Diane Mitchell's Blog Posts

After a hiatus of several years, the Bronx Zoo is all set for the return of this great holiday tradition. The seasonal celebration features animated lights and LED displays depicting species from

Center for Safety & Change FASHION POP-UP this Thursday and next at the Nyack Farmer's Market!Designer-name sweaters, shawls, and scarves on sale for $35 or less! Perfect for holiday gift-giving.

Traffic Alert: Starting on Monday, November 11th, the Rockland County Highway Department will be prepping for road resurfacing with milling and raising manholes along Kings Highway from Maple Ave to

And, if anyone thinks that hour doesn't make a difference, here are some statistics to help reconsider:The Difference an Hour Will Make This Fall ;

Thinking of Selling Your Home? The Waiting Is The Hardest Part.Tom Petty famously penned the words, “the waiting is the hardest part” in his early 80’s hit song The Waiting,;

5 Real Estate Reality TV Myths ExplainedHave you ever been flipping through the channels, only to find yourself glued to the couch in an HGTV binge session? We’ve all been there, watching entire

September, October, and November are prime apple months. You can buy them at the Farmer's Market, grocery store, or local orchard (picking your own is always a great activity or just by the ones

5 Easy Steps to Avoid Overwhelm from Media OverloadWhen someone is thinking about buying or selling a home, they want to be well-informed. They want to make the right decision for themselves and

There are few things I dislike more than wrestling with fitted sheets to get them folded neatly. Then there's the difficulty of recognizing which is the folded sheet and which is the flat one (at

Apparently there is now a "day" for everything, so why not ice cream sandwiches? The ice cream sandwich was my favorite treat growing up. Then my sisters and I decided to create our own version by

Buyer demand is up. Interest rates are low. Home values are rising. All of these factors point to the strong housing market that is forecasted to continue throughout the

As hot as it's been the past week or so, these sound and look so refreshing and so yummy! The frozen peach wine slushie recipe is from https://theforkedspoon.com/frozen-peach-wine

This beautiful lakefront home with 700 feet of shoreline is looking for a new owner! Imagine pulling through the gates into the peace and quiet of 4 acres of land, over 12,000 SqFt of living

Here are 10 ways to save on utility bills during the summer months, adopt an environmentally friendly lifestyle and avoid overspending on household expenses this year.  Switch Off the Lights

Or anywhere else. Here's a little checklist to get started before we go out looking!Checking off all the boxes on this list will help you be ready to "roll" in this competitive environment and 

For those who have been to one of Nyack's Street Fairs each year, it's that time again! Sunday, May 19th, rain or shine. 9AM to 5PMMain Street and Broadway (mostly South Broadway) in Nyack will

Rockland County Department of Health is again offering clinics this year so that you can get your fur-kids up to date on their Rabies Shot! Shots are free, but a $5 donation per animal helps to

Spring is so close it is time to start thinking about ridding your spaces of winter build up and grime! To do so without a lot of chemicals, follow these tips!  Room deodorizing spray: by

We have a great recycling program here in Rockland County. But there are items that the recycling companies won't pick up and the question of "how do I responsibly recycle these items?" often goes

If you’re used to the 4 seasons of the year, but by now are growing weary of winter, here are some great tips to make it easier on yourself until warmer weather and longer days arrive. 1.

Saturday, February 2, 2019 is Groundhog Day (also known as Candlemas Day), a fun holiday that has its roots in the Pennsylvania “Dutch” (German) tradition. According to folklore, if it is cloudy

A "new" company, named HomeLight, is promising to connect Real Estate buyers and sellers with the "top agents" in the areas where they are looking. It could be Nyack, New City, Stony Point, or just

Due to the winds, the demolition work that was scheduled for this Saturday morning, 1/12/19, has been postponed. The new date and time has not been selected yet. The remaining section of

I'll admit, I'm not much of a New Year's celebrator. I rarely make it to midnight on New Year's Eve and don't have the energy to go out among the crowds. My preference is a quiet evening at home,

