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27 Ways to Love Where You Live

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Local Love

February 2024 PUBLISHER

Dana Cifone | dana.cifone@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Barbara Accetta | barbara.accetta@citylifestyle.com

Our towns are the heartbeat of our communities, infused with the unique stories, traditions, and spirit of those who call them home. Loving our towns means embracing the rich tapestry of local life that unfolds within them, celebrating the landmarks that hold memories and cherishing the hidden gems that give each town its distinct character. The pillars of a strong and resilient community are our neighbors. They’re the friends who lend a helping hand, the shoulders to lean on during tough times, and the companions who share in our joys. Loving our towns means forging connections with those who share our streets, creating a sense of unity and belonging that transcends the physical boundaries of our homes. Some of our neighbors are business owners whose establishments make our communities shine. When we choose to support local shops and services, we contribute to the livelihoods of our communities for generations to come. To love our towns is to embrace a way of life that goes beyond routine, and instead, actively participate in the unique culture and dynamics that make each town special to ensure a brighter, more connected future for all.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Cheryl Parton, Sue G. Collins C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R

Janie Jones

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DA N A C I F O N E , P U B L I S H E R @BEDFORD.CITYLIFESTYLE Tag us or use #BedfordCityLifestyle to be featured! Discover Bedford City Lifestyle in the towns of Armonk, Bedford, Bedford Hills, Chappaqua, Katonah, Mount Kisco, Pound Ridge, and Valhalla.

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Mary Albers LAYOUT DESIGNER Rhiannon Coffman

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Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Bedford City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue FE B RUA RY 2 0 2 4 | LOV E LO CA L

22 12

Featured

12 18 22 28 6

Local Legend

Inside the rich history and modern glory of The Kittle House

28 On the Cover

Departments

Outdoor winter fun abounds in Bedford and beyond.

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Locally Sourced LIFE + CULTURE

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Giving Back LIFE + CULTURE

How To LIFE + CULTURE

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

Maker’s Studio LIFE + CULTURE

Local Limelight ENTERTAINMENT

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Events

Dancing for Duchenne

The Pulse Performing Arts Studio's Nova Jazz Company gives back

27 Ways to Love Where You Live Life’s little luxuries are right outside your door

21 Questions with Fran Hauser

A lighthearted Q&A series spotlighting local personalities

Photography: Yan Krukau

P R I VAT E

C H E F

•

C AT E R I N G

•

E V E N T S

@ M R C _ H O S P I TA L I T Y_ G R O U P

FEBRUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

FAY FOX

ANDY JONES

Bubbles & Broadway 1: Vocalist Meghan Picerno accompanied on piano by Dan Micciche, Musical Director of Wicked on Broadway 2: Beautiful music and joyous festivities created a magical atmosphere at the Bubbles & Broadway event 3: Guests were treated to a spirited performance by stars Meghan Picerno and Dan Micciche 4: The sparkling afternoon at Pound Ridge Library brought Broadway and the Opera to the suburbs 5: Opera and Broadway star Meghan Picerno and Eva Chan 6: Schaffner Room at Pound Ridge Library celebrated new acoustic panels from Pound Ridge Library Foundation 7: Meghan Picerno, Dan Micciche, and photographer Fay Fox

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business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Award-Winning Gleason Plumbing Provides Emergency Service to Westchester County Gleason Plumbing & Heating LLC, a family-owned business of master plumbers in Armonk since 1980, provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services anywhere in Westchester County in addition to its everyday offerings. From minor leaks to boiler repairs and complete installations, its licensed and insured team excels in both residential and commercial projects. Operating as a family-run company, Gleason Plumbing ensures client comfort through detailed, informed service, as well as a 100% satisfaction guarantee. armonkplumbing.com

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Genesis Pro Painting Achieves Record Growth in Westchester County Genesis Pro Painting & Restoration has experienced significant growth in recent years, becoming one of Westchester County’s fastest-growing painting companies. Grounded in its steadfast dedication to superior painting practices, techniques, and standards while utilizing premium paints and materials, Owner Genesis Macedo credits his team of motivated professionals who approach painting as a long-term career. Services include cabinet refinishing, interior and exterior painting, deck staining, wallpaper installation and more. genesispropainting.com

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Woman-Owned Rombouts Construction at Forefront of Excavating Industry Cindy Holahan, CEO of Rombouts Construction, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the construction industry. Leading this woman-owned company since 2009, she specializes in mass excavation, site work, shoring, underpinning, drilling, architectural landscaping, and rock removal. Cindy’s extensive expertise in the concrete industry is complemented by her fervor for sustainable development, strength enhancement, and carbon reduction, making these principles central to her approach in guiding Rombouts Construction to success. 914.231.0375

