The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Ella Ilan

Kim Haas – On Health, Fitness & Gratitude

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A day does not go by where Kim Haas, longtime Armonk resident and personal trainer, doesn’t either run, walk, lift weights, do yoga, get on her peloton, or bike outside. It isn’t always easy, but she draws motivation from recognizing how exercise both makes her feel and heal.

Haas was always interested in physical fitness. Working in the fashion industry in her twenties and living above a gym in New York City, she regularly exercised and even worked in the gym. Later, as a mother of two living in Westchester, Kim became certified as a personal trainer when her youngest was in kindergarten. She started out at New York Sports Club and eventually focused her business on private clients. An intense exerciser herself and as someone who ran half marathons, she had found the perfect fit for her career.

Coping with the Challenge of a Lifetime

Living a busy life as a personal trainer and mother of two and seemingly the picture of health, Kim was devastated to learn that she was diagnosed with a very aggressive form of uterine cancer eight years ago at age 47. After months of powering through what felt like normal exhaustion, Haas went to her doctor about some episodes of abnormal bleeding.

“When I got the call from the doctor, it was like a gut punch,” recalls Kim. “I couldn’t absorb any information or make a phone call, so I had my husband and friends do everything for me. It was so out of character for me because I always do everything. But when it came to me, I was just paralyzed.”

Haas underwent surgery at a local hospital followed by grueling rounds of chemotherapy and radiation at Memorial Sloan Kettering. She lost her hair, lost weight, and felt exhausted. Despite these challenges, she was determined to protect her high school daughter from seeing the degree of her sickness. Her older son was away at college. Kim would rise in the morning when her daughter went to school, be with her, and have friends drive her to school when possible so she didn’t have to fuss with her wig.

As soon as her daughter would leave for school, Haas would take her yoga mat and head to Equinox gym in town. Taking her position in a back corner of the room, she immersed herself in these yoga classes. When Kim started her yoga journey five years prior as a way to stretch after intense workouts, it was challenging for her to slow down, but she gradually grew to savor this time.

“It just really kept me going,” Haas reflects. “I had something to look forward to and it made me feel good. I was moving but not doing too much.”

Unable to run, she also made it a habit to walk every day. Bundling up in the winter, Kim was out there every day. “I was green and skinny and wearing a wig and I’m sure the whole world was noticing, but I didn’t care. I knew I had to get out and do my thing.” Returning home, she would nap, and then make sure to be back up to greet her daughter after school.

Erin, Aidan, Kim & Erik Haas

Marveling at how well she was doing and how she didn’t really need her nausea medication, Haas’ doctors questioned her about her habits. They surmised that her stretching and movement through yoga and walking alleviated her symptoms and indicated plans to study yoga’s beneficial effect on cancer patients.

Haas has since become certified as a yoga instructor. “I felt like yoga saved my life. It’s what got me through the day. Even now when I do yoga, it puts me in that space again. It’s just such a calming experience and feels like a mini vacation where everything else goes away.”

Carol Weston & Rob Ackerman, an Armonk couple, have been taking yoga under Haas’ tutelage for years. Ackerman has practiced yoga for 35 years, and among the many instructors he’s had, Haas stands out as exceptionally focused, thoughtful, and mindful. “She skillfully adapts her sessions for a group diverse in age and ability,” he says. “She models the poses beautifully, incorporates traditions like ending with “om,” and adds thoughtful touches, like lavender oil in savasana, enhancing the experience. She has a way of knowing what people need.”

“Yoga with Kim is such a delight,” shares Weston. “Rob and I have had the pleasure of practicing yoga with her at her home and, during the summer, on the deck of The Windmill Club. Sometimes we arrive harried and breathless, and she reminds us to…breathe. Her class is the right amount of challenging and she shares how to adjust movements. At the end, it’s like we’ve done a real re-set and are refreshed and ready to go back to our desks and lives. Namaste.”

Giving Back

When Haas was fighting her cancer battle, she discovered Soul Ryeders, a non-profit organization based in Rye that offers support to those impacted by cancer. Some of their offerings included events at salons offering reiki, massage, manicures, eyebrow tutorials, and wig trimmings. They also offer wig rentals. Kim donated her wigs and volunteers several times a month doing wig fittings. She also volunteers as a cancer peer mentor.

