 5 Acre zoning. Just three miles from the Taconic Parkway and just 90 minutes from New York City! Approved for telephone, cable, electric, well/septic tank. Just 15 minutes from Historic Rhinebeck. Recently reduced for sale to $399,000.

Cheers!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Larchmont 10538 Public Open House 4 Hillside Road, Larchmont, New York 4/29 1-4 p.m.

2012-04-27T16:29:07Z

Elegantly appointed and with a great location too! This stunning 5 bedroom, 3 Bath Tudor home is just minutes away from the village, fine dining & trains. Exquisitely designed, the newer eat-in kitchen with its cherry & walnut floors, maple cabinets, corian counters, and cozy nook has easy access to the patio with its awning. The formal dining room, living room with fireplace, Custom Pella windows and the office/den complete the first floor. A few steps to a bedroom/den and bath, second floor to the Master Bedroom/Bath, two additional bedrooms with bath, and the third floor has a bedroom and balcony. Central Air conditioning!

There is a lower level family room, and don't forget the above ground oil tank with the decorative Union Jack! There is a fenced in backyard - perfect for pooch! Cheers! 35 minutes to New York City. Being offered at $1,299,000. The public open house is being held frm 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, 2012.

Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Larchmont 10538 - Public Open House Sunday, April 29th, 1-3 p.m. 5 Overlook Terrace

2012-04-27T16:08:32Z

Built by William Randolph Hearst for Marion Davies,this home reflects a romantic moment in time yet updated to captivate today! Stunning front door beckons you to enter this 3 Bedroom 2500 sq. ft. Mediterranean with 2.5 baths, eat-in kitchen & breakfast nook, butler's pantry, dining room/great room, living room with a gorgeous Carrera marble fireplace that once resided in a Park Avenue mansion. The three seasons enclosed porch leads to a wonderful deck with an arbor perfect for entertaining. The master bedroom with nursery and bath has a great walk-in closet too.

There are two additional bedrooms (one with a walk-in closet and sitting porch) and a hall bath. Close to the Larchmont village & just 35 minutes to NYC! Being offered at $1,279,000. The public open house is being held from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, 2012.

Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Peonies

2012-04-24T12:30:17Z

At the entrance to the Rockefeller State Park, there is a wonderful display of peonies. Now is the the time to view them at the height of there beauty.

The Japanese people in the town of Yatsuka sent these peonies to the US after 9/11. These flowers are supposed to bring comfort in times of trouble. It is said there are 200-300 varieties.It is a great time to see these peonies, known as "the king of flowers" in Japan.

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

Eagle

2012-04-23T06:27:52Z

The Philipse Manor train station has one of the distinctive eagles saved from the early Grand Central Depot. There are 10 eagles within a 50 mile radius of NYC. A newspaper photographer featured the eagles and brought fame to them.

Posted by: Barbara Eisert

New Rochelle High School AP Scholars & 2012 Academic Competition

2012-04-20T00:00:00Z

It is always nice to learn exactly how GREAT our school system is. The information below is from the New Rochelle High School Profile for the 2011-2012 School Year.

From the 2012 Academic Competitions

2 National Merit Scholarship Semi-Finalists11 National Merit Scholarship Commended2 National Achievement Scholarships Semifinalists3 National Achievement Program Outstanding Participant1 National Hispanic Recognition Program Finalist

2011 AP SCHOLARS AWARDS

Scholars 56Scholar with Honor 29Scholar with Distinction 46National Scholar 8

What can I say? New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Larchmont 10538 - Public Open House Sunday, April 22 1-3 pm 5 Overlook Terrace

2012-04-20T00:00:00Z

Built by William Randolph Hearst for Marion Davies,t his home reflects a romantic moment in time yet updated to captivate today! Stunning front door beckons you to enter this 3 Bedroom 2500 sq. ft. Mediterranean with 2.5 baths, eat-in kitchen & breakfast nook, butler's pantry, dining room, family room, living room with a gorgeous Carrera marble fireplace, enclosed porch and a wonderful deck with an arbor perfect for entertaining. The master bedroom features a nursery, walk-in closet and bath. Two additional bedrooms and hall bath. Close to the village and just 35 minutes to New York City. Being offered at $1,279,000.

Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Public Open House New Rochelle 10804 44 Dusk Drive 1-3 p.m.

2012-04-20T00:00:00Z

Located in desirable Wykagyl Estates with its private tennis courts, you will really appreciate this 4 bedroom, 3.5 Bath extended Raised Ranch. There is a family room with fireplace, second family room/guest room with bath, living room, dining room, music room and a large eat-in kitchen with access to the great deck - perfect for entertaining. There is a 2 car garage, and the taxes WILL BE grieved! All good! With its close proximity to Houses of worship, transportation & just 35 minutes to New York City Perfect! 44 Dusk Drive, New Rochelle 10804 is being offered at $649,000.

New Rochelle is great!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Top Blogger Award Goes to...

2012-04-19T11:54:23Z

I have been enjoying my blog site via Houlihan Lawrence and Propopoly for several years now. It is a blogging platform, as an exclusive service of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, and there are 20 companies that are represented with their blogs utilizing this web site.

At the recent Luxury Portfolio Summit and Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE) Annual Conference in Orlando , Houlihan Lawrence was recognized in the luxury market for winning the Million Dollar Club Award. This is presented to the one member (company) with the most outgoing closed referrals with an actual sales price of $1 million or greater.

However, I (oh my goodness) me, moi. yours truly won the Top Blogger Award for my significant (oh my again!) contributions (oh thank you!) to the agent blog www.GuideMeHome2Westchester.com which was also recognized as the Top Propopoly® Website for 2011.

I was presented with a beautiful award from Propopoly - via our very own Liz Nunan, CRP, SGMS, Licensed Real Estate Broker & Vice President of the Houlihan Lawrence Global Business Development Center. Liz has always been instrumental in promoting the SEO aspect of marketing, and her intelligent, thought provoking ideas and seminars offered within our great company have been instrumental to many of us. The award is not only for me, but I see it as a special thanks to Liz and Kerry Barger, our new SEO expert!

Thank you Propopoly - thank you Houlihan Lawrence!

Westchester is great!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

New Rochelle- the High School- Queen of the Sound

2012-04-19T11:41:54Z

A few facts about New Rochelle... Queen of the Sound

Did you know that New Rochelle college acceptances for the 2012 Graduation Class include Harvard, Yale, Williams, Dartmouth, Amherst, Columbia, Middlebury, Georgetown, Cornell, Notre Dame, Northwestern, University of Pa? In 2011, New Rochelle sent more students to the Ivy League than any other District in Westchester this year!

Did you know that parents from New York City, Greenwich, etc. have been contacting our School Superintendent with regard to possibly paying our school taxes so their children could attend the bi-lingual program at Jefferson? There is both an Italian and Spanish bi-lingual program at that school. and the Superintendent has been contacted for the Italian bi-lingual program. The idea is thought provoking, and as long as it does not interfere with accommodating New Rochelle residents, the idea is under strong consideration.. Yes, parents seek out our school district..

Did you know that some Districts do not require testing on the AP courses taken by their students? New Rochelle does... The grade is P -5 ... The District average is above 3.

Did you know that there was $22 Million in earned school scholarships this past year at the High School?

Did you know that while some see the graduation rate as being 80% this past year at the high school, some of those remaining students do graduate in five or six years bringing the average to 90%? Remember that evey child has different needs and New Rochelle strives to accommodate them all. That 80% graduation average is hoping to be 83% next year...

Did you know New Rochelle High School has some 3400 students, with 445 students taking taking AP courses this year and taking 830 AP Exams?

Did you know that many parents whose children who might have attended parochial and private schools are now entering the High School in 9th Grade simply because of the courses offered and the multitude of Clubs, Extra-curricular activities and sports?

Did you know 110 colleges visited the New Rochelle High School this past year to look for potential students for their universities and colleges? Did you know that they start their process as soon as school commences in September- requesting to visit at the College Fair and College Night?

New Rochelle is a great place in which to live.