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ARTICLE BY BARBARA ACCETTA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KITTLE HOUSE

LOCAL LEGEND

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L I F E + CU LT U RE

Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant & Inn, a historic landmark tucked quietly into the corner of a quaint tree-lined road in Chappaqua, has lived many lives over the course of its 200-year heritage. From a small family farm to a private estate, a Prohibition-era roadhouse, an all-girls school, and a charming bed & breakfast hosting notable names throughout Hollywood’s golden years and beyond, The Kittle House is rooted in a rich past with a oneof-a-kind legacy. In 1981, The Kittle House was delicately restored to its original grandeur by the Crabtree family after they took over the property and inherited its long lineage of stories. Owner John Crabtree grew up in the kitchens of his father, and as such, his passion for the art of hospitality is evidenced through The Kittle House’s charming Inn, refined farm-to-table cuisine, and deeply dedicated family of longtime staff. Its world-renowned wine cellar is stocked CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BE D F O R D

with more than 45,000 bottles and over 5,000 unique labels of wine from every region, each with its own viticulture for an unparalleled collection. The Taproom’s bar originated from an Inn in England, where it was purchased by actress Fanny Brice as a birthday gift for mobster Dutch Schultz. The bar remained in his Manhattan speakeasy throughout Prohibition and was brought to The Kittle House in the 1950s. Today, The Kittle House is one of the most revered hospitality establishments in Westchester County, offering an incomparable experience in every regard.

LOCA LLY SOU R CE D | L I F E + CU LT U RE

At the helm of The Kittle House dining room for nearly three decades is Head Captain and Sommelier Leo Erazo, whose skilled eye and friendly demeanor ensure that the drinking glasses are always full and entrees always superb. Influenced by two centuries of flawless hosting amongst an elegant ambiance with a tone of joviality, The Kittle House is the perfect place for an elevated brunch with your besties, a romantic dinner with an overnight stay, and any-occasion drinks in the Taproom’s casual-meets-cozy bar. crabtreeskittlehouse.com | @crabtreeskittlehouse

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ARTICLE BY SUE G. COLLINS

When my kids were little, we would address valentines to classmates, deliver flowers to neighbors and decorate the house with hearts and snowflakes (cut from white coffee filters). For dinner, I would make their favorite meal: dessert! Why not? I'd melt chocolate (the good stuff) and let them line up their dippers. They thought dessert for dinner was magical. Of course, I'd fed them a protein-packed after-school snack and served "dinner" early so they could get their sugar wiggles out before bed. Delightful! Happy Valentine's Day!

Th e Spi ke d Jone s • • • •

1/2 cup milk 1 cup heavy cream 1/4 cup whole coffee beans 2 ounces semisweet chocolate (61% Valrhona), chopped • 2 tablespoons Kahlua • 1 teaspoon confectioner's sugar • 1 tablespoon dark chocolatecovered coffee beans, chopped

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk, 1/2 cup cream, and whole coffee beans. Bring to a simmer, turn off heat, cover, and steep beans for 1 hour. Strain liquid and return to saucepan; discard beans. Bring the milk-and-cream mixture back to a simmer, add chocolate, and whisk until incorporated. Remove from heat; whisk in Kahlua. Whip remaining 1/2 cup cream and the confectioners' sugar until soft peaks form. Divide the hot chocolate between 2 cups and garnish each portion with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkling of chopped chocolate-covered coffee beans.

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DA NC I NG

for Duchenne

NOVA JAZZ IS TWIRLING TOWARD A CURE FOR MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY ARTICLE BY BARBARA ACCETTA PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE PULSE

G IV IN G BAC K | L I FE + C ULT U RE

At the heart of the award-winning The Pulse Performing Arts Studio in Bedford Hills is Nova Jazz, a non-competitive group of young dancers that have been performing for communities and charities for the past 22 years. Created by Jennifer Dell, founder of The Pulse alongside her husband, Bill Doran, the mission of Nova Jazz is to give its dancers the experience of public performance coupled with the opportunity to support charitable causes through the art of dance. “We handpick a nonprofit organization each year and then raise funds to support its mission,” said Dell.