“Sometimes it’s very emotional for me but I find it really rewarding that I can give back,” reflects Haas.

Living Life to Its Fullest

This March, Kim will be seven years cancer-free. She is thankful for every day and is always on the move. She and her husband love to bike around Greenwich, Bedford, and Pound Ridge. “We live in the most beautiful part of the world and never take that for granted,” she says. They have set a great example for their children too. Their son does ironman races and marathons and their daughter is yoga certified and loves rock climbing.

Kim truly lives life to the fullest. She takes incredible care of herself, but she also pours her love and energy into others, making her a source of strength and inspiration to so many.

“If you don’t move and stay active in your twenties, thirties, and forties, it affects how you age in your fifties, sixties, and seventies,” says Haas. “You need to keep moving and keep going. That’s my motto.”

Anna Weber – Artistic Leader at the World’s Most Iconic Concert Venue

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PHOTO BY CATHY PINSKY

Living a stone’s throw from the cultural mecca that is New York City, it is no surprise that residing amongst us is someone who ensures the world’s most renown musical institution runs smoothly. Managing just about everything at Carnegie Hall, the premier destination for the world’s finest musical artists, is our very own neighbor, Anna Weber.

Carnegie Hall has hosted performances in its three iconic concert halls by the world’s finest musicians since 1891. From Tchaikovsky to the Beatles, the musical talent that has graced its stages is unsurpassed in its excellence. It has transformed from the 1950’s into a meaningful part of people’s lives through a commitment to music education and staging exceptional, world-famous musical performances. Weber, as the General Manager of Artistic and Operations, oversees the planning and implementation of 700 concerts and events each year, as well as the operations of the Resnick Education Wing.

Discovering A Career in Arts Administration

Growing up in nearby Harrison in a musical family, with a grandfather who was a professional musician playing in the big bands, Weber and her four siblings each played the piano amongst other instruments. Weber played flute in her high school marching band and orchestra, before moving onto other interests.

After college, Anna landed a job at the New York Youth Symphony, discovering her passion for arts administration. She navigated public relations, logistics, and the intricacies of orchestra operations. She later worked at the New York Philharmonic for nine years, eventually becoming Director of Operations. There, she organized subscription concerts, the free Parks concerts in all the boroughs, and their national and international tours.

Dream Job

Coming on board to Carnegie Hall almost 25 years ago, she began to make her mark managing productions and artist logistics. Now, as General Manager, she organizes performances at the Hall, festivals, and Carnegie Hall Citywide, a series of performances presented in venues across all five boroughs. She also oversees Ensemble Connect, a fellowship program for post-graduate musicians looking to make a real difference through music.

“I work with a phenomenal team that makes work inspiring and fun,” shares Weber. “Much of the role involves realizing an artist’s vision, scheduling, contracts, budgeting, problem-solving, logistics, and handling front of house and back of house operations.”

Elise Trainor sharing the Carnegie Hall stage with Anna Weber

PHOTO BY CATHY PINSKY

There is no “typical day” for Weber. With concerts and rehearsals happening, and her team planning future seasons, she juggles multiple responsibilities. “It’s living in the present, living in the future, and trying to manage all of that,” says Weber. “It’s not your 9 to 5 job. There are evening concerts, and I get to hear great music. It doesn’t feel like work at that point. That’s a great perk of the job.”

Influences & Relationships Along the Way

“I have a phenomenal leader in Clive Gillinson, (Carnegie Hall’s Executive and Artistic Director) who is not only a leader but a mentor for me,” says Weber. “He’s a real visionary, someone who leads with integrity, kindness, and humor – something that I try to emulate in what I do and how I lead.”

“Anna has led our artistic planning and implementation team at Carnegie Hall for over 20 years and she is the best person I’ve worked with in this role,” says Gillinson. “She is passionate about the Hall’s artistic and education mission and delivers on every aspect of her job with total commitment and a meticulous attention to detail… Her dedication to her work and her gift for friendship enable her to forge superb, collaborative relationships with artists, staff, partners, and the community. We are very fortunate to have Anna as part of our leadership team.”

Weber’s team, spanning different generations, also serves as a mentorship for her. “I’m constantly learning from my team members on how they think, solve problems, and how they are engaging with work.”

Anna has been most influenced by her mother, who earned advanced degrees, worked, and served on the Board of Education while raising five children. “I have no idea how she did it. She is a huge inspiration for me.”

