The Inside Press

Magazines serving the communities of Northern Westchester

Memorial Day

Rain Can’t Dampen Spirit of Chappaqua’s Memorial Day Parade

by

 

By John Cirillo

 

Chappaqua, NY, May 29—A little rain couldn’t possibly dampen the spirits of the residents of Chappaqua and neighboring towns in their insatiable desire to pay tribute to those who serve our country on this Memorial Day.

John. our guest author, and Fran

 

I rode into town an hour before the scheduled 11 a.m. “tip off” to check with law enforcement and they confirmed that the PARADE WAS ON! Yippee!

 

By 10:30 am, Fran and I were headed toward the center of the village to secure our bird’s eye view location near the bottom of King Street, the Saratoga Race Course extra-large red & white umbrella in tow.

 

Leslie had already staked claim to a curbside seat despite the misty rain, protected by what appeared to be a Yankee giveaway umbrella. Dave had stopped for his morning Starbucks and a scone.

 

The buzz had already began to build, but no where near the crescendo it would reach less than an hour from now.

 

The youngins’ were gleefully skipping around between rain drops, adults gabbing between sips of Starbucks, pooches wistfully watching the proceedings with their moms and pops. The kiddies were shielded by their mini-umbrellas and/or rain slickers, but didn’t mind getting wet either.

Many were clad in an assortment of red, white and blue colored-clothing to celebrate the occasion – America’s colors – including this reporter who broke out his brand new red Puma baseball cap, like-colored bright red sneakers, red shirt, and blue pants.

 

Umbrellas with the order of the day for those seated and standing along the curb on both sides of King Street; hundreds had assembled to say thank you to the war veterans, those who paid the ultimate price. It was Memorial Day, and our annual tribute in this tony Westchester town was near. Dave nervously took a selfie to occupy time as the big moment neared.

The noise level reached a fever pitch as the two law enforcement officers on motorcycles sped down the hill. And away we go!

Their ensembles carrying the American and State flags, Chappaqua Memorial Day Parade organizer and Grand Marshall Jim McCauley led esteemed Chappaqua residents former President Bill Clinton and almost-President Hilary Clinton, who were joined by Governor Andrew Cuomo, and the parade was off to a rousing start. The distinguished Mr. McCauley just happens to be the father of one of my top-notch former NYU students Mike McCauley, who was on hand with his two sons. But we failed to connect because of the sizeable crowd, and they were also dodging rain drops. Next time for sure.


Then came the Chappaqua Library representatives carrying their banner, and Fran and Leslie roared with approval (they spend more time at the Library than they do at home).

 

The bagpipes blared, and led the way for the Vietnam war jeep. We missed Michael Greene who was a regular in this parade, until he and bride Lori moved to Aiken (I ain’t fakin’) South Carolina. The Green Monster was with us in spirit, and maybe one year soon he will come back to march.

 

Revolutionary soldiers resplendent in authentic outfits including three-pointed hats took us back in time, and then startled the masses with a very loud 21-gun salute; the canines by the way didn’t particularly care for the noisy gunfire. Perhaps that should be eliminated from the agenda next time.

 

My two favorite participating marching groups annually are the Girl Scouts and the horn-playing, drum-banging band members, and they did not disappoint. The little misses celebrating the 80th year of “Where Girls Grow Strong Since 1937″) frolicked and waved to the crowd as they enjoyed their moment in the sun, er, rain. Then came the future scholarship musicians playing the full array of wind instruments from horns and trumpets to trombones and euphoniums to tubas, flutes, recorders, oboes, clarinets, saxophones and bassoons. (Did I leave any out? Sorry, if I did.)

 

All of these youngsters made one feel great about the future of this country. Plus, they belied the myth that one can’t walk and chew gum at the same time as they deftly performed on the instruments while negotiating the curves of King Street. 

 

Chappaqua native Rich Rose, relocated in Boynton Beach, Florida, would marvel at the horn-players, as he was one himself decades ago, marching near his family’s dry cleaning business.

 

Who let the dogs out? Their moms and pops did, and the pooches, get a bark out from this reporter as they help to make Memorial Day one to remember.

 

By name Oliver was on hand; Thor was in attendance and was particularly risky; Maxwell was a proud participant, as many others whose names had slipped through the mind’s crevices on this chilly morning in Chappaqua.

