2025 at 2:09 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The Cause & Origin team from the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services assisted with the fire investigation NY — A 22-year-old Mount Kisco man has been charged with arson following a fire that damaged the decking of the historic tea house in Leonard Park Erik Hernandez Regalado was charged with felony arson and felony criminal mischief He was arraigned in Mount Kisco Justice Court and remanded to the Westchester County Jail in Valhalla Regalado is due back in village court on April 24 The Westchester County Police Department and the Mount Kisco Fire Department were called to the scene of the fire at 5:11 p.m A witness reported seeing a man with a battery-powered scooter fleeing from the area and patrol officers began a search of the park and surrounding areas The Mount Kisco Fire Department extinguished the blaze before it could spread to the iconic building itself an officer spotted a man pushing a scooter and walking through a parking lot on South Bedford Road The officer detained the man for investigation and took him into custody after a witness identified him as the person seen leaving the scene of the fire The 22-year-old was charged after an investigation by patrol officers and a detective from the General Investigations Unit The Westchester County Police Forensic Investigation processed the crime scene The Cause & Origin team from the Westchester County Department of Emergency Services also assisted with the fire investigation "It was hard to sleep last night after seeing this last evening," Mount Kisco Deputy Mayor Theresa Flora wrote on social media on Friday Kisco Volunteer Fire Dept for getting to the park so quickly and making sure the fire didn’t spread to the building Thank you to the Highway Dept for working late last night to secure her This gift to the Village can never be replaced." Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts. Get important news about your town as it happens Get the top stories from across our network Are you sure you want to unsubscribe from daily updates A 22-year-old man has been arrested and charged with arson following a fire that damaged a historic building at a Westchester County park The blaze happened on the deck of the Tea House at Leonard Park in Mount Kisco.  The damage was contained to the Tea House decking Mount Kisco resident Erik Hernandez Regalado was taken into custody shortly after the Thursday April 17 blaze at Leonard Park in Mount Kisco and has been charged with third-degree arson and second-degree criminal mischief according to the Westchester County Police Department was first reported by a witness who also saw a man on a battery-powered scooter fleeing the area Westchester County Police and the Mount Kisco Fire Department responded to the scene the flames were contained to the decking of the Tea House before they could spread to the structure itself an officer spotted a man pushing a scooter in a parking lot at 34 South Bedford Rd A witness at the scene later identified him as the individual seen fleeing the fire Regalado was arrested following an investigation by patrol officers and a detective from the General Investigations Unit Mount Kisco Deputy Mayor Theresa Flora urged residents to respect the caution tape while repairs continue Flora praised the Mount Kisco Volunteer Fire Department for their quick action that prevented more serious damage "Our volunteer fire department is second to none and I appreciate their dedication and professionalism They show up every time!" Flora wrote in a social media post Receive unfettered access to our digital content including our Examiner+ bonus content newsletter and get other perks like free tickets to local performing arts complimentary advertising for your favorite local charity either observed and verified directly by the reporter or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources Some friendships are built through years of shared experiences while others form in the most unexpected of places – like a Dublin pub on the eve of a rock concert For the third year in a row, Mount Kisco firefighters have enjoyed the honor of marching with the Dublin Fire Brigade in the city’s Saint Patrick’s Day parade a tradition that began by chance but has grown into a lasting bond between two firefighting communities Determined to track it down, Curtis ventured into a back room – and instead stumbled upon a new connection. There, he met members of the Dublin Fire Brigade Wearing a Mutual Engine & Hose sweatshirt firefighters from opposite sides of the Atlantic were sharing stories the Mount Kisco crew had been invited to march in the city’s grand Saint Patrick’s Day parade along with Johnston and Johnston’s son Michael – a Scarsdale career firefighter – has continued the tradition each year since The Dublin Fire Brigade has welcomed them with open arms creating camaraderie that transcends borders and firehouse walls And while some of their best stories “probably shouldn’t be shared,” Curtis jokes Call it the luck of the Irish – or just a bit of fortuitous serendipity – but the chance encounter has turned into something much greater the local firefighters are working on bringing their Dublin counterparts to their hometown Concluded Curtis: “Trying to figure out how we get them to Mount Kisco Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here. We'd love for you to support our work by joining as a free, partial access subscriber, or by registering as a full access member. Members get full access to all of our content, and receive a variety of bonus perks like free show tickets. Learn more here. Copyright © 2025 The Examiner News Another Shake Shack is coming to Westchester with plans to open a Mount Kisco location next year Shake Shack's sixth Westchester eatery will be at 176 N. Bedford Road (the site of a former Dunkin' Donuts), a spokesperson said. It's the only area Shake Shack, outside of one coming to Yonkers' Ridge Hill shopping center's former PF Chang’s space Mount Kisco's could potentially open some time in the summer Shake Shack is known particularly for its burgers — from the Black Truffle Shack Stack to the SmokeShack — as well as chicken sandwiches and milkshakes (The menu also includes a few limited edition menu items and Chocolate Yule Log Shake for the holiday season) Bedford Road space formerly held a Dunkin’ Donuts and a restaurant The Shake Shack will be northern Westchester's first More: Why so many national restaurant chains are opening in Westchester Shake Shack’s fourth Westchester location opened in September in Port Chester. There are Shake Shacks in The Westchester in White Plains Mount Kisco's Architectural Review Board in September approved the building design which Whitelaw said will bring into 2024 a structure that's look was more dated Building Department approval will be needed Whitelaw said the building's sign will next need the architectural board's approval then that would require a village Zoning Board of Appeals sign-off Whitelaw said his firm will do exterior renovations and then Shake Shack comes in to do its fit and finish Mount Kisco will be the home for the newest location of one of the most popular burger chains operating today Shake Shack is scheduled to move into the roughly 4,000-square-foot vacant space at 176 N the architect retained by Shake Shack for the project The space was previously split between a Dunkin’ and Oishii Asian fusion restaurant “We’re working with them on the design of the restaurant,” Whitelaw said of the company “We’re going to get site plan approval from the town but it doesn’t require zoning or planning (board) review as per the building inspector So we’re anticipating (opening) probably early summer.” Whitelaw said the objective is to make the space appear and function like many of its other locations throughout the region It does not appear that the applicant will need approvals from any of the municipality’s boards only for the Building Department to give them the green light there are four Shake Shack restaurants operating in Westchester County – in White Plains Whitelaw said that while the seating capacity hasn’t been settled on yet it will probably accommodate about 75 patrons including a limited number of outdoor seats There will have to be a complete renovation of the interior spaces in addition to work on the exterior of the building Whitelaw appeared before the village’s Architectural Review Board to highlight what the company had in mind The angled parapet will be removed and replaced with a more modern look with the Shake Shack lettering and the iron ore coloring they want to tear off the 1970s Arthur Treacher’s look and bring it into 2024,” Whitelaw told the ARB when he addressed its members at a meeting in September ARB Chair Daniel Loughney said at the time that he was pleased with the appearance of the building on the plans it looks like a Shake Schack,” Loughney said Shake Shack will meet the village’s requirements for lighting The parking will remain largely the same as it was when the building was occupied The landscaping will also not change much from what there is now The side where Dunkin’ had operated will be where patrons will enter and place their orders while the other side of the building will accommodate the food pickup it is the latest shot in the arm for Mount Kisco’s business community in the past few weeks the relocated ShopRite moved from Bedford Hills to the Diamond Properties complex at 333 N Barnes & Noble moved into the nearly 14,000-square-foot space that had been previously occupied by Rite Aid and Walgreen’s on South Moger Avenue The Journal News/lohud.com has been telling stories of the Lower Hudson Valley for generations This regular column and photo feature takes a look back into our extensive archive This story has an action Hollywood beginning a heartfelt Hollywood middle and ‒ spoiler alert ‒ a dark Hollywood ending The fire in downtown Mount Kisco moved fast in the early morning hours of Nov By the time the first firefighters arrived bookstore and deli had been swallowed by 70-foot flames Fire Chief Edward Clark pointed to the smoldering storefronts and said it was like a Hollywood set with nothing left behind the sooty brick façade It took about 200 firefighters more than 15 hours to douse the fire It damaged neighboring Smilkstein’s Family Shoes The blaze was a body blow to Mount Kisco just as the holiday season arrived What had been behind one section of those bricks was Mount Kisco Book Company the new store had endeared itself to locals who saw the independent bookseller as a worthy replacement for the