Hudson Valley Uncensored

Joining Brett Freeman on the show today is Dr. Rodd Stein. Dr. Stein is a pediatrician with Northern Westchester Hospital, and is a graduate of the Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University. Today, Dr. Stein discusses the baby formula shortage being experienced nationally and offers his expertise on what nursing mothers can do to keep their babies healthy in the midst of this crisis. Dr. Stein explains the current situation with the baby formula shortage and how he has seen less cases locally. He strongly advises that mothers should not attempt to create their own formulas by following online recipes. He also offers his recommendation that nursing mothers who are struggling to get formula should try breastfeeding and seek resources from both their pediatricians and local hospitals. Listen in today to access valuable advice from a trusted professional regarding this extremely important topic. The Finer Details of This Episode: Quotes: “Moms are struggling to obtain baby formula.” “The Academy of Pediatrics says don't make your own formula, we have enough resources and things we can do to help keep your baby healthy, without you having to make formula based on recipes online.” “The other thing they say not to do is to try and stretch out your formula by diluting what you have. That's a definite 'no'. It can lead to electrolyte imbalances in your baby, which can lead to really severe health issues.” “Allergies to breast milk are not very common. There are babies who will have problems with breast milk, but that's usually because they have a milk sensitivity.” Show Links: Halston Media Group website

On this week’s episode of Hudson Valley Uncensored, host Brett Freeman is joined by regulars Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, and Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, plus Carol Reif, managing director of North Salem News and The Somers Record, and reporters Whit Anderson, Gino De Angelis, and Sophia Caselnova. First up, Marschhauser reports on the Board of Education elections in Lakeland, Yorktown, and Katonah Lewisboro. As predicted, the incumbents reigned supreme, despite challenges from grassroots groups who disapprove of what the board has been doing. In response, Marschhauser and Freeman discuss the incumbents’ power as representatives of stability and the status quo. Dumas also has an update on the school board elections in Mahopac, where there was some controversy with anti-vaxxers but which ended with a win for the more moderate candidates. The bigger news in Dumas’ area is that the Manhattan school budget failed to pass by eight votes. The school district can put it back up, but if they end up going to austerity, they may have to cut programs, including sports and after-school activities. Dumas is also looking into an unconfirmed story about a sexual assault at a business in Carmel, with the police making an arrest over the weekend. North Salem and Somers have also been holding school board elections, and Reif reports on the results there. She also mentions that the Somers Record will be covering career day at Lincoln Hall and reports that Quantico Elementary School’s principal will be retiring, triggering a year of transition as the district’s superintendent is also retiring in 2023. Reif then reports that the HyGrade in Croton Falls—a revamped deli/grocery store that will serve food, coffee, and beer—may finally be opening in a couple of weeks. There’s also a contentious story coming out of Mount Kisco over a cell tower that may or may not be sited in Leonard Park—the town’s only park—with people questioning if this will actually benefit people who own cell phones in the area. Next, Anderson jumps in with more school board voting from Bedford, where the three incumbents whose terms were ending chose not to run again. Anderson suggests that’s not a coincidence but is likely because of the special education scandal that’s been going on. In addition, Bedford’s school budget got overwhelmingly approved along with two bonds. De Angelis then has a story from the Lewisboro Planning Board about a subdivision development in Vista that’s been frequently delayed. There was a point of contention about letting it go to a public hearing, but this was outvoted, and it will be discussed in the next meeting on June 15. Caselnova then reports that Yorktown Town Board is working with the local food alliance to launch a baby formula drive in response to the widespread shortages, and Reif mentions the Westchester Formula Finders, an organization that searches for baby formula and lets people know where they can access it. Finally, in last week’s episode, the group teased a story about a big business shutting down in Somers; this week, they reveal that the business is The Mexican Shack, a jewelry and gift store run by Somers icon Steve Delzio, which will be closing after forty-seven years of business. Episode Highlights:

On this week’s episode of Hudson Valley Uncensored, host Brett Freeman is joined by regulars Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record; Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News; and Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, plus reporters Gino De Angelis, Whit Anderson, Sophia Caselnova, and Tom Bartley. The episode kicks off with an announcement about Halston Media’s new monthly publication, The Mount Kisco Bedford Times. Its coverage area includes Mount Kisco, Bedford, and Pound Ridge, and its first issue, out May 19, will cover the local fire departments’ new chiefs, Martha Stewart’s tag sale, and a community forum with Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney. Then, in more Bedford news, we hear about a scandal involving photos of special ed students, the proposed budget for the next school year, and the Oak Ridge water treatment plant’s funding to expand its filtration system. Bartley also reports that Bedford is having second thoughts about opting out of allowing retail outlets to sell marijuana and discusses the reasons behind this U-turn. Next, Caselnova jumps in with some Yorktown news, including the town board’s decision to invest $1.2 million in the community center and theater, the Relay for Life, and plans to build a haunted house property in the back of the JV mall. Marschhauser then takes the Yorktown baton to report on a lawsuit involving an attempt to stop property development on the former Soundview Prep School site. He also covers the school board elections, which have gotten pretty intense with disagreements over how the board handled the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion movement. Meanwhile, Dumas has a story about violin scammers in Mahopac—fake violinists who use pre-recorded music to cheat money out of passers-by—and some sad news about pets being abandoned now that people are returning to normal life post-pandemic. He also covers a heartwarming story about the late Judge James Reitz, a Mahopac icon, having a courtroom in Putnam Country Court named in his honor. And finally, we squeeze in some North Salem and Somers Town news, with Walogorsky reporting that Board of Education elections are happening there too and hinting at a mysterious story involving the retirement of a long-standing business that could be big news for local residents. Episode Highlights: North Salem NewsThe Somers Record Mahopac News Yorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro Times

Editorial Roundup and Dr. Paul Strombom on Colorectal Cancer Awareness This week on Hudson Valley Uncensored, Brett Freeman has an interview with colon and rectal surgeon Dr. Paul Strombom from Phelps Hospital to talk about Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Then, later on in the episode, he also is joined by regulars Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, and Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times. First up, Freeman is joined by Dr. Paul Strombom to discuss colorectal cancer and the importance of getting regular screenings. They start out by discussing the increase in colon cancer rates in the under-50s and the simultaneous decrease in the over-65s. Dr. Strombom says that there’s no obvious reason for the increase in younger patients, though diet and environment may be factors, but the decrease in older patients is down to better screening and the ability to remove pre-cancerous polyps during colonoscopies. He then reassures listeners that the colonoscopy process isn’t so bad (though the bowel prep process is a different matter) and that it’s the best way to prevent colon cancer, along with a healthy diet and quitting smoking. Freeman brings up the question of symptoms, and Dr. Strombom points out that many patients have no symptoms, which is why regular screening is so important in order to catch any problems early. He also addresses the higher rate of colon cancer in African Americans and explains that access to regular screening is a factor in this problem. The discussion then moves to what happens after a colonoscopy, Dr. Strombom explaining that polyps are sent to the pathologist to be tested and that the type and number of them will determine the regularity of your repeat colonoscopies, which can be anything from ten years to three months. And finally, they return to screenings, with Dr. Strombom explaining that while colonoscopy is the best type, there are other, less invasive procedures available, and the most important thing is to attend your annual screening of whatever type. Following the interview ,Walogorsky has the big news out of Somers Town that Bill Faulkner is throwing his hat into the ring and running for Congress in the 16th District this fall. He’ll be taking on Jamal Bowman, who’s also going to be primarying Vedat Gashi, and Dumas joins in to say that he just interviewed a very confident Gashi, who took some shots at Bowman’s alignment with the Democratic Party’s views. In response, Freeman brings up the issue of President Biden’s stance on energy independence and says he’d be curious to see whether self-proclaimed “Biden Democrat” Gashi agrees with the President or not. Moving on, Marschhauser reports on some progress in Yorktown’s project to bring sewers to 315 homes, which had been held up by the county’s refusal to release funds for the project unless Yorktown signed up for the affordable housing code it repealed in 2016. After a six-month logjam, the county now seems to have backed off from its demand following the federal government’s recent approval of $1.2 million for the sewer project. Dumas then reports on a controversial change to Mahopac’s town board meetings, Supervisor Carrazi having decided to scrap the new business public comment sessions, causing upset among town members. Finally, Marschhauser and Walogorsky close this section of the episode with a...

On this week’s episode of Hudson Valley Uncensored, host Brett Freeman is joined by some new guests—Jessica Einterz, reporter for The Katonah Lewisboro Times and Yorktown News, and Whit Anderson, reporter for The Somers Record and North Salem News. Also joining them are regulars Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record; Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News; and Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times. New reporter Einterz starts us off with a story she’s working on about the rise in gas prices, and the group discusses the impact on local businesses and families as well as how politics always finds its way into such discussions. Then we have a slew of positive local news, starting with Halston Media’s very own Corinne Stanton winning the Greater Mahopac-Carmel Chamber of Commerce’s Business Person of the Year and Somers resident Steve Wilson climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for the second time, this time after donating one of his kidneys. Meanwhile, Walogorsky reports on two local groups in Salem collecting medical supplies for Ukraine, and Einterz tells us about her interview with a food truck owner who uses a community-minded pay-what-you-want business model. Turning to more dramatic news, Anderson reports on Somers resident Vicenzo Fidanza, who was arrested on March 1 by the New York State Police for multiple felony drug and weapons charges. Included in Fidanza’s cache was over twenty pounds of cocaine and over 1,500 grams of amphetamines, and he was in possession of an AK-47; he was denied bail and remains in custody. The group then moves on to politics, with Matt Slater’s confirmation that he is seeking the assembly nomination for District 94 and Vedat Gashi officially announcing that he’s running for Congress, as well as rumors that Michael Grace is running for Lieutenant Governor. Walogorsky then follows up on a story about a brick being thrown through the window of the State Trooper barracks in Somers and the helicopter chase that followed, resulting in the arrest of a nineteen-year-old who is now facing second-degree criminal mischief charges. And we finish up with a preview of Walogorsky’s upcoming interview with a MasterChef Junior contestant from South Salem and a discussion of whether Gordon Ramsay yells at kids or if he keeps his temper just for adults. Episode Highlights: The Katonah Lewisboro Times Yorktown News The Somers Record North Salem News Mahopac News