Having lived in New Rochelle for over 33 years, please contact me all of your real estate needs.

New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Wykagyl Estates 10804, Extended Raised Ranch & Tennis too!

2012-04-13T14:20:00Z

Located in desirable Wykagyl Estates with its private tennis courts, you will really appreciate this 4 bedroom, 3.5 Bath extended Raised Ranch. There is a tiled family room with fireplace, second family room/guest room with bath perfect for those extra guests, a living room, dining room, music room and a large eat-in kitchen with easy access to the great deck - perfect for entertaining. There is a 2 car garage, central air conditioning, gas heat and the home is located on 0.217 of an acre. With its close proximity to Houses of worship, transportation and just 35 minutes to NYC. Perfect!

Being offered at $649,000. New Rochelle is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Larchmont 10538, A Romantic Mediterranean!

2012-04-13T14:10:00Z

Introducing 5 Overlook Terrace, Larchmont, 10538 New York.. This 2500 square foot home was built by William Randolph Hearst for his beloved Marion Davies in 1924, and the romantic essence of the home still exudes in the home today! 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Baths, gleaming hardwood floors and a pristine home await your viewing pleasure. The dramatic front door, which its antique tiling trim, and charming entrance foyer beckons you within... the living room offers a wonderful hand-carved Italian Carrera marble fireplace (brought lovingly from its original resting place in a mansion on 5th Avenue near the Guggenheim). There is a large great room (dining room and family room - perfect for entertaining and extended families), an enclosed three seasons porch... and the kitchen offers a Viking stove, a breakfast nook, butler's pantry and great access to the deck which (of course) has a romantic arbor with vines...

The Master Bedroom (again with those gleaming floors) en suite, has a nursery/office and a walk-in closet... Two additional bedrooms (one with a walk-in closet and sitting porch), a hall bath all compliment this home... Built with love in mind, which has endured thereafter! SO close to the village, fine dining and the trains.... but need I say more - just click on the link below and see for yourself...

The house is being introduced to the market at $1,279,000 ..... a great opportunity to own a home in Larchmont, (the 35th most wealthiest town in the U.S. in which to reside), the 49th most favorite, and of course it offers water, boating, a wonderful park and all just 35 minutes from New York City.... The house also offers a private street, shared with only 6 other residents who can (privately) access their driveways and garages.. This home has a one car garage, and has parking for 3 additional cars. Sounds great! Larchmont is GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

McLean Avenue and the Butcher's Fancy ' Céad Míle Fáilte'

2012-04-12T17:36:00Z

What do you do if you have 30 minutes to waste whilst waiting for a client? Well, I happened to be close to McLean Avenue this afternoon in Yonkers which is well known for great pubs, and Irish shops.... I had to indulge.. not in the pubs of course but in visiting a few of the stores.. Being a Brit, and walking into the stores and seeing the multitude of British (and Irish) candies on display, I was a child again (it doesn't take much)... I was also quite reticent to speak (because of my accent!)... In one store I purchased some sweets (candies) and an assortment of bad foods (see photo) but synominous with what I grew up eating, and then I saw a butcher's store.. Oh my! There was a nice curbside display and it drew me in (it didn't take much)... Oh my goodness.... home made sausages, leek and pork sausages (I bought a pound and made bangers and mash for a son this evening -- all gone).. fresh meats, black pudding (a sausage made out of pig's blood, spices and meal... sounds 'different' but delish ....) and there were foods ready made.... We...ellll if you insist... I bought some corned beef , mashed potatoes and cabbage for another son (I grow them big and tall) (it wasn't salty at all, the corned beef was slightly spicy and scrumptious - oops... okay, I tasted some..) and all for just $8... , a steak and kidney pie (HAD to), and as I started to speak, the butcher said "Oh your are British.." I replied that I am, but not to hold it against me! He very nicely replied that 6 Brits had already visited his store that morning and he had recently been interviewed by the BBC.