village’s popular Fox & Sutherland department store The new shop had become a haven in more ways than one Not only did its shelves welcome browsers and buyers with departments set up the way Fox & Sutherland had But owner Irwin Hersch endeared himself to the community by hiring popular former Fox & Sutherland workers who had become as much a part of village commerce as the 43-year-old store where they had worked about a dozen doors away on South Moger Avenue Then something kind of Bedford Falls Hollywood miraculous happened in Mount Kisco not far from Westchester’s Bedford Village Out of the ashes of the fire came a moment like the one in “It’s a Wonderful Life" when George Bailey’s friends arrive to save the day The Chamber of Commerce set up a fund for affected workers Hersch let it be known he would find a new location and try to reopen before Christmas A local furniture dealer installed new carpet within days and a painter worked his magic A national booksellers group asked its members to donate shelves which they did; publishers donated boxes of books The Mount Kisco Book Company was back in time for Christmas welcoming customers who had delayed their holiday purchases to make Hersch and his staff's cash registers ring akin to the one in “You’ve Got Mail,” when a mom-and-pop bookshop falls victim to an outsized competitor Hersch’s bookstore was the latest independent shop to close its doors of the newly arrived Borders Books and its deep discounts But on the site where this triple Hollywood story began another chapter is being written: Barnes & Noble this month opens a store on that very stretch of South Moger Avenue 2024 at 11:47 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}The 2024 election is now part of history and the people have spoken NY — The polls have closed and the time for campaigning is done Voters in Mount Kisco weighed in on the contested race for two seats on the village Board of Trustees Here are the latest unofficial results of Election Day 2024 according to the Westchester County Board of Elections Village Trustee Karen Schleimer (D) is seeking an eighth term. Thomas Luzio is the chair of the village’s Democratic Committee. They are not campaigning together. According to The Examiner, Schlemer quit the Democratic Committee in September, citing lack of support or concern for local issues Luzio said the committee paid attention to both local and regional issues for the benefit of the village and accused Schleimer of not supporting two of its projects Diaz and Mullen are this year’s slate from the Village Inclusive Party, headed by Mayor Michael Cindrich, which swept last year’s election over the Democrats. SEE: 'VIP' Party Running Mates Stun Mount Kisco Dems On Election Night when Diaz called Luzio out for a college-era photo he posted on Facebook more than two years ago Luzio had made a sign “Death to Political Science” with a swastika Luzio apologized but Diaz called on him to suspend his campaign with four districts out of seven reporting Diaz had 18 percent of the vote and Mullen had 15 percent according to unofficial results from the Westchester County Board of Elections The party will continue at select Party City stores in some states despite the franchise's December announcement that it would "wind down" operations at locations across the country According to a list provided by franchisees to USA TODAY Most locations in the Lower Hudson Valley are still open 21 it will "wind down" retail and whole sale operations at hundreds of stores after filing Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the Southern District of Texas following a 2023 company restructure that allowed PCHI to eliminate nearly $1 billion in debt The specialty retail chain has been a go-to stop for holiday celebratory and event planning needs for nearly 40 years Stores will remain open for going out of business sales Saying goodbye: Restaurants in Westchester and Rockland that closed in 2024. See the list Which Lower Hudson Valley Party City locations are still open?Going out of business sales are happening now at locations across New York Read on for a list of locations in the Lower Hudson Valley as well as whether or not they are still open features “fresh to table,” where customers can find foods and meals in grab-and-go formats Customers can use shopping carts powered by Instacart technology that lets them scan items as they shop The opening of the new store was celebrated with ribbon-cutting Sunday “Our customers will find a bigger store with new amenities and an elevated shopping experience that also delivers the exceptional quality variety and value ShopRite is known for,” Steve Savas “With expanded fresh departments and a focus on sustainable design this store meets the needs of today’s shoppers while serving as a valuable addition to the community.” Customers will also find specialty products such as Bell & Evans poultry and Stonewall Kitchen items The store also allows customers to order online through ShopRite’s app or website, whether curbside pickup or home delivery. The store will employ about 200 people. Those interested in learning about jobs there are encouraged to apply in-store or online at ShopRite Careers Mount Kisco officials are searching for ways they can partner with county government and various organizations to reach the village’s homeless population after a man was found dead in the woods three days before Christmas Authorities are still awaiting toxicology results in the death of 59-year-old Adalmo Ramirez-Garcia who was discovered in a wooded area near Lexington Avenue and Lieto Drive on Dec The village is once again grappling with how to make it clear to people that there are local resources available within Mount Kisco and where they can turn to for help “You hate seeing something like this happen,” said Mayor Michael Cindrich He was a human being in the wooded areas of Mount Kisco Westchester County police said an officer on patrol was flagged down by passerby who requested a welfare check on a possibly intoxicated man shortly before 9 a.m who was later identified as Ramirez-Garcia Police also noted that there were several open containers of alcohol near his body Detectives responded to the scene before he was taken away by the Westchester County Medical Examiner’s officer There were no signs of any injuries suffered by Ramirez-Garcia and the death was determined not to be suspicious 22 was the coldest day of the season so far with high temperatures failing to exceed 20 degrees and lows in the single digits said despite resources based in Mount Kisco such as the Emergency Shelter Partnership an effort by about 30 houses of worship to provide food and overnight shelter for the homeless from fall to early spring and the county’s Mobile Crisis Response Team which accompany police on calls to respond to people with mental health issues While it isn’t yet know whether Ramirez-Garcia was intoxicated or in need of mental health assistance most shelters do not accept inebriated people police have limited authority in dealing with someone who is drunk drugs or are committing some other offense “I don’t know if this particular person tried to go to a shelter or he just resigned himself to whatever he did in the trail area,” Cindrich said Although there are multiple resources available Village Trustee Tom Luzio said what’s missing is a coordinated response between the agencies and organizations that play a role in helping people in need receive assistance when they are in crisis the Mobile Crisis Response Team and various agencies and organizations such as Neighbors Link and the Interfaith Food Pantry and possibly other entities all have a role to play in hopes of addressing the homeless problem in the village the local officials have to determine the scope of the problem and then find a way to get all the parties on board It also takes multiple efforts with some people who need help to get them the help that could turn around their life “So what we as a village need to do is to bring everyone together in that long list of groups I just said identify the severity of the problem,” said Luzio who worked to help establish addiction programs while serving for many years in the Westchester County District Attorney’s office “If we get statistics from each of those agencies and then perhaps through county programs.” One idea Luzio would like to propose is hiring a social worker to help coordinate the efforts between the multiple departments and organizations Neighbors Link Executive Director Carola Bracco said that Ramirez-Garcia had been a regular participant in the organization’s programs having attending English classes at its headquarters on Columbus Avenue in the village as having been part of the worker center to find employment Bracco was unable to speak toward any problems that Ramirez-Garcia may have had but said Mount Kisco has plenty of resources Convincing people to avail themselves of those resources can be problematic “Not every one of the people who need services will always access those services and that’s actually one of the challenges,” she said Deputy Mayor Theresa Flora said determining the scope of the homeless population in the village can be difficult because by some accounts some of the individuals and the number of them change over time Flora said county police officers who patrol the area see plenty of new faces on a fairly consistent basis Then there are some people who refuse services that are available to them Others may seek help for a drinking or substance abuse issue but there is no follow-up to see how they’re doing Sometimes the activity by the homeless doesn’t warrant a police response “Everyone is working within the confines of the law.” Cindrich said that the police officers do intervene if a person is in distress and they have the authority to call for emergency medical personnel but it’s an issue of telling people to get help the independent Village Inclusive Party (VIP) ticket led by Mayor Michael Cindrich swept the Mount Kisco elections over the Democrats to take on 12-year Democratic incumbent Karen Schleimer and village Democratic Committee Chair Tom Luzio Trustee Lisa Abzun decided against running for another term grew up in Mount Kisco after his family moved to the village in 2005 A volunteer firefighter for about the past year he’s worked at the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester where he had been a Youth of the Year candidate the interfaith food pantry and the Bedford Town Court Diaz worked for an airplane parts company in Armonk Diaz said there are numerous challenges facing Mount Kisco and he believes he could help the board find