The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Christine Pasqueralle

At the Heart of the Pleasantville Children’s Center as it Turns 50: Guided Play, Meaningful Activities in a Nurturing, Caring Environment

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Tucked away in an antique carriage house on an idyllic stretch of Bedford Road sits the Pleasantville Children’s Center (PCC) which is celebrating 50 years of providing early childhood education to the community. I recently spoke to PCC’s Director Colleen Sharif about the school, the community, and what the future has in store for PCC!

PCC was founded in October 1972 by a group of mothers who worked together at Reader’s Digest. They were looking for a special place for their children to learn and grow and succeeded in founding PCC. Since then, although educational methods have evolved, the philosophy stays the same – early childhood growth through a developmentally appropriate curriculum emphasizing self-expression, discovery, and problem solving with the goal of fostering a life-long enjoyment of learning.

PCC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization run by a Board of Directors comprised of parents. The Board is incredibly valuable to the school as it sets the vision for the school year by going over budgets, projects, events and more. As Sharif says, “During the pandemic, parents at all levels of education became more involved in school decisions- attending school board meetings and staying on top of policy changes, health and safety updates, etc. I think a lot more parents realized the benefits of being involved in and educated about important school matters and decisions. This is something that PCC has valued for 50 years! Parent involvement and teamwork with educators creates a well-rounded education for young children. We hope parents leave PCC with a drive to keep that involvement going as children enter the primary grades.”

What drives PCC is its focus on the children and its surrounding community. “We’re here to elevate childhood – we create a first educational experience for kids 2-5 where they can come and be loved, respected and cared for. They learn to love education and look forward to school by making learning a source of enjoyment and fulfillment.” PCC’s philosophy is centered on guided play and the view that teachers are guides for the kids. Teachers here are highly trained and educated in guided play and set up inviting and meaningful learning activities, open-ended play and lots of outside time – being in nature and going on walks. Instead of two, there are now three teachers in each classroom, allowing for more personal knowledge of and deeper relationships with each child. Teachers become a child’s “key person” which is helpful in fostering deeper relationships as well as honing in on any behavioral needs and more.

Now more than ever is the time for PCC to be in celebration mode as the school has been busy celebrating its 50th anniversary, while looking towards its bright future. “Our anniversary was during Covid and we weren’t quite ready to do something in Fall 2022. We thought, let’s do something to celebrate the culmination of 50 school years completed,” says Sharif. As the school is a member of the Pleasantville Chamber of Commerce, they held a ribbon-cutting ceremony which was featured on PCTV.

Toward a First Little Free Library

But still, Sharif thought, they wanted to do more – something to give back to the community. “A Board member thought about having a Little Free Library (LittleFreeLibrary.org) and Pleasantville didn’t yet have any. We rent our school property from the Pleasantville Presbyterian Church so we asked them if we could install the library on their property as a thank you for being here for 50 years, and they thought it was great idea.” This is the first Little Free Library in Pleasantville and is a way to give back to the community-at-large. The school ordered an unfinished library and a parent volunteer painted it and added woodwork to make it look like the PCC building – a truly special act.

The school also celebrated the big 5-0 with an event at The Thorn of Thornwood. Many community members including the mayor, church officials, past parents and more were there to help celebrate. Laurie Smalley, Town of Mount Pleasant Councilwoman, presented PCC with a certificate at the event. In addition, the school has created the “PCC for Good” fund which aims to better the greater Pleasantville community through acts such as subsidized attendance to low-income families, providing emergency support to families suffering unexpected loss and more.

The fund was established in memory of founding member Barbara Waugh and PCC raised $2,000 for the fund at the anniversary event. “We always try to take advantage of community events and bolster our presence in the community,” says Sharif. “Word of mouth helps us and having our logo out there (on the Little Free Library) helps people know about us and our mission.”

