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Highlights for the 2016 Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival: “Be a Part of Our Story”

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Be-A-Part-of-our-Story

By Dana Y. Wu

Our bucolic suburban hamlet with its excellent schools and vibrant community support for literacy is the perfect setting for the 4th annual Chappaqua Children’s Book Festival (CCBF) on September 24. This free, day-long event attracts thousands of families from Westchester and beyond to meet 90 authors and illustrators including award-winners Chris Raschka, Rita Williams-Garcia, and Jane Yolen.

Children’s authors and illustrators share a similar hope–to imagine a better world through images and ideas in books. Book lovers know the particular joy of putting a book into young hands and seeing curiosity greatly inspired by imagination.

Eric Velasquez says his book, Liberty Street, a story of a slave girl’s escape, is one of his favorites, “because the closer the little girl in the story gets to being free, the closer she gets to literacy.”

Writing as Activism

At a master class hosted at the Library of Congress, Kwame Alexander, the 2015 Newberry Award winner for The Crossover, said that “writing children’s books is activism.” Given recent events that signal a more polarized world, the CCBF is our community’s way to acknowledge, appreciate and celebrate both differences and commonalities in our increasingly multicultural and multilingual society.

Velasquez continues, “When I was a child, very few children’s books had characters that looked like me. I remember feeling left out and uninterested in reading.”

Today, his deeply moving drawings are rendered with realistic details so children see themselves, their friends and their families in his books, but also see outside themselves.\“Children need both windows and mirrors. Too much of one and not enough of the other can seriously impair the intellectual growth of a child, especially their sense of empathy,” says Velasquez.

Author/illustrator Nick Bruel, creator of this year’s CCBF poster “Be Part of Our Story” makes a conscious effort to be inclusive and authentic in his laugh out loud books which are about a cantankerous cat.

Bruel says, “In A Bad Kitty Christmas,” I needed to depict generations within the same family. I made several characters, Black, Asian and Hispanic, and I included a LGBT couple. I debated with myself–do I write a book that could potentially speak to that kid who actually has two Mommies? I recognized that there would be people who would be offended. Like it or not, that kid exists and deserves to see his/her world represented in a book. Over the years, I received many, many angry missives over the very brief mention of Nan and Pam and even a school in Houston banned my book.”

Shared Priorities

The CCBF is our community’s way to promote reading, freedom and the power of discernment–keys to our children’s success in the 21st century world. Our town’s recent capital bond vote enables our schools and the Chappaqua Library to be “active and dynamic learning environments where students engage in meaningful inquiry, invention, interaction, hypothesizing, collaboration, and personal reflection.” It demonstrates our shared priority that students think deeply, apply problem-solving skills, and actively participate in their learning. The CCBF represents the desire for all our kids and teens to experience a broader world through the pages of a book, with empathy in their hearts and critical thinking in their minds. Barry Graziano of Houlihan Lawrence says, “the CCBF “is a great example of bringing the community together for a great cause. By empowering our children with the art of reading and language, we open a world of culture.”

Here’s what to look forward to:

  • “Be Part of Our Story” Join the all-day excitement of the CCBF at the Robert E. Bell Middle School–rain or shine–Sept. 24th.
  • Meet and greet favorite authors and beloved illustrators at readings and book signings.
  • Healthy fun with live music, STEM challenges with Regeneron, and games courtesy of Kiwi Country Day Camp.
  • Enjoy treats from the food trucks and the always wonderful “Great American Bake Sale to End Hunger” at tables on the Great Lawn of the Church of St. Mary the Virgin.

“Banned Books Week” Sept. 25- Oct. 1, 2016

This annual event sponsored by the American Library Association celebrates the freedom to read, to seek and to express ideas, even those ideas which some consider unorthodox or unpopular and stresses the importance of ensuring the availability of those viewpoints to all who wish to read them.