solutions to longstanding problems “There’s a lot of talk but not much action and that’s a problem,” Diaz said “I think we have to have a compassionate solution I think we have to have an understanding of that community.” Diaz said he has visited the parks and trails to speak to some of the homeless and a recurring theme for many is having no contact with family He believes the Village Board should designate someone on the board or a staff member to help partner with agencies and representatives at other levels of government “We could have a coordinated response on this issue but right now that’s not happening,” said Diaz He would consider a park ranger to help patrol the trails and parks but is uncertain whether a part-timer would be sufficient Diaz is troubled by the persistent overcrowding in some residences in the village The recent hiring of a part-time inspector to work some nights and weekends could help crack down on the dwellings that fail to meet code that issue has kind of been ignored,” Diaz said “I just hope I can make a positive change some way even just by shedding light on the issue and saying we need to start addressing these problems by getting them out in the open and trying to find solutions.” The village’s consultant looking at pedestrian and traffic safety Diaz is hopeful that it will yield a plan that addresses the major concerns Since many of the thoroughfares are under the state or county jurisdiction village officials must communicate with county and state representatives to make sure that adequate funding is available He was adamant that Metro-North pays its fair share for projects such as the upcoming Preston Way bridge replacement next year The village must carefully balance economic growth so Mount Kisco doesn’t stagnate but avoid overburdening the infrastructure with development Diaz also believes officials can do more to reach out to the Hispanic population in Mount Kisco a longtime prosecutor who now is in private practice ran for office for the first time last year in his unsuccessful bid for the Democratic nomination for mayor Luzio said he believes he’s the candidate with the broadest experience in the race Despite Diaz’s and Mullen’s appearance on an independent line he said voters should be aware of a clear distinction and the fact that they’re campaigning with Mike Lawler it demonstrates that they’re leaning toward the right and the Republicans,” Luzio said Luzio said the village first needs to assess the scope of the homeless problem Losing the community resource officer hasn’t been helpful although there are other partners officials can work with Unless the homeless are engaged in criminal activity finding services to assist them is more beneficial “I know getting help for them is a much more effective way than to incarcerate or arrest people,” Luzio said Luzio would like to raise the issue of a park ranger again to patrol the trails and parks One of Luzio’s key issues in his mayoral bid was protection of parkland where he opposed consideration of a cell tower for Leonard Park He would like to extend protections to Fox Memorial Park or more sensible redevelopment of already concrete areas I don’t want to encroach on our green spaces,” Luzio said Redevelopment should be focused on filling the empty storefronts downtown Luzio said he has confidence that the consultants and residents working on the committee to keep pedestrians safe will return with a reasonable plan There are several hotspots in town that need to be addressed “The place where I’m concerned about is the exit of Leonard Park because I happen to use it a lot,” he said Despite many county and state roads in the village Mount Kisco must advocate more effectively with those levels of governments to seek funding Luzio agrees with the battery energy storage systems (BESS) moratorium while the board reviews its zoning and enacting potential regulations He concurs with fire department personnel that the village isn’t prepared to house these systems co-owner of Blue Herron Tea & Coffee on Kirby Plaza decided to run after he met Diaz and Deputy Mayor Theresa Flora he wants the village to flourish and believes he can make a difference “My goal is to just tell it like it is,” said Mullen and really it’s just about what’s going to make the town better.” He said the village should address public drinking and intoxication as well as the homelessness problem on the trails and in the parks whether it means maybe finding shelter somewhere in Mount Kisco it’s better than what’s happening now because that’s not helping anybody,” said Mullen who’s worried about driving visitors away from the village Consistent patrols of the trails as well as getting help from appropriate local organizations could initially be tried Mullen would support a park ranger provided the village could afford it as well as working with the county to have periodic visits to the trails from officers Public safety also extends to pedestrians and vehicles The village has seen lots of money spent on improvements He said the village should first hold Town Hall forums to get input from residents and merchants and tap into their ideas for improvements working together and finding solutions in this community,” Mullen said If the fire department doesn’t believe the BESS facilities is a good idea then they should be prevented until at least the time where there is great safety I think it’s a pretty negative notion to try and bring something like that to our town,” Mullen said “I think we already have a lot of problems to deal with.” Mullen would also like to explore ways to negate some of the parking costs downtown where residents and visitors are often ticketed He would propose having more time where the public could park for free She has also served in various volunteer capacities including the Planning Board and once chaired the ZBA who sometimes frustrates her board colleagues Schleimer said she has the tools to analyze and question where tax dollars are going “I bring skills to the Village Board that are critical and I don’t see someone else on the horizon so I thought I would do it one more time,” she said Schleimer said she would bring all community stakeholders together She thought the roughly $250,000 annual cost was high “I think all of our police officers should have the training to provide the community resource support,” Schleimer said she would convene a meeting with the police village justices and the DPW to explore solutions Schleimer said she is dissatisfied that the consultants have taken as long as they have to return with recommendations What could be needed are bolder strokes to move traffic more reliably people have talked about making (Route) 117 one way and Lexington (Avenue) the other way and make a loop,” Schleimer said “We haven’t talked about that in 10 or 12 years She’s also concerned that removal of the slip lane at Route 117 and Main Street may make it less safe for pedestrians Schleimer would like a more compelling mix of stores something that the village’s Economic Development Council should be exploring the village is reviewing potential zoning revisions to regulate BESS facilities “My biggest concern is whether our fire department are able to handle any possible fires emanating from the energy storage (systems) or is that a myth or is that true,” she said “So we have a lot yet to know about the scope of the issue.” Schleimer strongly cautions about the need for the village to closely watch its finances due to the numerous major capital projects “We need a schedule and more control over our applications,” Schleimer said “I think it’s very important because you don’t want to mortgage our future.” He came because he wants President Trump “to keep hands off Medicaid and Social Security,” which he relies on because of his disability Carrie Brockman and Heather Bryant came because they have kids in first grade They’re afraid their children’s bilingual English/Spanish class is at risk of being eliminated because it will be classified as “DEI.”  “I’m here to protest the direction of our government.”  Referring to local Congressman Mike Lawler (R-Pearl River) Feigenbaum said “He’s voting to cut the very programs that protect us He’s supporting the needs of the ultra-wealthy and not working people.” came because of her father and grandfather and her grandfather an Army vet who survived the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941 this was the first time Feller had ever attended a political demonstration “What they gave their lives to is being destroyed,” she said All of these area residents were joined by an estimated 400 to 500 other people a sea of demonstrators filling Kirby Plaza at the Mount Kisco train station on a cloudy Saturday to protest President Trump’s policies and what they view as Lawler’s tacit alignment with the dominant elements of that agenda as part of the national “Hands Off!” protests held throughout Westchester The impact of cuts to veterans was also a major source of concern A VA reorganization was announced last month that includes slashing more than 80,000 jobs The agency provides healthcare to millions of veterans A series of speakers on Saturday in Mount Kisco warned that Trump’s proposed cuts would harm children’s education and water and sewer infrastructure across Westchester and New York State — all State Senator Peter Harckham explained that the planned cuts will be “inflicting pain on New Yorkers,” with a “$300 million cut in mental health services and 200 layoffs at the New York State Department of Health.” The proposed cut of $880 billion from Medicaid will devastate the health care system “Medicaid supports our entire health care network I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore,” said the local lawmaker quoting the famously angry line from the 1976 film Network the kids who need the most help,” said Pat Puleo now a teacher’s union delegate of the local retiree council and a Thornwood resident An estimated 300,000 students could be affected who won’t “have access to the services they need,” Puleo said “Ten thousand teachers in New York State could be cut “We don’t want our money to go to billionaires,” Puleo emphasized referring to Trump’s proposed tax cuts for the wealthy “Those who provide comfort and care are under attack,” said Joe Mayhew secretary/treasurer of local 1103 of the Communications Workers of America union which represents employees in telecommunications He denounced “drastic cuts to the social safety net.” Mayhew said in an interview after the rally that the administration’s proposed Medicaid cuts will be “devastating to local hospitals,” with the specter of layoffs of