In its vital role, the PCC Board of Directors helps plan community-based activities for kids and parents to be involved outside of school. It provides PCC with a sense of community and teamwork, and parents really feel they’re involved in the day-to-day of the school. PCC is the only preschool in Pleasantville that is a non-profit and run by a Board of parents.

Many parents feel very passionately about PCC and its role in their children’s lives. “The connection my son has formed with every educator he has been in contact with at PCC is nothing short of amazing. There is nothing I would change about the educators or the curriculum. It is an excellent program which is truly developmentally appropriate,” says Gianna Marzella. “The staff here becomes a part of your family and community. They show up every day with genuine love for what they do and for your child.”

“What School Should Be”

Current Board Co-President Gianine Beall shares the same sentiments. “PCC is such a special place and such a great way to introduce children to what school should be. It offers a caring, nurturing and safe environment while also encouraging children to find learning to be a source of fun and fulfillment.”

Full board and staff of PCC at a year-end dinner at Tesoro D’Italia in Pleasantville

“As soon as we met PCC’s director, Colleen Sharif, we thought she was just wonderful – and that gave us so much confidence that PCC was the right place for our kids. It was clear from the start there was a passion for education, and the teachers are incredible,” says Board member Ben Brierley. “Overall, we felt PCC’s philosophy and values mirrored our own, and it gives a foundation to help our kids to grow up to be kind people, who help others and value their family, friends and community.”

PCC teachers (L-R): Sonia Varshney, Colleen Sharif, Angela Riina, Rebekah Lavigne, Stacie Allen
L-R: Jennifer Liddle, Nicole Fusco, Colleen Sharif, Erika Mongello, and Katie Alvarez
PCC teachers (L-R): Shweta Singhal, Rebekah Lavigne, Allison Clancy, Colleen Sharif,
Sonia Varshney, Angela Riina, Stacie Alln

As for the future, Sharif knows it’s a bright one. “We’re thriving and continue to offer a great preschool experience – highlighting our strengths and incorporating academics into play.” Teachers are integral to its overall program and PCC’s goal is to recruit and retain staff.

“We give teachers support, training, professional development and every year creates a better atmosphere and sense of community with the staff and parents.” Since PCC does not follow a specific state curriculum, it can pivot lessons very quickly. “Altering the curriculum to meet the interests of the child so they’re immersed in learning – that’s the best way to teach.”

“We’re continuing to offer a great pre-school experience – highlighting our strengths of incorporating academics into play. There’s a way to do both and it takes educated and experienced teachers to make learning fun and a source of enjoyment. We want to teach kids the skills they need without taking away their love and excitement to learn.”

Pre-K comes to PUFS

In mid-July the Pleasantville Union Free School District announced that they anticipate starting a Pre-K program beginning in January 2024 at no cost to district residents. New York State has provided funding to the District for 76 students for the 23-24 school year. If more than 76 students wish to enroll, the District is required to use a lottery system. Please visit pleasantvilleschools.org

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PCC AND CHAD DAVID KRAUS PHOTOGRAPHY

An Original Funny Lady!

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The Jean Carroll Story as Told by her Granddaughter Susan Chatzky

Susan Chatzky  Photos by Carolyn Simpson

When you think of some of the most famous women in comedy, what names come to mind? Joan Rivers, Lily Tomlin, Ali Wong, Amy Schumer, Margaret Cho…the list goes on and on. But what if I told you there’s one woman who helped pave the way for them, and chances are you may not have heard her name before? Jean Carroll was one of the first female comedians who was able to “break through” the male-dominated world of comedy. Her life and story is a fascinating one–and even helped inspire the hit show The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

I had the chance to speak about Carroll and her lasting legacy with her granddaughter and Briarcliff Manor resident, Susan Chatzky.