The store is small, but you do not need large for perfection, and this store certainly made that statement. You could tell that the owner cared. Mr. Oliver Charles and his son were nice to all who visited... I felt as if I was back in England, visiting the local butcher's shop where pride, service were once again important to all... I felt as if I had taken a 30 minute vacation to Europe.. Sounds rather dramatic, but it was so refreshing.... I know that I have now found my shop for sausages and more... Mr. Charles mentioned that he had just received his shipment of spices from England for his Cumberland sausages........ and gave me a gift of a sausage roll as I left.... I was in heaven!

Butchers Fancy, 961 McLean Avenue, Yonkers, N.Y. 10704, 914.237.8260

Butchers Fancy is open Monday- Friday 8:30 am - 8 p.m., Saturdays 8:30 p.m. -7 p.m., Sunday 10-3 p.m.

The moral of this little story is to take the time to visit our local smaller shops, get in touch with our heritage, and to make sure that our heritage wil be our chidren's heritage by keeping them in business. Cheers!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Once Again The Bamboo Curtain Falls - "Rising Dragon- Contemporary Chinese Photography"- The Katonah Museum of Art

2012-04-09T17:42:03Z

Once Again The Bamboo Curtain Falls! Come experience the stunning new exhibit "Rising Dragon - Contemporary Chinese Photography" at The Katonah Museum of Art March 25 - Sept. 2, 2012.

No longer convinced that the click of a camera shutter would steal their spirit away, these 36 Contemporary Photographers, the post Tiananmen Square generation, focus on themes of displacement, the demolition of ancient neighborhoods, as they stand between ancient traditions and modern consumerism in this New Prosperous China. Is consumerism the new opium? This generation has not lived through revolutions or the hard times of previous generations yet they express the cultural shifts and change in their daily lives.

China had an effective postal system over 2,000 years ago and were the first to implement the use of chopsticks for eating while the rest of the World was still eating using their hands. They then were responsible for the invention of the wheel and the crank. No wonder they have embraced photography in all its forms including the use of the Internet, Video, Multimedia, Installation Art, Painting, Sculpture and Performance Art in order to express themselves and document change.

You will learn through these close-ups the contrasts in Chinese Society. There is a reach back to the images of shamanism and sorcery through to the consequences both actual and emotional of the move to a Modern Society complete with its inherent problems of population and pollution. One sees the influence of Western Artists and Photo Journalists such as Rene Magritte, Edward Hopper, Julia Margaret Cameron, Josef Koudelka, W. Eugene Smith, Salgado, Mary Ellen Mark, August Sander and Diane Arbus. Many "snapshots" of daily life both real and enacted in The New China.

This large exhibit is also supported by special complementary programs arranged by the Katonah Museum during the exhibit.

They include:

Book Club Discussion of "The Dissident" by Nell Freudenberger - May 1st 7:30 p.m.An Insider's Tour of The International Center of Photography with the emphasis on China Thursday April 12th 11:00 a.m.A Walking Tour of Chinatown Wednesday May 23rd 11:00 a.m.Chinese Culture Family Day at the KMA - Sunday April 22nd, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m."History in the Making" - Lecture by Former U.S./China Diplomat Nicholas Platt. April 26th, 7:30 p.m.Four Sundays of Tai Chi in the Sculpture Garden - June 3, 10, 17, 24 at 10:30 a.m.China themed "Second Saturday" Cocktail Party at the Katonah Museum Saturday, June 9th

To register for these programs call 914-232-9555 ext. 0

Plus do not miss the works of Children's Author Grace Lin in The Children's Learning Center and the Square Word Calligraphy of Xu Bing in The Project Gallery - only installed until June 10th.

The scale of the size of some of these photographs plus the in-depth research and scholarship in preparing this exhibit will astound you. Take a look at the Exhibit Catalogue with an introduction by Curator, Miles Barth. It is an educational experience which will only enrich your life and your understanding of The New China.

It is The Year of The Dragon!

For information on the many additional programs and lectures offered by the Katonah Museum go to their website. There are daily tours at 2:30 p.m. and the Katonah Museum is closed on Mondays.