“As a Trustee of Carnegie Hall for more than 25 years, I have had the pleasure of knowing Anna. Capable, calm, and always eager to help, she is a gem and a key player on the senior staff. Respected and adored by everyone, Anna shines with energy and joy,” says Susan Rose.

Living in the Byram Hills School District

Weber and her husband chose to live in the Armonk area as it allowed them to be close to family living nearby. Engaging with the Byram Hills schools, taking advantage of the beautiful outdoors at Cranberry Lake, enjoying the local restaurants, visiting the Armonk Art Show, and participating at CBY Synagogue have all contributed to Weber’s love of this community. Both of Anna’s daughters were devoted young soccer players and she enjoyed being a “soccer mom” and taking part in the athletic programs of the community. Although she loves the city, she enjoys coming home to the quiet suburbs.

Realizing a Vision for Carnegie Hall

Weber is passionate about bringing music beyond the concert hall. Carnegie Hall Citywide partners with neighborhood organizations and cultural institutions across the city to reach new audiences. “Music has the ability to impact people’s lives in so many ways and I think Carnegie Hall is not just a concert hall, but it is a place that is trying to use the power of the institution to bring music to the widest possible audience,” says Weber.

In pursuit of this vision, the hall has the free Citywide concerts, a digital channel, and the Weill Music Institute – the Hall’s education and social impact arm engages people of all ages in multiple ways, including working with the juvenile justice system. Annual citywide festivals such as last year’s focus on the Weimar Republic and this year’s celebration of Latin culture take audiences on immersive cultural journeys through music, dance, theatre, and literature.

For upcoming events at Carnegie Hall and more information, go to carnegiehall.org.

Caramoor – A Beautiful Oasis for Music and Art

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(L-R): Caramoor’s Marc Lowenstein, Adina Williams, Edward J. Lewis, III, Jessa Krick, and Olivia Ottinger
Photos by CAROLYN SIMPSON

Sitting on 80 scenic acres in Katonah, New York, is Caramoor, a historic estate, generously gifted to the public by its founders, Walter and Lucie Rosen. Caramoor is known for its music concert series, but many people do not know there is a historic site that is part of the venue as well. If you have not yet visited this haven for music and the arts, you should plan to attend a concert or take a tour. Even if you have already visited, the staff at Caramoor is consistently expanding Caramoor’s offerings, so there is always something new to experience.

Caramoor History

Walter Rosen, a successful lawyer and banker, and his wife Lucie Bigelow Rosen, were great lovers of art and music. The Rosens regularly hosted friends and family for intimate musical performances and lavish parties at Caramoor, their country estate.

World War II took a toll on the family. The couple was devastated when their son, Walter, a pilot for Royal Canadian Air Force, died in a wartime plane crash in 1944. Ten months prior, Walter Sr.’s sister Jeanne, who lived in France, was sent to Auschwitz and murdered. Wrestling with their grief, they chose to turn their tragic loss into something positive. In 1946, they graciously opened their house to the public, beginning what became Caramoor’s year-round music program.

Armonk Outdoor Art Show
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Welcoming A Broader Audience

Historically known for its classical music performances, Caramoor has now expanded to include many other genres, such as latin, jazz, roots, and global music. In recent years, Caramoor’s board and staff have focused their mission on growing their audience by both serving the desires of the community and by better reflecting the nature of the community through their programming.

Edward J. Lewis, III, President and CEO of Caramoor, joined in May 2021 with the charge “to make Caramoor more open and accessible to a broader and more diverse community that’s reflective of the county in which we sit.” Lewis, a Chappaqua resident, brings to the table his expertise gained from a remarkable career as a professional classical musician, an arts educator, administrator, and two decades of non-profit management and fundraising. “From these experiences and my lifelong passion for the arts, I bring this ability to help institutions find that essence of themselves and inspire a broader constituency to engage with it.”

“Over the past several years we have broadened our music programming to include more jazz, roots and global music while maintaining our core classical programming.” Lewis explained. “We also try to include a broad range of lived experiences in all the artists and genres we present to help ensure that our expanding and increasingly diverse audiences can hear themselves in the music and see themselves reflected back from the stage.”