numerous X-Ray technicians “Hospitals will raise prices for people with regular health insurance Hospitals will shut down in rural areas,” Mayhew said “They cut FEMA the other day,” said Edward Berry political co-chair of the Lower Hudson chapter of the Sierra Club and former high school teacher for more than 40 years “They cut Westchester water and sewer infrastructure and libraries White Plains Common Council member Jeremiah Frei-Pearson told the story of the closing of the White Plains Social Security office Congressman George Latimer and other local officials scrambled to find an office they could give to the federal government to enable the local Social Security operation to stay open “We said we’ll give you (the federal government) free office space We said don’t close the office,” Frie-Pearson explained New York State District 37 Senator Shelley Mayer also addressed the social safety net “Social Security belongs to all of us,” she said Mayer exclaimed: “We are not afraid of you.” the promise of what America’s about,” she also asserted “I truly believe that democracy is at stake,” Burdick told a reporter in an interview during the rally “So much of what has been going on in our democracy is at risk,” Burdick said The degree and lawlessness is beyond comprehension.” Westchester County Legislator Erika Pierce said that “Republicans know this is a sham,” referring to proposed federal cuts “We will all pay more in state and local taxes,” she said Pierce decried the Trump Administration’s proposed cuts to seniors She called Lawler “The Gaslighter-in-Chief.” The crowd then called out “Liar Lawler.” a Hudson Valley healthcare advocate with the Healthcare Education Project and representative of local 1199 of the Service Employees International Union “Why should anyone pay for tax cuts for billionaires?” Harckham reiterated in an email the depth of the cuts and what they mean for veterans “Cutting 80,000 staffers from the VA will decimate veterans’ healthcare in the US,” Harckham wrote nurses and therapists for veterans and their loved ones plus longer waits for important medical attention The dedication and sacrifice of our armed service members deserve our commitment to their care White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly said in a statement last month that Trump “refuses to accept the VA bureaucracy and bloat that has hindered veterans’ ability to receive timely and quality care,” the Associated Press reported. Examiner Media – Keeping you informed with professionally-reported local news, features, and sports coverage. more than one thousand community members and unionists rallied at the Mt standing in strong opposition to proposed cuts to Social Security as well as anti-union and anti-worker policies was part of the nationwide “Hands Off” movement which mobilized more than 350,000 people in 1,000 protests across the country to demand protections for healthcare and elected officials led the demonstration reaffirming their commitment to defending vital public programs and standing against harmful cuts and layoffs Many attendees planned to travel to Bryant Park in New York City later that day for the larger “Hands Off” march condemned recent attacks on collective bargaining and union rights: “Protecting collective bargaining rights for workers shouldn’t be a partisan issue in America when Trump signs an executive order stripping collective bargaining and union rights from over one million workers across the federal government The labor movement will stand up and fight against this vindictive effort at union busting.” warned against attempts to divide working people: “We are standing up and fighting back alongside the labor movement and allies to defend our region and state from attacks by the Trump Administration and unelected billionaires in Washington They are trying to defund our institutions and divide us by race They are attacking working peoples’ rights and proposing cuts to healthcare benefits for millions of children Manager of Advocacy and Student Programs at Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic “This is a critical moment for our country Health care and our rights are on the line we must stand together and fight for a safer and healthier future for all.” Healthcare Advocate at the Healthcare Education Project for 1199 SEIU highlighted the direct impact of Medicaid cuts: there are 245,828 Medicaid recipients—real people: seniors and pregnant individuals,” Chen emphasized. “Washington keeps assuring us that Medicaid won’t be cut but the real question is: what will our elected officials do to Medicaid?” Political Director of Sierra Club Lower Hudson Valley linked the fight to environmental justice: “Trump and his corporate polluters want to sell our air It’s time to show them our environment and our future are not for sale.” with organizers emphasizing nonviolence and civic engagement Supporters from across the region stood in solidarity sending a clear message: Hands off our essential services For more details, a full list of sponsors, and upcoming events, visit Hands Off It was an udderly unexpected call for Westchester County Police when dispatchers received a 911 report of a loose alpaca Westchester County Police Officers Mirko and Rodriguez rounded up a loose alpaca on Thursday Officers received the call around 10:09 a.m which had initially been believed to be a llama but was actually an alpaca that had slipped out of a trailer near Hotel MTK on Pat Reilly Way The adventurous alpaca took a brief trot over to Kisco Avenue even wandering near the Land Rover dealership Thanks to the swift actions of the officers the woolly wanderer was safely corralled and transported to the department’s Green Street precinct where it was soon reunited with its relieved and grateful owner No word on whether the alpaca ever made it to its original destination but officers suspect it may have been en route to a child’s birthday party Mount Kisco rolled out the red carpet on Sunday for the new ShopRite supermarket that debuted at the Diamond Properties complex at 333 N Company executives and local officials participated in a more than half-hour grand opening ceremony outside the area’s latest supermarket as its first customers went shopping it was a long journey to plan for and receive the approvals for what he characterized as a “replacement store.” The 74,000-square-foot state-of-the-art supermarket opened at 9 a.m 16 hours after the company’s Bedford Hills store “We’ve been looking forward to enjoying this store since 2017,” Savas said of the market that is known as ShopRite of Mount Kisco “As you can imagine it’s been a long and winding journey going from signing a lease to actually seeing this beautiful building here We’ve been fortunate enough to be in this market since 1978 right down the street in our Bedford Hills store and we couldn’t be more thrilled than to open this brand-new building for you in Mount Kisco for this great community.” Nearly twice the size as the old store and with roughly 200 employees about twice as many as were employed in Bedford Hills the interior sparkled and there were fully stocked shelves Among the features of the new store are an expanded produce department with fresh a meat department with skilled butchers available that can provide custom cuts to patrons and a seafood department with daily fresh deliveries There will be plenty of choices for organic ethnic and kosher foods and a variety of prepared meals and fresh-cut fruits and vegetables Store manager Mackinley Moise recognized the hard work and dedication of everyone involved with the company and the community that helped open the new store It will “offer you a shopping experienced like no other,” he said an excitement and new beginnings,” Moise said “We are thrilled to open the doors of our new brand-new store and welcome you all to experience what we’ve been working on so hard to create.” The event also included the local fire department participating in the opening festivities and women dressed and performing as ShopRite’s Can Can dancers Mount Kisco Mayor Michael Cindrich also credited property owner Jim Diamond for having the vision to transform the former Grand Union warehouse site into a thriving complex that also features Grand Prix New York Cindrich said when he first met Diamond in 2004 early in his first tenure as mayor and after the developer bought the parcel they talked about potential uses for the site the mayor said he’s amazed at what has been done with the land “He took the property and developed it in a fashion that I didn’t think was possible and ShopRite’s been very generous already to the village and I’m sure they’re going to continue to do that.” The mayor mentioned that there will continue to be traffic problems on North Bedford Road but that there are likely still to be road improvements that will have to be made but I’d rather have traffic than no traffic,” Cindrich said “At various times of the day it’s very reasonable so this is something we’re going to have to live with.” This year marks 150 years since the incorporation of Mount Kisco as a village The year-long sesquicentennial celebrations start this month with “Faith Communities,” an exhibition of photographs of historic houses of worship past and present faith communities and interfaith projects at the community’s public library Some of the images date back to the 19th century such as the 1893 photo of the Methodist-Episcopal Church at its first location at the center of the cemetery at today’s St “We have some wonderful vintage photographs on display including one of the oldest Quaker Meeting House and another of the groundbreaking for Bet Torah synagogue,” said John Rhodes a trustee of the Mount Kisco Historical Society who worked on restoring some of the images there will be a celebration of faith communities in Mount Kisco including such milestones as the 200th year of the Methodist Ministry Mark’s Episcopal Church and the 75th anniversary of Bet Torah The event will feature presentations about the history and evolution of faith communities in the village All are invited and the exhibit is free of charge The Mount Kisco Public Library is located at 100 E. Main St. in Mount Kisco. For more information, send an e-mail to MtKisco150@gmail.com. Mount Kisco will apply for a federal grant as soon as next month that officials hope will provide funding to employ various strategies to improve safety for pedestrians the village’s transportation consultant AKRF held a public forum at the library on the Mount Kisco Complete Streets Study where members of the village’s Complete Streets Committee and the public brainstormed over which