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NWH’s President’s Junior Leadership Council Sets its Sights on Addressing Anxiety in Students

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NWH President’s Junior Leadership Council
NWH President’s Junior Leadership Council

By Janine Crowley Haynes

Northern Westchester Hospital’s President’s Junior Leadership Council is celebrating its 10-year anniversary. The Council consists of 48 students from various high schools including Horace Greeley, Byram Hills, Pleasantville, Fox Lane, Somers, John Jay and Yorktown, to name a few.

NWH Director of Community Health Education & Outreach Maria Simonetti oversees the Council along with Amy Rosenfeld, RD. They have been conducting the program for ten years and have watched student participation grow from eight students to an impressive 48.

Maria Simonetti, Director NWH Community Health Education & Outreach, with Program Coordinator, Amy Rosenfeld, RD.
Maria Simonetti, Director NWH Community Health Education & Outreach, with Program Coordinator, Amy Rosenfeld, RD.

Each year, the Council decides on a public health project, like underage drinking, smoking, body image, nutrition, etc., targeting peers via social marketing campaigns. The projects are designed to grab the attention of their peers and are jam-packed with vital information.

With the Be Smart Not Sorry campaign, the Council created at-a-glance fold-up cards that fit easily into a wallet, addressing alcohol, alcohol poisoning, and what to do “when things go awry.” Another campaign targeted smoking with a shockingly graphic handout showing the toxic ingredients in cigarettes.

This year’s campaign targets anxiety. The students on the Council work in groups and pitch creative ways to construct an effective campaign to address the anxiety issue all too common in young people. The Council just decided that the overall campaign tagline will be:  There is a World Outside… Branch Out. The Council’s main concern is dismantling the stigma and helping young people not to feel so alone while encouraging them to seek support.

It’s of no surprise that students in Westchester face a heavy workload that can cause stress and anxiety. Students have enormous pressures placed on them not just to get good grades, but also to join clubs, take music lessons, be athletes, and volunteer time without having much downtime. They also struggle with social pressures from peers.

For the anxiety project, the Council intends to reach out not only to the students but to act as liaisons and meet with school administrators, teachers, and PTAs to enlighten and communicate the overwhelming issue of anxiety plaguing many students, and to possibly effect change.

In June, all 48 students of the leadership Council came together for their end-of-school-year meeting. However, they will also be working over the summer months on the new campaign.
By October, they will be ready to unveil its latest project targeting anxiety. The students will come up with creative ideas for the collective project.

One idea comes from Greeley senior Chloe Krugel and sister and sophomore at Greeley Alexa Krugel. They will be submitting an application to form a club at Greeley. “When ‘I’ is replaced with ‘We,’ even illness becomes wellness. So, we were thinking the club could be called Mental Wellness,” says Chloe. Although the plan is in its infancy, raising awareness and dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health issues is a top priority.

The club will also focus on implementing ways of dealing with stress and anxiety by encouraging healthy habits and behaviors possibly through yoga, breathing exercises, pet therapy, etc. They would also like to organize a walk for mental wellness.

Another idea the Council is exploring is handing out adult coloring books. There are studies that show when one is feeling anxiety, a distraction can be quite effective in lessening the immediate feelings of anxiety. Another thought is to create a poster and/or handouts addressing anxiety targeting the shame and stigma.

The anxiety project is, no doubt, ambitious and complicated and will be tackled from different angles. At the end-of-year meeting, all 48 students went around the room and introduced themselves and stated what being a member of the NWH President’s Junior Leadership Council means to them personally. Aside from the overwhelming gratefulness to Director Maria Simonetti and Program Coordinator Amy Rosenfeld, RD, the students expressed feeling more connected to the community and realize the importance of giving back.

Learning the skills of collaborating with students from other high schools gives them an advantage and has given them a sense of making an impact to create positive change. Finding a common bond and taking a pulse on what issues need addressing amongst their peers is a worthwhile experience going forward.

Janine Crowley Haynes is a Chappaqua resident and author of My Kind of Crazy: Living in a Bipolar World.