 

But it was warm because of the reason why were all there. To say thank you to the service men and women who protect this country every day.

 

Public relations executive and blogger John Cirillo is a native of Brooklyn, New York, but his adopted home for nearly three decades is Chappaqua, where he resides with his wife Fran. A former public relations vice president for the New York Knicks and Madison Square Garden, Mr. Cirillo has operated the sports and culinary public relations firm Cirillo World for the past 20 years.  He is also an adjunct professor at Fordham University and New York University. 

Follow John on Twitter @JohnnySportsman

 

 

Excitement Builds for Chappaqua’s 2017 Memorial Day Parade: A Preview

by

By Justin Ellick

At a prior Victory Corners Ceremony which immediately preceeds the town’s Memorial Day parade: Town of New Castle Grand Marshal Jim McCauley, with Temple Beth El’s Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe, girls and Girl Scouts participating

Memorial Day weekend is commonly looked at as the official kick-off of summer. Things are no different in Chappaqua, as families across the township are already in the throes of another fun and activity-filled weekend.

But there is a uniqueness when it comes to Memorial Day weekend in New Castle as opposed to anywhere else. There is a distinct excitement we all feel about living in a community that holds an annual world class parade that in recent years has attracted key public officials like Governor Andrew Cuomo, State Assemblyman David Buchwald, County Legislator Mike Kaplowitz, and, of course, Chappaqua’s most famous couple, Bill and Hillary Clinton.

Whatever the year or the turnout, the meaning of Memorial Day and why we celebrate it is always first and foremost in the hearts and minds of New Castle residents on this special weekend.

“Memorial Day is a day to pay tribute to all the military men and women who have died fighting for our freedom,” said New Castle Town Supervisor Rob Greenstein of the festivities.

“Those who gave their lives represent all different races, religions and backgrounds. Let’s honor and remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice fighting four our founding principles and use the opportunity to promote diversity, inclusion and love,” continued Greenstein. “I encourage all members of the community to bring signs that symbolize the diversity, inclusion and quest for peace that those soldiers America lost had fought so valiantly to preserve. And, because we will have our armed forces and veterans joining us, let’s show our honored guests what we stand for.”

The parade will commence at 10:30 a.m. on the corner of Bedford Road and King Street for the “Victory Corners” Ceremony, in which the Grand Marshal will call the parade to attention. At this moment the march will start, as the parade will move off Ridgewood Terrace and down into the heart of Chappaqua, eventually coming to a stop at the Chappaqua Train station at around 11:30 a.m. This is where the “Memorial Plaza” Ceremony will be held, in which the Marshal will again bring the parade to attention for Invocation, as well as for various recognitions, readings, speakers, performers, and eventually the dismissal of the parade entirely.

The line of March will consist of the middle and high school bands, town board members, youth sports organizations, volunteer groups, and of course the veterans we’re meant to honor, among other participants as well. Many attendees and visitors to town will also be on the lookout for Chappaqua’s celebrated neighbors, “the Clintons,” and perhaps in particular for 2016 Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton.

Hillary Clinton & Gov. Cuomo at the 2012 Memorial Day Parade in Chappaqua Photo Credit: Grace Bennett/Inside Press 

It’s not confirmed whether  Clinton, who is a resident of Chappaqua, will indeed make an appearance this year at the parade, but the fact that she hasn’t missed it in 11 years gives some hope to her followers in the area that might be trying to catch a glimpse of the former Secretary of State.  Regardless of who is marching, Monday promises to be a special day here in Chappaqua, as we celebrate the beginning of summer and the lives of those who paid the ultimate price so we can enjoy it in peace and freedom.

Greeley grad Justin Ellick, who has completed a junior year majoring in Media and Communications Major at Ursinus College in Philadelphia, joins Inside Chappaqua and Inside Armonk Magazines for a second internship this summer.