World Class Performances

Marc Lowenstein, Director of Marketing and Communications, was brought on two years ago to assist in that mission. A common message that he has heard is “I’ve heard about Caramoor, but I’ve never been,” or “I don’t think they have the music that I’m interested in.” “In some ways it’s a challenge but it’s also a huge opportunity for the marketing department here knowing there’s this population that for whatever reason has not availed themselves of Caramoor.”

“The thing that makes it so special, other than the music and the art, which is certainly world-class on any level, is just the experience of being at this beautiful place is unrivaled by any performing arts center in the area. People ask me what show they should come see and I say, just pick a nice night when the weather is good, you may not know the artist…but I promise you, come early, bring a picnic, make a night of it, enjoy the music, and you will have a positive experience,” says Lowenstein.

Adina Williams, Director of School Programs and Community Engagement, was also recruited a few years ago to execute the new mission, redesign Caramoor’s educational offerings, and embark on their first intentional community engagement work. Williams channels her background as a former New York City public school teacher and her impressive career in arts administration and music management into her role at Caramoor.

“Caramoor advocates inclusive arts and education exploration,” says Williams. “We believe in an intercultural arts practice that actively involves artists and communities from a range of national and international ethnic and cultural groups, a breadth of physical and mental abilities, languages, social classes and gender identifications so that the voices and stories of the multiple publics that we serve are heard, expressed, and celebrated.

Our educational vision is bringing to life Caramoor’s extraordinary artistic heritage and future to as broad a spectrum of people, young and old alike, ages 0 to 100 plus.”

Williams designed the innovative Caramoor Kids program for elementary and middle school classes where students take a field trip to Caramoor and a Caramoor teaching artist visits their school based on an interdisciplinary curriculum. The immersive curriculum is available in both English and Spanish and can be tailored to meet a school’s specific educational goals.

As part of Caramoor’s community outreach initiative, Williams has organized roundtables with teachers, parents, conservatories, and community members, such as Neighbors Link, that help inform the programming. “Our mission is to have a deeper understanding of the value proposition of Caramoor to our many communities and how we can be a very rich resource for them, especially historically underserved communities in the region.”

This summer, Caramoor welcomed the community for a successful Juneteenth event, celebrating African American freedom and achievement. The free event featuring Charles Turner & Uptown Swing brought in about 1500 people for a fun-filled day with hands-on activities.

Caramoor also brings jazz performances to those incarcerated at nearby correctional facilities. “We want to be a conduit in which all of our community can live an art-filled life,” says Lewis.

“It’s all about equal access and not your life narrative, whether tragic or happy…and hopefully providing life changing experiences through arts and culture,” adds Williams.

Inspired by the Rosens, Caramoor’s leadership is clear-eyed in their mission. “We need to balance the reverence for and relevance of Caramoor,” says Lewis. “We have this rich storied history and if we remain true to the vision of our founders, this is a place where visitors can be refreshed and renewed by that convergence of exceptional music performances, the beauty of the art-filled historic home, and the gorgeous gardens and grounds. The Rosens left this legacy for us all to enjoy and I believe that together with our board, staff, artists, and volunteers, we all partner together as stewards of their legacy, and we revere its past. Our job, as I see it, is to assure that Caramoor continues to resonate with audiences and visitors of today and tomorrow.”

The Rosen House

Visitors can enjoy the Rosen House by taking a tour, booking an Afternoon Tea, or attending a concert in the Music Room or Spanish Courtyard. The Rosens were great hosts and the Caramoor staff continue in that great tradition.

Jessa Krick, Director of Interpretation, Collection, and Archives for the Rosen House, is also a recent addition to the Caramoor team, just having passed her second anniversary. Krick is responsible for the vast art collection and a trove of archival documents related to the family’s history. Krick is doing her utmost to make sure the collection is better known, and people realize they need to visit the Rosen House when they come for a concert.

Re-energizing the tours this year, Krick spearheaded the 2024 Focus Tour, highlighting works in the collection by women artists that previously never received much attention during their regular tours. “It has been fantastic fun to do the research for this and our docents have appreciated the chance to add new material to their tours. It has been so rewarding over the last year discovering the stories of these women artists. They existed in the archives, but surfacing their stories through our focus tour has been so exciting. I love it when people say, “I never knew that” – those are the comments we really love to hear.”