Jean Carroll was born Celine (Sadie) Zeigman in Paris in 1911. Her family soon emigrated to the US, settling in the Bronx. Unfortunately, her home life was far from perfect. Her father suffered from alcoholism and abused her mother. Carroll resolved that she would be the one to save her mother and never be indebted to a man. At the age of 12, she began singing and dancing on the Vaudeville circuit as a way to earn money and support her family. Because she essentially became the “breadwinner” of the family, Carroll was able to force her father to move out of the house, making sure her mother and siblings no longer had to put up with any of his abuse.

Chatzky has fond memories of Carroll, who passed away in 2010 at the age of 98. “When you spoke with her, she would tell you that the minute she was told she couldn’t do something she would say ‘well that’s ridiculous’ and wasn’t going to stand for it. She just found certain things unacceptable and behaved as if everyone else did as well until she got her way.” Her foray into Vaudeville was all to support and protect her family. “She realized they would have to eat and pay rent, so she made sure the bills were paid.”

On the Variety circuit Carroll was a part of various “Man/Woman” acts in which the duo would exchange comedic banter between song and dance numbers. Eventually Carroll met Buddy Howe and the two formed an act before getting married. When Howe was drafted in World War II, Carroll continued performing on her own. Even when Howe came back, he encouraged her to have her own act and became her manager. Howe would go on to form his own talent agency, running what would eventually become ICM. As Chatzky remarks, “It was good for him that she was doing well­–she was one of his first clients. Her talent created the opportunity for him.”

Carroll’s comedy style and delivery was certainly revolutionary for the time. Most female comics would create dowdy characters, making themselves the joke. Chatzky says, “That’s how women were allowed to take up space in a male-dominated world–and Carroll was not having that.” She was the first “beautiful” comedian in the sense that she went for full glam–makeup, ballgowns, shoes and more, rather than feel the need to hide behind a caricature.

Carroll’s style of comedy and her appearance helped inspire the creators of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel! One of the writers was a fan of Carroll’s and was inspired by the way she spoke and the outfits she wore. Chatzky says, “The show created an aesthetic based on those women (Carroll, Rivers, Tomlin)–they are beautiful and that is who they are. They’re not making themselves the joke.”

After many years of performing in nightclubs and theaters around the country, Carroll made her debut on The Ed Sullivan Show (then known as Toast of the Town) in 1948. She would go on to appear on the show more than 20 times. This led to her own TV series that ran for one season in 1953–The Jean Carroll Show also known as Take it from Me.

Chatzky sees Carroll as a trailblazer, but not just in the field of comedy and entertainment. “I think it’s wonderful she opened things up in entertainment for women. The fact she was a woman who early on was pro-Israel, pro-choice, a Democrat–she fought for women to be equal and independent before it was the norm to fight for these things. She had a platform and a voice because of who she was and wasn’t afraid to use it.”

FAMILY PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUSAN CHATZKY

Carroll also made it a point to take care of her extended family. She wanted to make sure her grandchildren, nieces and nephews all had opportunities that she didn’t have such as finishing high school and attending college. She built a home in the Catskills and made sure it was big enough for everyone to visit and have a place to stay. Carroll made sure everyone was well-provided. She also never stopped learning–even taking college courses in Spanish and computer science when she was in her 80’s, just for fun. As Chatzky states, “She said, ‘I need to learn how to use a computer and Spanish is the language of our future.’”

As for Chatzky, she makes her home in Briarcliff Manor and is married to Deputy Mayor Peter Chatzky. She is currently on the Executive Board for the Center for Safety and Change in Rockland County, helping women and children faced with domestic abuse move into new homes She is also a rape crisis counselor and helps foster kittens for the SPCA. Some of Chatzky’s favorite things about Briarcliff Manor is its great location and proximity to the river, its trains, parks and library.

“We have so much to offer here,” she says. Reflecting on Carroll’s legacy, she tells a story of Henny Youngman famously stealing a joke from Carroll. “She went nuts–she talked to the press about it and wouldn’t stand for it. At the time, you don’t see your mother or grandmother as cool when they’re doing something like that, but I’m so glad she didn’t let it go.”