 

 

Nine Ways Chappaqua Might Change as a Two-President Town

by

After casting their vote at Grafflin during New York’s primary day in April. Grace Bennett Photo
After casting their vote at Grafflin during New York’s primary day in April. Grace Bennett Photo

The excitement in Chappaqua has been building for months ever since one of our most famous residents, Hillary Rodham Clinton, announced her candidacy for President. No matter how you cast your vote this November, it is undeniable that our small town’s larger than life profile throughout the U.S. and beyond will simply continue to expand. Although it is impossible to predict the election’s exact impact on our town, here are an array of predictions of what may be in store should Chappaqua become a two-president town:

1. An even higher profile for our town–as if that were even possible. “The Clintons helped put Chappaqua on the national map when they moved here in 1999,“ said State Assemblyman David Buchwald (D-Mount Kisco), and a member of Hillary for New York Leadership Council. Echoing Assemblyman Buchwald’s sentiments, Grace Bennett, publisher/editor of Inside Chappaqua noted that “in truth, Chappaqua has been on the world stage for many years now; I’ve tried to convey a sense of their influence here since launching Inside Chappaqua in 2003, shortly after the Clintons arrived. The powerful presence of this world famous couple has become part and parcel of our town’s identity, and I think that phenomenon will only be enhanced and solidified if Hillary Clinton becomes the nation’s first woman president.”

2. Cultivating a culture of concerned citizens in Chappaqua across all generations. Hometown advocacy groups for Hillary were established even prior to her official announcement to run for President. These Hillary supporters from groups such as Chappaqua Friends of Hill (and Tim) have local members that span across all age groups and are involved in activities such as canvassing and voter registration near and far. Many of these supporters have never been involved before in political advocacy but felt inspired by her. Chappaqua 4 Clinton/Kaine NOW offers a steady stream of campaign news on Facebook and Twitter.

3. Increased media presence. Last month, when Hillary Clinton abruptly left a September 11th ceremony, it was later announced that she had pneumonia. For several days, several TV crews were camped outside Walgreen’s on King Street and her Old House Lane residence hoping to catch a glimpse of her.  There’s no doubt the media will be back in town on Election Day to secure footage of her and former President Bill Clinton voting at their polling place, Grafflin Elementary School. The good news is that most likely the media presence will be short-lived and will only be palpable when she is in town.

4. Enhanced notice of our downtown merchants. There’s a definite “up side” to all the media exposure. “Seeing Chappaqua’s store fronts on a national TV newscast or in a top daily newspaper is not only thrilling for all of us who live and work here, but it serves as a very effective means for promoting our town and its businesses,” noted Dawn Dankner Rosen, president of the Chappaqua-Millwood Chamber of Commerce.

“I can say that this continuous media interest and focus on the Clintons in our town’s shops and restaurants couldn’t be better for our branding and for creating awareness of Chappaqua as a destination town for shopping and dining. These  opportunities for national (and global!) exposure can only increase exponentially once we become–historically and uniquely–home to two U.S. Presidents! That’s an extremely special identification for any town/community to have!”

5. Warm welcomes from the community when they are back at home. “When Hillary becomes president, I’m sure the duties of her office will keep her in Washington and abroad even more than before. And when the Clintons find themselves back in Chappaqua, they will be warmly welcomed, as they are now,” said Robert Greenstein, Town Supervisor.

Gray Williams the town historian agreed, noting that “the Presidency is an ephemeral thing” lasting eight years at most and that the couple’s White House duties will keep them traveling a lot.

But there’s little doubt that the Clintons will continue to visit and keep annual traditions such as marching in the town’s Memorial Day parade or shopping in town.  “Since moving here both Bill and Hillary Clinton have been wonderful, loyal supporters of our business community and frequent shoppers and diners in town,” added Dankner Rosen. “No matter how many sightings or selfies we’ve all taken, their unexpected shopping trips are always met with unprecedented enthusiasm and excitement throughout the community.”

With Varda Singer, owner, ICD Contemporary Jewelry, during an impromptu party at Crabtree’s Kittle House to celebrate Hillary Clinton’s historic nomination.
With Varda Singer, owner, ICD Contemporary Jewelry, during an impromptu party at Crabtree’s Kittle House to celebrate Hillary Clinton’s historic nomination.

6. Occasional traffic issues/road closures. When Bill Clinton was President, he occasionally used the Westchester Airport. As a security measure, the roads were closed so that his motorcade could pass through.   Chief Ferry of the New Castle Police noted hat the department would help with “traffic flow” and residents can expect that from time to time Hillary may also use the airport.

The police department has put additional funding in the budget for additional officers for next year to help assist with this and Ferry noted that when Bill was President much of this funding was actually reimbursed by the Federal Government. Additionally the police department recently changed Old House Lane and neighboring Green Lane to “local traffic only” streets as a security precaution.