In 2023, Nova Jazz raised more than $4,000 for The Mental Health Association of Westchester. This year, Nova Jazz is raising funds for a cause that’s affecting one of its own: fighting to end Duchenne, the most common muscular dystrophy in children. “We’re dancing for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy in support of Ethan Rabinowitz, the brother of one of our young dancers,” said Dell. Ethan, a sixth-grader, was diagnosed with Duchenne in 2014. He is 1 of 5,000 boys diagnosed with Duchenne each year, and 1 of 2 in the Katonah-Lewisboro district. There are also two boys living with Duchenne in Ridgefield. “It’s unheard of that there are three other children with Duchenne in our neighboring towns,” said Inna Rabinowitz, Ethan’s mom, who only recently shared Ethan’s diagnosis with him because “we wanted him to enjoy his life.” Ethan is a big brother to thirdgrade twin siblings, a role he takes seriously despite his mounting physical limitations. “Family is everything and we are hopeful,” says Inna. While there is currently no cure for Duchenne, there is power in community support. You can help fund advancements in potential treatments by purchasing tickets to the Nova Jazz Public Fundraiser, May 30th, 7pm, John Jay Middle School. To inquire,

“Duchenne is in our community and we’re raising awareness through dance.” - Jennifer Dell call 914-241-0200. To donate or to learn more, visit parentprojectmd.org. | Discover dance classes for kids ages 2-18 at performthepulse.com

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BE D F O R D

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

DIY VALENTINES

ARTS

ARTICLE BY CHERYL PARTON

1. Arts Create heart ornaments to hang on a Valentine’s Day tree. The ornaments can be used as clue cards for a Valentine's Day scavenger hunt. Participants find their picture on the tree and hunt for a hidden treasure.

2. Sweets A home-based holiday is made complete with a dessert table. Whether made from scratch or store bought, a collection of decorated confections is as beautiful as the treats are delectable to eat.

3. Sentiments Poetry is a most personal way to express your heart. No need to be intimidated by haiku, a short form of Japanese poetry. While there are several variations of the form, a traditional place to begin is with a seasonal word that divides 17 syllables into three lines of five/ seven/five. Simple and sweet.

H OW TO | L I FE + C ULTUR E

SENTIMENTS

The first Valentines were handmade in the 18th century, long before printing presses and mass-produced options. Today, handmade signifies the ultimate in personal mots d’amour. Enjoy these sweet projects as a couple, a family, or with friends.

SWEETS

Simple Projects to Celebrate at Home

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hi sto ric a

e @b

d or df

27 Ways to L ove W here You Live

I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

13. Attend an event at Yellow Monkey Studio 14. Pick up a loaf of fresh bread at LMNOP in Katonah 15. Visit the Wolf Conservation Center in South Salem 16. Play in the snow. You know you kind of want to. 17. Choose a new book from your library or bookstore 18. Take a stroll around Kensico Dam 19. Try a complimentary fitness class at a gym or studio 20. Attend a Sunday morning church service 21. Bring home fresh pasta from Katonah Pasta Shop 22. Test your rock climbing skills at Movement Valhalla 23. Sit and sip in a coffee shop 24. Discover local history at our area's historical societies 25. Race go-karts, play arcade games, and bowl at Grand Prix New York in Mount Kisco 26. Foster a dog or cat in need of a forever home 27. Stroll through our towns and explore the shops Follow us for even more to love. @bedford.citylifestyle

ARTICLE BY BARBARA ACCETTA

It’s said that finding joy in small moments is what makes life extraordinary, and that discovery exists not in seeing new landscapes but in a renewed view. While it may be tempting to hide indoors when the weather is, let’s face it, freezing, it’s also an opportunity to explore the hidden gems and simple pleasures that go hand-in-gloved-hand with living in and around Bedford. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite things to do in the colder months, whether solo or with family and friends, as well as some on our winter wishlist. 1. Go sledding at Pound Ridge Reservation 2. Enjoy a Sunday matinee at a local theater 3. Attend a concert at Caramoor 4. Indulge in supersized milkshakes at Mount Kisco Diner 5. Volunteer at a local nonprofit 6. Try a new restaurant (and a new food!) 7. Make art at The Pottery Factory in Mount Kisco 8. Drive the scenic route to your destination 9. Treat yourself to fresh flowers from a flower shop 10. Explore the Katonah Museum of Art 11. Go for a hike on a local trail 12. Donate gently used blankets to an animal shelter

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Th e b e a u t y o f ex p l o r a t i o n c a n b e f o u n d in the familiarity of home.