improvements should have the highest priority The consultants also shared data they have collected that is part of the study that needs to be completed and included in the application for the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant AKRF’s project manager for the Mount Kisco Complete Streets Study said she and her colleagues will take the comments from community members who split up into four groups and each presented suggestions to be part of the SS4A grant application that is anticipated to be submitted sometime in February At the Village Board’s next meeting on Jan AKRF will be presenting its findings to officials we’ll be finalizing a list of improvements discuss it with our Complete Streets Committee and so we’re hoping that we’ll be having a Complete Streets Committee meeting in early February,” said Du after that we will finalize a Complete Streets plan with the Village Board of Trustees for the village to apply for the 2025 SS4A grants.” She said the idea behind the Complete Streets work is to come up with a list of small and large improvements and use money that could be awarded to the village to ensure roadways are designed to be safe for everyone A survey was also conducted in the latter part of last year with participation from just over 400 respondents Improvements could range from enhanced striping of crosswalks better lighting in areas where visibility is a problem and the narrowing of the vehicle travel lanes on South Moger Avenue from an excessively wide 20 feet which can often encourage motorists to speed There have been persistent complaints from the community about the danger of Mount Kisco’s streets for pedestrians showed that there were more than 1,500 accidents involving vehicles on the village’s streets in the five-year period between June 1 Du said the data is crucial because it showed patterns at various hotspots before That amounts to nearly one accident every day on the village’s streets the intersection outside Northern Westchester Hospital at Main Street and South Bedford Road had 70 accidents followed by Kisco Avenue and Main Street with 67 Of the accidents at the Kisco Avenue-Main Street intersection seven of those involved a vehicle hitting a pedestrian Other problem intersections have been at North Bedford Road and Preston Way (56 accidents) Main Street at North and South Moger Avenue (43 accidents) and at Main Street and Moore Avenue (37 accidents) North Bedford and Preston Way was also the scene of six vehicle-pedestrian accidents A challenge for the village is that the main thoroughfares such as Main Street and North and South Bedford Road are controlled by the state Department of Transportation (DOT) Any improvements on those streets would need authorization from those agencies Village officials are optimistic that AKRF can help the municipality catch the attention of the DOT and the county because they have experience in transportation Deputy Mayor Theresa Flora said she’s hopeful that the process will yield substantive results although there is also the pressure of having many residents with expectations of improvement She said there may be short-term actions that could be attempted elsewhere in the village Village Trustee Angie Garcia-Guerra said enforcement may also be a key factor including near Neighbors Link at Columbus Avenue “In my opinion I think the close calls should count but how do you look at that data?” Garcia-Guerra said The future is now — grocery shopping has gone high-tech at Mount Kisco’s new ShopRite The store has introduced smart Caper Carts to the supermarket floor offering an alternative to waiting in a check-out line to find out how the turkey and side dishes add up The newly opened 74,000-square-foot store has both traditional shopping carts and the high-tech Caper Carts See inside: New 74,000-square-foot ShopRite supermarket, now open in Mount Kisco tap "add item" on the cart's tablet screen to add merchandise a brand ambassador of Caper Carts at the ShopRite The cart's four sensors pick up the bar code find the item's code on its sticker and type it in using the tablet Select the merchandise on the screen to add it to your tally which have stickers with a four-digit code ‒ go to "add item" and choose either the item's name or the code "It's as easy as placing our dragon fruit in and it automatically weighs it right there." Take an item out of the cart and it's removed from the list of tallied items “One of my favorite things with this cart is it connects directly to your loyalty club account no longer do you have to use the app or the kiosk to clip your coupons; you do it straight from the cart,” Alfano said “The cart will also give you a notification so if you don’t know if there’s a digital coupon you don't have to rescan everything individually the cart will give you a one-time bar code and everything in the cart is tallied all at once at self-checkout (This story was updated to add missing information.) NY – New York State Senator Pete Harckham visited the Independent Fire Company of Mount Kisco recently to announce the purchase of a new command vehicle for the department was purchased with a $50,000 State senate grant that Harckham was able to secure for the department.  Fire departments use command vehicles to improve internal communication by providing greater mobility to the chief or an assistant chief so they can be the first to arrive at the scene of an emergency and determine the appropriate response.    “Providing our first responders with the tools they need is a top priority of mine,” said Harckham “Quick response times and efficient communication are absolutely essential in emergency situations where people’s lives can be at risk I’m happy I could provide needed support to the Independent Fire Company of Mount Kisco while also easing the burden on local taxpayers.”    The vehicle cost approximately $90,000 in total and came outfitted with a state-of-the-art Whelen emergency warning package that can alert oncoming traffic of an in-progress emergency without blinding motorists to ensure the safety of firefighters working the scene the command vehicle is equipped with essential firefighting tools so a chief can personally manage certain calls that don’t require a full-scale response from the department These supplies include a handheld thermal imaging camera an air pack and structural firefighting gear.  Zaccari of the Independent Fire Company of Mount Kisco said “We worked diligently with members from Senator Harckham’s office to complete this project and this vehicle will enable the chief to respond to the scene in a timely manner to properly assess an emergency incident and formulate a plan of action prior to the arrival of other fire personnel for your continued support of the Independent Fire Company of Mount Kisco.”  Senator Harckham has secured more than $7.9 million in past and pending senate grant funding to make critical vehicle and equipment acquisitions in support of firefighters and other emergency first responders since taking office in 2019 The awarded grant funding for the Independent Fire Company of Mount Kisco was secured within the State and Municipal Facilities Program (SAM) which is administered by the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY) News12 Westchester: Protesters in Mount Kisco worry GOP-led budget cuts will impact Medicaid “Hundreds of people came to Kirby Plaza on Saturday to voice their concerns about Medicaid Several protesters say the program is under attack They’re now asking politicians like Congressman Mike Lawler to leave it alone.” Please make sure that the form field below is filled out correctly before submitting (202) 863-1500 Terms of Service and Privacy Policy Contributions or gifts to DCCC are not tax-deductible Hundreds of demonstrators are expected to gather outside a Tesla dealership in Westchester this Saturday afternoon March 29 to protest what organizers say is the dangerous influence of unelected billionaires and express opposition to President Donald Trump’s political resurgence "Tesla Takedown" protesters demonstrate in Minneapolis as a Tesla car passes by them Tesla CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump during a White House meeting on February 11 at the Tesla dealership located at 115 Kisco Ave Organizers say the action is part of the broader #TeslaTakedown movement which aims to spotlight what they describe as Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s outsized political influence and the company’s alleged violations of labor and environmental laws “We’re not protesting EVs; we’re protesting Tesla,” one statement from the organizers reads “There are plenty of other EV options—no one has to support a brand that funds fascism.” Protesters say the rally is a nonviolent demonstration in defense of democracy "History has shown us time and again that when people come together—peacefully and courageously—they form the strongest resistance against authoritarian regimes,” the organizers added and distribute materials to raise awareness about what they describe as Tesla’s contradictory environmental messaging and its CEO’s political entanglements The planned protest comes as public sentiment against Tesla has increased in recent weeks. Musk has been facing pushback for his work with Trump as the leader of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), as Daily Voice has reported.  