News

On Saturday, May 18, ArtsWestchester invites families and children of all ages to participate in a free day of fun. Guests will partake in a variety of hands-on activities and artist-led workshops outside and inside of our historic landmark building located at 31 Mamaroneck Avenue in downtown White Plains.  Activities include hat decorating, LEGO workshop, visual arts workshops and cookie decorating.  The event takes place on May 18 from 12-5pm. For information, visit: www.artsw.org/familyartsbash.  Among the day’s activities is a fun family activity we’ve entitled “Puzzlemania.” During this interactive game, children will win prizes by touring the resident artist studios throughout ArtsWestchester’s nine-floor building while collecting puzzle pieces to put together their very own puzzle magnet. In the process, they’ll meet the artists and see work in progress as painters, sculptors and fashion designers create and showcase their masterpieces.  Families will also be able to explore ArtsWestchester’s thought-provoking Placemaking: Re-envisioning White Plains exhibition in the building’s main gallery, featuring 26 local artists’ creative concepts for enlivening downtown White Plains. Children can let their imaginations go wild while they imagine how they would enrich the area with their own artwork. The works in this exhibition represent familiar places in White Plains and re-imagine them in an animated, colorful and meaningful way that will engage children of all ages and their parents. A City Mural workshop allows children to do just that, as they contribute to the growing outdoor “wall mural” throughout the day.  Among the many activities available will be a sneak peek at ArtsWestchester’s upcoming Summer Classes semester. Children can participate in a one-time workshop with our teachers to experience what these classes will offer in the coming months. An exclusive 10% discount is being extended to those students who sign up for classes during the Family ArtsBash event. Clay Art Center will be demonstrating how fun it can be to get our hands a little dirty when creativity runs abound, while acclaimed artist Alan Reingold will showcase his drawing skills by assisting children in Japanese anime-inspired illustrations. For more information on Summer Classes, visit: www.artsw.org/classes.  Adding to the fun, children can let their imaginations go wild at a Collage Workshop, enjoy a lively one-man-band performer, and wear their art by visiting the face painting table. Families will enjoy sweet treats like Cinnabon and ice cream, receive giveaways and win prizes throughout the event.  For more information about Family ArtsBash visit www.artswestchester.org.

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Join Us for a Family Hike of Old Field Preserve in Lewisboro on Sunday, May 19th — followed by a Picnic!  The Lewisboro Land Trust is pleased to announce “Walking Wild Lewisboro,” a series of guided hikes. The first hike will be “The Wildflowers of May” and will be led by naturalist Jim Nordgren. Come enjoy the “new meadow” and blooming wild dogwoods.  Arrive at noon at Old Field Preserve in Waccabuc, at the intersection of Mead Street and Schoolhouse Road, right off Route 35, on Sunday, May 19th for a one-hour hike. A picnic will follow at The Homestead, Jim and Susan Henry’s property at Mead Street and Schoolhouse Road. Bring your own picnic blanket and lunch. LLT will provide beverages and cookies. The hike is rated easy and children are welcome. RSVP to bronalea@aol.com.

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Celebrate the giving of the Torah.
Wednesday, May 15, 5pm.
Shavuot Dairy Dinner and Ice-Cream Party.
All children called up to hear the Ten-Commandments from the Torah.
Chabad of Bedford, 133 Railroad Avenue, Bedford Hills, NY 10507, 914-666-6065
Find out more — click here

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The Katonah Art Center is announcing its new Renaissance Enrichment Program for Kindergarteners and Preschoolers.  This program will give children both an extensive introduction to all different types of art and immerse them in a bilingual environment, where they will learn Spanish.  Every day, the Renaissance program will have a mix of story-time, art, dance/movement, and music.  Spanish will be incorporated into all of these activities.  The classes will be led Patti Hupp, the lead singer in the Feeling Groovy Band and founder of Miss Patti’s ArtSmart and ArtSmart TV.  The program will follow the Katonah-Lewisboro school schedule, including school closings and weather delays.  The Renaissance Enrichment Program will begin Sept 9th and end June 26th.  Transportation options are available from local schools.  The Katonah Art Center is located at 131 Bedford Road, Katonah, New York.  For more information about the Renaissance Enrichment Program or Katonah Art Center’s dance or art classes, call 914 232-4843 or visit the KAC website atwww.katonahartcenter.com.

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“Downton Chappy – Costumes of the Downton Abbey Era” Opening Reception.  Sunday, May 19 from 4:00-7:00 pm.  Please join us for a reception with light refreshments, celebrating the opening of our new exhibit:  “Downton Chappy – Costumes of the Downton Abbey Era” at the New Castle Historical Society located at 100 King Street, Chappaqua, New York.  The event is free and open to the public.  The exhibit will be on view through 2013.  The Downton Chappy – Costumes of the Downton Abbey Era exhibit feature costumes from the Society’s extensive costume collection and is based on the popular TV series, Downton Abbey.  Lady Grantham and her daughters always wear the latest elegant fashions of the 1920s and 30s.  The soft fabrics, lavish beading and embroidery on their dresses set the tone and the time of the story.  Happily, we have similar dresses in our own collection here in Chappaqua.  We have a stunning satin and lace wedding gown as well as dresses suitable for receiving guests at home or a night at the opera.  We also have a selection of beaded bags, long kid gloves, and hats.  One is a silver cap perfect to slip over a head of bobbed hair and dance the Charleston.  We are not featuring any clothes worn by the Dowager Countess Lady Grantham.  She, by her own choice, is always dressed at least one generation out of date.  Stop in for a special treat, and decide who had more style and more fun:  the blue bloods of Downton Abbey, or the red blooded ladies of Chappaqua.

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914 for 617 Boston Benefit Concert in White Plains, NY.  Asidesmusic.com presents an evening of indie, pop and alt-rock feature White Plains band Emily Angell & The MK47s and New York City bands Owel, Ionia, and Bearbones on Friday, June 14, 2013 at The Digital Arts Experience at 170 Hamilton Ave. in White Plains.  Doors 7 p.m. Show starts promptly at 7:30 p.m.  Proceeds will go toward the One Fund Boston, a fund that supports families of those impacted by the tragic events of April 15.  Tickets $15 via www.914for617.eventbrite.com. Email asidesmusic@gmail.com for more information.

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The Byram Hills Education Foundation (BHEF) announced that its 2013 Gala, “The Future is NOW,” will be held on Friday, May 31, 2013, from 7:00-11:00 pm at Brynwood Golf & Country Club in Armonk, NY.  This year’s Gala, which is the Foundation’s primary fundraiser, promises to be a wonderful evening to benefit the children and schools in Byram Hills.  Attendees will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, dinner, music, as well as a performance by the Byram Hills Jazz Ensemble.  The evening will also include a raffle for diamond hoop earrings, as well as silent and live auctions. This year the auction features a new interactive bidding system that enables guests to place bids via smart phones and other devices.  “We are very excited about this year’s Gala which brings together the entire community to show its support for education and our outstanding Byram Hills public school system.”  said Michael Sanders, BHEF Chairman.  Gala tickets are $200.00 per person, or host a teacher for $95, and may be purchased online at www.byramhillsfoundation.org. Raffle tickets may also be purchased online.  The Byram Hills Education Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation that provides support to the teachers and school administrators to introduce innovative programs, equipment and technologies beyond what is covered by the school district’s annual operating budget. Since its inception in 1994, the Foundation has awarded 300 grants totaling more than $3.3 million. More information about the Foundation is available at www.byramhillsfoundation.org.

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Westchester Land Trust invites you to It’s Our Nature: Now and Forever Annual Benefit.  Celebrating 25 years of environmental conservation in our communities.  Saturday, June 15, 2013.  Maple Grove Farm, 20 Black Brook Road, Bedford, New York.  6:00 Cocktails & Silent Auction, 7:45 Live Auction, 8:00 Dinner & Award Presentation.  Dancing to “New York Players” band, Exciting live auction, Eric Nathan, auctioneer, Nathan Auction & Real Estate.  Kindly respond by June 3.  Casual party attire, high heels not recommended.  To purchase Tables, Tickets and Journal Tributes, click here or visit www.westchesterlandturst.org.

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Head over to the Bronx River Parkway as Bicycle Sundays gets underway on the parkway near the Westchester County Center in White Plains.  Bicycle Sundays 2013 are May 5, 12 and 19; June 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30; and September 8, 15, 22 and 29.   During Bicycle Sundays, a portion of the Bronx River Parkway is closed to cars for the exclusive use of bicyclists, joggers, walkers, scooters and strollers. The course runs from the Westchester County Center in
White Plains, south to Scarsdale Road in Yonkers, a round-trip of 13.1 miles. There are many points of entry and exit along the way.  Please note: due to construction on the parkway this year, only one lane will be open in each direction in the vicinity of Crane Road in Scarsdale.  Parking is available at the County Center lot in White Plains for a fee of $5.  In case of rain, the program will be cancelled.  Go to www.countycenter.biz or call (914) 995-4050.

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Sunday, June 2, 11:30 am – 3:00 pm, Osborn Elementary School.  Rain or Shine.  Fun for the whole family!
Gear up and buy your tickets now!  Pre-buy tickets online at www.ryelibrary.org for $30 per family (PLUS get two raffle tickets!)  Tickets at the gate for $35 per family (Food not included in ticket price).   Exciting vehicles to climb, ride, and explore.  Lots of rides, games, and inflatables including Gamin’ Ride, Dump Truck Toss, Bouncy House, Victory Lap Slide, All Aboard Train, Fire Truck Ride, Tiny Tikes, Face Painting, and lots more.  Entertainment by DJ Anthony Radice.  Raffle with great prizes for children and adults.  Food provided by Post Road Market and Longford’s Ice Cream.  This event is sponsored by the Auxiiary Board of the Rye Free Reading Room.

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Come by and enjoy some treats while you make something special for Mom! (boys welcome!!)  This Saturday May 11th, 1:30 – 4pm in our Scotts Corners studio!  Find out more at www.LittleSparklers.com, littlesparklersct@hotmail.com, 40 Westchester Avenue, Pound Ridge ~  914.764.9100.

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A brand-new women’s 5K race/walk at the exquisite Lasdon Park in Katonah (N. Westchester) on Sunday, June 2.  We run on woodsy trails and garden paths, around the serene lake, and through the bluebird fields.  Our theme is “Women for Girls” – proceeds go to support girls’ education both locally and globally.  Go to www.therunninggoddess.com – a race and website celebrating women.

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Tuesday, May 21st, 7am to 9pm at your local elementary school.  Support our schools!  Many households have more than one eligible voter – parents, high school seniors, college-age students, grandparents!  You can still register to vote through May 16th.  The polls are open for 14 hours on May 21st and absentee ballots are easy to get from the school, the central office, or the school district web site through May 14th (if you want it mailed) or through May 20th (for voter to pick up in person).  VOTE!

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Join us for the Grand Opening of the Carriage Barn Education and Visitor Center.  Sunday, May 19, 2013, 11am to 4pm.  Free admission and activities:  revolutionary war reenactors, colonial games, scavenger hunts, site-wide discovery centers, crafts, milk a mechanical cow, museum tours and more.  Learn more at www.johnjayhomestead.org.  John Jay Homestead, 400 Jay Street/Route 22, Katonah.

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Think it’s tough getting dinner on the table?  Try it without a table.  Hundreds of families, right here in Westchester, cannot afford even the most basic furniture — a bed to sleep on, a table to share a meal.  Furniture Sharehouse provides families in need with free furniture to help rebuild their lives.  So this Mother’s Day, instead of giving flowers, give a mom a table to put them on.  Donate to honor a mother you love at www.furnituresharehouse.org.

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Sunday, May 12th, 9:00am-11:00am.  Bring (or send) mom for a morning of bird watching on the trails of Westmoreland Sanctuary.  Bird species abound at this time of year.  We’ll start the morning with bagels, coffee, and juice before heading out onto the trail.  Bring binoculars.  All ages welcome.  RSVP by May 11. $5pp non-members.  Westmoreland Sanctuary, Inc., 260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Bedford Corners, New York 10549, www.WestmorelandSanctuary.org.