Dedicated Staff & Supporters

The consensus among the people that make this hidden gem run is that Caramoor is a great place to work. Box Office Manager Olivia Ottinger, who is also a talented opera singer, began her relationship with Caramoor after Caramoor musicians visited her high school for a master class and she thereafter joined their esteemed mentorship program. She says one of the most special things about Caramoor is the staff. “I have been lucky enough to end up with some of my best friends here. Two of us were just bridesmaids at the marketing manager’s wedding.”

“It’s a lot of hard work but there are always one or two shows a season where we get to stand in the back and watch everything we created come together. It’s nice to step back and experience it and think, ‘cool we did this,’” reflects Ottinger.

“It’s fun to be part of someone’s vision that was such an impressive human being [Lucie] and also to progress with the times and do it well,” says Events Operations Manager Aarti Gilmore. Gilmore manages much of the logistics and scheduling of volunteers, security and emergency personnel. “I make sure we deliver on what we promised, and everybody is comfortable and feels safe. My mission is to make people love Caramoor as much as I do and to ensure their experience is as worry-free as possible from the second someone engages to buy a ticket at the box office or online.”

“Our volunteers, ranging from high school age to retirees, are great ambassadors for us. They’re available throughout the property to answer any questions, including where their favorite spots are and where is the best place to take a photo.” One of Gilmore’s favorite spots is the peaceful Cedar Walk, a well-maintained pathway which holds the t(ch)ime sound art installation.

Caramoor is a nonprofit organization. The programming and the beautiful facilities offered are supported by concert attendance, individual donations, a dedicated board of trustees, and generous sponsors.

Upcoming Events

Although summer is Caramoor’s busiest season, there is plenty to look forward to this fall. Here are just some of the upcoming events. Caramoor’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, a free event, featuring the artist People of Earth, will be on September 29th. The annual cabaret show featuring Julie Benko and Jason Yeager will be on October 25th. Jazz icon Abdullah Ibrahim will perform on November 8th. The annual fall benefit on December 7th will feature American folk band Bonny Light Horseman. December will offer the immensely popular holiday tea musicales. Caramoor’s first-ever Hannukah show, featuring Nefesh Mountain Band, will take place on December 12th. For the full schedule, tickets and additional information, go to caramoor.org.

Byram Hills Ranked No. 1 Public High School in Westchester

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Christopher Walsh, Principal, and Dr. Jen Lamia, Superintendent   PHOTO BY Elise Trainor

Receiving well-deserved recognition, Byram Hills High School was ranked as the number one public high school in Westchester County in Westchester Magazine’s March 2024 issue. The Inside Press asked me to explore the “why” behind the ranking. It is particularly noteworthy as Westchester is home to some of the best high schools in the country. Factors considered included college readiness, average class size, student-to-teacher ratio, SAT scores, the number of counselors, the number of AP courses, and more.

“It’s very exciting when the district is recognized for our strong academic and extracurricular programs. An acknowledgement from Westchester Magazine as the #1 high school in Westchester is a credit to a strong school community that places students at the center of what we do,” says Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia.

Innovative Programs

“I marvel at how the faculty, staff, and administration continue to develop opportunities for students to find their individual passions and excel,” says Lamia.

The opportunities are endless. Students interested in robotics and coding can immerse themselves in the robotics course and participate in competitions. Extensive offerings abound in the Fine Arts department, including metalsmithing, jewelry making, ceramics, and photography. Available to seniors who qualify is “Perspectives in Literature,” an integrated study that includes literature, philosophy, art, and an intensive writing experience.

One of the most recognized programs at Byram Hills is the award-winning Authentic Science Research program, a three-year program in which students complete independent research under the mentorship of professional scientists. Students submit their research to the Regeneron Science Talent Search (“STS”). Byram Hills touts 132 “Top 300 scholars” and 23 national finalists in the Regeneron STS since 1991.

Two other thriving programs that are distinct to our district are the Global Scholars Program and the StartUp Entrepreneurship Program. Both began as pilot programs sponsored by the Byram Hills Education Foundation (the “BHEF”) and have been very well-received.

According to the Byram Hills website, Global Scholars is an “interdisciplinary three-year program…[in which] students investigate global issues, analyze diverse perspectives, communicate ideas effectively in both English and a second language, and take action.”