Today, host Brett Freeman is joined by a very special guest, Senator Pete Harckham of the 40th Senate district in the state of New York. The Senator is here to answer questions on topics ranging from bail reform to his bill on ADUs to redistricting in NYC. Joining Brett in asking the questions are Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News. Our first question is on bail reform and the pushback it’s been getting. Senator Harckham responds that the bail reform bill does need to be revised—in fact, he was one of those leading the fight to revise it—but we also need to address the root causes of violence and help all communities to develop the determinants of safe communities, like access to employment and world-class healthcare. The discussion then turns to the Senator’s bill on Accessory Dwelling Units and his goal to use ADUs as a low-impact way of addressing the lack of affordable housing in areas like Northern Westchester. Walogorsky then asks about the rise in opioid overdoses during the pandemic and what the Senator, in his role as Chairman of the Committee of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, thinks about the legalization of marijuana in New York State. Senator Harckham responds that the opioid crisis is down to many factors, including the stress of the pandemic and the presence of fentanyl in the drug chain, and says that one of the key factors in dealing with the crisis is the regulation of recovery houses. He also speaks on the thinking behind the legalization of marijuana and where the revenue from it will go. Next, Marschhauser has a question about the state of the New York economy and the spate of big-box retailers leaving vacancies when they go bust, and the Senator discusses the changes in retail as a result of the growth in delivery services and online stores, suggesting that while mom-and-pop stores will likely survive, the era of big-footprint retail may be over. The conversation then moves to the rise in energy prices, with the Senator outlining legislation he’s drafting to ensure energy customers aren’t hit with huge, unexpected bills, as well as the decommissioning of the Indian Point nuclear plant and the future for nuclear energy in New York State. Dumas then brings up the issue of redistricting in NYC, and Senator Harckham explains the reasons behind the changes and the impact they will have on his own district. And finally, the Senator addresses the controversial move to include race as one of the criteria for COVID therapeutics, stating that while there is a need to reassure the black and brown communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic that they will not be forgotten, there is no rationing being implemented and no shortage of therapeutics in New York State. Episode Highlights: North Salem NewsThe Somers Record Yorktown News

Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, join host Brett Freeman for today’s weekly editorial roundup. The episode starts with some sad news about a fire in Heritage Hills which resulted in the death of a woman and her dog and a discussion about keeping safe and helping out in the wake of disasters. Marschhauser then reports on the long-running problems Lakeland School Board has been having, which culminated in a very rowdy and hostile meeting this week over, amongst other things, the possibility of introducing the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Curriculum. Dumas joins in with a rundown of Mahopac’s issues with its school board over vaccine mandates, and the guys discuss the possibility of virtue signaling in pandemic-related decisions. Moving on, Dumas reports on the infighting caused by Kevin Byrne running for and subsequently receiving the Conservative nomination for the Putnam County Executive, a messy situation involving the GOP chairman and accusations of dishonesty and disloyalty. Then Walogorsky briefly discusses the debate in Somers over the Board of Education’s decision on mask mandates before Marschhauser brings up the rise in electric bills, leading to a discussion about the impact of inflation on all industries, including newspapers with the cost of paper going through the roof. And finally, the group discusses the redistricting in Yorktown and the potential opening it gives for more moderate Democrats to throw their hat in the ring. Episode Highlights: North Salem NewsThe Somers Record Yorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro Times Mahopac News

Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record; Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times; and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, join host Brett Freeman for this weekly editorial roundup. Marschhauser kicks off by discussing the new state law coming into effect that's upset some people in town. The law provides that if a residence is built on any property, even if it's in a commercial zone, that residential unit is allowed to build an accessory dwelling unit. According to Yorktown Planning Director John Tegeder, an accessory dwelling unit is a mother-daughter type of home that can be either be a legalized apartment in the basement, something like that in a garage, or you can build an actual different structure on the property. Walogorsky then touches upon the electricity and heating bill issue. He mentions how electricity prices have gone up considerably to even more than 100%, 75%, 80% from one month to the next. He articulates how people are understandably distraught, trying to reach out to their local government, going all the way up the chain, and eventually ending up at the newspaper trying to figure out exactly what's going on with this. Walogorsky shares that it seems like it's a matter of supply and demand and that this is out of electricity companies' hands. Marschhauser lightens up the conversation with the story of middle school speech pathologist Jenn Sparano, a Pleasantville resident who appeared on and won her game of Wheel Of Fortune. He then goes on to share the heartfelt story of the passing of Jenn's 99-year-old grandma, who had encouraged her to go on the show. Dumas covers the story of singer Amanda Eppolito, who is a 20118 Mahopac High School graduate. He comments on how Mahopac has developed a reputation for producing music stars, and Amanda Eppolito is the latest one to join the club. He mentions other stars also from Mahopac: Amanda Ayala from The Voice who just had a number one charting single on the independent pop charts, and Holly Block, who wrote and starred in a Broadway musical that is now award-nominated. Amanda Eppolito has moved to Nashville, the songwriting capital of the world, where she just dropped her debut album on January 28th called The Show Must Go On. It's available on all the typical online streaming platforms from iTunes to Spotify. Other stories they touch upon include the conviction of a 51-year-old drunk driver responsible for the death of two people, a local business owner being featured in a Super Bowl Ad, Los Angeles Rams Equipment Director Brendan Berger, budgets and state aid, and the American Rescue Plan. Episode Highlights: North Salem News The Somers Record Yorktown News The Katonah Lewisboro TimesMahopac News

Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record; Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times; and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, join host Brett Freeman for this weekly editorial roundup. Walogorsky kicks off the discussion by explaining a possible real estate development in Baldwin Place by Urstadt Biddle Properties. In this development, everyone shopping at HomeGoods will be relocated to Mohegan Lake, with another larger retail store coming. Urstadt Biddle Properties are proposing a new apartment building that would be 5 stories with 160-units of affordable living apartments. Walogorsky mentions everyone is negative about this development and explains their concerns. Marschhauser then shifts the discussion to the overlay districts which are basically rezoned properties in downtown Yorktown Heights. He explains that these were rezoned to encourage mixed-use developments, giving the developers the ability to build more prominent, taller buildings, promote walkability, and hold a certain aesthetic standard. He elaborates on the specific properties getting rezoned and explains the excitement among the people of Yorktown regarding this rezoning. Dumas discusses a jaw-dropping story of a theft that happened on January 18. A babysitter, elementary school teacher, and JV volleyball coach in Somer Central School District was arrested for stealing money from his employer's home [Nicole Borelli Stern]. Dumas details that Nicole caught him on camera in real-time rummaging through a purse and stealing $1,250. Dumas reports that more than $50,000 in cash and jewelry was missing over the past six months, and initially, they suspected somebody else. Michael Yoder, the babysitter, has been charged with grand larceny in the fourth degree only for the money stolen out of the purse, with investigations of all the other missing money ongoing. Dumas also relays that Stern's pet pig might have eaten some of the money that fell on the floor during the robbery when he rummaged through the purse. Dumas then discusses a cause for concern regarding pollution in the Downtown Business District in Mahopac caused by dry cleaning waste seeping into the water table. He reports that the Department of Environmental Conservation has discovered chemicals in drinking well water above accepted limitations. A heating oil tank has been found buried in the ground behind a chamber building that had leaked petroleum into the ground, causing damage worth about $20,000. More stories in this roundup include a car discovered floating off the shore of Lake Mahopac, nepotism and the selection criteria in town council positions, former Yorktown Highway Superintendent Eric DiBartolo's guilty plea to petty larceny, and the race for county executive. Episode Highlights: North Salem News The Somers Record Yorktown News The Katonah Lewisboro TimesMahopac News

Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, and Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, join host Brett Freeman for today’s weekly editorial roundup. Walogorsky begins by talking about Illuminate Somers, a tour of the town’s holiday lights and decorations, and then the guys discuss other local festive attractions. Elsewhere, Somers’ library is appealing for funds for upgrades, and Walogorsky highlights The Friends of Karen, a North Salem organization that supports children facing life-threatening illnesses. They also discuss the news that North Salem and Yorktown have been working on their budgets, with North Salem approving a 2% tax increase and some of Yorktown’s residents questioning the town’s spending on communications. Next, Marschhauser discusses Bedford’s resolution against gas-powered leaf blowers and their public hearings on whether or not to opt out of marijuana dispensaries, both of which result in lively discussions. There’s then a brief diversion on the subject of Taco Bell vs. Chipotle, before Marschhauser brings up his love-hate relationship with PR people and whether their value outweighs their potential to create propaganda. Finally, things wrap up with some lighter news, with profiles of local residents who have had recent successes, from clean beauty expert Indie Lee to several locals who have won roles in touring productions of Broadway shows (and a brief discussion of the guys’ Broadway faves!). Episode Highlights: ● Two editors from the Halston Media team join today's roundup - Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, and Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times. ● Our main pack editor, Bob Dumars, is out this week, having spent some time in hospital (good news, he’s on his way home as of December 9). ● Walogorsky starts us off with the news that Illuminate Somers, a tour of the town’s holiday lights and decorations, is back on Friday, December 17, with prizes and awards! ● Other recommendations for festive community fun include light displays in Carmel and Walnut Hill Church in Bethel, Connecticut. ● Somers’ library is appealing for funds for upgrades, including a generator that would allow them to take in people in the event of a disaster. ● Walogorsky also gives a shout-out to The Friends of Karen, a North Salem organization founded in 1978, which is devoted to helping children and their families who are facing life-threatening illnesses, providing support for around 600 children a year. ● The Friends of Karen covers a large area, including Connecticut, New Jersey, Long Island, and all throughout the Hudson Valley, and they never turn anybody away. ● They have two important programs running over the holidays – first, “Adopt-A-Family,” where you can buy gifts for children from their wish lists; and second, the Year End Appeal, their big fundraising program which takes donations as small as a gift card and as big as sponsoring...

Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, join host Brett Freeman for today's weekly editorial roundup. Dumas begins by talking about goose culling at the Mahopac Lakes, describing how geese poop over the area and create health hazards, especially on the beachfront, and explains the different methods of reducing the goose population. He also notes that some people, like Town Councilwoman Suzanne McDonough, oppose the practice, calling it animal cruelty. Dumas then reports on the proposed downtown revitalization project, and the Mahopac Fire Department Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa's Visit on Friday, December 3rd, 2021. Marschhauser describes his pursuit of a story with a South Salem resident, Pamela Schoenberg, who appeared and went far in the TV show/competition Jeopardy, and recalls other people from Hudson Valley who featured in popular TV shows like Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, and Man v. Food. He also details the December 2nd Bedford Playhouse event, a special invite-only screening of the film Jockey, which soon comes out in theaters, and advises that he will have an interview and Q&A with Clifton Collins Jr., an Academy Award-nominated actor starring in the film. The group ends by discussing solar farms being developed in residential areas, the law that approved this on large properties, and the practice of cutting trees for solar farms. Episode Highlights: ● Two editors from the Halston Media team join today's roundup - Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News. ● Dumas reports on the goose culling practice in the Mahopac Lakes. ● The health hazards created by geese in the Mahopac Lakes. ● Methods of reducing goose populations. ● Opposition to the goose culling from Town Councilwoman Suzanne McDonough and other people labeling the practice animal cruelty. ● Butchered geese sent to homeless shelters for food. ● The proposed downtown revitalization project will have three working drawings, including the new municipal parking lot next to Tompkins Mahopac bank, the Swan Cove Park, and new sidewalks, crosswalks, lighting, and diagonal parking in the business district. ● Park sidewalks will be wider and more crosswalks so it's not so dangerous to go from one side of the road to the other. ● The Mahopac Fire Department Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Santa's Visit on Friday, December 3rd, 2021. ● Putnam County Business Council grant awards. ● Brian’s pursuit of a story with a South Salem resident, Pamela Schoenberg, who appeared and went far in the TV show/competition Jeopardy. ● Pamela went up against a really great champion who had won nine days in a row and gave her a run for her money. ● Other people from the community on Family Feud, Wheel of Fortune, and Man v. Food. ● Brian will be moderating a Q&A at the Bedford Playhouse on Thursday, December 2nd. ● The December 2nd Bedford Playhouse...

Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times; Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record; and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, are back again this week to join host Brett Freeman for the weekly editorial roundup. Brian starts things off by delving into the fallout from the use of a racial slur by a Republican district leader, as well as some holiday activities taking place in Yorktown and surrounding area. Tom goes on to share some town budgeting and Schoolhouse Theatre news, some upcoming community events, and the State Championship football game. Bob then chimes in with information regarding parent protests, a potentially politically motivated investigation into the Election Commissioner, and the dedication of a bench to a developmentally delayed gentleman. He also reveals details regarding some upcoming events, and reviews the declaration by a local Assemblyman that he is not seeking reelection. Finishing up with the story of a well deserved induction into the New York State Veteran’s Hall of Fame, Brett and the gang offer their valuable perspective on all these topics and so much more as they provide yet another informative and thought provoking roundup here today. Episode Highlights: ● Three editors from the Halston Media team join today's roundup ● Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times; Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record; and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News ● Marschhauser begins with the fallout of the Republican district leader and Councilman Vishnu Patel in Yorktown. ● The annual Turkey trot that takes place Thanksgiving morning benefits local food pantries through Senator Murphy ● The menorah lighting was organized by the Chabad of Yorktown at the Jack DeVito Veterans Memorial Field. ● The menorah and Christmas tree lighting in Katana & at Lewisboro. ● The Candy Cane runs, where the fire departments go around handing out Candy Canes in different neighborhoods. ● The return of Yorktown's holiday electric Lights Parade. ● In North Salem, the public hearing regarding the tentative budget for the town of $11.4 million this year, representing a 12% increase over the current budget. ● The budget also incorporated a 3% pay increase for town employees, and the health insurance costs went up by a little over 12%. ● The budget appropriated $500,000 for repairs and renovations to the Schoolhouse Theater, which was acquired by the town of North Salem recently and is to be used as a senior center and community use. ● The Schoolhouse Theater is partnering up with the Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden putting on a performance of a play called ‘Canticle’. ● The Elephant Hotel that's hosting Santa and his elves, and then the town Christmas tree lighting ● The Tuskers football team is one game away from the State Championship ● A fascinating story about parent protests ● The other big story is an investigation into a Republican Election Commissioner by a Putnam County sheriff regarding possession of a forged instrument. ● The contentious race for Putnam County Sheriff ● Ken Schmidt heading the...

Jonathan Schneider is a local business owner, the name of which, due to its strict compliance department’s regulations, cannot be shared here today. He also happens to be Brett’s best friend, a fact that is clearly evident as, together, they engage in a lively conversation that covers a vast array of topics in this latest episode of Hudson Valley Uncensored. Everything from the history of the press to current events such as the Rittenhouse trial to the Black Lives Matter movement are discussed in this wide ranging conversation. Jonathan and Brett also delve into the topics of media, religion, the January 6 Capitol attack, woke culture, cryptocurrencies, and the latest tax system legislation, among many others. A thought provoking conversation between two highly knowledgeable individuals, delivered with the ease and openness that one only finds between the very best of friends, today’s episode is as entertaining as it is informative - one you definitely don’t want to miss. Episode Highlights: · Brett Freeman and Jonathan talk about media as the most unregulated industry in America protected by the First Amendment above the right to bear arms. · Highlights and examples of mutual respect between the British and American soldiers that acted nobly, from the TV show Turn which is about the spy network of George Washington. · The Kyle Rittenhouse case and its contrast with George Floyd and Black Lives Matter. · In an article about Kyle Rittenhouse, Tucker Carlson writes, "Where is the governor? He was under too much political pressure to protect his own people. Talk about cowardly, blaming a 17-year old who shows up because the city his dad lives in is on fire and wants to do something. He shouldn't have been there in the first place. He shouldn't have had to have been there. The adults should have been there. They're the cowards." · The difference between Christians and messianic Jews; lessons and relevance of the New Testament. · Jonathan shares a story about an email filled with misinformation from a veteran organization. · Highlights from the January 6 United States Capitol attack trials. · Scrutinizing the police shooting, or rather murder, of Daniel Shaver. · The issue of harmful discretion. Creating a powerful movement through open discussion where people understand different points of view, upbringings, experiences in life. · The likelihood of being put down for being a rioter in Putnam County. · The '90s was the beginning of PCU (Politically Correct University). · The evolution of the woke culture and its influence. · The media as journalists, community cheerleaders, and salespeople. · Gun violence as reported by the media. · Analyzing the high rate of inflation in the country, its outcomes, and workarounds. · Outlook on cryptocurrencies and NFTs (non-fungible tokens) in today's economy. · Prediction for when people can no longer claim a tax refund for getting their credits from the child tax credit ahead of time. · The nightmare of claiming the Rebate Recovery Credit (RRC). Quotes "I don't remember when I was a kid growing up, but I always feel like I heard my father talk about Walter Cronkite, and this is the nightly news. And it was really just...

Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, join host Brett Freeman for today’s weekly editorial roundup. Walogorsky begins with a recap of several Veterans Day events that were held in North Salem and Somers. He talks about the recent release of both town budgets, the latest in local sports, and shares a feel-good story involving a woman who gave birth at home unexpectedly with the help of Westchester emergency responders. Next Marschhauser gives an update on Yorktown sports and the development of a new restaurant in Katonah. He breaks down the very troubling story of GOP district leader Tom Pomposello directing a racist slur toward Councilman Vishnu Patel on election night. The group talks in great detail about potential fallout from this incident, whether it speaks to a larger issue at hand, and Marschhauser reflects on how the story has been picked up nationally. Finally, Dumas discusses upcoming vaccination clinics for children between the ages of 5 and 11 in Putnam County and touches on recent traffic safety issues in Mahopac. Episode Highlights: Yorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro TimesNorth Salem NewsThe Somers RecordMahopac Newsstory Quotes “For Somers, there was actually a 0% tax increase, which is good for the taxpayers.” “The baby was coming, so members from our Westchester Emergency Services responded, and a local state trooper, and they actually had to deliver the baby at home in Somers.” “They're going to repurpose that old firehouse building and it's got this cool distinct look.” “When you see the video and you hear it, it takes your breath away a little bit. The way he says it. It's just filled with such anger toward [Councilman Vishnu Patel].” “I got my statements from the Republicans. Obviously, they

On today’s editorial roundup, Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, and Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, join host Brett Freeman to discuss the exciting results of November 2’s election, voter trends in the Hudson Valley, and how these compared to national outcomes. The group also looks into Democratic/Republican breakdowns across municipalities, the tendency for people to vote based on personality in local politics, and how the pandemic may have affected voting this year. Finally, you’ll hear about a special commemorative event being held in Somers for Veterans Day on November 11, and Dumas tells the panel about his upcoming interview with singer-songwriter Amanda Ayala, a Westchester native whose career has taken off since performing a memorable rendition of “Mississippi Queen” on Season 9 of The Voice. Episode Highlights: Yorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro TimesNorth Salem NewsThe Somers RecordMahopac NewsVeterans Day ParadeAmanda Ayala Quotes “In some towns, there is a pretty big Democratic/Republican gap in towns like Yorktown...But you're starting to notice in a lot of these towns, there were just a ton of unaffiliated voters.” “Lewisboro has 4000 Democrats, 2500 Republicans, and then another 2700 non affiliated voters.” “The town council race was just incredibly close. The top three candidates were all within 100 votes of each other.” “I think people voted kind of on personality.” “I thought Langley, being the incumbent and having run a pretty tight ship, would win, but he got only got 43% of the vote. McConville got 57%, so it was a pretty decisive victory.” “Bedford was a clean democratic sweep. It wasn't that close.” “I don't know how much pull Matt Damon has with the Bedford voters - apparently not very much.” “Yorktown, starting on January 1, will be governed by an all Republican town board, 5-0.” “Republicans for one reason or another were better at winning over those non-affiliated voters.” “Some people put in 40 hours a week for this part-time job. And some people put in five hours a week and work that one night.” “It's interesting to note that just because you're a Republican, you don't

Reporter Nick Trujillo of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times joins Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, as well as Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, for this week’s editorial roundup with host Brett Freeman. Trujillo begins with the sudden and tragic loss of Emily Rose Storm, who died by suicide on October 10. Trujillo also talks about the “Festival for Our Future,” which was held at the Lewisboro Town Park, and gives an update on the 2022 budget for Yorktown, as well as the appointment of new assistant superintendent in Lakeland, Dr. Tracy Norman. Next Walogorsky tells the panel about a possible new business development in Somers as well as the mixed responses this proposal is receiving from residents, then touches on a number of fundraising events being held in North Salem. The show concludes as Dumas breaks down preliminary budgets put forth in Carmel, the recent revitalization of the Fairways & Gateway Summit project, and how the pandemic has affected home designs for builders and architects moving forward. Episode Highlights: Nick TrujilloYorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro TimesNorth Salem NewsThe Somers Record, Mahopac News, Emily Rose StormGoFundMeTrevor ProjectFestival for Our Futureassistant superintendent Quotes “[Valerie Kaplan] wanted to celebrate Emily's life and her legacy. It seemed like they were so loved in the community, and the outpouring of...

Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, and Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, join today’s editorial roundup to discuss local news and headlines in the Hudson Valley with host Brett Freeman. They begin with the latest on upcoming town elections in great detail, the most controversial and heated races, as well as the dangers of having one-party dominance in local government. Next Walogorsky details several grant applications taking place in North Salem to help with upgrades and infrastructure improvements, and Marschhauser discusses a possible new age-restricted development in Yorktown. The panel talks about housing and rental cost issues in the area, and finally, they agree that we could use a resurgence of good old fashioned skating rinks and bowling alleys in this day and age. Episode Highlights: Mahopac NewsYorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro TimesNorth Salem NewsThe Somers Recordhere Quotes “Shockingly, the town that is usually the political hotbed of the ones that I cover has been Yorktown. In years past, a lot of mudslinging. A lot of fighting. This year has been pretty quiet actually.” “It's been kind of wild to see over the last few weeks, how we go from one to two letters to the editor per week, to this most recent issue, I had 18.” “I, for one, am very excited for it to end. It gets a little muddy around this time of year.” “I think it's never healthy to have an all one-party board in our towns. And I actually think it does a disservice to the party that's in power because they can get kind of lazy.” “[Bob Langley] is the incumbent, so he has the advantage. I have a gut feeling that he's going to win, but my gut isn't always...