Carroll paved the way for many and stood her ground at a time when that wasn’t always the norm–and we can all be a little bit thankful for that.

In Praise of Our Local Libraries & How they Continue to Serve Grateful, Returning Patrons

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PHOTO BY MIA BROWN

Libraries can often be seen as the heart of a community. A place to gain knowledge, gather and socialize with others right where we live. Over the years, library patrons needs have certainly changed and the community library has changed with them to help provide the best services possible.

Here in the Mount Pleasant area, we are fortunate enough to have two amazing public libraries–the Mount Pleasant Public Library in Pleasantville and its Branch location in Valhalla, and the Briarcliff Manor Public Library. Whether you’re a library regular, new to the area or haven’t been to a library in a long while, I encourage you to get to know these local gems and pay them a visit soon. You won’t be disappointed.

The history of both libraries is rich and varied. Mount Pleasant began serving its community in 1895 as the Pleasantville Library Association. In 1919 it was reincorporated as the Pleasantville Public Library and at one point, contracted with the Town of Mount Pleasant to create a branch library in town. In 1965, the Town and Village agreed to establish the Mount Pleasant Public Library to serve both the Mount Pleasant and Pleasantville communities. Interestingly enough, the charter Mount Pleasant received from the State of New York was signed by none other than Melvil Dewey, the inventor of the Dewey Decimal System.

The Briarcliff Manor Public Library’s first incarnation began in 1914 by the Briarcliff Manor Community Club. In 1924, the Village of Briarcliff Manor began providing financial services for the library. Over the years, the library moved through many locations and in 1958, the Briarcliff Free Library became one of the founding members of the newly created Westchester Library System. The next year, it moved to the former station of the Putnam Division of the New York Central Rail Road. And finally in 2009, the library found its current home–a new, two-story addition to its former home in the former train station.

I had the opportunity to speak with the directors of both the Mount Pleasant and Briarcliff Manor libraries to learn about new projects, programs to come and how both libraries keep up with the evolving needs of its patrons.

Donna Pesce, Director of the Briarcliff Manor Public Library
PHOTO BY MIA BROWN

In Mount Pleasant: Adapting to Change

John Fearon has been the Director of the Mount Pleasant Public Library for 20 years. In that time, he has seen a lot of evolution. When the current main branch of the library was built in the 1960’s, it was a state-of-the-art library. Its open-plan concept makes it feel bigger than it is. But at the same time, library usage was different 60 years ago. Noise wasn’t an issue since people used the library as a quiet space. Now, patrons are also using it as a gathering place so noise can be a challenge. Fearon says there’s been a general shift in how people use libraries. “When I was growing up, the library was quiet like a church. Now more and more see it as a place to get together and connect with each other. Before the pandemic, there was an informal feeling–people would come in to chat and browse. The noise is part and parcel of that.”

This is part of what will be addressed in the library’s Master Plan that is being created in conjunction with the Town and Village. The goal is to have more meeting rooms and spaces. “People’s needs have changed and more organizations need places to meet. If we had more rooms, we could accommodate more local organizations as well as people working from home who need private rooms to arrange meetings,” says Fearon. “We always want to have a bigger picture, a vision of where we want to go. We hope to work with the town and village in making that happen.” Plans also include the creation of a safe outdoor space for kids.

John Fearon, Director of the Mount Pleasant Public Library
PHOTO BY MIA BROWN

Books ‘Holding their Own’

Since the pandemic, people are still feeling their way back to normality. Fearon said that he definitely sees life coming back to the library. People are browsing more and not feeling they have to “get in and get out” as much. There is a greater demand for and enjoyment of children’s storytime now, as there is a popular draw!

“Miss Debbie is an institution in Pleasantville,” says Fearon. She has storytimes scheduled throughout the week at both the main and branch library locations.

People are coming back to the library. “It’s slow and steady but it’s happening more and more,” he said.