7. A huge impression on our younger residents. The cover story essays in this very edition offer a sense of how Hillary’s “first woman nominee” status has impacted the imagination of younger residents, especially girls,” noted Bennett. “Her influences on all our childrens’ futures is absolutely phenomenal to consider, too. You can never underestimate the ripple effects of a broken glass ceiling!

The Clintons have helped build awareness about national and international issues right in our backyard, among young and old alike. Hillary, in her campaign, is inspiring activism both on her behalf and on a multitude of issues. We might otherwise just be a sleepy suburb in northern Westchester!”

8. A sense of permanence. The recent purchase of the house next door to the Clinton’s current property is ample evidence of a commitment to Chappaqua from the Clintons for the foreseeable future.

News outlets have already speculated that the property will be used as a weekend retreat by Chelsea Clinton and her family.

Memorial Day Parade 2015, Grace Bennett Photo
Memorial Day Parade 2015
Grace Bennett Photo

9. Creating a legacy in our town for years to come. Williams noted that Chappaqua may well be the only town in the US that boasts two Presidents and a third Presidential candidate (Greeley).  Although it is impossible to tell if the Clinton’s home will one day be a museum or if a statue of Hillary will be erected in downtown, “the bottom line for me is that, every bit as much as Horace Greeley became the signature historical hero of our town, I believe the Clintons are forever part of our past, present and future folklore, too. And in the best possible way, summed up Bennett.

Commenting on the possibility of a statue of Hillary, Director of the Chappaqua Library Pamela Thornton said, “I don’t think they  [The Clintons] are the kind who want a statue. I think they’d rather see a community center or teen center named after them as their legacy.”

Williams agreed stating with a chuckle, “I don’t expect a ten-foot statue of Hillary.  I’m not sure exactly where we’d put it.”

Stacey Pfeffer lives with her husband and three young children in Chappaqua. She has written for New York Family Magazine, Kveller.com, Westchester Parents and Inside Armonk.

Chappaqua’s 2016 Memorial Day Parade Honors Vets

by

In a record turnout at Chappaqua’s 2016 Memorial Day Parade: Veterans, First Responders, Marchers, and esteemed parade attendees including the Clintons and Governor Cuomo…first and foremost, honored our vets.

By Justin Ellick
Photos by Grace Bennett

5th New York Regiment--Revolutionary War Squad at the Closing Ceremony at Memorial Plaza
5th New York Regiment–Revolutionary War Squad at the Closing Ceremony at Memorial Plaza

Chappaqua, NY—Residents and visitors to town gathered with great anticipation along King Street and Greeley Avenue on Monday for the annual Memorial Day Parade in Chappaqua. A bit of rain was in the forecast, so some attendees were worried that the parade might be cancelled, but the clouds opened up just in time for the start of the festivities. After an the official ‘it’s on,’ from Town Supervisor Robert Greenstein, all systems were GO!

The Victory Corners Ceremony kicked off the parade at around 10:45 a.m. from the corner of Ridgewood Terrace and Bedford Road, with the Marshal calling the attendees to attention followed by the Reverend Dr. Larry Holland’s opening prayer. The Presentation of Wreath was next, as Holly Hulme and Charlotte LePage of Girl Scout Troop 2576 came to the podium. The ceremony closed with the playing of “Taps” by the Horace Greeley High School Bugler, along with one final appearance by Reverend Holland for the closing prayer.

Parade Marshal: Captain James McCauley, Jr. with Holly Hulme and Charlotte LePage of Chappaqua Girl Scout Troop 2576 and members of the Horace Greeley High School Bugler
Parade Marshal: Captain James McCauley, Jr. with Holly Hulme and Charlotte LePage of Chappaqua Girl Scout Troop 2576 and members of the Horace Greeley High School Bugler

Following the closing of the Victory Corners ceremony, the line of March was set and ready to begin its trek down King Street and into the heart of Chappaqua. The question of whether or not the Clintons would be in attendance had been answered earlier when the Clintons emerged from their limousine for their traditional meet up with the town board and greeting of avid fans and long time supporters, all pre March, so as not to upset the parade schedule. The Secret Service and New Castle Police Officers directed the parade past the Chappaqua Fire Department and onto King Street, with former President Clinton–former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton-Governor Andrew Cuomo, and State Assemblyman David Buchwald, Town Supervisor Robert Greenstein and members of the Town Board strolling close behind.