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June Second Sunday Family Program at Greenwich Historical Society.  The current exhibition From Italy to America at the Greenwich Historical Society is filled with important family memories and treasures. Share your own family memories by creating representations of them and preserving the results in a Mason jar. All craft materials will be supplied by the Historical Society, but you are also welcome to bring personal items such as copies of photos, trinkets, souvenirs, clippings and other memorabilia to contribute to your project. Drop in any time between 12:30 and 3:30 pm. The program is free with admission to the exhibition.   Sunday, June 9, 2013.  Drop in 12:30 to 3:30 pm.  Greenwich Historical Society, Storehouse Gallery, 39 Strickland Road, Cos Cob, CT 06807, 203-869-6899, Ext. 10, www.greenwichhistory.org.

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A family fundraiser, Sunday, April 21, 2013, Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.  Meet Belle, Spiderman, Snow White, Captain Hook and Superman!  The Castle at Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club, 555 South Barry Avenue, Mamaroneck.  Two bouncy houses, princess, pirate and superhero crafts, hair styling, make up artist, pictures with characters, full lunch for children and adults.  All proceeds from this FUNdraiser will go to support the ECP Scholarship Fund, Community Garden Project, Lending Library and Family Programming.  To buy tickets, contact Nan Blank, Early Childhood Director at 914.949.4717, ext 107.  Visit www.nykolami.org.

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Join the YWCA to take a stand against racism — Eliminating Racism & Celebrating the Richness of Diversity.  Join the YWCA as we take a Stand Against Racism. The event takes place on Thursday, April 25, 2013 from 8:30am – 10:30am at the Jay Heritage Center, 210 Boston Post Road, Rye, NY 10580. This event will feature a diverse panel of community leaders who will address the root causes of racism in an effort to encourage conversations across all cultures in Westchester County.   Panelists include: Rosa Boone, Deputy Commissioner, Westchester County Department of Social Services; Mark Fang, Executive Director, Westchester County Human Rights Commission; Millie Jasper, Executive Director, Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center; and Dr. Iris T. Pagan, Executive Director, Westchester County Youth Bureau. The Moderator is Julia Nesbitt, PHR, Director of Human Resources and Racial Justice Initiatives, YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester.   The Stand Against Racism™ is a movement of the YWCA with the goal of bringing people together from all walks of life – to raise awareness that racism still exists. The methodology of the Stand Against Racism™ is to bring together like-minded people who wish to share in our vision of eliminating racism and celebrating the richness of diversity.  The Stand Against Racism event is free and open to the public. To RSVP, please email Julia Nesbitt at jnesbitt@ywcawpcw.org or call (914) 949-6227 x106. To learn more about the national initiative please visit www.StandAgainstRacism.org.

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Rippowam Cisqua School will hold their Spring Preview Day for parents of students in grades PreKindergarten – through four on Tuesday, April 23rd, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.  The open house will take place on the Lower Campus, located at 325 West Patent Road in Mount Kisco.  The program will include tours of the campus and remarks from current students, members of the faculty, and Head of School Matthew Nespole.  The open house has been timed intentionally to give interested parents an opportunity to see the School in full swing and meet and talk with students and faculty members.

Founded in 1917, Rippowam Cisqua School offers students a joyful learning environment and provides them with an exceptional education grounded in academics, athletics, and the arts.

Rippowam Cisqua School is a co-educational, independent country day school for students in PreKindergarten through Grade Nine with campuses in Bedford and Mount Kisco, New York.  For more information on the Spring Preview Day, please contact the Admissions Office at (914) 244-1205 or lori_adelsberg@rcsny.org.  For more information on the School’s mission, please visit www.rcsny.org.

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April 28, 8:30 am. We’ll have an 8:30 am early open for families to become familiar with the environment. Buy one, get one free: With every $12 adult ticket purchased, receive 1 child ticket free ($10 savings). Children under 3 are free. All Zoo staff have been trained by an Autism Speaks representative, and a quiet area will be available all day for your family’s convenience. Please pre-register here and check in at the Autism Speaks table outside the Zoo entrance to take part in this discount. Presented by Autism Speaks and Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo. Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo, 1875 Noble Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06610; 203-394-6565 www.beardsleyzoo.org

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Get behind the wheel of today’s most advanced Hybrid, Electric and Plug-in Hybrid cars — Get the complete picture about Electric Drive Vehicles, in one place, at one time — every Electric, Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid car available on the market in New York State.  Sunday, April 28, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm (rain or shine).  Grand Prix New York at the Park, 333 North Bedford Road, Mount Kisco, NY.

Ride/Drive or Talk with the Dealer: Tesla Model S, Nissan Leaf, BMW Active E, Chevy Volt, Malibu Eco, Toyota Prius, Prius v, Prius c, Prius Plug-in Hybrid, Honda Accord Plug-in, Civic, CR-Z, Insight, Lexus RX550H, CT200H, ES300H…and more! Owners’ Corner: Get the Inside Scoop — Talk to the owners of the Electric Drive vehicles.  Ask them the benefits and issues of each of the cars.  Learn How to Charge Your Electric Drive Car:  Discuss with the experts — charging in off-peak times, using solar power, See demonstrations of Charging Stations, Solar panels for garages, Talk with Solar Power Installers, Walk into the future and see how train stations, equipped with solar roof panels are perfect spot to charge your car.  Municipal Fleet Vehicles: Learn How to Save Money and Reduce Pollution. Check out what local towns are doing with electric drive vehicles — traffic enforcement electric cars, hybrid sanitation trucks, hybrid transit buses.  Find out how to analyze cost savings for your municipality over the lifetime of the vehicle.  Business Owners: find out how to save money with electric fleet vehicles.  Farmers/Landscapers/Horse riders: check out Electric pick-up trucks and other farm equipment. Students and Parents: Talk to the experts about how to build an Electric Car; check out the fuel and maintenance savings on electric drive vehicles.

Why Switch to Electric Drive Vehicles?  Because they save money, reduce pollution, increase energy independence, and create jobs.  Right now, dependence on oil threatens our nation’s economic, environmental and national security. And two-thirds of our total oil consumption is used just for transportation. If we electrified just half of cars and light trucks in America, we could reduce oil consumption by nearly 5 million barrels a day. We’d also improve human health and the environment. Cars and trucks in the United States emit about one million tons of CO2 every day.  Bedford 2020 Coalition, the sponsor of the Car Show, is a nonprofit committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preserving our natural resources and educating the community about actions they can take to achieve these goals.  For more information, go to www.bedford2020.org/carshow2013.

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Garden Talk – Tuesday, May 7, 2013 – 10:00 am,  Horace Greeley House, 100 King Street, Chappaqua.   Are you all set to awaken the garden?  Is there a dream for something bold and different?  A new vegetable plot or perennial bed or perhaps a revamp of an existing garden?   Whatever it might be, now is the time to get started.  Personalize your garden!  Let’s talk about the what and the how of making this the best gardening year yet.  Come and meet Chappaqua’s Shobha Vanchiswar, garden columnist, award-winning garden designer, poet, artist and scientist.  Shobha will give you all the information you need to get your garden in tip top shape!  She is also a gardening blogger and hosts her own gardening website www.seedsofdesign.com.   Now that Spring has sprung, let’s get gardening!

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Saturday June 1, 2013.  Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester’s 3rd Annual Celebration of Life – Butterfly Release (Morning) 10:30am to 12pm or (Afternoon) from 1:30 to 3:00om.  Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester (HPCW) invites you to celebrate life and commemorate loved ones with a special butterfly release on Saturday June 1, 2013, with a morning release taking place from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. This is a rain or shine event taking place at The Rye Nature Center. Members of the community are invited to purchase butterflies in memory of their loved ones and attend the event.  Butterflies must be ordered in advance by May 15th at $20 each. Butterflies will not be available for purchase on the day of the event. Space is limited and reservations are required.   RSVP by May 15, 2013 For further information, please contact HPCW at 914-682-1484 ext. 118 visit:  www.hospiceofwestchester.com.

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Sunday May 5th 3:00pm FREE.  Celebrate and honor our animal friends for the love and companionship they have given us.  Please bring your pets: dogs, cats, horses or other dear animal friends to share a blessing by a group of clergy (of various faiths) to celebrate life in the beautiful serenity of the Japanese Stroll Garden.  914-669-5033, www.hammondmuseum.org.  Hammond Museum, 28 Deveau Rd., North Salem,NY 10560.

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A FEEL-GOOD WAY TO DO GOOD!   It’s finally spring and time to lace up your family’s sneakers — and head outside.
Great cause to do it for: The Mental Health Association of Westchester’s MHA on the move 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Kids’ Race. This year, it’s on Sunday, May 5 from 8am to noon at FDR State Park in Westchester County, NY.
The Run/Walk is an inspiring, community-wide event in support of a cause we all appreciate the importance of–mental health and wellness—this year, more than ever.   Lou Young of WCBS-TV, and Miss Hudson Valley 2013, Jessica Pinckney, will be there cheering on participants. Local star, singer Jessica Lynn, will be entertaining before and after the race.   The family-oriented event includes healthy food and entertainment throughout the morning. Children get their own fun warm-up, 1-Mile Kids’ Race (ages 4-12) as well as ribbons for each runner. The 5K race is timed and medals are awarded in each age category as well as overall top male/female.
To register and to read more about the event, go to www.mhawestchester.org.

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A FEEL-GOOD WAY TO DO GOOD!  It’s spring and time to lace up your family’s sneakers — and head outside. Great cause to do it for: The Mental Health Association of Westchester’s MHA on the move 5K Run/Walk and 1 Mile Kids’ Race. This year, it’s on Sunday, May 5 from 8am to noon at FDR State Park in Westchester County, NY.
The Run/Walk is an inspiring, community-wide event in support of a cause we all appreciate the importance of — mental health and wellness — this year, more than ever.   Lou Young of WCBS-TV, and Miss Hudson Valley 2013, Jessica Pinckney, will be there cheering on participants. Local star, singer Jessica Lynn, will be entertaining before and after the race.
The family-oriented event includes healthy food and entertainment throughout the morning. Children get their own fun warm-up, 1-Mile Kids’ Race (ages 4-12) as well as ribbons for each runner. The 5K race is timed and medals are awarded in each age category as well as overall top male/female.
To register and to read more about the event, go to www.mhawestchester.org

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Register Now for the 2nd Annual Riverkeeper Sweep…Riverkeeper needs you!  Join us on Saturday, May 11, for the 2nd annual Riverkeeper Sweep, our day of service for the Hudson River.  You can help by joining one of 70 shoreline cleanups, tree-plantings and other service projects between New York City and Albany.  Please choose a site and register at www.riverkeeper.org/sweep.

Last year, 450 volunteers removed 7 tons of shoreline trash and planted more than 100 trees in 30 communities. Riverkeeper is working with dozens of dedicated Sweep leaders, clubs, businesses, organizations and municipalities to double our impact in 2013. We’re particularly happy to partner with the Great Saw Mill River Cleanup, Keep Rockland Beautiful, Make Poughkeepsie Shine and Jennifer’s Annual Flushing Bay Cleanup.

Registered volunteers who participate will be eligible for raffle prizes, including free kayak rentals, Hudson River cruise tickets and gift cards. And after the cleanup, registered volunteers over 21 are invited to special meetups at one of eight venues – Brooklyn Brewery, Greenhouse, Captain Lawrence Brewing, Peekskill Brewery, Newburgh Brewing, Keegan Ales, Crossroads Brewing and CH Evans Brewing.  Can’t attend? Please share this email with anyone who might attend, and please consider making a donation to support the Sweep!