To Support Multiple Myeloma Research: Eric Gelber Aims to Go the Extra (200th!) Mile

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Photo 1 - Eric Gelber Running
Gelber running in the Mojave Desert as part of his 135 miles in the Badwater Ultra-Marathon, Death Valley, CA, 2015.

By Matt Smith

You know how the saying goes: “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” While these words are no doubt sage advice for anyone wishing to achieve any goal, you can bet they’re especially pertinent to Chappaqua resident Eric Gelber, who will take his third stab at running 200 miles on September 16th through New York City’s Central Park to support and raise funds for the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

Gelber began running independently for the cause in 2007, to raise money in support of a friend who had been diagnosed with the disease, an incurable blood cancer that has one of the lowest five-year relative survival rates of all cancers. “It started out with a marathon in New York City,” he explains, “and over the years…sort of built up and [I] started running longer races.”

The idea for the Central Park event arose in 2011, when “I did a solo run through the Catskills,” which he completed in 45 hours, beginning in Oneonta and ending 175 miles later at his parents’ home in Suffern. “It wasn’t a [official] race, though,” he explains. “It was just [of] my own [accord] to raise money…and attract some more attention [to the cause].” However, “when I got there [to the finish line], there were 50-60 people–I could hear them cheering from down the road as we finished and I just knew right then that we were doing something that was making a difference.”

And he capitalized on that feeling. The following year, he ran the Badwater Ultra-marathon in Death Valley, CA, “but the plan was to come back in 2013 and do something in New York City.” And, that September, as planned, the epic Central Park challenge was born.

Gelber initially pledged a goal of 200 miles, which he would achieve by running continuous 6.1 mile loops around Central Park. Though he hasn’t made it quite yet (his previous attempts in 2013 and 2014 covered 164 and 176 miles respectively), after a year off in 2015, during which he returned to Badwater–and raised a whopping $140,000 for the MMRF–he’s excited to be back in New York City for another shot at the 200-mile goal. “8 a.m. [on] September 16th, I’ll be out there,” he says, proudly, noting he’ll begin up at Engineer’s Gate on the East end of the park, “and I’ll [aim to] finish sometime on the 18th.”

If you’re inclined to support Gelber in person, “we’re really easy to find out there,” he says, noting the “big orange MMRF tent” at which he and his team will be situated. “We also have a [Facebook] page called ‘Just a Mile to Go,’” he adds, “where we will post information on how you can actually register and sign up to come run a loop with me, [or] make a donation, or set up your own fundraising page.”

If you can’t yet decide how you’d like to contribute, you can always simply show up at the event and take it from there, which Gelber notes “a lot of people do.” (They’ll also live stream the run straight from the Facebook page as well.).

(L-R) Kyle, Tani, Isla, Eric and Jared Gelber
(L-R) Kyle, Tani, Isla, Eric and Jared Gelber

Whichever way you support, Gelber hopes you do take note of the cause, as it’s near and dear to his heart. To that end, though his friend, Anita Sorrell, unfortunately lost her battle in 2012, his involvement with the MMRF has allowed him and his wife to engage and connect with others who have been affected both directly and indirectly by the cancer. “Sometimes when you lose the person you’re fighting for, your first reaction–which certainly was mine–is ‘What’s the point?’” Gelber explains. “But after taking a step back and thinking about where we were on this journey, my wife and I thought it was important to keep fighting for everybody who’s still with us. So, we do it for them.”

And while it isn’t always easy waking up to a daily 4:30 a.m. alarm and training intensely before heading off to a full-time job, Gelber acknowledges that the strides made in collecting donations and funding further research make it all well worth the effort, stating: “I know that what I am doing is making a real difference in the lives of [multiple myeloma] patients.”

But that’s not to say he does it all solo. Wholly recognizing “there’s no way I could do this on my own,” he wishes to extend sincere thanks to the entire staff at the MMRF for all their help and assistance, as well as his many close friends and family, both here in Chappaqua and in other neighboring towns. Above all, however, he thanks his wife, Tani, and three children, Jared, Kyle, and Isla. “Their support is unwavering,” he says, with a smile. “It’s been amazing.”