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BE D F O R D

A Handmade Date Night A date night at home is the perfect occasion to shower your loved ones with affection and appreciation. While storebought gifts and cards have their charm, there’s something incredibly special about receiving a handmade gesture. By opting for a handmade date night, you’re not just expressing love but also showcasing your thoughtfulness and effort. These handmade creations convey a personal touch that can’t be replicated.

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

M AK E R’S ST U D IO | L I FE + CU LT U RE

Make it feel like an extra special at-home date night with thoughtful touches from the heart—and hands.

From-Scratch Pasta

Yield: 1 pound

what you need

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 4 large eggs

what you do 1. Mound the flour in the center of a work surface with a well in the middle. Crack the eggs into the well and beat with a fork until smooth, then work flour into eggs with the fork. Use a bench scraper to work in the rest of the flour a little at a time. When the flour is incorporated, form the dough with your hands into a rounded mass for kneading. Lightly dust your workspace with flour and knead dough about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover dough with a bowl or plastic wrap and rest 1 1/2 hours, or chill overnight. 2. To roll by hand, flour a clean work surface. Vigorously roll dough to a very thin circle and roll constantly with even pressure as it stretches for several minutes until as thin as possible, almost translucent. 3. To cut by hand, lightly fold sheets one at a time into thirds and cut to desired thickness. Recipe from MarthaStewart.com.

CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BE D F O R D

Dark Chocolate Truffles what you need 1/2 cup heavy cream 8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 cup cocoa powder, for dusting

what you do 1. Bring the cream to just a simmer in a saucepan over low heat. Pour the cream over the chocolate in a bowl and let stand about 10 minutes to melt the chocolate. Add the vanilla, stir until smooth and set aside to cool for 1 hour at room temperature. 2. Beat chocolate at medium speed until thick and light-colored. Spread over the bottom of a baking dish, smooth and refrigerate 2 hours until firm. 3. Pour cocoa powder onto a deep plate or shallow bowl, and using a melon baller or small ice cream scoop, scoop out balls of chocolate. Roll in cocoa powder until coated and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Recipe from FoodNetwork.com.

Lavender Bath Salt Blend what you need 16 ounces Bokek Dead Sea Salt 20 drops lavender essential oil

what you do In a mixing bowl, add drops of the essential oil to the bath salt and mix well; store in a glass jar. Add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the scented salts to a bath for a relaxing experience. SeaSalt.com

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21 Questions w i t h Fra n H a u s e r A LIGHTHEARTED Q&A SERIES SPOTLIGHTING LOCAL PERSONALITIES

ARTICLE BY BARBARA ACCETTA

Photo by Jennifer Mullowney

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | ENTE RTAIN ME N T

Fran Hauser has a way with words – and she’s written two books, a self-care journal, and spoken at more than 200 Fortune 500 organizations to prove it. Supported by her 15-year media background leading powerhouse brands, Hauser has long been a vocal champion of women in the workplace. Her debut book, The Myth of the Nice Girl, was named “Best Business Book of the Year, 2018” by Audible. Its successor, Embrace the Work, Love Your Career, is the go-to guide for women’s affinity groups nationwide, followed by Reflect & Reset, a joy-filled journal for living with intention. Hauser’s most recent endeavor, Bookbound, coaches aspiring female non-fiction authors, a natural segue for her as both an author and a longtime investor in female-founded companies (she’s helped fund more than 30). Currently on the Board of Directors for the Foundation for Bedford Central Schools, Hauser is also an advisor to helpusadopt.org and LiveGirl. How does she do it all? Simply by being herself. @fran_hauser 1. What’s your guilty pleasure? Binge-watching cheesy TV shows while enjoying Ben & Jerry’s Phish Food (I have to stop buying that ice cream!). 2. What do you eat for breakfast? Yogurt, strawberries, Purely Elizabeth Grain-free Granola, and my first coffee of the day. 3. Biggest risk you’ve ever taken? Leaving the corner office to start my own business. 4. What was your first car? 1970-something baby blue Fiat with no power steering. Cute car, but I’m surprised I’m still alive. 5. Current favorite song? Flowers by Miley Cyrus. 6. What item of yours was your biggest splurge? Hermès Birkin. I’ve had it for over 20 years and now it’s close to impossible to get one.