Riverkeeper Sweep is a Waterkeeper Alliance SPLASH Series Event, presented nationally by Toyota. We’re grateful to recognize sponsors that include Joe and Daryl Boren, The Durst Organization, LF USA, Paragon Sports, Sprout Watches, Whole Foods Market, Greenhouse, Pleasant Valley Stone, Mother Earth’s Storehouse, New York Kayak Company, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? New City, Metal Container Corp. (a unit of Anheuser-Busch InBev), and Sea Tow Central Hudson. Partners include Terracycle and Green Guru Network.  More at www.riverkeeper.org/sweep

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Tuesday, May 7, 10 to 11:30 AM, Northern Westchester Hospital, Conference Center.

Join us for an interactive and informative discussion on a variety of skin care topics covering information that will be helpful to you AND your kids. Athena Kaporis, MD and Kelly Christman, RPA-C will discuss how to treat and prevent acne, including oral and topical medications, peels and exfoliation, compliance, and scarring for your teens.  They will also address the prevention and repair of sun-induced skin changes including the importance of sunscreen, retinoids, antioxidants, and preventive therapies that can be done at home and in the doctor’s office.  Gift bags will be provided to all guests. Come learn what you and your family can do to have healthy skin at any age. Bring your questions.

What is the NWH Speaker Series?  Get to know Northern Westchester Hospital’s amazing medical staff as its experts speak on topics they know best. Learn what the Hospital can do to serve your needs and take control of your and your family’s health and wellness. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and come educate yourself on topics that interest you and directly relate to your life.

Register here

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Bronx Arts Ensemble presents JACK AND THE BEANSTALK at the Whitehall Club Ballroom at 3333 Henry Hudson Parkway (between 232nd and 235 Streets in the Bronx) on Sunday, April 21 at 1 & 3 pm. Appropriate for ages 3 – 10. All tickets $6. JACK AND THE BEANSTALK is a new twist on the exciting adventures of Jack and the magic beans! A new production by Dante Albertie and the Children’s Theatre Company at Lehman, with musical arrangements for oboe, clarinet and bassoon by William Scribner. For info and tickets, visit bronxartsensemble.org or call 718 601-7399.

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My Sisters’ Place is hosting the 2nd Annual “Graze and Browse” Mother’s Day Shopping Boutique and Happy Hour on Thursday, May 2, 2013, 7-9:30pm at Don Coqui.  My Sisters’ Place is excited to broaden our base of support through this event and know that this opportunity will allow us to raise awareness around the mission and work of the agency as well as increase our ability to join with new communities. All funds generated will help support several programs in need. We look forward to working with our vendors and Don Coqui to ensure a successful evening for all.  The vendors will be showcasing beautiful wares, while you and some friends savor delicious appetizers and Sangria, and hear fun Latin music.  There will be raffle opportunities also.  For further information or to register, contact Diana Eppolito at deppolito@mspny.org, 914-683-1333, ext. 142.  We hope to see you there!  Learn more about My Sister’s Place at www.mspny.org.

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Educating Parents: “Thinking Beyond One Day at a Time”:  A Comprehensive FREE Special Education Law and Financial Planning Workshop.  April 10th, 2013 7:00 P.M.-9:00 P.M – The Easton Country Day School is hosting a free special education law and special needs financial planning workshop for parents at the Center for Energy Healing, located at 180 Post Road East in Westport, CT. Speakers are Attorney Lawrence Berliner and Financial Advisor Stephen Ehrens. To register, contact Carey Ann Mulhern at the Easton Country Day School by email at cam6@optonline.net or by phone: (203) 268-5530. Visit www.berlinerspecialedlaw.com or www.stephenehrens.com for more info.

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The Tribeca Film Festival (TFF), presented by American Express, announces the return of their signature free community events: the Tribeca Drive-In (April 18-20), Family Festival Street Fair (April 27), Tribeca/ESPN Sports Day (April 27), and Family Screenings (April 21 and 27).  TFF also announced the three film titles that will screen free for the community at the Tribeca Drive-In movie series at Brookfield Place (World Financial Center Plaza), co-sponsored by AT&T and JetBlue, and hosted by Brookfield. The series will kick off with the classic Hitchcock film, The Birds, followed by Tim Burton’s beloved comedy Beetlejuice and a screening of Lil Bub & Friendz, a new film playing in the Festival about a cat made famous online and his friends. Games and activities for all ages will take place before each screening, including movie trivia, a ghoulish costume contest, face painting, prize giveaways and more.

The annual Tribeca Family Festival Street Fair will feature an exciting lineup of programs to entertain the entire family, including the new Tribeca Studios Backlot, which will transform a downtown street into an interactive movie set where visitors can explore a wide range of elements that go into creating a film production on location in New York City. Also new this year is the Tribeca Food Feast, which will offer festivalgoers a chance to watch chefs from the neighborhood and beyond create their unique dishes on a show kitchen stage and try their hand at a variety of cooking activities. Street Fair favorites including live Broadway performances, arts and crafts and puppet shows will also return to the annual celebration of the Tribeca neighborhood. In addition, the Family Festival will feature an exciting sneak preview of the upcoming summer comedy The Smurfs 2, along with a free family screening of the beloved film The Smurfs, with appearances by cast members.  Rounding out TFF’s free offerings is a new program in partnership with MoMA PS1. Alberi, a TFF special screening, will run as a free installation at the VW Dome at MoMA PS1, and Stand Clear of the Closing Doors, which will premiere in the World Narrative Competition section of the Festival, will celebrate film and culture at the VW Dome 2 in the Rockaways in partnership with MoMA PS1 and Rooftop Films.  Each year, TFF’s free events bring thousands of people downtown to enjoy top-notch talent and entertainment, while highlighting the restaurants, merchants, schools and community organizations of lower Manhattan.

TRIBECA DRIVE-IN OUTDOOR SCREENINGS, Thursday-Saturday, April 18-April 20 , 8:15 p.m.; doors open at 6 p.m., Brookfield Place (World Financial Center Plaza), Co-sponsored by AT&T and JetBlue, and hosted by Brookfield.   Showng: The Birds (April 18), Beetlejuice (April 19), and Lil Bub & Friendz (April 20)

TRIBECA FAMILY FESTIVAL STREET FAIR.  The Tribeca Family Festival, presented by American Express, will feature the annual Street Fair on Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Greenwich Street from Chambers Street to Hubert Street, and at venues throughout the Tribeca neighborhood. The fair, a Festival favorite, is free and open to the public, and promises to be a day of family fun and lively entertainment.  For updated information on the Tribeca Family Festival Street Fair, visit tribecafilm.com/family.

TRIBECA/ESPN SPORTS DAY.  Saturday, April 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on N. Moore Street (between Greenwich Street and West Street). The Tribeca/ESPN Sports Day gives sports fan the opportunity to engage in a variety of free, sports-related activities that will include games, demonstrations and prize giveaways. In addition, some of New York’s most popular athletes, mascots and sports personalities will make guest appearances throughout the day.  For updated information on the Tribeca/ESPN Sports Day, visit www.tribecafilm.com/espn.

The Tribeca Film Festival helps filmmakers reach the broadest possible audience, enabling the international film community and general public to experience the power of cinema and promote New York City as a major filmmaking center. It is well known for being a diverse international film festival that supports emerging and established directors.  For a full list of happenings and events, visit www.tribecafilm.com.

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Friday, April 19, 6:00 – 8:30 pm.   Come in comfy PJs and listen to a reading of Norman Bridwell’s Clifford’s Spring Clean-Up. Take photos with Clifford as he makes a special visit to the museum, make themed crafts, enjoy a snack and join in a musical parade.   Who knew “bedtime” could be so much fun? Space is limited. Registration is required for this event. Register online or call 203 899 0606, ext. 247.   Members $10/person, Non-members $12/person. Register here or visit www.steppingstonesmuseum.org for more information.

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RYE ROCKS EARTH DAY 2013 – PROTECT THE EARTH AND THE ART WITHIN IT!  A community-wide celebration to commemorate Earth Day will take place in Rye, New York on Saturday, April 20, 2013, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. (Rain date April 21). Close to a dozen local organizations are expected to take part in a variety of activities designed to promote awareness of and showcase the natural beauty found in this waterfront community.  The Rye Arts Center is taking the lead in organizing the Rye Rocks Earth Day umbrella campaign, which features an emphasis on the “art” in Earth.  Helen Gates, Executive Director, explains: “I was inspired by a quote that says, “The earth without art is just eh.’  I believe that if we start to view the Earth and sustainability through the lens of nature’s beauty, we will begin to protect “Nature’s Art” — just as we would a piece of art hanging on a wall in our home.”  Rye Rocks Earth Day will promote the natural sites and sights in Rye and engage the community in exploring the natural beauty that Rye has to offer at each of the participating locations.  All events are free and open to the public.  Rye Rocks Earth Day 2013 participants include:  Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary, The Rye Arts Center, Rye Free Reading Room, Rye Nature Center, Rye Town Park, Rye YMCA, The Rye Sustainability Committee, The Rye Conservation Commission/Advisory Council, Wainwright House

Rye Rocks Earth Day 2013 Activities and Events

Rye Arts Center Gallery:  51 Milton Road
Nature’s Art: Geodes from the Collection of Robert R. Wiener
Come explore! Geologist’s talk and children’s workshop at 3:00 pm.  Learn about the relationship between art and science at this unique exhibit featuring more than 200 geodes from around the world.  These colorful geodes form the basis to understand how nature create and informs different forms of art.   Exhibit dates April 16- May 24, 2013.

Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary:  via Playland Parkway, follow access road behind Dragon Coaster, and park at Nature Center’s parking lot
Come explore The Bamboo Forest: Mother Nature’s Maze.  This is a completely unique and natural environment for the whole community to enjoy. Children can hide-and-seek in the hidden “rooms” and play follow-the-leader along the twisting pathways.  Artists will enjoy the dramatic interplay of light streamers and dark shadows, open ceilings, and green cathedral arches.  It was introduced accidentally as an invasive species, however, it has redeeming qualities in providing shelter for many different animals.  Its natural beauty is so unusual and overwhelming that we have come to accept it and love it.  Once you experience it, you too will want to preserve and protect it!  Sponsored by the Friends of Read Wildlife Sanctuary.

Rye Free Reading Room:  1061 Boston Post Road.  Events at 11:00 am.  Earth Day Preschool Story Time & Craft for Children. Join us for some “Go Green” stories and then let’s go outside to plant some seeds to get your garden started. Along the Coast:  Lighthouses and Their Stories for Adults. Learn about the lighthouses guarding the East Coast, Hudson River, Long Island Sound, and the Great Lakes.

Rye Nature Center:    873 Boston Post Road.  The RNC will feature an Andrew Goldsworthy inspired sculpture created by children during a workshop conducted in conjunction with the Rye Arts Center and docents from its Famous Artists program.  Come take a look at this work of art composed of natural materials collected from the woods of the Rye Nature Center!

Rye Town Park:  Parking Entrance at Dearborn Ave in City of Rye.  UKIYO- Floating World- An Exhibit of Sculptures by Tomoko Abe.  Come view this unique exhibit in the pond (located by the gate, east side of the pond).  Reception with activities from 10 am to 2 pm.  See “Making of Floating World” on Youtube.  Exhibit Dates:  April 7-May 5.

Rye YMCA:  21 Locust Avenue.  Nature Crafts, 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm.  Stop by the Rye Y for arts and crafts that use natural materials or are nature themed. Children of all ages and their families are welcome.

Wainwright House – A Center for Spiritual Healing, Ecology and Retreats, 260 Stuyvesant Avenue.  Event from noon- 4:00 pm on Sat. and Sun., April 20-21. Walk the “Seaside Labyrinth”. Labyrinths differ from mazes in a very fundamental way. Mazes stimulate and engage the thinking, problem-solving mind. Labyrinths engage the heart, with no decisions about direction needing to be made. By simply yielding to and following the path, the mind grows and quiets. The voice of the heart can then be heard.