In closing, Gelber, who describes himself in three words as “determined [and] mentally tough,” offers a few encouraging words to those “adventurers”–men, yes, but also people of all ages and gender–who might be looking to pursue a similar goal. “I think you just gotta commit,” he says, “and not just to the end goal, but to the process of getting there.”

Citing the multiple myeloma patients and their “incredible mental focus, commitment, and [the fact that they’re] willing to fight,” he reminds the dreamers: “Don’t let anything stand in your way. You gotta follow through, make promises to yourself and keep those promises. I remind myself of the promises I make to myself each night, and I get up and do it. Take one step at a time, and you’ll reach your goal eventually.” And hopefully, if you’re anything like the tenacious Gelber, when you do, the world will be better for it.

For more information on the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, including how to join Gelber in his efforts and/or donate to the cause, please visit www.themmrf.org.

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“Habititis” – An “Itis” that Should be Spread!

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Smiles all around after heavy-duty digging and sign-building. (L-R): Chappaqua resi- dents Michael and Eileen Gallagher, Greg Simon, and Warren Gottlieb.
Smiles all around after heavy-duty digging and sign-building. (L-R): Chappaqua residents Michael and Eileen Gallagher, Greg Simon, and Warren Gottlieb.

By Eileen Gallagher

Take a look at the old Orthodox Friends’ Meeting House as you drive up the hill on King Street. 300 King Street, a landmarked building which many residents remember as the Village Nursery School, is now buzzing with the sweet sounds of hammers, saws, drills, and even a newly purchased jackhammer. Who is doing all of this buzzing? Not surprisingly, the busy workers are often members of our very own community, in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity.

Jim Killoran, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity, Westchester, is the tireless source of inspiration and perspiration as he works toward ensuring that everyone in Westchester has a home in which to live. Bill and Keiko Spade–resident architects who have dedicated countless hours advocating for safe and responsible affordable housing here in town–joined with Killoran in the genesis of the first Habitat project in New Castle.

Many residents have fond memories of the nursery school, but might be surprised to learn that the “Queen Ann style” building which features an elevated porch with decorative scrollwork was actually constructed in the late 1800’s as the Quaker meeting house. The reconstruction will restore the building to its original “Stick Victorian” styling from 1885, while also maintaining the original post and beam framing. Per Spade, “This will enhance the quality of the surrounding neighborhood, which has other fine examples of architecture from this same period.”

Teaming up with Habitat was a no-brainer for the Spades. They’ve been “green” in their building techniques for years, attending Passive House trainings to save precious energy and utilities while saving families money as well. Having worked with Killoran on a number of homes, they were aware of the green homes built by Habitat.

For 300 King, the Passive House features will include a thickened exterior “envelope” with up to three times the insulation value, sophisticated moisture and air barrier layers, highly insulated doors and windows, and an Energy Recovery Ventilation unit which circulates fresh air while recovering energy. Solar panels are being considered, as well as rain barrels, which save water runoff and usage. Spade added, “We look forward to sharing the process of building these Passive Homes with the community, to educate the broader community about the importance of energy-efficient construction.”

Per Spade, New Castle has been very supportive of the project, which will add two units of affordable housing toward meeting the county settlement of 2009. The units will be condominiums owned by families, something that Killoran is very proud of.

“Ownership creates the bank for each family. As ownership happens, studies show that education goes up and wealth of families goes up.” Killoran also pointed out that the former property of the Lutheran church will now be back on the town’s tax roles. It is expected that construction, depending on the availability of funding and volunteers, will take between nine months to a year, with a target occupancy date of early 2017.

In the meantime, three or four days a week the active site is under the watchful eyes of Habitat site supervisors and volunteers as the deconstruction phase winds down in preparation for the rebuilding phase. Killoran speaks of “habititis,” where people of all ages are drawn into helping with everything from building, fundraising, and providing snacks for workers.