which was not formally approved by Congress has been tasked with gutting federal agencies to reduce spending Trump condemned the protests against Tesla earlier this month in a post on Truth Social:  Elon Musk is 'putting it on the line' in order to help our Nation and he is doing a FANTASTIC JOB!" Trump posted are trying to illegally and collusively boycott Tesla and Elon’s 'baby,' in order to attack and do harm to Elon Trump also bought a new Tesla vehicle to show support for Musk ""Why should he be punished for putting his tremendous skills to work in order to help MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN???" Trump wrote on Truth Social As Mount Kisco celebrates its 150th anniversary as a village it’s interesting to take a look at the role that communities of faith have played in the evolution of our local society our faith communities have helped each other to grow even as they sometimes differed on political issues or religious practice donated building materials and helped new groups to establish themselves Here are just a few examples of the ways these communities helped create modern Mount Kisco Early European settlers were attracted to northern Westchester by abundant waterpower for mills and the fertile soil When the first Anglican missionaries came here from New York City in 1701 they found only farmland and a “settlement in the woods.” Pre-Revolutionary War Quaker farmers met to worship in the homes of friends and later in Meeting Houses Quaker leader Stephen Wood and Presbyterian Captain J.W Merritt led the effort in 1850 to name the village Mount Kisco For thousands of years before the first European settlers this area was the home of the Lenape indigenous people who lived in harmony with the land and worshipped “Kishelamakank,” their name for the creator They gave thanks every day in their “longhouses,” and on special days at ceremonial sites One of those remaining sites is located in Chappaqua’s Buttonhook Forest where several groups are working to preserve the site from development Mark’s Episcopal Church will be celebrating its 175th anniversary on Apr The church was used as a hospital during the Revolutionary War A new church was built on the site in 1852 and used until 1911 Mark’s Church was built and dedicated in the center of town Mark’s churchyard was donated to the Methodist Society by Caleb Kirby in 1824 The history of the local United Methodist congregation which recently celebrated its 200th anniversary The current building was built in 1868 on the corner of Main Street and Smith Avenue Local Methodists have been very active in the growth of Mount Kisco and currently host two Hispanic church communities Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church has a dynamic congregation with a vibrant Hispanic population The first Catholic Mass in Mount Kisco was celebrated in 1856 in the home of John Kelly a growing congregation raised money to build a church on Main Street The present Gothic-style church was built in 1929 Francis of Assisi hosts the Ukrainian Catholic Mission for religious services in its chapel It also serves our less fortunate neighbors for two weeks every winter as part of the Emergency Shelter Partnership (ESP) as do 17 other area churches and synagogues and officially founded the Mount Kisco Hebrew Congregation on Stewart Place Bethel Baptist Church was founded in 1937 under the leadership of Rev After meeting in various “home as a Mission” locations about 1.33 acres were purchased in 1939 near the present Diplomat Towers the church had to move due to the relocation of the New York Central train tracks and a new sanctuary was erected nearby at 37 Maple Ave The corner of Kisco and Hillside avenues now is home to the St Initially it was the first home of the Presbyterian Church of Mount Kisco (PCMK) which was chartered in 1952 and is now located on Millwood Road PCMK was instrumental in founding several important institutions that serve the poor immigrants and the elderly in our community including Fellowship Hall Senior Residence in Bedford Hills Women played a major role in the formation of local faith communities “The Lutheran Church of the Resurrection was founded in Mount Kisco when a group of women who were of German and Lutheran descent got together and decided they wanted a church in the area going through many iterations to be in the facility we are in today Throughout all of the changes in the church and community the mission has always remained the same Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year Bet Torah synagogue was started by a group of women from the Mount Kisco Hebrew Congregation “We are proud to partner with other local houses of worship to support the Mt the Emergency Shelter Partnership and Neighbors Link We look forward to many more years of being in community with our wonderful neighbors in Mt These communities were often ahead of their time regarding the rights of women and minorities were among the strongest opponents of slavery Other local congregations have led efforts to protect women’s rights the rights of immigrants and our LGBT neighbors In 1968 the Interfaith Council of Mount Kisco was established to address community needs Following a study by the village and the interfaith council which reflected a need to support women entering the workforce with access to affordable the Mount Kisco Child Care Center was established in 1971 Earlier this month the Mount Kisco Historical Society organized an exhibition of photographs highlighting the history of our Faith Communities. On Sunday, Jan. 19, at the exhibit’s opening, more than 75 people from more than 15 local groups gathered at the Mount Kisco Public Library to listen to representatives of local churches and synagogues. For a link to the event video or more information, send an e-mail to MtKisco150@gmail.com. John Rhodes is a trustee of the Mount Kisco Historical Society. Democratic candidates Karen Schleimer and Tom Luzio easily won their races Tuesday for a pair of trustees’ seats on the Mount Kisco Village Board against two first-time candidates the Mount Kisco Democratic Committee’s current chairman according to Westchester County Board of Elections tabulations They defeated Braille Diaz (961 votes) and John Mueller (774) both appearing on the independent Village Inclusive Party (VIP) The results came one year after the VIP swept all three seats on the board Luzio said his years of experience as a longtime prosecutor and in the state attorney general’s office was valued by voters and was likely the reason for the wide margin of victory “I want to thank the (village) Democratic Committee not just the Democrats but Republicans and independents trusted my many years of government service which benefited not only those who were appointed who lost the Democratic primary for mayor last year “The town might not reach consensus on every issue and the experience was also a tipping point.” He also stressed that the attempt to portray the village’s Democratic Committee as divided or an organization in turmoil was a false narrative pushed by Diaz Diaz could not immediately be reached for comment on Wednesday previously served on the Mount Kisco Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals who will be sworn in along with Schleimer for their terms during the Village Board’s first meeting in December said he looks forward to working with Cindrich the entire board and village staff and members of the volunteer boards He also doesn’t anticipate stepping down as the Democratic chair Luzio said he would relinquish the committee chairmanship Luzio dispelled any possibility of friction between he and Schleimer Schleimer resigned from the Democratic Committee in September citing differences with its priorities “There’s no animosity whatsoever,” Luzio said “We congratulated each other (Tuesday night) and she decided to leave the Democratic Committee We understand we have a difference of opinion.” Mount Kisco residents and visitors to the village will have the opportunity next year to take in special exhibits What’s different about these and other community events for 2025 is that they aren’t part of recurring annual celebrations but commemorations for the village’s 150th anniversary the Mount Kisco’s Historical Society and dozens of community members met and brainstormed in the library’s Community Room to plan for the village’s sesquicentennial While events are being planned throughout the year starting in spring and lasting through most of 2025 the major kickoff will be a sesquicentennial parade during the weekend of May 31 and June 1 with the latter date recognized as the actual anniversary of when the village was established in 1875 “The purpose of this meeting is to create an open dialogue figuring out ways we can celebrate as a collective village and how each of the various organizations and committees can work both independently and together to really create memorable sesquicentennial festivities throughout the year,” said village resident and Mount Kisco Historical Society member Shantae Artis outlined some of the potential ideas that Sesquicentennial Committee members have posed thus far How elaborate some of the plans will be will likely be determined by how much money will be available Some of the activities are likely to include guest speakers which could include a sesquicentennial celebration at Fountain Park people strolling in period clothing at various times and exhibits featuring some of the more than 3,500 Historical Society photos and other artifacts related to the community’s history Organizers are also planning to sell Mount Kisco sesquicentennial merchandise The Historical Society will also put together profiles of all 32 of the village’s presidents (which Mount Kisco’s chief executive was apparently called at one time) and mayors in its history as well as an updated journal A journal done for the municipality’s centennial celebration in 1975 will be a good starting point but much has happened in the 50 years since including Mount Kisco officially breaking off from Bedford and New Castle in 1978 and becoming one of only five coterminous town/villages in New York State we have lots of research that just needs to be put in some type of order,” Vigliotti said One of the many decisions that will need to be made in the coming weeks is whether the village and the Historical Society will hire a consultant to help pull all the elements together County Legislator Erika Pierce has secured $5,000 in county funds toward the celebration and Vigliotti said the Historical Society is likely to kick in additional money There will be fundraising and acceptance of community donations Vigliotti said the organization will discuss with the Village Board ahead of its springtime budget deliberations about municipal funding There is grant money available from the Office of Tourism and the village has some unused state money Village officials will also likely decide during their budget discussions how much to contribute having a meaningful celebration is critical for Mount Kisco “The history of the village is somewhat important,” Cindrich said “I think we’ll focus (more) on the last 25 years when we had the last celebration in 2000 But building the profile of what we are and who we are I think is important.” there were four subcommittees that were filled – funding events and merchandise – as community members split up to discuss ideas of what they would like to see Artis said there will be a website developed with a calendar of events a photo gallery and a page with links to village businesses and organizations Logos are being worked on and there will also be a social media presence Cindrich asked community members whether they knew any residents whose ancestors can be traced to 1875 to the turn of the 20th century in the village He also hopes to honor the few businesses that have operated in the village for at least a century While there