On the Village Green:  1061 Boston Post Road.  Sustainable Rye: Will be providing information on green practices in general and promoting the greenscaping themes of healthy lawns, composting and Leave Leaves Alone (LLA).  Conservation Commission/Advisory Council:  Meet with members of the City’s Conservation Commission and find out why wetlands are so important.

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The Neuberger Museum of Art of Purchase College reopens on Sunday, April 28th with the provocative exhibition Pre-Columbian Remix: The Art of Enrique Chagoya, Demián Flores, Rubén Ortiz-Torres, and Nadín Ospina, and a grand daylong celebration which is free and open to the public. (The Museum had been closed for ten months during extensive HVAC renovation work.) Free admission with tours of the exhibition, Latin jazz, hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and activities for the entire family are planned for opening day.  The memory of pre-Columbian cultures, of its icons and myths, is ever present throughout Latin America. In fact, in most Latin American countries, the very idea of Pre-Columbian heritage (indigenous culture before European colonization) has been a strategy to reinforce national unity. But this trend is being challenged by four leading Latin American artists, whose work is the focus of the exhibition Pre-Columbian Remix, on view at the Neuberger Museum of Art, from April 28 through July 14, 2013.   By fusing ancient Aztec, Mayan or Incan art forms with pop-culture imagery in an ironic and often humorous manner, the artists address present day concerns relating to universal themes of consumption, corruption, and globalization. The result is an engaging, provocative, twenty-first century composite portrait. Re-mixed, and renewed, the past becomes accessible under very different perspectives.  Pre-Columbian Remix, features more than 90 works of art, including stone sculptures, lithographs, large-scale paintings, platinum and cyanotype prints, and a monumental outdoor inflatable sculpture, on loan from different locations in the Americas (Bogotá, Mexico City, San Diego, New Jersey, New York). The works are by Enrique Chagoya, Demián Flores, Rubén Ortiz Torres, and Nadín Ospina.  The Neuberger Museum of Art has organized the following exhibition-related programs and events in conjunction with the exhibition. They are free with Museum admission, unless otherwise specified.

Sunday, April 28, 1:00–4:00 pm.  Public Opening Celebration of Museum and Pre-Columbian Remix.  Latin jazz; white wine sangria; empanadas, salsa, crab cakes, vegetable burritos, and more! Pre-Columbian Remix curator Patrice Giasson and the artists will be in attendance. Family activities occur throughout the afternoon.  Admission and refreshments are free.

Wednesday, May 1, 4:45–8:00 pm.  Neu First Wednesdays: Pre-Columbian Sacrifice Remix (Devotional Altar).  Underground video, music, and performance artist group Sonido Apokalitzin visit the Neuberger Museum from Mexico City to perform with Purchase College student musicians and dancers for an all-out party, celebrating the re-opening of the Museum and the exhibition Pre-Columbian Remix. Witness a neo-mambo performance in the flesh: dj/vj artists live-mix videos of contemporary Mexican and pre-Columbian life, and dancers perform to live music, creating an experience that can’t be replicated. Come dance with us!  Admission and refreshments are free.

Thursday, May 2, 7:00 pm.  Art Comes to the Street: Sonido Apokalitzin and Joanquín Barriendos in Conversation.  Join Mexico-City based performance artist group Sonido Apokalitzin and Joaquín Barriendos, a professor in the Department of Latin American and Iberian Cultures at Columbia University, and exhibition catalgoue essayist, in a conversation about urban culture and society in contemporary Mexico.  Open to the public.

Sunday, May 5, 2:00 pm.  Commemorate Cinco de Mayo with a special tour.  Join us when we commemorate this historical day with a special docent-led tour around its cultural significance as reflected in the artworks included in Pre-Columbian Remix.

Saturday, June 1, 1:00–4:00 pm.  Family First Saturdays: Personal Stories, Ancient Books.  Workshop for kids tots to ten, accompanied by an adult: look at the work of artist Enrique Chagoya, who connects ancient Aztec book-making traditions with his imaginative stories of popular characters, then illustrate a book which tells a story of an imaginary character.  Admission and refreshments are free.

Friday, June 21, 7:00 pm.  Art in Dialogue: a single work of art from Pre-Columbian Remix.  Join in an extended conversation with a museum educator around a single work of art from the exhibition Pre-Columbian Remix. Enjoy the opportunity to have “a long look” at a great work of art, and the chance to converse with fellow art-lovers.  Reservations are required due to space limitations. Art in Dialogue takes place after the galleries are closed to the public.

The Neuberger Museum of Art of Purchase College engages and inspires diverse audiences by actively fostering the study, appreciation, understanding and enjoyment of modern art, African art, and the art of our time. The Museum is located at 735 Anderson Hill Road in Purchase, New York (Westchester). 914-251-6100.   Visit www.neuberger.org.

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Bedford Audubon Society, Mianus River Gorge, Pound Ridge Land Conservancy and Westchester Land Trust invite the community and nature enthusiasts to learn about the diversity of Westchester’s wildflowers in a free, three-part series scheduled for this spring. The series includes a lecture, walk, and workshop led by wildflower experts. The series aims to educate and inspire Westchester’s wildflower enthusiasts about the beauty and importance of these flowers and the current threats to these populations.

The series kicks off with a Woodland Wildflower Lecture on Wednesday, March 13 at the Katonah Library.  Jessica A. Schuler, Director of The New York Botanical Garden’s Thain Family Forest, will share details about her work to restore populations of extirpated wildflowers in the largest remaining tract of old-growth forest in New York City. Participants are welcome to enjoy refreshments at 7:00 PM; the lecture begins at 7:30 PM. Advance registration is not required.

On April 20, the series continues with a Walk on the (Wild)Flower Side at Mianus River Gorge. Local experts will lead 30-minute walks in the Gorge’s forests and deer-proof exclosures to see an array of woodland wildflowers and learn about efforts being made to conserve them. Walks begin at 1:30 PM, 2:00, 2:30, and 3:00 and will be led by Rod Christie and Mark Weckel of Mianus River Gorge, David Emerson of Westchester Land Trust, and Carole Levine, New York Botanical Garden. At 3:30, participants are invited to enjoy a stunning slide show by Carole Levine, noted wildflower author and instructor of courses in grasses, sedges, wildflowers and rushes. Tours meet in the Gorge parking lot. Space is limited, please register with Evelyn@westchesterlandtrust.org or call 914.234.6992 ext 24.

For gardeners looking to get their hands dirty, the Wildflower Garden Workshop on April 27 will provide ample opportunity. Participants will join local landscape designer Lynn Becker, Chair of Bedford Audubon’s Leon Levy Native Garden Committee, to learn the basics of gardening with native wildflowers in this hands-on workshop set in the beautiful woodland garden originally planted and nurtured by the late botanist and author, Sara Stein. Participants will see living examples of native wildflowers and become part of Sara’s ongoing legacy. Workshops will be held at 9-11 AM and 1-3 PM. Space is limited, please register with Evelyn@westchesterlandtrust.org or call 914.234.6992 ext 24.  Click here for full flier.  To learn more about these events, please visit www.westchesterlandtrust.org/wildflowers.

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NOT SURE WHAT TO DO THIS SUMMER???  Start Planning Early at our Resource Fair!  (We’ve done all the leg work!).   Join us at our next EASTCHESTER SEPTA Mtg. (Bring the kids, outside districts welcome!)   Wednesday, March 13th @ 7pm, Eastchester HS Media Center.    Come to an informal gathering of camps, sports organizations, social groups, and a host of other activities geared toward special needs students including ADHD & autistic students, of all ages.    Come stroll through and meet and/or collect info from vendors, represented at this no-pressure event!! Doors will be open from 7pm-8:30   (If you know of a service provider you would like us to include/invite, email us at eevange@gmail.com).

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The cost per day is $15 per child.  Members of the Friends of John Jay Homestead receive a $3 daily discount.  Advance reservations and payment in full are required, and can be made by phoning John Jay Homestead’s Education Department at (914) 232-5651 x101.

Monday, March 25th.  10am – 12pm.   Here, There, and Everywhere!  How did people get around 200 years ago?  What types of transportation did they use?  How did travel expose people to new and fascinating discoveries?  Children will answer these questions while exploring the bedrooms of John Jay and his daughter, Nancy.  They will then make a themed project to take home.

Tuesday, March 26th.  1pm – 3pm.  Clean as a Whistle.  How did people keep clean, bathe, and do their laundry 200 years ago?  How often did they take a bath?  If there was no indoor plumbing, where was their bathroom?  Children will tour William Jay’s bedroom and the cellar kitchen to learn about personal hygiene 200 years ago and make their own soap.

Wednesday, March 27th.  10am – 12pm.  What’s Cooking?  Experience first-hand what it was like to work in a kitchen 200 years ago.  Children will get the opportunity to tour and touch objects in the museum’s kitchen and dining room.  They will also prepare a historic recipe which they can complete at home.

Thursday, March 28th.  1pm – 3pm.  Down on the Farm.  Have you ever wondered what types of animals were raised or what crops were grown here at the Homestead?  Now’s your chance to find out!  Take a tour of our farm buildings and learn how the 700 acre Jay Farm was used.  Each child will also make a wool craft to take home.  Note: Part of this program will take place outdoors, please dress accordingly.

For more information, contact Bethany White, Education Coordinator at 914.232.5651, ext. 101 or at bethany.white@parks.ny.gov.

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GWYOA (Greater Westchester Youth Orchestras Association) Open Auditions for the 2013/2014 Season.
Concerts at Westchester Community College and Avery Fisher Hall.
Two Audition Dates:
Saturday, May 4th:
8:30am-1pm — ONLY for non-members interested in joining the Youth Symphony or Junior Strings orchestras.
1pm- 5pm – ONLY for non-members interested in joining the Elementaqry Strings orchestra.
Monday, May 6th:
6pm – 9pm – only for current members of Elementary and Junior Strings who wish to move up to the next orchestra.
6pm – 9pm only for non-members interested in joining the Elementary Strings Orchestra
Auditions are all open – there are no appointments. Although we will use our best efforts to move students through the audition process, please be prepared to wait and allow ample time for this.
Please come prepared to play scales you have mastered, as well as a polished piece that best demonstrates your present skill level.  You will also be asked to sight-read.  For longer pieces, exerpts will be heard rather than the entire work.
Questions? email info@gwyoa.org or see www.gwyoa.org
Westchester Youth Symphony:
For strings players entering grades 10-12 in September 2013.
For brass, wind and percussion musicians entering grades 9-12 in September 2013.
Westchester Junior Stings Orchestra:
For string players entering grades 7-9 in September 2013.
Westchester Elementary Strings Orchestra:
For string players entering grades 4-6 in September 2013
Westchester Community College, Valhalla, NY Academic Arts Buidling, Ground Floor.
Please pre-register on-line using the link on the Audition Information page of www.gwyoa.org or click here.