“Habititis is moving throughout Chappaqua and Northern Westchester. Everyone is a philanthropist and volunteer and all can help,” he urges. Killoran’s catch-phrase is “The excitement is building!” Habitat has built throughout the county in addition to helping more than 1800 homeowners affected by Hurricane Sandy, delivering generators as well as working on homes. First building in Larchmont in 1988, Habitat continues to build, help rehab homes, and is currently designing “aging in place” opportunities to help create an intergenerational New York “so all generations can continue to live in Westchester and New York, and not have to leave.”

Indeed, the excitement is building, pun intended. Many groups have already helped in this effort, including West Point cadets (all fed by the generosity of Lange’s Little Store), several groups from high schools and colleges, families both in town and from other parts of the county, faith communities, offices, and local merchants. The trend has been to “bring a friend” or several friends, and spend a few hours working diligently in the company of kindred spirits. There are “regulars” (including this author) who enjoy seeing the building as it progresses, while fostering new friendships.

Not sure if you have the know-how to build? Killoran’s staff are more than happy to help. From the proper way to measure and cut to using building equipment such as circular saws and jackhammers, you will be in good hands. Skills learned at Habitat are also quite handy for use in your own homes as well.

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In addition to this location, work has begun on the latest town project at 437 Saw Mill Road in Millwood.Each unit can cost $250,000 to rehab and make beautiful for families, and Killoran asks that each volunteer give a dollar, or ten, one hundred, one thousand, or more. “Whatever they can give, so we can continue to build strong into the future.”

To help with all the ongoing efforts, contact Chappaqua@habitatwc.org and donate: habitatwc.org

Visit: Facebook (Chappaqua Habitat), Instagram and Twitter (@HabitatWC)

Eileen Gallagher is a freelance writer and 13-year resident of Chappaqua. Married with two sons, she has a full-blown case of Habititis along with her husband Michael. They can often be seen wearing hardhats and goggles working and laughing at 300 King Street.

SAT Tutor Alan Sheptin Turns Test Taker!

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DSC01954By Alan Sheptin

“Why?” was the most common question. College Board made headlines with the news that it was revamping the SAT. No guessing penalties! No Choice E! No vocabulary lists! As a test practitioner, I had to try this test. Here’s my journey:

Ready,

I looked at some test prep books, but was not confident of their trustworthiness. So I used the exams that the College Board published.

Set,

Registration on collegeboard.com was easy: I uploaded my photo, filled out info, paid, and chose a test site where I would not see any of my students. All set!

Go!

I woke up at 6:30 that dreary Saturday morning, and did what I told my students to do: eat a healthy breakfast, and have all your materials in order. Off I went.

Carded!

After I signed in at the designated location, the site supervisor called me over:“Why are you taking this test?” “Because I want to try it.” And off I went!

In!

I was relieved to see that I was in a classroom with regular sized desks and a clock. The proctor seemed kind and competent: an auspicious beginning.

Reading: Section 1

I was glad to get it done with first. I convinced myself that each of the five passages was interesting. My mindset helped. The questions were straightforward, and the vocabulary reasonable. The 65 minutes flew by and I was exhausted. A ten-minute break was surely needed.

Writing: Section 2

I used the skills my materials recommend, and used my ear to hear any cacophony in the sentences. This strategy really helped.

Section 3: Math, no calculator

This is unsettling to many students, as they rely heavily on the calculator. I answered every question confidently. When I checked all the answers, I noticed a careless error. Yikes!

Section 4: Math, calculator

There were a few very wordy questions that made me think. One Geometry question was a brain-teaser. There were no trigonometry questions or complex Algebra II-style problems. Not terrible.

Section 5: Surprise!

I was ready to leave when we were told that there was still another section (not in the published tests!).

I was happy to have another Math section to try. There was one interesting radical question, but nothing too complicated.

Verdict

I liked the test and will recommend it once the College Board releases additional materials. And, I liked the test site. Contact me and I’ll divulge that (and my scores!)…

Alan Sheptin is the owner of Sheptin Tutoring Group in Chappaqua. Visit sheptin.com to learn more about his tutoring group.