is a lot of planning that needs to be done in the months ahead organizers are looking forward to the celebrations “The parade will wind up being the event that ends up bringing a lot of this together and then in the fall it could be around SeptemberFest October when people are in town,” Vigliotti said The first meeting of the Mount Kisco Sesquicentennial Committee will be on Thursday 9 at noon at the Historical Society Archives located at 40 Green St Mount Kisco celebrated its second significant grand opening within a week on Saturday as the new Barnes & Noble opened its doors in the space that was formerly home to Rite Aid and Walgreen’s The much-anticipated opening of the bookstore at 59 S comes about 13 years after the village lost Border’s on Main Street when that company filed for bankruptcy It is hoped that the return of a bookstore will attract visitors to browse for gifts as well as serve as an unofficial meeting place for the community We now have a bookstore,” Mayor Michael Cindrich said moments before local officials Mount Kisco Chamber of Commerce members and Barnes & Noble representatives cut the ribbon in time to open the doors for the first time at 9 a.m it’s going to be a gathering location similar to what Border’s was It’s something we should be proud of and it’s going to be a destination location that we hope the people are going to be coming from the surrounding communities to not only enjoy Barnes & Noble but to enjoy the other stores and shops that exist in the downtown area.” The nearly 14,000-square foot storefront opens onto South Moger Avenue while a rear access point opens to the Shoppers Park parking lot McDonald said it’s important for the company that Barnes & Noble is welcomed with enthusiasm into the community’s where they open “We’re just so excited that it’s finally here,” McDonald said She said there are thousands of books along with games and a variety of other merchandise Chamber of Commerce Co-Executive Director Beth Vetare-Civitello said Barnes & Noble will be a sort of community center that will almost certainly bring people into the downtown there is more potential it could help other businesses This is just a boon for the entire community.” The grand opening came six days after the village welcomed the relocation of ShopRite from Bedford Hills to The Park Although there are other bookstores in the area Chappaqua and Pleasantville along with other Barnes & Noble locations scattered around the county McDonald said she doesn’t believe business will suffer for any of them “I think the more bookstores the better,” McDonald said “I think it’s one thing you can never have enough of in a region or a community We also have such a diverse offering for customers and it’s kind of a unique experience to be able to shop in a Barnes & Noble On hand for the ribbon-cutting and grand opening was New York Times bestselling author Kat Ashmore Ashmore hit the big time with her first book earlier this year “Big Bites,” a cookbook featuring more than 100 simple and nourishing recipes that put a new and healthy spin on old favorites Ashmore said it was great to see a new bookstore open when not long ago they were seen as relics of the past “I think opening a bookstore in 2024 makes the world feel like a better place and I think there’s nothing that encourages empathy and community like a bookstore,” Ashmore said Barnes & Noble of Mount Kisco will initially be open from 9 a.m McDonald said the company will reassess the hours Mount Kisco’s Planning Board has given approval to plans for the development of a self-storage facility at 2 Morgan Drive at the intersection with Radio Circle The approximately 2.67-acre parcel is in the RDX Zoning District The three-story building would contain approximately 93,960 square feet and provide 12 off-street parking spaces The developer is Asset Realty & Construction Group A plan to build a two-story structure at the site for housing a private car collection had been abandoned and the self-storage application was submitted The land where Asset Realty plans to build is about 500 feet away from the location of a CubeSmart Self-Storage facility the applicant made several changes in response to various comments and concerns from the village These included reducing the square footage contained in the building from just over 102,000 square feet to the approved 93,960 square feet The design of the building was changed to make it look less like a warehouse and more like a residential structure with various natural materials and different colors used on the facade buffer zones and tree removal received particular attention from the Planning Board during the review process The developer’s plan included the removal of 166 trees The village tree preservation requirements called for the developer to plant 387 replacement trees The developer proposed planting 10 trees off-site within a public right-of-way leaving either 210 more trees to be planted or a fee paid in lieu of planting the additional trees The village initially said the fee would be $1,500 for each tree not planted Wording was included in the approval resolution allowing for the final fee to be determined Sinsabaugh of the White Plains-based law firm Zarin & Steinmetz told the Planning Board “Both the building and site design are consistent with community character and will not adversely impact the surrounding area.” He pointed out that the land use in the immediate area is either industrial or in the case of a United States Postal Service facility The Postal Service is at 3 Morgan Drive and Frito-Lay Sales LLP is at 1 Morgan Drive The plan calls for access to the self-storage facility to be off Morgan Drive and an access road along the west side of the building and connecting to the village’s utility road known as Pump House Road This page is available to subscribers. Click here to sign in or get access. and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" CNN (CNN) — Former Vice President Mike Pence said Sunday while receiving the John F CNN (CNN) — Former Vice President Mike Pence said Sunday while receiving the John.. Trending Westchester A new 74,000-square-foot ShopRite supermarket has opened at 333 N ShopRite has closed its store in the Bedford Green Shopping Center in nearby Bedford Hills Bedford Road site previously had been where the Grand Union supermarket chain had a warehouse distribution center The new ShopRite supermarket occupies a portion of an approximately 575,000-square-foot building When the Mount Kisco Planning Board was reviewing plans for the new supermarket Architect Michael Gallin of Gallin Beeler Design Studio in Pleasantville told the board that after Grand Union left “The building had been abandoned and was literally falling apart The property subsequently has been updated and made much more public and part of this application is to make it even more integrated into the community in Mount Kisco with the food store and improving the intersections.” The store’s opening ceremonies included speeches by store officials and local leaders as well as dancers performing outside of the store’s main entrance variety and value ShopRite is known for,” said Steve Savas smart shopping carts powered by Instacart technology that allow customers to scan items as they shop It also offers services that enable customers to place their orders with options for curbside pickup or home delivery ShopRite says that the new store features ‘Fresh to Table,’ a one-stop meal destination where customers can find fresh foods and complete meals pre-cut fruits and vegetables along with desserts and cakes The store is outfitted with energy-efficient refrigeration and lighting systems glass doors on all dairy and freezer cases and LED lighting both inside and in the parking lot The supermarket expects to employ approximately 200 people ShopRite is the registered trademark of Wakefern Food Corp. a retailer-owned cooperative based in Keasbey that has approximately 280 ShopRite supermarkets in New York The Westchester community is mourning the tragic loss of Julianna “JJ” Sannino and aspiring teacher whose vibrant spirit touched all who knew her Sannino died on Thursday, April 3, in Fairfield, Connecticut, at the age of 20, according to her obituary. Her cause of death was not made public and countless others whose lives she impacted are remembering her as creative Known as “JJ,” Sannino was born in Manhattan on August 12 She was a master’s student in elementary education at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield where she excelled academically and earned a place on the dean’s list Her lifelong dream of teaching was already being realized through mentoring and coaching young swimmers on the Seven Bridges swim team A nationally recognized dancer and choreographer by the age of 16 Sannino brought artistry and heart to every performance She was a proud member of the Sacred Heart University Dance Company and earned a prestigious spot in the Company Choreography Fellowship Program where she merged her passion for movement with education Her adventurous spirit was as notable as her kindness and talent or diving into wrestling camp and little league baseball also adding that she also found joy in life’s quieter moments such as writing poetry and sitting by the river with her well-loved pets "JJ embraced life with fearless enthusiasm," her obituary reads JJ had a unique ability to connect with others She formed lasting friendships wherever she went and was deeply devoted to those she loved."  friends of Sannino's family have set up a GoFundMe page to help them during their grieving process but we are certain her radiant light will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her," organizer Jeffrey Ladd wrote on the page "Funds raised here will help support Desiree Nick and Sammy so they can focus on healing during this incredibly difficult time."  As of Monday, April 14, the page had collected over $8,000 in donations out of a $25,000 goal. Those interested in donating can do so by clicking here.  Click here to read Sannino's full obituary.  