The library is also seeing a surge in different types of lending as well as program use. “I’ve seen video cassettes go, audio books go, CDs and DVDs come and go. ‘The book’ is hanging in there. But we saw a huge surge in e-Books, our lending more than doubled during the pandemic. eBooks have become about 1/3 of our lending but books are still holding their own.”

The library’s museum pass program has also found a new life, “Suddenly people discovered them and usage blew up. The pass program is funded by The Friends of the Mount Pleasant Public Library and our most popular passes are for MoMA, the Intrepid and the Guggenheim.”

This spring will see many of the library’s recurring adult programs taking place such as the PLY Knitting Circle, jewelry-making classes, craft socials, game nights and more. On March 30, Open Mic at the Library will host talented patrons sharing poetry, songs, artwork and more. Patrons can get ready for their spring gardens with the library’s program Proper Pruning on April 20. There are also many upcoming children’s events including STEM classes, chess workshops, a theater and improve program and jewelry-making classes.

As for its evolution, Fearon sees that as a constant. “We have a really good staff at the moment, some younger librarians and that’s exciting. Adapting the facility to support new demand is a challenge but we will do our best.”

In Briarcliff Manor: A Cherished Routine

PHOTOS BY MIA BROWN

Donna Pesce has served as Director of the Briarcliff Manor Public Library since 2018. In her time at the library, she has also seen many changes for how patrons use services. “I read recently that libraries are not buildings, they are communities and that rings true here,” says Pesce.

A weekly visit to the library is part of the routine for so many of Briarcliff’s patrons, whether it is to take out print books or DVD’s, attend family activities or join book groups (geared towards a variety of ages).  “While our website and eBook collection are well-used, stopping in to browse, chat with the staff or connect with other patrons at a regular program are essential.

We know most patrons by name and know their reading and other service preferences. Staff often have a patron’s book ‘holds’ in hand before the patron gets through the door.” The library certainly presents itself as a warm and welcoming environment to all who step through.

Library usage runs the gamut. Briarcliff sees an average of 70 visitors per day with 1/3 using its enclosed children’s room where kids are free to select items from a variety of collections as well as seasonal displays. Some patrons prefer to head up to the second floor for its peaceful feel. It attracts those looking for a quiet space to work, read or just look out of the expansive windows onto a relaxing view of Law Memorial Park. Pesce points out that while children’s programs and adult book groups have always been a staple at Briarcliff, the library is adding more community-based programming such as poetry cafes, small performances, and local author visits.

“Having close relationships with our patrons means we get feedback and suggestions that we try our best to incorporate into services”, says Pesce. Library staff stays up-to-date with patron needs by participating in training sessions, attending user meeting and of course, by reading a lot. “Needless to say, we have many ideas.”

The Long-Term Strategy

The library has a state-required strategic plan which it is currently working on called‘The Branching Out Project.’ Residents and patrons will be invited to share their ideas through surveys, activities and committees and the final plan should be completed by May 2023.

The library has a full event schedule for spring including its Cookbook Club (March 21) in which attendees bring a dish to share and a copy of the recipe. Run by Library volunteers Andrea Vladimir and Cindy Healey, the club is always a popular meetup. On March 25 there will be a performance, Trial for Treason, enacting the fateful meeting between Major John Andre and Benedict Arnold. April brings another performance of the Poetry Cafe, featuring readings by area poets, followed by an open mic. Children’s programs will include a graphic novel and a “Who Was” book group. Adult book groups such as the Brown Bag Tuesday lunchtime group continue to flourish.

As for its future, Pesce sees a lot of positive changes for the library as she notes that both patron needs and the library environment have changed over the last few years. “I would like for policies, legislation and funding to support sustaining library services for the future. I see our services becoming even more streamlined and tailored to the specific needs of the local community, while still leveraging the resources of the Westchester Library System.

“We can offer in-house programs in-person and partner on regional programs via Zoom, offer copies of popular books in multiple formats and take advantage of inter-library loans and also look for increased partnerships with local organizations and donors for our programs and special collections.”