The Katonah Museum
Rt. 22 at Jay Street
Katonah, N.Y. 10536
914-232-9555

Credits for Photos in order of appearance above:

Cao Fei
Dog Days, from the video “Rabid Dogs,” 2002
Digital chromogenic print, ed. 6/10
35 5/16 x 23 1/4 in. (89.7 x 59.1 cm)
Collection of Dale & Doug Anderson
© Cao Fei, Photography by Kelli Marin, Inc.

Zhang Huan
Family Tree, 2000
9 chromogenic print on Fuji archival paper, ed. 13/25
Each 21 x 16 1/2 in. (53.3 x 41.9 cm)
Courtesy of Friedman Benda, New York
© Zhang Huan, courtesy of Friedman Benda

Li Wei
A Pause for Humanity #1, Beijing, 2005
Digital chromogenic print
29 3/8 x 47 1/4 in. (75 x 120 cm)
Courtesy of the artist and m97 Gallery/Shanghai
© Li Wei

O Zhang
Salute to the Patriot, from “The World is Yours (But Also Ours)” series, 2008
Digital chromogenic print
17 x 22 in. (43.2 x 55.9 cm)
Courtesy of the artist and CRG Gallery
© O Zhang, courtesy of the artist

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom

Properties that Might not Appraise - Bypassing the Emotion

2012-04-03T16:54:38Z

I have read several blog posts on how sellers will not budge (much) on price, and as a consequence, when that same property did not appraise, the buyers were forced to walk away. It made me want to share what I have been doing for some time now... I think that we all have an idea whether a property will/will not appraise when we enter into the bidding fray... In best representing my clients, I always include into the bid the simple phrase "Should the property not appraise at full agreed upon sales price then the seller will offset any differential?"

Hey, the seller is claiming his house is worth so much... why not sign off on that within a contract? It took my attorney a while to get my point.. He stated that if it shouldn't appraise the buyer can "walk." That is true, but at that point, the buyer has invested his emotional connection to the house, the inspection costs, the mortgage application fee and the appraisal fee... It is sometimes much easier to just agree on an amount with the seller like halving the difference or whatever and continue on.... Going into the transaction with the knowledge that the seller will have to pay any differential will offer your buyer the satisfaction that he is being well represented, and will not be over paying for that home, and isn't that we all want for our clients?

I am here for all of your real estate needs.

Larchmont and New Rochelle are GREAT!

Posted by: Gay Rosen

Eclectic Collector Boasts "Made in the USA!" Plus Chamber of Commerce News -"Third Thursdays!"

2012-03-30T17:21:57Z

Drive down Katonah Avenue in Katonah, New York and you will see a very cheerful banner heralding the news that all of the handcrafted products The Eclectic Collector in Katonah sells are made entirely in America by skilled crafts people.

Ellie Kimelman has this banner to show her pride, purpose and support to the American Crafts People she represents in her gallery and shop. She has always only represented American artists. Over the years she and Roger have represented more than 400 American artists. They have one of a kind pieces in glass, ceramic, jewelry, wearable art, Folk Art, word art, paintings, figurative art, furniture and more. People are walking into her store just to commend her. She could buy cheaper mass produced items from around the world at the many gift shows she travels to throughout the year yet she is true to American ingenuity and style.

We should be proud that someone stands up for the American workers, their skills and entrepreneurship especially in these difficult times. It is what she has always believed in. Apparently it is also a new movement - such as not allowing souvenir shops at National Monuments to sell items made in China, etc.

Other news that Ellie shared with me was that The Katonah Chamber of Commerce is starting a new tradition - "Third Thursdays." On the Third Thursday of each month - easy to remember - over 22 businesses are going to offer certain perks such as Sales, Trunk Shows, Book Signings and more all day! So check in with the Katonah Chamber. It is anticipated to start this April. Katonah is a great strolling town and I am looking forward to it!

Buy American! Shop Katonah!

THE ECLECTIC COLLECTOR
215 Katonah Avenue Katonah, NY 10536
914.232.8700

www.theeclecticcollector.com
M-Sat /10-6, Sun / 12-5

Posted by: Karen Benvin Ransom