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March 9th and 10th, 9:00am to 1:00pm.  Join us for an all-you-can-eat home-made Pancake Feast served with 100% New York Maple Syrup. We will have plain and blueberry pancakes, sausage and melon. There are two seating times available each day (see times and cost below). Seating is limited. Please call to pre-register and arrange your seating date and time by 3/7/13. Registration is available on our web site via PayPal.  Following each seating is our MAPLE SUGARING THROUGH THE AGES program. Join us as we take a look at the evolution of making maple syrup. We will explore the harvesting and processing techniques used by the Native Americans and early colonists through present day. We’ll learn how to tap a tree and even test ourselves to see if we can tell the difference between 100% maple syrup and imitation syrup.  Sugarfest has become such a popular event that participants should sign up early to reserve your space for either Saturday or Sunday. The schedule is the same for each day. Come join us and see what the excitement is all about.  9:00AM: Pancake Feast – Seating 1.  10:00AM: Maple Sugaring Through the Ages – Demonstration 1.  11:00AM: Pancake Feast – Seating 2.  12:00PM: Maple Sugaring Thought the Ages – Demonstration 2.  **Volunteers needed! Sign up for help with: Seating 1, Seating 2, Cleanup or All day.  Free food for all volunteers.  Suggested Donation:  Members – $6.00 each, Non-Members – $10.00 each, Children 4-10 yrs – $4.00 each.  Under 3 yrs – Free.  Call (914)666-8448 to RSVP.  Visit us online at www.WestmorelandSanctuary.org

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July 1-26, 2013, Mon-Fri, 8:30am-3:30pm.   The Teatown Environmental Science Academy (TESA) is an intensive and challenging field-based environmental science program for high school students. TESA provides invaluable experience for students interested in the environment by exposing them to the techniques and technology that scientists use to study today’s pressing conservation issues. In this course, students will:  Learn  how to identify habitats and assess biodiversity, Conduct watershed assessments and water quality testing, Use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology, Study plant and wildlife populations.   The format of the program will be a mix of lectures, discussion, and field activities. Participants will also conduct independent projects and present their findings at a class symposium open to families and friends.   TESA is led by Dr. Michael Rubbo, Teatown’s Director of Conservation Science. Dr. Rubbo has taught both college and high school students and regularly mentors high school independent science research.   Visit www.teatown.org/tesa for more information and the application form. The program fee is $1800 for Teatown members and $2000 for nonmembers.    Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining, NY 10562, 914-762-2912.

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Girl Rising is a groundbreaking film, directed by Academy Award nominee Richard Robbins, which tells the stories of 9 extraordinary girls from 9 countries, written by 9 celebrated writers and narrated by 9 renowned actresses. Girl Rising showcases the strength of the human spirit and the power of education to change the world. Explore the film in detail at www.girlrising.com.  Attend a screening at the Bedford Playhouse, Thursday, March 14, 07:30 pm, Clearview’s Bedford Playhouse.

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March 25-29.  Spring Fling Mini-Camp at Teatown Lake Reservation.  Give your child a fun-filled week of outdoor adventures during school breaks! Sign up for the full session or individual days (fee prorated). Snacks are provided but full-day campers should pack a lunch.  4-5 year olds: 9am-12pm.  Full Session Fees: $160 members; $185 nonmembers.  6-12 year olds: 9:00am-3:00pm.  Full Session Fees: $300 members; $335 nonmembers.  Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining, NY 10562.  Phone: 914-762-2912 x123, web: www.teatown.org.

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March 2, 2013 at Parents Place.  Parents Place is celebrating in a very special way, we’re planning a party for Dr. Seuss’ birthday!
It’s a day of fun, crafts, face painting & more. Oh! We have a special guest who will come through the door!
Just $20 will cover your crew.  This includes every Who in your family…plus you!
2 to 4pm is the time, March 2nd the date.  So.  Quick!  Mark your calendar and please don’t be late!
For more information, call 914.631.2513.  Parents Place, 2 Central Avenue, Tarrytown.  The Guidance Center of Westchester, www.theguidancecenter.org.

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Second Sunday Family Program — Famiglia Italia!   In conjunction with the Greenwich Historical Society exhibition From Italy to America, families can drop in throughout the afternoon on March 10 to tour Bush-Holley House, view the exhibition at the Storehouse Gallery, make homemade pasta in the Vanderbilt Education Center and listen as storyteller par excellence Bea Crumbine reads the beloved Italian children’s tale Strega Nona (the Grandmother Witch).   Sunday, March 10, 2013.  Drop in any time between noon and 4:00 pm.  Greenwich Historical Society, 39 Strickland Road, Cos Cob, CT 06807.  Members: $10; nonmembers: $15.  For reservations: 203-869-6899, Ext. 10 or www.greenwichhistory.org.

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Warmer temperatures and frequent severe weather events are transforming landscapes and habitats in unprecedented ways. The Native Plant Center’s 2013 Spring Landscape Conference, Adapting to a Changing Climate, will examine why and how the landscape is changing, how plants and animals are impacted, and what can be done to help mitigate consequences and conserve native ecosystems. The event will be held at Westchester Community College in Valhalla on Monday, March 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with a snow date of March 22.  The conference, which will consist of four presentations and a panel discussion by industry experts, will begin with an overview of how the climate in the Northeast has been changing such as with shifts in plant hardiness zones and earlier arrival of spring.  A case study on how rising temperatures affect the sugar maple examines whether this species, and the associated maple sugaring industry, can survive.  How other plants and animals have been impacted will be revealed in a comparison of the mid-19th century nature observations of Henry David Thoreau regarding spring flowering times, bird migration, and ice-out at Walden Pond, with what is occurring today.  As the conference aims to assist landscape professionals and home gardeners in dealing with climate change impacts, the final presentation will explore techniques for incorporating native plants into landscape designs that address today’s realities. The panel discussion will offer ideas, tools, and resources to help landscapers, designers, and gardeners meet the challenges of the new era.  For the first time, The Native Plant Center is offering Continuing Education Units (CEUs) accredited by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) as well as Professional Development Hours (PDHs) accredited by LA-CES, Landscape Architecture Continuing Education System, which have been offered in the past. Registration is required; the fee depends on whether professional credits are requested. For further details and to register, visit www.nativeplantcenter.org or call 914-606-7870.

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Expecting Parent Class: Preparing For Your Arrival.  March 25th, 6:30-8:30pm. Are you an expecting parent and feel overwhelmed by the amount of baby gear that is available? Are you unsure if you are going to be prepared to bring an infant into your home? This two hour class will give you the chance to gain the information on baby gear, safety and preparing for baby that you need to feel more prepared and take some of the stress out of one of the most precious times in your life! $50 per couple and pre-registration is strongly suggested. 2 William St, Suite 101 White Plains, NY 10601 (914) 218.1831 www.babynavbabyplanners.com.

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Saturday, the Fifteenth of June, Two Thousand Thirteen.
It’s Our Nature, Now and Forever — Westchester Land Trust Annual Benefit.
Maple Grove Farm, Bedford, NY.
Join us for a special evening in celebration of WLT’s anniversary Honoring George D. Bianco.  Benefit Co-Chairs:  Holly Denzer Alexander & Neil J. Alexander, Amy & Keith E. Ferguson, Susan & James Henry, Vivien G. Malloy, Lee Manning-Vogelstein, Kathy & Benjamin F. Needell, Mary Ann Petrilena & Jonathan L. Wiesner.
Save the date!
Visit www.westchesterlandtrust.org

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Mount Kisco Police & Mt Kisco Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention Council to co-host RX Drug Take Back Day on April 27, 13 between 10am & 2pm.  The Drug Enforcement Administration, Mount Kisco Drug & Alcohol Abuse Prevention Council and the Mount Kisco Police Department have scheduled another National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day which will take place at the Mount Kisco Police Department on Saturday, April 27, 2013, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Mount Kisco Police Department is located at 40 Green Street.  The RX Drug Take Back Day is a great opportunity for those who missed the previous events, or who have subsequently accumulated unwanted, unused prescription drugs, to safely dispose of those medications.  For full details, view this message on the web.

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Northern Westchester Hospital’s annual Teddy Bear Clinic will be held on Saturday, April 13th, from 8:00 am – 10:30 am in the Mary & David Boies Emergency Department.

The NWH Teddy Bear Clinic is a positive learning opportunity for children to experience first-hand what might happen if they visit their doctor, hospital, or hospital emergency department. This popular family event teaches children about medical treatments and healthy habits in a warm and friendly manner.  Children and their “patients” will observe and learn about X-rays, splints and stitches, casting, and take a tour of the NWH pediatric unit.  They can also participate in interactive activities on exercise and healthy eating, first aid and safety, germ-busting, and ambulance tours.

The Teddy Bear Clinic will follow an open house format.  Parents, children and their favorite stuffed animal can arrive anytime between 8:00 am and 10:30 am.  We hope that children will have a great time and learn that they don’t have to fear a trip to the hospital.

Click here to find out more or to RSVP.

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The Greenwich Historical Society History and Art Camp has openings this summer for both the two-week and single-week options. Session A (Grades 4-6) runs from July 8 to July 19, and Session B (Grades 1-3-and 4, if preferred) runs from July 22 to August 2. The program is based at Bush-Holley House, the Historical Society’s headquarters and Greenwich’s only National Historic Landmark. As a dual interpretation museum, the house illustrates two distinct time periods: Early American Life (1790 to 1825) and the Art Colony Experience (1890 to 1920), when the site served as home and workplace for artists such as Childe Hassam and Elmer MacRae. Each two-week camp session begins with a week focusing on Colonial history, followed by a week devoted to visual art. (Campers can register for both weeks or choose one.) The experience is highly interactive and designed to utilize the art and original artifacts in Bush-Holley House. Sessions are fun, challenging and age-appropriate. A field trip and a Friday Parents’ Day are part of each week’s schedule.

The professional staff includes museum educators and counselors who have a special interest in art and history. Reenactors, working artists, musicians and guest teachers will round out the leadership team. Activities vary by age group but may include weaving, baking, candle making and acting. Art instruction encompasses painting, pastels, sculpture, origami and photography. Art shows and performances cap off each session.

To learn more about the camp and to download a brochure, visit www.greenwichhistory.org or email Camp Director Lucy R. Van Atta at lvanatta@greenwichhistory.org. A limited number of need-based scholarships are available.

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Local Westchester producer, mom, and beautiful, amazing “Maker” in her own right, Dyllan McGee presents “Makers”: Women who make America.  A WONDERFUL collection of stories and experiences of those women who have made America which airs Tuesday, February 26th at 8pm on PBS.  Keep the kids up, make some popcorn and engage in a discussion with your kids about what it takes to be a woman now, in the past and for the future.  And I don’t mean just watch with the girls!

MAKERS: WOMEN WHO MAKE AMERICA will air Tuesday, February 26, 2013, at 8:00 p.m. ET on PBS (check local listings). The film tells the story of how women have helped shape America over the last 50 years through one of the most sweeping social revolutions in our country’s history, in pursuit of their rights to a full and fair share of political power, economic opportunity and personal autonomy.  A preview of the documentary is available at the following link: click here.

Visit MAKERS.com now to access more than 1,000 videos of remarkable stories of groundbreaking women.  For more information, visit www.MAKERS.com/press and www.pbs.org/MAKERS, follow @MAKERSwomen on Twitter, join the conversation with #MAKERSchat, and visit Facebook.com/makerswomen on Facebook.

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The Bedford Bears invites boys and girls ages four to 8 years old to The Harvey School Rink, home of The Bedford Bears on Saturday, February 23, 2013 at 2:40 pm (until 4:00 pm) for a Try Bedford Bear Hockey for Free skate to experience ice hockey and the Bears program for the first time and learn the basics of the sport in a fun, safe environment.  Try Bears Hockey For Free Day is part of Come Play Hockey Month. This program, designed to provide the Bedford Bear families with an opportunity to introduce new kids to the sport and program, is a joint effort between USA Hockey, the National Hockey League, and NYSAHA.  Email mikebonelli@yahoo.com for questions or to sign up for the event. The Bedford Bears cannot supply equipment at this time so we ask that players come with at the very least a helmet, skates and whatever protective equipment that they can provide. If they currently have full hockey equipment even better!  We look forward to seeing many new faces at the Harvey School rink on February 23rd.  Visit www.bedfordbearshockey.com for more information.

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A Springtime Adventure for Your Child.  Get WILD this spring and give the young animal lover in your family a chance to thrive among wolves all week long! The four day program will include opportunities for your child to:  Learn all about wolves: Wolf 101, Discover the various myths that surround wolves and to create their own and share, Walk with a wolf!  Take a hike with Ambassador wolf Atka at the lead, Play a unique game of hide and seek using tracking and telemetry tools that real wolf biologists use in the field!, Create plaster paw prints from real tracks in the field.  They’re great for show and tell!  “Wolfy” arts and crafts, howl-a-thons and more!   Program will run with a minimum of 4 children and a maximum of 12.  All children who complete the program will get a special “Junior Wolf Biologist” certificate and will choose a WCC wolf to adopt too (Wolf Adoption has $100 value). Pre-registration is required.  Recommended for children in Grades 3-6.  Date: March 26th – 29th (Tuesday – Friday).  Time:  3PM – 5PM.  Fee: $200 per child for the 4-day program.  Register now. Registration is Open for Summer Wolf Camp for Kids too!  Find out more at www.nywolf.org.