You don't have to be Heloise the Housekeeper Extraordinaire! You can bring your home to sparkling guest-readiness without going overboard. Here are a  few tips that will keep your home

With the holidays rapidly approaching, Department of Social Services (DSS) for Rockland is collecting new toys and clothes to be given to the children they provide care for. Last year, through the

This year, as Thanksgiving approaches, I think of all that I have to be thankful for. The list is exceedingly long and I have all of you to include on that list. The love of my family and friends is

UPDATE! Nyack's Halloween Parade has been postponed until Sunday, October 28th. Same time and location, just a day later, after the Nor'Easter has blasted through here!  Be sure to stop by in

The last rabies shot clinic of 2018 for dogs, cats, and ferrets will happen October 14th between 10AM and 1PM at Rockland County Fire Training Center in Pomona. Address is 65 Firemens

It's that time of the year again! In Nyack, New City, Warwick, Marlboro, and various other locations within an hour's trip. Apples ripe for picking, eating, and making apple tarts, apple

The hours are 9am to noon on Sunday, September 23rd. Location is: 11 Renee Lane in Bardonia (off Bardonia Rd)Participation is by appointment only.   Click here to schedule an appointment

A little over a year ago, the span connecting Tarrytown with Nyack opened for traffic. Now, the estimate is for the 2nd span to open by mid-September. This, of course, depends on the weather

After 2 years of waiting, construction of the walking/cycling path across the Tappan Zee Bridge is about to begin. It appears that several changes will also be made for motorized vehicle 

Many backyards are already aglow with magical fireflies – or lightning bugs, as many people call them. On warm evenings, there’s nothing better than sitting and watching them light up the

This is such wonderful news! Aldi is going to take the space formerly occupied by Pathmark in Rockland Center, Nanuet. Fresh, clean food. No GMOs allowed. Pretty much the same thing re: pesticides.

A new listing hit the market this week and it is breathtakingly amazing and magical. On the shore of Greenwood Lake, with 700 feet of shoreline, it is the brightest gem on the 7.5 mile, 1920 acre

Open House this Sunday, June 17th, from 1 to 3PM!  Come on out and see us at this gorgeous home!  Or call for a private showing. Charles Winter designed this wonderful

Tick season is upon us. The best advice is to wear a hat, light-colored clothing with a tight weave, long sleeves, closed-toed shoes, long pants, socks, and make sure to tuck everything in. Also,

West Clarkstown Road at the intersection of Carnaby Court. Photo Credit: Google MapsMotorists planning on traveling through Clarkstown this week (May  9th to ??) may expect

And, so the real sign that spring has arrived is that Nyack's Street Fair season is beginning!  Sunday, April 8th from 10AM to 5PM. And, while you're in the village, don't forget all the

April 29th, 10am to 1pm. Rockland County Dept of Health provides "free" (suggested donation is $5 per pet to help defray the costs) rabies shots for dogs, cats, and ferrets. The team holds this

Don't miss this chance to have your child's car set checked for proper installation. Thank you, Clarkstown Police Department.The Clarkstown Police Department's Child Passenger Safety Team runs a

It's not for everyone, but what's more expected on St. Patrick’s Day than a delicious feast of corned beef and cabbage? The tradition and popularity of this meal is 

It's always the big tug at your mind and your purse strings. You buy an appliance and the dreaded question at check out is: "Would you like to purchase the extended warranty?"  (There is

Wherever you have a home listed for sale (Valley Cottage, Nyack, New City, Tappan, or anywhere else), this information is important to have and take to heart. The Federal Housing Authority )

Whether in Nyack, Suffern, Palisades, Tomkins Cove, or anywhere in between, the flu is striking this year with a ferocity that has not been seen in a while. The following, from CDC, is great

Here is a list of all the Open Houses in Clarkstown and Orangetown this Sunday, January 14th. Come out and enjoy the lack of snow, see some great houses, and make an offer. Be sure to

Just because there is snow on the ground and the air can be frigid doesn't mean that you can't find fresh, local produce and unique items. Many of the area "farmer's markets" have moved indoors for