Perhaps the most important aspect of the library is one that hopefully never changes. “What I hope will stay the same is the wonderful relationships that we have with both our long-time and new patrons.”

Visit your local libraries. There is something for everyone and everyone is always welcome.

Meet Scarborough’s Thomas Comiskey, Author: The East Village Mafia

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Lucky Luciano, Joseph Bonanno, Carlo Gambino and of course, John Gotti. These are some of the most well-known and notorious names in organized crime. And they all have one thing in common–they lived in or conducted much of their “business” in New York City’s East Village.

I lived in the East Village during my college years and knew some stories about the famed New York families of the Mafia–but clearly not everything. Now author and Scarborough resident Thomas F. Comiskey has written a book, The East Village Mafia, taking readers on a journey through time and place with an in-depth look into the lives and activities of some of the most powerful and infamous players in 20th century organized crime.

Comiskey comes from a long line of New Yorkers with his mom and grandmother having grown up in the tenements of San Juan Hill, near where Lincoln Center now sits. His dad hailed from Saratoga Springs and after World War II, married and settled in Stuyvesant Town (14th Street and Avenue A). Comiskey grew up in the East Village and lived there until 1991. Living on the northern border of the East Village gave him an insider’s view into the goings on of this secretive enclave.

“The father of one of my 1960s grammar school classmates was an ‘associate’ of a ‘made man’ in the Genovese crime family who lived on Avenue A and 12th Street. Stories about my classmate’s father’s violent exploits fascinated me,” says Comiskey. So much so that the chapter of his book entitled The Vatican Connection, is about the Genovese crime family, although Comiskey chose not to name names of his classmate’s father.

Comiskey, an attorney, spent his entire 33-year law enforcement career with the New York City Department of Investigation, exposing criminal conduct in NYC’s anti-poverty programs and public school system. First and foremost, the inspiration for his book came from his childhood and subsequent train commute. “Much of my leisure reading on my daily train commute from Scarborough to the city were the books about the Mafia. I discovered more and more about the Mafia in the East Village and its important role in the growth and direction of organized crime. After I retired, I began to research criminal records, law enforcement reports, periodicals, census records, reverse phone directories, and other sources.” He used his investigative attorney skills to help research and write his book, revealing many stories about the mostly unknown, secretive world of NY’s underground crime scene.

“The existence of this 70-year Mafia stronghold of racketeering, treachery and intrigue in the East Village was virtually unknown. Mafia royalty Lucky Luciano, Joe “the Boss” Masseria, and Joseph Bonanno lived in or frequented the East Village. They, and their East Village underbosses and capos, had a massive influence on the direction and destiny of organized crime in New York City.” The East Village Mafia brings its readers inside the social clubs, bars, restaurants and coffee houses where this underground “business” was mostly conducted–if by business we mean murders, international drug trafficking, counterfeiting, gambling and extortion.

As for Scarborough, Briarcliff Manor and the surrounding areas, Comiskey loves everything the area has to offer. He and his wife moved to Kemeys Cove in 1991 during the height of crime in the city. “I loved the city and still do, but now it has become a ‘place to visit’.” He loves to surround himself in nature and takes advantage of the natural beauty of the area. “I’m a hiker, bird watcher, history and jazz lover, so Scarborough and its surroundings has so much to offer. I love to hike the Rockefeller Park Preserve, the Croton Aqueduct, and Teatown Lake Reservation. I can see everything from hummingbirds to bald eagles sitting on my deck looking out on the Mighty Hudson.”

Comiskey is also very involved in local organizations that help preserve the history of the area such as Historic Hudson Valley, Ossining Historical Society and the Briarcliff Manor-Scarborough Historical Society. And for a night out? “When I lived in the city, I loved independent films. The Jacob Burns Film Center has no peer.”

The East Village Mafia is published by Archway Publishing and can be purchased at major booksellers.