but the village’s Planning Board expressed skepticism last week that the applicant will be able to comply with all conditions by that date Representatives for the supermarket chain and Diamond Properties requested last week that a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy be issued in time to comply with ShopRite’s schedule They also provided the Planning Board with an update on the outstanding items that need to be completed at the site board Co-chair Crystal Pickard pointed to the language of the site plan approval that stipulated that no conditional temporary or permanent Certificate of Occupancy may be granted for the supermarket to open and operate “until there is full compliance with the plans and conditions approved herein.” The key provisions are the realignment of the complex’s northern entrance with the access point to Foxwood condominiums across the street installation of the new traffic signal at the complex’s northern entrance completion of a fieldhouse at the property and the demolition of an existing structure to allow for the realignment Pickard told Diamond Properties Vice President of Operations Jay Black that ShopRite’s timeline appears to be “very optimistic.” “I have to say it’s really disappointing that driving by this week there was still a building there where it needs to be an entrance there,” Pickard said “ShopRite can’t open until that driveway is completely finished and the traffic light is functional.” who estimated that about 98 percent of the work on the store is finished said ShopRite’s contractor is working with the state Department of Transportation the project engineer and other parties to make sure the realignment of the 333 N complex’s northern entrance is done as soon as possible “We understand that that’s probably one of the biggest technical challenges for the project that we’ve been working through,” Black said He also said that there would be substantial completion of the fieldhouse which will serve the complex’s athletic fields because it is not a complicated piece of the project Black expects the shell of the structure to be finished by the end of October the vice president of ShopRite’s parent company said the timing for a late October opening is important for the supermarket While the company has been lining up employees for the store for three to four months it will take about a month to get the store set up with products on the shelves “We need about four solid weeks to bring us and the vending community in there to get the store set,” Schoendorf said While everyone would like to see the supermarket operating as soon as possible Planning Board member Michael Bonforte stressed how crucial it is for the road realignment and traffic signal to be operational for the sake of the village motorists who drive on North Bedford Road and the residents at Foxwood condominiums “There’s a lot going on and you’re asking for a helluva lot to do a TCO,” Bonforte said There’s nobody here who doesn’t want to do that but there’s so many other pieces that have to fall in place said if the board entertained one of the three types of certificates of occupancy without full compliance of the conditions it would need to amend the approved site plan Black appealed to the board that by having three different forms of Certificate of Occupancy available which cover different stages of completion ShopRite would not be able to stock the store Pickard echoed the board’s sentiment when it included the condition that no Certificate of Occupancy be issued until all work at the site is complete “You’re making good progress and hopefully you’re there when you need to be,” Pickard said ShopRite has been eyeing a late 2024 opening since its approval in the summer of 2023 because the lease on its nearby Bedford Hills store expires on Dec and the company wants to transition to the new location before that date Correction: The original posting of this article misidentified the condominium complex across from Diamond Properties’ northern entrance at its complex at 333 N The Village of Mount Kisco will be holding a celebration this Saturday afternoon in downtown that seems long overdue The community will be holding its inaugural Hispanic Heritage Festival on the grounds around Village Hall from 12 to 7 p.m that will feature food from local Latin restaurateurs who is serving her first year on the board said many other communities in the area with a significant Hispanic population have held festivals that pay tribute to their residents’ culture and she felt it was time Mount Kisco did the same An estimated 40 to 50 percent of the village’s population is Hispanic “I think we have such a great little town here where we have a variety of people and we have big and small businesses and it would be great to have it all come together and have this celebration together,” Garcia-Guerra said She reached out to her board colleagues and Village Manager Ed Brancati to see if it was feasible it was suggested that village property be used It is anticipated that the only expense for the town would be having DPW personnel help out but Garcia-Guerra said there is a significant contingent of volunteers for the day that will try to make the experience as smooth as possible for the village There will be five Latin food establishments from the community that will be the food vendors: Monarca Restaurant & Bar V&R American Latino Deli and Maya Restaurante The goal was to have a variety of offerings for the public to try For some of the establishments that were unable to participate they will supply gift certificates that will be provided as part of prizes for games and other giveaways Other businesses have made donations for the event Pick up Bubble Tea and the Mount Kisco Arts Council the day will recognize all people whose heritage can be traced to any Spanish-speaking country you don’t have to be Hispanic or even speak Spanish to enjoy the day “Everybody’s very excited about it and hoping it’s going to be a fun day,” Garcia-Guerra said Other activities during the festival will see the Mount Kisco Public Library  providing resources about Latin American countries and to help anyone who wants to sign up for a library card and the Boys & Girls Club of Northern Westchester will also be participating and Hotel MTK is offering discounts for anyone booking their events and providing a great giveaway There will be cultural crafts for children presented by village resident and business owner Jessica Colon along with games and entertainment for the whole family The local DJ Hefe will be playing the music for the events Garcia-Guerra said she hopes that this is a start of a long tradition for the village with its businesses and residents wanting to hold the festival on an annual basis “You have to be able to accommodate and follow through I have been doing the brunt of the work with help from people from the village Mount Kisco Village Hall is located at 104 E Editor’s Note: Mount Kisco’s Hispanic Heritage Festival was the first time the village organized such an event the Mount Kisco-based organization Legado Latino has also held Hispanic heritage festivals in the village 2025 at 2:58 pm ET.css-79elbk{position:relative;}Dancer and college student Julianna "JJ" Sannino died April 3 at age 20 NY — The community and beyond is mourning the death of Julianna "JJ" Sannino She had been pursuing her master's degree in elementary education at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield “A gifted dancer and choreographer, JJ earned national recognition by the age of sixteen,” her obituary at Cassidy-Flynn Funeral Directors says “Her creativity and dedication led her to the Sacred Heart University Dance Company's Choreography Fellowship Program where she combined her love of dance with her passion for teaching.” JJ would return home with vibrant stories of her day whether she was helping at her local churches or giving back to her community through mentoring and tutoring," the obituary says The university’s dance program posted on its Instagram page that it is “heartbroken” by the loss of Sannino and determination to dance with all of her soul will forever live in our hearts,” the post said The community has rallied to assist the family as a GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched Money raised through the GoFundMe campaign will help support Sannino’s family and holding tightly to each other as we navigate the pain of this unimaginable loss,” the fundraiser says but we are certain her radiant light will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.” the fundraiser had raised $16,933 via 128 donations Visit the GoFundMe page here View the full obituary here. An estimated 300 people participated in a demonstration on the public sidewalk in front of a Tesla dealership in Mount Kisco on Feb part of a growing number of demonstrations staged at Tesla dealerships across the U.S Musk and his team of computer people have gained entry to systems at the Treasury Department Internal Revenue Service and other government departments they have been at the forefront of firing federal workers and shutting down federal government operations Musk has been the CEO of Tesla since 2008 and many people think of him as being synonymous with Tesla Motors which was founded in 2003 by Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning An estimated one-third of Musk’s fortune consists of Tesla stock Because of the association of Musk and Tesla protestors against the dismantling of the federal government currently underway by Musk and President Donald Trump have used Tesla dealerships as a background for some of their demonstrations Rolling Stone reported that Tesla dealerships in about 100 U.S cities have been the locations for demonstrations Many of the demonstrations have been organized using the internet as a communications tool Indivisible Putnam Progressives was among the groups to announce online the sidewalk demonstration at the Tesla showroom at 115 Kisco Ave. who is a former member of the Mount Pleasant Town Board and is current vice chair of the Mount Pleasant Democratic Committee attended the demonstration in Mount Kisco and told the Business Journal He’s not even a paid consultant.” She said that the signs carried by demonstrators were homemade and that the demonstrators received a lot of support and encouragement from motorists who were driving by “There would be an occasional Trumper who yelled something at us but everybody else was beeping their horns and giving a thumbs up,” Hagadus said “There was a Trump car that went by that had Trump slogans painted on the side We were not protesting a private dealership What we were protesting is in the hope that people will recognize the symbolism of Tesla and Elon Musk.” Hagadus said that although some people feel angry and powerless right now there still are things they can do including calling their elected representatives’ offices and leaving messages with staffers Hagadus noted that some people in the crowd at the Tesla dealership said this was the third demonstration they had been at during the week including one at the federal courthouse in White Plains and another outside of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s office in Peekskill