Hillary Clinton with (L-R) Town Supervisor Robert Greenstein and Town Board Members Lisa Spivak Katz, Adam Brodsky, Jeremy Saland and Hala Makowska
Hillary Clinton with (L-R) Town Supervisor Robert Greenstein and Town Board Members Lisa Spivak Katz, Adam Brodsky, Jeremy Saland and Hala Makowska

best walking shot

The parade moved through the middle of town to the delight of everyone along the way, with Iphones and cameras ready to support the marchers in every category, whether they were Brownie Troops, our First Responders, or the Clintons, all along the route leading to the Chappaqua Train Station, its final stop.

The Governor and Hillary Clinton take a moment to admire Assemblyman David Buchwald's 14-month old daughter.
The Governor and Hillary Clinton take a moment to admire Assemblyman David Buchwald’s 14-month old daughter.

Captain James P. McCauley Jr., a Vietnam veteran, called the parade to attention for the Memorial Plaza Ceremony. Right around noon, the sizeable crowd, still well into the hundreds or more gathered around the Memorial at the Chappaqua train station, where a small podium was set up, along with a few chairs for the parade’s esteemed guests and veterans. Invocation would follow with the help of Reverend Dr. Martha Jacobs from the First Congregational Church, and Rabbi Jonathan Jaffe, along with the recognition or local Iraqi, Afghanistan campaign veterans and Gold Star Mothers.

The students of Horace Greeley High School took to the podium next, as they flawlessly performed the “Star Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful,” with the crowd singing along to the anthems. Three readings followed the songs, each of which an oral history of a New Castle veteran who had passed. Kaitlyn Zezzee, granddaughter of Korean War veteran and Silver Star recipient Francis M. Murphy, recited the first reading regarding her grandfather.

Kaitlyn Zezzee
Kaitlyn Zezzee
Meaghan Townsend holding a picture of Francis M. Murphy, Korean War Veteran, Silver Star Recipient. Meaghan, of Girl Scout Troop 1023, also read an oral history of Robert L. Sheddon, WWII Veteran.
Meaghan Townsend holding a picture of Francis M. Murphy, Korean War Veteran, Silver Star Recipient. Meaghan, of Girl Scout Troop 1023, also read an oral history of Robert L. Sheddon, WWII Veteran.

“Frank’s lessons on courage, confidence, and compassion still resonate with us to this day”, read Zezzee. “A brave soldier until his final days, he was a shining example of a proud and true American.” Francis passed away on January 6th, 2012.

Meaghan Townsend, from Girl Scout Troop 1023, did the second reading on World War II veteran Robert L. Sheddon. “Robert received the Purple Heart and Air Medal for his service”, recited Townsend. “And yet, as richly deserved as these honors are, they cannot fully do him justice.” Robert died on January 22nd, 1943.

Finally, Max Auerbacher, from Boy Scout Troop 2, read the last Oral History. This third and final reading was in honor of World War II Veteran Andre Whelan. “His Commanding Officer said Andy had been a very good soldier, and had the respect and friendship of all the men under him”, recited Auerbacher. “Andre Whelan was awarded the Purple Heart for his service, and his name is listed on the New Castle Veterans Memorial here at the Chappaqua Train Station.

Max Auerbacher, Boy Scout Troop 2, reading an Oral History of WW II Veteran Andre Whelan
Max Auerbacher, Boy Scout Troop 2, reading an Oral History of WW II Veteran Andre Whelan

Kevin Moore and the Kerry Pipers followed the readings with their rendition of “Amazing Grace,” which acted as an opening for the traditional Honor Roll of names that were added to the Memorial at the train station.

To conclude the festivities, Holly Hulme and Charlotte LePage reconvened for one final Presentation of Wreath and the 5th New York Regiment—Revolutionary War Squad, executed the Musket Volley. It was at this point, after one final rendition of “Taps”, that the Marshal brought the parade back to attention to conclude the ceremony. This marked the end of what was another wildly successful and fun Memorial Day Parade here in Chappaqua. Revolutionary

Greeley grad Justin Ellick, a sophomore Media and Communications Major at Ursinus College in Philadelphia, is an intern for Inside Chappaqua and Inside Armonk Magazines this summer.