On today’s editorial roundup, Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, and Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, join host Brett Freeman to discuss the early retirement of Mahopac School District Superintendent, Anthony DiCarlo, the release of a private conversation recorded between Putnam County Sheriff Bob Langley and Carmel Town Supervisor Kenneth Schmitt, and this year’s local budget season. You’ll hear about upcoming Halloween events in the area, and Walogorsky gives listeners an update on the collaboration between North Salem and Somers regarding infrastructure and future development. Next Marschhauser touches on his latest controversial stories, including the sudden resignation of Lakeland School Superintendent, Brendon Lyons, his interim replacement, Episode Highlights: Mahopac NewsYorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro TimesNorth Salem NewsThe Somers RecordMahopac School District Superintendent Anthony DiCarlo’s early retirementresignationinterim superintendent Quotes “[Mahopac School District Superintendent Anthony DiCarlo] had some medical issues earlier in the year where he missed about a month. And that combined with all the stress of dealing with running a school district during the pandemic, I think just piled up on him.” “Apparently, about a month ago, a private conversation between Carmel Supervisor Ken Schmitt, and [Putnam County Sheriff Robert] Langley, was recorded by the sheriff's department, and then that recording not too long after ended up on social media.” “It turns out he broke no law. I talked to the DA about this, and you're allowed to do that as long as one party, and this is state law, as long as one party knows it's being recorded.” “[Kevin McConville] has tried to make this a huge issue. And I'm not sure how much traction it’s gaining.” “We got a bunch of Halloween events coming up. There's the

Joining today’s editorial roundup are Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times, Tom Walogorsky, editor of North Salem News and The Somers Record, and Carol Reif, reporter for The Somers Record and North Salem News. They discuss the story of Lakeland Superintendent Brendan Lyons’ recent resignation, vandalism in North Salem, future planning for Croton Falls, and Reif breaks down every twist and turn of her recent celebrity interview. You’ll also hear an update on varsity sports in Somers, nationwide supply shortages, and how these have trickled down locally. Episode Highlights: Yorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro TimesNorth Salem NewsThe Somers Record,Carol Reifresigned Quotes “I was still quite a bit taken aback by [Brendan Lyons’] resignation just because his words and actions didn't seem like those of a man who was ready to give up the fight and walk away.” “School districts have always been weird when it comes to transparency for the most part… I always believed in tackling issues head on. That's my style of transparency.” “They are going to be developing a master plan and a capital projects plan, and looking for community input about what gets you excited, about what the future could hold for Croton Falls.” “We're in the middle of apple picking season, which always brings a lot of revenue, but it also brings a lot of problems into North Salem with traffic and people looking for places to eat.” “Carol has been chasing this story down through every twist and turn and I feel like every time we would talk about it, there would be a different development.” “The majority of the varsity teams in Somers have been having a very good year.” “If [bus drivers] found another gig while you couldn't be driving for the school district, maybe you're just sticking with that.” “One of the things that might be problematic is they might have to combine routes and they’ll have to put more kids on the school buses.” Links: Halston Media Group website

Today’s editorial roundup features Bob Dumas, editor of Mahopac News, and Brian Marschhauser, editor of Yorktown News and The Katonah Lewisboro Times. Dumas and Marschhauser join host Brett Freeman to discuss local news and headlines, beginning with the story of Con Ed moving some electrical wires underground in Yorktown, as well as an upcoming project to bring sewers to 315 homes in the area. Marschhauser also talks about the ongoing debate regarding the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative in the Lakeland School District, and celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Support Connection organization, which provides emotional, social and educational support to women, their families, and friends affected by breast and ovarian cancer. Dumas discusses his new profile on Carmel resident Joe Cunningham, who has developed a new app that connects contractors and customers together called “Got Work”. You’ll also hear about some exciting events that are returning to Mahopac-Carmel following the pandemic, updates and improvements being made to Croton Falls, a small hamlet in the town of North Salem, and a poll for Somers residents to make their voices heard on plans for wireless infrastructure. The show ends with a more detailed conversation about the equity versus equality debate in Lakeland, and how we can navigate this discussion in a respectful, civilized manner at the local level. Episode Highlights: Mahopac NewsYorktown NewsThe Katonah Lewisboro Timesmoving Diversity, Equity, and InclusionSupport ConnectionWalk Wherever You AreUSA DrainsTy Louis Campbell Foundation