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Tuesday, Feb 19th and Wednesday, Feb 20th.  Gymnastics, active games, snack time, crafts, musical fun, and lunch (brought from home)!  Ages: 3-7 yrs, Time: 9:30-12:30.  $55/child per day for current members.  $65/child per day for non-members.  Children must be 3 yrs old by Jan 1st, 2013 and be potty trained.  Call 914.244.8811 today to register!

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Westport Country Playhouse loves welcoming families to our campus, with both our children-friendly Family Festivities performances and our Together at the Table program during the Season.
Our Family Festivities Series aims to make live theater accessible to our youngest audience members and provides the perfect entertainment for children, parents and grandparents to share together.   We select shows that encourage children’s imaginations to come alive with stage presentations of new stories and old favorites, many drawn from classic works of literature. Each show is preceded by lively children’s activities in the Sheffer Rehearsal Barn. Taught by professional artists and supported by Playhouse staff, the pre-show activities are designed to reflect an aspect of the production in order to further enrich each child’s experience. For families who want to bring a piece of the experience home, we offer the books and stories that our Family Festivity shows draw upon at our lobby bookstore.  Together at the Table is designed to make professional theater more accessible to families and to promote a lifelong interest in our work.  For just $10 per ticket, families are able to come to the Playhouse, share a family-style dinner, and attend a play. With this unique program, live theater is an affordable option for family entertainment.  Interested in learning more about our family programs? Call Angela Marroy Boerger at (203) 227-5137×133 or email aboerger@westportplayhouse.org.

Coming up this Spring:

How I Became a Pirate
Sunday, March 3, 2013, 1pm and 4pm
Produced by the Omaha Theater Company.  Recommended for ages 6 – 10.  All Tickets: $18.00.
Shiver me timbers!  Young Jeremy Jacob is digging in the sand when he is recruited by Captain Braid Beard and his mates to join the pirate crew on a quest to bury their treasure. A rollicking musical adventure about finding one’s own heart – a path that can’t be found on any treasure map. Based on the best-selling book by Melinda Long.

The Little Engine That Could Earns Her Whistle
Sunday, April 7, 2013, 1pm and 4pm
Produced by ArtsPower.  Recommended for ages 4 and up.   All Tickets: $18.00.
“I think I can, I think I can.” Little Blue Engine dreams of someday leaving the train yard to pull the big cars on the main line track. But can she convince Big Silver that she is worthy of being a main line engine? A dynamic, song-filled adventure, this new musical portrays Watty Piper’s timeless tale about hard work, self-confidence, friendship, and believing that anything is possible.

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Should We Limit Plastic Bags in Larchmont and Mamaroneck?   Save the date, be informed:  See the documentary Bag It on March 9, 10, and 11.  An estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are used worldwide every year–380 billion of those in the United States.  And every year, Americans throw away some 100 billion plastic bags–bags that perhaps only carried home a prescription from the pharmacy or a quart of milk from the grocery store. Plastic bags are made from petroleum, so trashing them is equivalent to dumping nearly 12 million barrels of oil. Plastic bags do not go away; they do not biodegrade. Recycling them is literally not worth the cost: “$4,000 to process and recycle one ton of plastic bags, which can then be sold on the commodities market for $32,” says Jared Blumenfeld, director of San Francisco’s Department of the Environment.  That’s why Larchmont is considering joining Rye and the Village of Mamaroneck, which have passed plastic bag phase-out ordinances. Come see this funny and illuminating documentary at three screenings in our tri-municipality. Stick around afterward for Q & A’s with experts.  For more on Bag It, click here.

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Melinda Ganeles & Gretchen Menzies invite you to Sports Medicine & Fitness: From youth sports leagues to the Ironman

Featuring Eric Small, MD, FAAP.  Dr. Small is a nationally recognized expert in adolescent/adult sports medicine and is Board Certified in Sports Medicine. His practice is focused on sports injuries and the medical concerns of athletes, dancers and musicians.

Northern Westchester Hospital, 400 East Main Street, Mount Kisco, NY 10549.  North Building Conference Center.
Tuesday, March 5, 2012, 10 to 11:30AM.  Tickets are $10 per person.  Email gretchen@essentialmom.com for ticket information or click here.

Sports injuries have reached epidemic proportions in recent years. Join us for a presentation on how to understand and prevent sports injuries both for yourself and your children.  We all want to be healthy and active. Come learn the best approaches so that you and your kids can be healthy for a long time. Discussions will include: return to play after concussion, baseline testing, repetitive injuries, and best practices for stretching, exercise and play for all ages. Help your children avoid the aches and pains you’ve found in recent years. Bring your questions and concerns.

What is the NWH Speaker Series?
Get to know Northern Westchester Hospital’s amazing medical staff as its experts speak on topics that they know best. Learn what the Hospital can do to serve your needs and take control of your family’s health and wellness. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and come educate yourself on topics that interest you and directly relate to your life.

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G•TEC KIDS AND SYNERGY WESTCHESTER ANNOUNCE “THE SYNERGY CHALLENGE”!  Where Real-World Problem Solving Becomes Child’s Play.
G•tec Kids, Westchester County’s premier afterschool enrichment program for gifted and talented children and Synergy Westchester, an advocacy group dedicated to promoting the education and enrichment of gifted and talented children have partnered to sponsor The Synergy Challenge.  Creating positive change in the community is no longer left to Mom and Dad, thanks to The Synergy Challenge, where the main goal is to tap into the vibrant, boundless imagination of childhood and use it to solve real-world problems. What used to be considered merely play can now impact our community for the better, teaching children that you don’t have to be a grown-up to make a difference.  Always positive in spirit, each new Challenge will encourage participants to improve their community, themselves, or another living thing and will involve the task of designing, creating or building something realistic – it must actually work! Children participate in one of three age-appropriate Challenge categories: Elementary (Grades K-2), Middle (Grades 3-5), Secondary (Grades 6-12) as an individual or a group.  One winner will be chosen from each category on the basis of relevance, originality of thought, uniqueness of content, creative expression and grammar. Members of Synergy’s Facebook community will vote for their favorite entries. A panel of judges will then pick winners from among the Facebook finalists. Winners will receive a $25 gift certificate to Amazon.  G•tec Kids Director, Andi Stix, knows that children learn best in a hands-on environment.  “I encourage children to explore the outer limits of their imagination,” Stix explains, “now they have the opportunity to make it a reality and to be an agent of positive change in their community.”  The third Challenge entitled, Comic Animator, starts February  1, 2013 on Synergy Westchester’s web page (www.SynergyWestchester.org).  All entries are due May 1, 2013.

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Mark your calendar!  A new exhibit just opened at the New Castle Historical Society on Tuesday, February 5, 2013.  New Castle’s Beginnings – Our Founding Farms will trace our town’s origins from Native American lands through the farms of the nineteenth century, to the large estates and housing developments that turned New Castle into the community we know today.  A focus on several local farms and their products will be featured – Sutton Farm, Dodge Farm, Brann Farm, Taylor and Annandale Farms, and of course the Greeley Farm.  The first farms of New Castle were established on large tracts of land purchased from the Native American tribes of the Mohegan Confederation, including the Sintsincks.  Even our town’s name, Chappaqua, has Native American roots.  The area was called Shepequa, which referred to the abundant water sources that made farming possible.  Many other Native American words have been retained in the names of our streets and landmarks.  There will be interactive aspects to this exhibit plus a seminar series featuring speakers from local farms operating today.  Please join us for an opening reception to be held on Sunday, March 3rd from 3:00-5:00. The exhibit will run through the year at the New Castle Historical Society, 100 King Street, Chappaqua, New York. The hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 1 – 4 PM or by appointment at 914-238-4666.  New Castle Historical Society, 100 King Street, Box 55, Chappaqua, NY 10514 (914) 238-466.

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Ribbon-Cutting Event Wednesday, March 6 from 4-5:30pm Filling the Gap Between the Doctor’s Office and Hospital Emergency Room.  WHAT:  Ribbon-cutting event featuring activities and fun for kids, prizes and more!  Waiting for what can be hours in a hospital emergency room when you have a non-life-threatening illness or injury is now a thing of the past as MDxpress — a new walk-in medical facility, which will be open seven days a week including all holidays – gets ready to open its doors.  Top doctors and medical assistants will always be available to treat a variety of pediatric and adult non-life and limb threatening injuries and illnesses, including cuts requiring stitches, flu, strep and sore throats, sprains, burns, headaches, stomach aches, asthma, allergic reactions and much more. For the greatest convenience, MDxpress will have on-site digital x-ray and lab facilities as well.  WHEN:  Wednesday, March 6 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm.  WHO:  The facility, which will be open seven days a week including all holidays from 8am to 8pm, Mondays through Fridays and from 9am to 5 pm, Saturdays and Sundays.
MDxpress will offer appointments for school, camp and sports physicals.  Walk-ins are welcome, while scheduled appointments are also available.  WHERE:  MDxpress, 1030 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY 10543.

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Fridays, February 8, March 15, April 19, May 10, June 14; 9:00 -10:00 am.   Join us on special Friday mornings for a before-Museum-hours gallery tour and refreshments. On each date, new moms, dads, grandparents, and caregivers with babies in tow are invited to explore a different aspect of the current exhibition through interactive tours, discussions, and art activities. Breakfast snacks will be provided by Tazza Cafe.  Free for members, $10 non-members. For adults with children under 18 months. No reservations required. Crying babies are welcome!  Visit www.katonahmuseum.org.

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“Beat the Winter Blues” at Colonial Terrace.  Colonial Terrace is hosting an afternoon of fun, food and live music to benefit Support Connection’s free breast and ovarian cancer support services.  Featuring live band, “Robin and the Hoods” playing your favorite tunes from the 60s, 70s and 80s (www.robinandthehoods.com). Admission is $20 in advance/$25 at the door. Price includes: appetizers & unlimited soft drinks, coffee and dessert. Cash bar available. Proceeds will benefit Support Connection’s free support services and programs for people affected by breast and ovarian cancer.  Hours: 2:00 pm -5:00 pm.  Location: Colonial Terrace, 19 Oregon Road, Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567.  Purchase tickets by calling 914-962-6402 or visit beat.bpt.me.   E-mail: michelle.deieso@supportconnection.org.

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Due to the upcoming winter storm, the Hudson River Eaglefest on Saturday, February 9, will be re-scheduled to Sunday, February 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson.   This day-long salute to eagles will feature hikes to view eagles along the river and live birds of prey Demonstrations in the Eagle Theater, along with bus tours, storytelling, a tent brimming with children’s programs, and displays from 30 area organizations in a heated tent.   Parking is free; admission is charged for some events.   Croton Point Park is located on Croton Point Avenue in Croton-on-Hudson.  For more information, go to www.teatown.org/eaglefest.

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Exposure to the world’s diverse cultures, customs, traditions and histories provide priceless educational opportunities for our children. Through the museum’s highly-popular Around the World programming, families have been able to experience cultural programs brought to life and explore the world without leaving Norwalk. This year, Stepping Stones Museum for Children is adding a new element to the program. In 2013, frequent Around the World participants can now achieve “World Traveler” status.

Since 2009, Stepping Stones has been taking children and parents to 12 different parts of the world each year. The museum features a different country each month, highlighting its people, its history and its customs.  Museum guests get an extensive look at that country’s culture through visual arts, hands-on activities, youth performers and engaging, interactive and fun performances from professional artists and musicians. Throughout the month, the designated country is represented on the museum’s walls with a map display and travel guide, in the Multimedia Gallery with a short film and interactive digital media floor games broadcast at various times each day and in the Family and Teacher Resource Center with the Around the World Bookshelf displaying children’s books about the featured country.  School vacation weeks are dedicated to Around the World programs and include special crafts, storytimes and activities.