The StartUp program, which began in 2022, most recently had 35 members of the community acting as mentors to the students in their start-ups. The two-year program allows students to create and launch their own business or social enterprise. Guest speakers are invited to talk to the kids about starting a business. This past year, they held an exciting evening competition à la “Shark Tank” with parents and business owners in the community acting as judges.

“Byram Hills’ number one ranking is a testament to the unwavering dedication of our teachers, faculty, and the entire community,” says BHEF board member Ally Wolland. “The BHEF plays a critical role in this success story. By funding faculty and teacher-written grants across the district, the BHEF addresses specific needs at each grade level and school. Impactful programs like the Global Scholars program and the StartUP program exemplify the BHEF’s influence.”

“For me, as a parent and BHEF board member, what most exemplifies the essential partnership between the BHEF and the district was the BHEF’s facilitation of an emergency meeting during the pandemic to secure funding to purchase Viewsonic technology to aid in reopening and remote learning,” explains Wolland. “A vibrant and supportive education foundation like the BHEF is a rare gem in public schools. I am incredibly grateful for the profound impact the BHEF has on our school district…”

An Engaged Community and Happy Families

“This ranking was an acknowledgment of the strength of our entire district. We have such a wonderful community, and it starts from the great support we get from the Board of Education and District Administrators. We have families who are incredibly supportive of the work we are doing and appreciate the collective efforts that go into educating their children,” says Byram Hills High School Principal Chris Walsh.

“We have students who have been given a great foundation in learning going all the way back to their first day in kindergarten through every grade level and school in the district. I am most happy for our faculty and staff here at the high school that they can take pride in this and know that their professionalism, care, and expertise are recognized on a regional level. Overall, the ranking helps to reinforce that Byram Hills High School is a special place where students benefit from the highest quality educators, supportive district, and collaborative community.”

For area realtors, who promote the positive aspects of living here all the time, the good news about Byram Hills was not surprising. “As an alum of Byram Hills and lifelong resident of Armonk, I am thrilled that our high school has been named #1 in Westchester County,” says Stacey Sporn, Armonk parent and Associate Broker at William Raveis. “This recognition highlights the dedication of our teachers, the enthusiasm of our students, and the unwavering support of our community. Growing up here, I experienced firsthand the exceptional education and the strong sense of community that defines our town. It’s no surprise that more families are choosing to move here, drawn by our top-notch schools and the welcoming, vibrant atmosphere that makes this area a wonderful place to live and raise a family,”

“I think the district’s recognition of talent is what contributes to Byram Hill’s excellence,” says Harriet Libov, Armonk parent and Associate Broker at Houlihan Lawrence. “The district always looks to the best in faculty to promote from within. For example, Superintendent Lamia was my daughter’s middle school teacher back in the day. Similarly, many of the administrators and principals were promoted after proven success in our district. I feel fortunate that both my kids, each with very different interests, soared academically and socially as a result of what Byram Hills had to offer. Moreover, as adults today, they remain friends with their Byram Hills classmates.”

“Byram Hills High School created an environment in which both of my daughters were able to grow and thrive intellectually and socially,” says Stacee Massoni Blatte, Armonk parent and Associate Broker at Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s. “They had the opportunity to take classes that both challenged and interested them. The immense support they received from their teachers enabled them to excel and equipped them with the resources necessary to continue to flourish throughout their college experiences at the University of Pennsylvania.”

Always Moving Forward

Whether advancing the curriculum or the social and emotional well-being of the students, Byram Hills is always thinking how best to serve its students. A recent district-wide vote approved the use of eight million dollars of the capital reserve fund for the “Lights, Learning, Action!” renovation project at the high school to create The Learning Commons, a reconstruction of the library; install a turf field; and add lighting on all fields and courts.

“Our school community is best exemplified by a senior who told me recently that the thought of leaving Byram Hills and graduating makes her cry – that’s the heart of it all – and I think it’s the school community that does it. We are continually on the flywheel of moving forward for kids,” says Lamia.

Getting to Know North Castle’s Newly Elected Town Supervisor Joseph Rende

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North Castle Town Supervisor Joe Rende PHOTO BY ELISE TRAINOR

After a nail biter of an election ultimately requiring a vote recount, the triumphant Joe Rende proudly took office as North Castle’s new Town Supervisor on January 1st with a positive outlook and a determination to make sure North Castle continues to be a town to take pride in.