Strong & Proud: The Incredible Briarcliff Manor Running Club

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Members of the Briarcliff Manor Running Club        Photo by Donna Mueller

Briarcliff Manor boasts a multitude of trails ideal for biking, hiking and running as well as a large population of residents who enjoy utilizing those trails. But sometimes people need a little motivation to get out there and run. That’s where the Briarcliff Manor Running Club (BMRC) comes in. Established in 2020, the club has become an incredible way for people to meet others, explore new trails and connect over a shared passion.

I recently spoke with Brian Harkins and Craig Motz, two of its coaches, about the club and some of its plans for the near future.

The BMRC was established in October 2020 when Harkins spoke with the Recreation Department about creating a running club for the community. “There’s so many trails, paths and resources, we thought it would be fun to open up a group to explore and take advantage of what’s right in our own backyard.” Along with Motz, two additional coaches, Maria Kucheryavaya and Davey Gibian jumped on board and the BMRC was born. “Craig had just moved to the area, as did Maria and Davey during the pandemic, and they were looking to connect with like-minded people with a passion for running and outdoor activities. We got together and started throwing ideas around of what the group would look like, and its grown from there.”

Grassroots Beginnings

What began with the initial sending of one community-wide email and having 10 runners show up the first day, has now turned into a list of 75 runners. It was an organic, grassroots process to building these relationships, including by word-of-mouth. Motz shares, “We send an email each week with a new running location. We want to keep it fresh. Doing the same loop over and over can be kind of mind-numbing and we want to keep doing new routes.”

The group has meet-ups twice per week–8:00 a.m. on Saturdays and 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. They meet at various locations and average 3-6 mile runs. “We do everything from beginner to intermediate with options to shorten or lengthen your run as needed”, says Motz.

Both Harkins and Motz have some favorite trails in the area. “We take full advantage of the Rockefeller Preserve”, says Motz. “13 Bridges, Swan Lake, Buttermilk Hill–it’s beautiful.” The group also runs the North County Trail up to Millwood, Rockwood Hall, Old Croton Aqueduct and even the hilly roads throughout the village. All of the coaches live in the Briarcliff area and have found it to be a great place to set down roots. “The schools, parks and the outdoor activities attracted us”, says Motz, who lives in town with his wife and young son Miles. “The area has a lot to offer in terms of community and raising a family here–we’ve met some really great people and families through the running club.” Harkins, who’s lived in Briarcliff for seven years, wholeheartedly agrees.

Creating Connections

The creation of the BMRC has led to many new connections and opportunities for everyone involved. They’ve started participating in various races throughout the area including the Sleepy Hollow Half Marathon, Sleepy Hollow10K and The Leatherman’s Loop in Cross River and have also collaborated with the Croton and Rivertown clubs. “There are lots of people training for the NYC Marathon, as well as other races in the area and we’re here to help everyone. We are trying to connect everyone as well as promote local races and create new ones”, says Motz.

Harkins is planning some upcoming informational sessions as well. “We’re thinking of putting together some sessions on nutrition, training habits, sleep and recovery. We’d like to have a physical therapist come to provide information on stretching and exercises.”
There’s also talk of working with the Village to hopefully establish a 5K race this fall.

Harkins continues, “The initial thought for the club was that there were so many resources and so many great people running on their own but I’d hear people say, I wish could run more but need motivation. Getting a group together helps people be more accountable–even for myself.” The BMRC has even created a Couch to 5K program for runners of all abilities. “People from all walks of life joined and they all developed friendships–I was very happy to see all the people come together”, said Harkins. “Some joined the club from never having run at all.”

The BMRC and its coaches are happy to introduce residents to one another and to different parts of the area, including its amazing trails. As Harkins says, “People who have lived here for so long will say they never knew some of these trails existed.” Creating connections and keeping things fresh are two of the things the Briarcliff Manor Running Club does best.

For more information please visit the BMRC social media channels.