From the program’s inception, participants have been receiving a keepsake Around the World “passport” that is stamped to keep track of each destination they have “visited.”   With the addition of this new “World Traveler” element to the Around the World program, Stepping Stones will register each child’s passport to keep track of his or her participation.  If a child “visits” at least 7 countries during the year, he or she will receive “World Traveler” status and will be invited to a special World Travelers’ breakfast event on December 14.

Experiencing the world’s diverse cultures can be enriching and rewarding.  Come on down to Stepping Stones Museum for Children, immerse yourself in a different way of life, get your passport stamped and become a world traveler.  Around the World programming is free with museum admission on a first-come, first-served basis.  Visit www.steppingstonesmuseum.org/ATW for more information. The Around the World program is sponsored in part by Gen Re.

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FAMILY PROGRAMS:  Sunday, February 10 @ 1:00 p.m. Bird Hike: Stop by the Silver Educational Center at 1:00 p.m. to grab a pair of binoculars and head out into the forest with Todd DuPont to look for winter bird species and to check for early returning birds from their migration south. Our Red Maple Wetland will be a great place to check for our feathery friends.  Reservations are suggested, $5/Members, $10/Non-Members.
UPCOMING MARCH FAMILY PROGRAMS: Friday, March 1:  Science Session, Saturday, March 16:  Signs of Spring Hike, Sunday, March 31: Plants and People.  And more on general programming and classes — click here!
For more information please call 203-322-6971, send inquiries to Todd Dupont, Director of Children’s Education, at tdupont@bartlettarboretum.org , or check our website www.bartlettarboretum.org.

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Join us for a fun family musical!  The Children’s Theatre Company of Peekskill Celebrates Its 7th Season!  Presents a Feature Production of an Original Musical:  QUEEN KUNKA BUNKA & THE ROTTEN ROYAL RASCALS.  February 2nd and 3rd and February 9th and 10th, 2013 @ 3:00 – 4:00pm.   Celebrating its Seventh consecutive season, The Children’s Theatre Company of Peekskill, will present an original musical at The Ford Theatre in Peekskill two consecutive  Saturdays and Sundays – Feb. 2nd and 3rd and Feb. 9th and 10 at 3:00pm. The musical treat, appropriate for children and adults, is an original musical that tells a story of the land of Kunka Bunka, which is ruled by a kind and benevolent Queen, who is consumed with worry as she discovers that none of her children have the leadership qualities suited to govern the land. The musical is written by Mehr Mansuri with Music & Lyrics by Frank Sanchez & Mehr Mansuri in collaboration with  Lory Lazarus.  The Ford Theatre, Peekskill Admin Building, is located at 1031 Elm Street, Peekskill NY. Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased prior to each performance at The Ford Theatre. For information, call (914) 930-6600 or 914-325-1053.  For more information about The Children’s Theatre (CTC), log onto www.ctcpeekskill.org

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FORCE Winter Support Meeting.  Do you have a strong family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer?  Have you tested positive for a BRCA mutation?  Are you considering genetic counseling/testing?  You are not alone.
FORCE exists to improve the lives of individuals and families facing hereditary breast and ovarian cancer.  The local area FORCE is holding our quarterly get-together and we hope you can join us!  When:  Wednesday, February 6, 2013, 6:00 – 7:30 pm.  Where:   Northern Westchester Hospital, 400 E. Main Street, Mt. Kisco, NY.  Drive up main hospital entrance, turn right, continue through circular drive into Cancer Center parking lot. Enter the hospital at the North Entrance (not the Cancer Center) in front of circular driveway which has four white pillars in front. We will post a sign to the specific conference room.  What:   Learn from other people who are navigating the hereditary cancer path. Help someone else by sharing your story. This is a great chance to meet some local area FORCE members and/or catch up with those you’ve met at previous get-togethers. Nancy Cohen, MS, CGC, cancer genetic counselor at NWH will attend to help answer questions you may have.  RSVP:  Andrea Ziltzer, andreaz@facingourrisk.org.

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Reading and Writing about Parenting.  Instructor: Kathy Curto.
Thursdays from 11am-1pm: February 14 – March 14, 5 Sessions, $285.
How Photographs Frame Story:   Smiles, Beehives, and Station Wagons.  Instructor:  Kathy Curto.
Saturday, March 2nd 1-4pm, 
1 Session, $75.
To sign up for these classes online, please visit www.slc.edu/ce. You can also sign up over the phone at 914-395-2205. Email kbrown1@sarahlawrence.edu or give us a call if you have any further questions!
OR Feel free to call Kathy at 914-714-9309.

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LOOKING FOR SOMETHING TO DO BEFORE THE SUPER BOWL?
How about stopping by the School of Rock in Bedford (now under new ownership) for a Super Sunday Open House!

Both kids and adults can take a FREE trial lesson on guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, or vocals with a member of our amazing staff!
Win cool stuff like free lessons, t-shirts, and more!
Watch a rock show performed by the most talented and dedicated students in the school. It will blow away this year’s Super Bowl halftime show!
And while you’re there, kids can sign-up for one of our Spring 2013 shows: the Rolling Stones, Southern Rock, Foo Fighters vs. Chili Peppers, or Women Who Rock!
Learn why this performance-based music education program is the largest after school music program in the country and is enriching the lives of kids age 7-18.
Get info on the adult performance program, which will be kicking off a new session in March!

Stop by between 11a and 3p to meet the staff, and introduce your kids to the school. Food and refreshments will be served!  School of Rock / Bedford, 12 Court Road, Bedford, NY 10506, Westchester@SchoolofRock.com, ph: 914.234.0418

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Grab a good book and come out of the cold!  Join the Friends of the Bedford Free Library for their Winter Author Talks.

January 24th.  Jennifer Ciotta, author of “I, Putin”.  Jennifer received a Masters Degree in Russian Studies and creative writing from New York University. She was also a Peace Corps volunteer in Estonia-a main setting for the book.  Jennifer spent 12 years writing and researching  “I, Putin” which won an honorable mention at the New York Book Festival in June 2012.  Thursday, January 24th, 7:00pm.

January 31st.  Charlotte Rogan, author of “The Lifeboat”.  Charlotte Rogan graduated from Princeton University in 1975. She worked at various jobs, mostly in the fields of architecture and engineering, before teaching herself to write and staying home to bring up triplets. An old criminal law text and her childhood experiences among a family of sailors provided inspiration for “The Lifeboat,” her first novel. She lives in Westport, Connecticut.   Thursday, January 31st, 7:00pm.

February 27th.  Will Schwalbe author of “The End of Your Life Book Club”.  This wonderful memoir chronicles a literary journey taken by Will and Mary Anne Schwalbe, during her two year battle with pancreatic cancer. Mary Anne was Director of Admissions at Harvard and Radcliffe, and head of the upper school at Nightingale-Bamford. She was a tireless advocate for refugee women and children,serving as founding director of the Women’s Refugee Commission. Will is a former journalist and former Editor in Chief of Hyperion Books. His current venture is cookstr.com.  Wednesday, February 27th, 7:00pm.

Call 914-234-3570 to register. Wine and cheese will be served. Cost per talk $10.00.

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Sunday, May 5, 2013 8am-12pm. Here it is! Your invitation to lace up your sneakers and support mental health and wellness here where you live. The run/walk is located at the beautiful FDR Park in Yorktown Heights. For more information, e-mail onthemove@mhawestchester.org or call (914)345-5900 ext. 7511. Register online now! www.mhawestchester.org

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With LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Westchester set to open on March 27, 2013 at Ridge Hill in Yonkers, the attraction is looking to build the final piece of its creative team — the Junior Construction Panel — and is launching an online search to find the tri-state area’s most creative and brightest youngsters to join the panel.   The Junior Construction Panel will consist of 12 imaginative and energetic children between the ages of 6 and 12 to serve as ambassadors for LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester throughout the year.  If selected to the panel, winners will receive a special “box of imagination,” an annual pass to the attraction and work alongside LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester Master Model Builder Mike Tocidlowski, to help finish plans for new LEGO models, provide input on what features could be added and best of all, give their official approval when the attraction opens this spring.  In addition, the school with the most entries for the Junior Construction Panel will also be entered for a chance to win a visit from Master Model Builder Mike Tocidlowski.

How to apply for a spot on the Junior Construction Panel:

• With the help of a parent, guardian or teacher, MINI model builders will create a brief news report video, no longer than 90 seconds, about why they are the area’s biggest LEGO fan or about a LEGO model they’ve built.
• All videos should start with the line, “My name is (INSERT NAME) and I am a LEGOLAND Discovery Center MINI model builder and I want to be on the Junior Construction Panel because…”
• The video should be uploaded to YouTube and the MINI model builder’s information, including the name, city and state of the MINI model builder’s school; the parent, guardian or teacher’s email address; and the YouTube URL of the video, should be filled out on the form at on.fb.me/TGSyaP on LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester’s Facebook page.
• Applicants can also send their entry by email to WestchesterJCP@legolanddiscoverycenter.com and LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester will upload the video to YouTube.

Entrants will be judged on creativity, enthusiasm for LEGO and their LEGO models.  The competition closes on Monday, January 28, 2013 and the Junior Construction Panel will be chosen and announced by LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester’s panel of LEGO experts by Monday, February 11, 2013. For full details, visit the attraction’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/LDCWestchester or Panel search Facebook page at on.fb.me/TGSyaP.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester is a $12 million, 32,300 square-foot indoor attraction featuring more than 3 million LEGO bricks, geared towards children ages 3-10 and their families.  Its range of interactive attractions will include hands-on play areas, a 4D cinema, master classes led by Master Model Builders, two LEGO rides, special party rooms and MINILAND — the venue’s signature re-creation of landmark locations and buildings throughout Westchester County and New York City, made entirely out of LEGO bricks.  Advance tickets and annual passes to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester are available online.  To purchase tickets and annual passes, or for more information, visit www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/westchester.  Follow us at www.facebook.com/LDCWestchester and www.twitter.com/LDCWestchester.  LEGOLAND Discovery Center is part of the Merlin Entertainments Group.

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The YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester will host a Summer Camp Open House on January 27, 2013 from 12pm to 4pm. This is an opportunity to learn more about all of the summer programs at the YWCA: Little Friends Camp, Camp Funkist, Travel Camp, Gymnastics Summer Program, and Summer Camp for People with Developmental Disabilities. You will have the opportunity to meet our camp directors, counselors, and activity leaders.  For program information, please contact the following offices:  Little Friends Office: (914) 949-6227 ext.142, Camp Funkist and Travel Camp Office: (914) 949-6227 ext.168, Gymnastics Summer Program Office: (914) 949-6227 ext.135, Summer Camp for People with Developmental Disabilities: (914) 949-6227 ext.108.  Join us at the Open House on January 27, 1pam-4pm at the YWCA, 515 North Street, White Plains, NY 10605

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The Claudio Reyna Foundation was created to instill and inspire underserved youth in urban communities with positive experiences through soccer, education and community involvement in hopes of growing healthy bodies, minds, and spirits.  The Third Annual CRF Party is a guaranteed good time. The event has been scheduled for February 2nd, 2013 from 5-8pm at Doral Arrowwood and the theme is – The Groundhog Day Soiree!  This family-friendly event includes great food, fabulous auction items, and a chance to help kids in need. It’s always fun to see which friends of CRF stop by. Friends of CRF include Eddie Lewis, Jeff Agoos, Chris Armas, Jimmy Conrad, Kristine Lilly, Mark Consuelos, Grant Wahl, Steve Nash, Mariano Rivera, and more!  Started in 2008 with 68 kids at 2 locations, CRF has now grown to serve over 2,000 children at 44 locations!   Our expansion has stretched our budget to the limit, so we need all the help we can get.  Don’t miss this family friendly evening designed to raise money for programs that get kids focused on schoolwork and proper nutrition while introducing the beautiful game.  Now is the time to help us in the fight against childhood obesity and the cycle of poverty.   We’re hoping that you can help this year by attending the Party. We’ve dropped the price, and kids under the age of 5 are free!  For more information and to register, click here.  The Claudio Reyna Foundation, PO BOX 275, Mt. Kisco, NY 10549, 848.469.6086, www.claudioreynafoundation.org, info@claudioreynafoundation.org.