Public Service As A Great Calling

A resident of Armonk for over ten years, Rende made this his home when he and his significant other, the Honorable Linda S. Jamieson, Justice of the Westchester Supreme Court, who has lived here for forty years, were seeing each other. Rende, a lifelong resident of Westchester, grew up and raised his family in Port Chester. As a young businessman running and operating his family’s home heating oil business, Rende Economy Fuel, with his dad, he was always very interested in politics. A registered republican at the time, Rende became active in various campaigns for different people running for elected office in Port Chester. His political career officially began when he was asked to take an open seat on the village planning commission. He eventually served as chairman of the village planning board, then as an elected member of the board of trustees, deputy mayor, and later as Westchester County’s deputy director of emergency planning and management.

Rende attributes his interest in government to his father, who was a big influence on him. Dinner table conversations often involved local and national politics. Rende’s father was always very active in their community and even ran for political office.

“I always viewed public service as a great calling and certainly necessary as an important part of our form of government,” says Rende. “I always had a sense that you need to give back to your community and what better way to do it than public service. It was instilled in me by my dad, who I was very close with.”

Living in North Castle, Rende, now an involved member of the local democratic party, continued to take an interest in town-related issues. When former Town Supervisor Mike Schiliro decided not to seek another term, Rende felt there would be a void in leadership and threw his hat into the ring.

On the Agenda

PHOTO BY ELISE TRAINOR

One of the first things Rende is focused on is getting the North Castle Eagle sign, a town landmark, back up. The sign, which greets visitors at the intersection of Route 22 and Route 128 was unfortunately knocked down on December 11th.

Rende is also turning his attention to several capital improvement projects. One of those projects involves renovating the recently purchased town swimming pool. He has been working with an engineering firm, the town administrator, and the superintendent of recreation to develop a plan to address those necessary improvements. Other potential projects include improving Town Hall, upgrading the crammed police department, assessing all the town facilities, and putting together a focused capital improvement plan to ensure that there is no further damage to the overall envelope of each of the town’s buildings. He also plans to address the highway department’s lack of a facility to house the newer bigger trucks used to maintain the roads. Storing the trucks outside where they are exposed to the inclement weather has led to their faster degradation and reduced years of service from these vehicles.

Also on the agenda is the review and approval of several large development plans that have already gone through lengthy processes of planning and zoning. Rende’s vast experience on the Port Chester planning commission and board of trustees has provided him with a great grasp for smart development and makes him an asset for the town in that regard.

Leadership Skills

As the current Director of Business Development at Judicial Title Insurance Agency, Rende has plenty of flexibility that will allow him to balance his profession with the role of town supervisor. His career has allowed him to develop management skills that will serve him well in his new position. His leadership experience came at a young age owning his own business with his dad. When he later sold his business to Robison Oil and took a management role there, he really honed his leadership skills.

“To me, leadership has always been about motivating people to work towards a common good,” he explains. “I like to empower people and give them the necessary tools to do their job and make sure they have the resources that they need. I encourage people if they come to me with a problem, to also try to bring a solution. I will never fault anyone for trying to solve a problem. If you need my help to figure out a better way, I will do that.”

Rende also emphasizes that the importance of compromise. Even though different members of the board and various elected officials can have different views, he recognizes that “everyone has the community’s best interest in mind, and he looks forward to working with them.”

In his Spare Time

When Rende has free time, you can find him just being “grandpa.” He and Judge Jamieson share ten grandchildren. Their weekends typically revolve around activities with the grandkids. In the summer, they spend time at the lake at the Windmill Club. They play some golf at various association outings, but most of the time they are enjoying their grandkids, their friends, and some traveling as well.

Pride in North Castle

One thing Rende really appreciates about North Castle is the community’s involvement and enthusiasm for the town. “Events like the Fol de Rol, the concerts in the park and town square, the Armonk Outdoor Art Show, the Stayin’ Alive Fun Run, the Frosty Parade, and the funds raised by these events for great causes really show me the heartbeat of the town,” he says.

Recognizing that it was a close election, Rende knows that he will have to stay on top of his game and hopes to prove to the entire community that he is more than capable of doing the job. “I won’t rest on my laurels and take anything for granted. Hopefully after my first term, residents who voted for me as well as the ones who supported my opponent will recognize that I was a good choice, and I was worthy of it. I am going to make sure this continues to be a town we can be proud of.”