Remembering and 
Honoring Soldiers: 
A Special Memorial Day Celebration

by

Eagle Scouts flanked by veterans at the American Legion Memorial Day Ceremony
Eagle Scouts flanked by veterans at the American Legion Memorial Day Ceremony

By Miriam Longobardi • Photos by Sam Morell

To many people Memorial Day means a long weekend, family barbeques and spending time with friends. American flags are put up all throughout town as well as on the graves of over two hundred soldiers buried in North Castle. Maintaining the flags at the graves is a tradition that dates back to the Revolutionary War. Still, over the years fewer people are taking the time to actually reflect on the true meaning of the holiday.

American Legion Post 1097 in Armonk has a Memorial Day Ceremony each year at their site next to the police station and it is open to the public. Veteran Tony Cicia shared that this event used to draw thousands of people, but the crowd has grown considerably smaller over the years–down to approximately one hundred fifty people–and this concerns him. “The trouble is, the world forgets,” he said.

The Memorial Day Ceremony includes many town groups, such as the Elks Club, Eagle Scouts and the Civil Air Patrol as the color guard. The Byram Hills band plays patriotic music and veterans are honored. Representatives from the State Assembly, the State Senate and the State Legislature attend, as well as North Castle Town Supervisor Michael Schiliro. Supervisor Schiliro said, “North Castle tradition is to celebrate Memorial Day on May 30th, the actual Memorial Day versus the Monday observance. 
I look forward to the ceremony at the American Legion each year. At the end of the ceremony I always enjoy a hot dog and a cold drink.” Each year the names of memorialized solders are read, wreaths are laid on the veterans memorials at the Legion, and there is a guest speaker.

Last year, 93 year-old Marine Colonel Alfred Ciafli, a World War II veteran and survivor of the Battle of Iwo Jima, among others, was the guest speaker. His candid accounts of what it was actually like to serve there, the horrors of death and the arduous conditions under which he fought, kept the audience in mesmerized silence. “Many people in the audience were moved to tears as he spoke,” said Cicia.

The American Flag and the North Castle Eagle, symbols of the majestic beauty and great strength of our nation.
The American Flag and the North Castle Eagle, symbols of the majestic beauty and great strength of our nation.

In addition to the many people and groups involved in the ceremony, some other very special guests are in attendance–veterans from Montrose Veterans Hospital arrive by bus to attend this event. This year, the Elks Club is teaming up with the American Legion because they, too, are closely involved in working with veterans.

Elks Club president Ed Flynn said, “We had a similar ceremony planned and we were inviting the veterans from Montrose also and then we decided to team up with the Legion and merge ceremonies.” The Elks have a long-standing relationship with the veterans, visiting as often as possible. The Elks go up to Montrose for barbeques or pizza parties during the summer, have a holiday party each year where members donate and buy gifts for them, or just to visit throughout the year. “We never want to forget all that they did and we want to honor them,” Flynn added. Elks members have the opportunity to donate to the veterans as part of their annual dues, and a lot of money is raised for them each year from dues alone.

Including the veterans from Montrose Hospital at the Memorial Day Celebration is a tradition that has grown, and this year two bus loads will come, bringing about 75 people. The ceremony at the American Legion is open to the public and held in the front yard of their building in a large open area covered for shelter. Out back, barbeque food and drinks are available for anyone that comes. Following the public ceremony, the visiting veterans are taken inside and served a hot meal. “They love to get out and take part in this special day,” Flynn pointed out. He said working with the patients from Montrose has been a great opportunity to get to know veterans of all ages and histories ranging from World War II to the Korean War, and from the Vietnam War to the Gulf War. Hearing their stories and visiting with them shows that their efforts have neither been in vain nor forgotten.

This year’s ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 30th at 11 a.m. at the American Legion Post 1097, 35 Bedford Road, Armonk. Again, this ceremony is open to the public and refreshments are served. When people hear actual accounts from the mouth of someone who fought, it brings a greater appreciation for all our country’s soldiers, especially the ones who gave their lives in service to our country. As Tony Cicia said, “The most important thing is remembering the dead and why they died.” Please take some time to stop by and remember those who gave their lives and honor 
other veterans.

Miriam Longobardi is a freelance writer, fourth grade teacher and single mother of two daughters living in Westchester. 
A breast cancer survivor, she volunteers for the American Cancer Society and has completed four marathons and travels the world. Follow her on Twitter@writerMimiLong.