7. What are three things you can’t live without? Family, books, and my iPhone. 8. Something that always makes you smile? My kids’ smiles. 9. When do you feel most like yourself? When I’m cuddled up on the couch reading. 10. One person you’d like to meet, past or present? Reese Witherspoon. She’s a total boss, and I’ve heard she’s really nice – my kind of human. 11. What’s your favorite board game? I’m not huge into board games, but I love playing casino games! 12. Do you consider yourself a good dancer? I rate myself a solid B, but I do LOVE to dance. 13. What’s an item you’ve kept from childhood? My first earrings. I was born in Southern Italy, and my grandparents bought them for me at a local jewelry shop. 14. What scares you? That I’m going to somehow let my kids down. 15. Favorite spot or thing to do around town? Cocktails and apps at Bedford 234. 16. What’s your hidden talent? Baking. I make a fantastic pumpkin cheesecake and cream puffs from scratch. 17. When was a moment that you felt proud of yourself? When The Myth of the Nice Girl was named Business Book of the Year by Audible. Writing a book is such a vulnerable experience, and getting that recognition meant a lot. 18. As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? An author or a business owner. I ended up being both. 19. Food: sweet or salty? Sweet! Not a day goes by that I don’t have chocolate. 20. What’s your favorite childhood cartoon or TV show? General Hospital. I watched it every day after school with my grandmother. 21. What’s something you’re trying to get better at? Letting things go and moving forward without holding grudges (I blame the Italian in me!).

“I’ve pivoted several times in my career and have learned along the way that relationships are more important than skills.”

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ARTICLE BY BARBARA ACCETTA

THE HEALTH PERKS OF

puppy love HOW YOUR ROLE AS A PUP PARENT BENEFITS YOUR BODY

Our cuddly companions are more than wagging Pets are good for the soul. Really good. Not only do recent studies show that owning a dog can increase your lifespan, but dogs also have a positive (or should I say, pawsitive) impact on mental health. Dog ownership is connected to improved emotional stability, an increased sense of purpose, and a strong emotional boost – even if they chew your favorite shoes.

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

tails and cute faces. They are unconditional and present sources of comfort, of play, and of love.

Key benefits of dog ownership, as well as other pets, include:

Decreased blood pressure People with pets have lower base heart rates and lower blood pressure, according to a study that examined pet ownership and cardiovascular reactivity. Pet owners also experienced smaller increases in blood pressure and heart rate during periods of stress.

Stronger Immune System A seven-year study of almost 500 children found that those who were exposed to dogs and cats as babies were half as likely to develop allergies and risk factors for asthma as opposed to those who grew up without pets.

Physical Activity Dogs offer encouragement to walk or play, giving dog owners the opportunity for a decent amount of exercise by caring for their dogs. As a result, dog owners tend to be more active than those without dogs.

Social Connectivity A dog serves as a natural social icebreaker. You’ll find yourself engaging with others and interacting within your community on a more regular basis as your dog leads you to get outside. Pets can also help children with their social and emotional skills.

Feel Good Hormones Ever notice that you smile when you scratch behind your dog’s ears? Studies have shown that petting dogs is linked with higher levels of oxytocin, lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and increased serotonin and dopamine levels.

Improved Mental Health Dog ownership has proven to be beneficial to veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder, and dogs can reduce anxiety, depression, and ease loneliness. Discover your furry forever friend at one of our area’s local rescues including Adopt-A-Dog, SPCA, Rescue Right, Rock N’ Rescue, and Northwind Kennels.

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BE D F O R D

FEBRUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S F EB RUA RY 2 N D

Musical Murder Mystery Dinner Captain Lawrence Barrel House, Mount Kisco | 7:00 PM Acme Mystery Company and Captain Lawrence Brewing Co. proudly present My Dead Lady, an interactive Murder Mystery Dinner rife with laughs, mystery, and singing. Guests will put their true crime reasoning to the test and prepare to be entertained. Costumes encouraged! For more details about the mystery and ticket information, visit https://allevents.in/ F EB RUA RY 1 9 T H

Family Ice Skating The Harvey School, Katonah | 12:30 PM Come out for the last day of recreational ice skating for all ages. $5 per person. Payment required at the door and skaters must supply their own skates. No hockey playing permitted. F EB RUA RY 2 5T H

Ivalas Quartet Caramoor, Katonah | 3:00 PM The final concert in the Ivalas Quartet’s Ernst Stiefel String Quartet-in-Residency represents its ongoing commitment to showcasing diverse voices. The program includes a world premiere by Derrick Skye, a composer with Ghanaian, Nigerian, Native American, and British/Irish ancestry who believes music is a doorway to understanding other cultures. Tickets start at $30/adult and can be purchased at caramoor.org.

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