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January 19–February 24, 2013.  Visitors to The New York Botanical Garden this winter can escape to Tropical Paradise, a showcase of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory’s permanent collection of tropical trees, flowers, and foliage, including orange-yellow crotons and fuschia bromeliads. Through self-guided strolls, use of a virtual smart phone tour, or participation in docent-led tours of the Conservatory offered daily at 12:30 p.m., visitors can encounter many surprises in the largest Victorian-style glasshouse in the country. Visitors can also enjoy a display of tropical photos from the International Garden Photographer of the Year competition and partake in photography lessons on Sundays. Children can participate in a scavenger hunt that begins in the Conservatory and continues in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.  The winter period between the Botanical Garden’s major seasonal shows, when the climate in the Conservatory is inviting (65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the plant collections in a particular gallery) is an ideal time for visitors to fully immerse themselves in and take advantage of these rich collections.  Tropical displays abound with lush ornamentals planted for color and fragrance as well as plants that have medicinal and culinary uses. Many are also economically important. The mix represents species that bloom in warm-weather regions around the world that have interesting stories to tell. The New York Botanical Garden’s long history of scientific research and conservation in the tropics has produced a permanent collection rich with plants from these areas. Visitors can look for species from the African bush lily to the South American false bird-of-paradise to the Caribbean passion flower.
“Adventures in Adaptations” is a scavenger hunt with components in multiple Garden venues that teaches plant adaptation in different climates. Young visitors are offered field notebooks when they enter the Conservatory. Inside, they will find simulated entries about plant adaptations written by a traveling scientist, and they will use the clues in the entries, as well as clues sent to them by text message, to solve the puzzle of where in the world the scientist has been, and where he is going next. The scavenger hunt stretches through the galleries of the Conservatory and outdoors toward the Leon Levy Visitor Center, concluding in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden.  After the hunt, hands-on activities in the Discovery Center include sorting fruits and leaves and potting up plants to take home, all part of the “Tropical Discoveries and Wintertime Wonders” program. Kids of all ages take a closer look at the differences between tropical and temperate plants. They also have the chance to make bark rubbings, count tree rings, and head back into the winter garden with a field notebook to discover the vital sparks of life that lie just below the surface of this quiet season.
The New York Botanical Garden is a museum of plants located at Bronx River Parkway (Exit 7W) and Fordham Road. It is easy to reach by Metro-North Railroad or subway. The Garden is open year-round, Tuesday through Sunday and Monday federal holidays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Jan. 15–Feb. 28: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The best way to enjoy the Garden is with the All-Garden Pass, which includes admission to the grounds as well as to seasonal gardens, exhibitions, and attractions such as the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, and Tram Tour.  For more information, please call 718.817.8700 or visit nybg.org.

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The Katonah Art Center is hosting its third Annual Faculty Show, with a Reception January 26, 2013, 2:00-4:00pm, in the Garden Room of the Katonah Village Library. The show will run through the month of January. The Faculty Show was incredibly successful last year, and this year promises to be even bigger.  “Our instructors, in addition to being great teachers, are talented and acclaimed artists,” explains Loren Anderson, founder and director of the Katonah Art Center.  “It’s always so exciting to see them present their own work. I love this chance to share our artists with the public. Most artwork will be for sale, so this is a chance to own some incredible pieces.”  The Faculty Show will also feature the work of Rae Smith, president of the Pastel Society of America; well-known portrait artist, Wende Caporale, who was featured in American Artists Magazine; Tracy Burtz, whose work Art to the Point was recently displayed at the Katonah Museum of Art; and Cindy Sacks who received the Best Water Color at WATERWORKS, Iona College, NY. For more information on the KAC faculty who will be featured at the Faculty Show, please go to katonahartcenter.com/Pages/faculty/faculty.htm.  The Katonah Village Library is located at 26 Bedford Road, Katonah, NY  10536. Phone: (914) 232-3508.  The Katonah Art Center is located at 131 Bedford Road, Katonah, New York. For more information about the Katonah Art Center’s Holiday Schedule or KAC classes, call 914 232-4843 or visit the KAC website at www.katonahartcenter.com.

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Chocolations & Lola’s Tea House are sponsoring a “Knitting for Charity” program to fill the need for items of clothing for My Sister’s Place (MSP) in White Plains, NY (www.mspny.org).  MSP is a non-profit shelter for abused women and children. The need for clothing is great: hats, scarves, blankets, sweaters, etc.  MSP has generously re-gifted a donation of yarn to the “Knitting for Charity” program.  We have designated the “kick-off” day of:   Saturday, January 19th (10:30am-12:30pm).   So, come and meet “Knitting for Charity” Coordinator, Carol Costa, and Silvia Lederman, MSP Volunteer Coordinator-as they tell you about the needs of the shelter and how you can help the community with your skills.   We will also be raffling off several bags of fine yarn for your personal use.   Bring your needles and/or crochet hooks. We have the patterns and yarn.  Chocolations, 607 E. Boston Post Rd., Mamaroneck, NY  10543, (914) 738-2100 or (914) 777-3600.

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Sunday, January 27, Music Conservatory of Westchester (MCW) will host the release party and concert event for ‘Jazz for Svetlana’ a critically-acclaimed compilation of jazz favorites performed by former MCW Dean/Jazz Head Bob Arthurs and Steve LaMattina, a longtime former faculty musician. Conservatory pianist and renowned musician Svetlana Gorokhovich will be a guest performer at the event. Partial proceeds from CD sales will benefit the community music school and its programming. Refreshments will be served. FREE. All ages. 3:00 p.m. Music Conservatory of Westchester, 216 Central Avenue, White Plains. 914-761-3900. Info@musiced.org or www.musicconservatory.org

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In an afternoon of song and readings, a complement of local musicians will explore the lyrical history of the Civil War on authentic period instruments, including banjo, fiddle and concertina. The performance will frame each year of the War Between the States within a particular context: bravado and marching songs, camp songs, songs of home, spirituals, and songs of victory and defeat. The program was conceived and spearheaded by Stefanie Kies in collaboration with Nick Carter and Tim Schantz.  The program was originally developed by Ms. Kies in collaboration with the Greenwich Historical Society last February.  It is offered once again in co-sponsorship with Greenwich Library as part of the programming of Lincoln: The Constitution and the Civil War, an exhibition developed by the American Library Association. The performance has been generously underwritten by The Malkin Fund. The performance is designed to appeal to adults as well as middle school, high school and college students.  Sunday, February 3, 2013.  Greenwich Library, Cole Auditorium, 101 West Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, CT 06830.  Admission is free. For reservations, call 203-869-6899, Ext. 10.

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St. Matthew’s Art Show features talented local artists displaying and selling their work in the Fellowship Hall at St. Matthew’s Church.  This year’s show will feature contemporary paintings, sculpture and photography.  Gala Preview Party on Friday, Jan. 25, from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The Exhibition Sale continues on Saturday, Jan. 26 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday, Jan. 27 from noon to 4 p.m.  Additional activities include the “It Take A Village” clay project from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and art appraisals by MS Appraisers from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday.  Show co-chairs are Laura Blau of Bedford and Laurie Sturz of Pound Ridge.  Curators are Susan Grissom, manager of Contemporary Art at Lionheart Gallery in Pound Ridge, and Leslie Henshaw.  The Gala Preview Party will feature champagne and passed hors d’oeuvres by Table in Bedford Hills, along with “small plates” provided by Crabtree’s Kittle House and Happiness Is, with desserts by La Tulipe.  Proceeds benefit local charities supported by the Women of St. Matthew’s.  Preview Party tickets are $125 per person; $150 at the door. Admission is free on Saturday and Sunday.  St. Matthew’s is located at 382 Cantitoe Street (Route 22) in Bedford.  For more information, call St. Matthew’s at 234-9636, or visit www.stmatthewsbedford.org.

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Please plan to join us at the Bedford Free Library on February 27th for a very special evening with Will Schwalbe, author of The End of Your Life Book Club. This wonderful memoir chronicles a literary journey taken by Will and Mary Anne Schwalbe, during her two year battle with pancreatic cancer.  Mary Anne was an admissions director at Harvard and Dalton, and head of the upper school at Nightingale-Bamford.  She was a tireless advocate for refugee women and children, serving as founding director of the Women’s Refugee Commission.  Will is a former journalist and former Editor in Chief of Hyperion Books.  His current venture is www.cookstr.com.  The evening begins at 7pm with wine and cheese, followed by a reading and conversation.  Your $10 contribution will support the Bedford Free Library.

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The New Castle Historical Society and the Chappaqua Library present the Ninth Annual Antiques Lecture and Appraisal Series.  January 8, 15 and 22nd.  Please join us for our Ninth Annual Antiques Lecture and Appraisal Series on Tuesdays, January 8, 15, and 22nd from 10:00 to 12:00 at the Chappaqua Library.  Each session offers a specialist who leads a discussion on his or her area of expertise. Verbal appraisals are offered to audience members (two items per person) relating to the speakers specialty.  January 8 – Dan Levitz of Things Japanese Gallery, specializes in Japanese
woodblock prints from the 18th to 20th Centuries and Japanese art and antiques.  Dan has been in the business for 17 years.  January 15 – Elaine Klausman of Vintage with a Twist, is a vintage clothing dealer specializing in the 1960’s & 70’s.  Elaine shows her collection at vintage shows throughout the country, and has been in the business for twenty years.  January 22 –  Mike & MaryLynn McRee antique carpet experts, own the Caravan Connection in Bedford Hills, which specializes in the sale and care of the finest handmade oriental rugs.  Call the Chappaqua Library to register at (914) 238-4779.

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The deep chill of winter has now settled in—how will you fill these cold days? How about spending a day being this close to a majestic bald eagle? This unique opportunity awaits you at Teatown’s Hudson River EagleFest℠!  Teatown’s Hudson River EagleFest℠ will take place Saturday, February 9, 2013 from 9:00am-4:00pm, with the center of activities located at Westchester County’s Croton Point Park.  Multiple eagle viewing locations will line the Hudson River; all staffed with birding experts, to help the public view our national symbol in the wild. Continuous shows will run all day at Croton Point Park and are given by a variety of experts, each bringing a unique perspective and experience on topics from bald eagles to owls to choosing optics.  Teatown’s Hudson River EagleFest℠ offers all of this as an educational, low-cost family-friendly outing. All children’s activities and Eaglet Stage shows, including performances by master storyteller Jonathan Kruk and a Teatown bird of prey show, are free. The only tickets required are for shows in the Eagle Theatre and for bus tours. Guests should call 914-762-2912 x110 to purchase tickets. Prices are as follows: Eagle Theatre Shows offer a chance to get up-close with bald eagles and other birds of prey. Tickets are $5pp in advance; $10pp at the door (children ages 3 and under are free)  Bus Tours visit three viewings sites and have a naturalist onboard. Tickets are $25pp (for guests ages 12 and over).  Parking is free and shuttle buses will bring guests from the outlying lots and the Croton Harmon Train Station to Croton Point Park.  The additional eagle viewing sites along the Hudson River are also free of charge and include the Kathryn W. Davis RiverWalk Center in Sleepy Hollow, Steamboat River Park in Verplanck, Riverfront Green Park in Peekskill, and Boscobel House and Gardens in Garrison. Detailed keepsake maps, available at Teatown and at each viewing site, will give precise directions to each viewing location.  To learn more about Teatown, visit our website at www.teatown.org.

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