It is a question that Realtors get all the time: What's the best time to put my house on the market? And it doesn't matter if the house is in Nyack, Piermont, Palisades, Garnerville, Suffern, or

Regardless of where the house is located, these are items that, unless resolved prior to listing your home, may cost you money in the sale price and the sale-ability of your home. The sooner you

It is wonderful news that, after nearly a month being closed, River Rd under the Tappan Zee Bridge has reopened! It reopened Friday afternoon, November 3rd, following completion of the

We've all seen the deer brazenly crossing the road or street or highway in total disregard for cars or people. It's because deer breeding season (October through early January) is underway, making

Travel Magazine just rated Nyack's Halloween Parade among the top 10 in the country! It is the 2nd largest parade of its kind, being dwarfed only by the Greenwich Village event. And this year

It's time to roll up those sleeves and get a flu shot! The Rockland County Health Department offering a number of flu vaccine clinics.The clinics, which begin this month, will offer shots to

If you want to try something apart from the well-known smokehouse in Blauvelt, here are some new options to consider. Woody's Bar-B-Q is opening soon at 114 East Rte 59 in Nanuet. They

Actually, it applies to all of O&R's territory. O&R is offering rebates for replacing old, inefficient furnaces, boilers, hot water heaters, etc. with new, efficient gas units. You can learn all

"Speed Week" began 2 days ago and will continue until August 8th. During that time, local police and New York State Troopers in marked AND unmarked cars will beginning pulling people over for an

8 days of music will fill various locales in Nyack until July 30th. Come on out and enjoy. See you!

What's not to love?  Park your car in your garage. Walk to the village.  Or relax on your deck, overlooking your fenced back yard. Enjoy everything about this lovingly restored and updated

I'm so excited to know about this!Starting June 17th through October 28th, there is a market with locally grown, fresh from the farm goodness in West Nyack! Saturdays from 9am to 1pm at

Next Tuesday evening, starting at 6PM, a $40 ticket gets you into 11 different restaurants and Palmieri's Wine & Spirits in Nyack. The evening concludes with Dessert & gift card raffles at 9:30PM at

The shortage of listings continues in Nyack, Suffern, Tappan, Tomkins Cove and all places in between. The statistics presented below are national, but are relative for this area as well. If you

Has the seller's market returned to the Nyack area, New City, Blauvelt, and other locales in Rockland County? There are many signs of it -- low inventory, multiple offers on many houses (ones

Sponsored by Rockland Recycles, this program is open to all Rockland County Residents (no businesses), whether in Tappan, Palisades, New City, Nyack, Stony Point, Suffern, or any place in between.

'Tis the season! Nyack's Street Fairs start this coming Sunday, April 9th. Then, May 21st, July 9th, September 10th, and October 8th. All street fairs run from 10AM to 5PM, rain or shine. So, come

Whether your home is in Nyack, Palisades, Tomkins Cove, Suffern, or anywhere between these points, a little effort prior to putting it on the market will go a long way toward a quick sale at a

This comedy/drama will be shown this Wednesday, March 8th at 8PM in the Nyack Center. It stars Danny DeVito, Ellen Burstyn, and others and follows the exploits of a dachshund through a variety of

Whether in Nyack, Palisades, Stony Point, Suffern, or anywhere in between, these 10 tips can make a difference in going to the closing table or being an "also ran." Before you put your house on

You've gotten through all the craziness leading up to the closing table -- the negotiation, the inspection, the contract, the mortgage process, the sleepless nights (anticipation, writing out To Do

Zillow provides only one source of information when you are looking to sell or to buy a house.  They derive their information from public records, including tax assessment. One issue with

Thursday January 12 2017...T.A.R.A., Inc. will be holding another low-cost spay/neuter clinic for cats hosted by Hi Tor Animal Care Center, Inc. in Pomona, NY. DROP OFF TIMES between 7:30 and 8.

As everyone scurries around in Nyack, Valley Cottage, Nanuet, New City or anywhere in the vicinity, looking for the "perfect" gift for friends, family, clients, or whomever, it is great to know that

From December through the end of April, Nyack's Farmer's Market moves indoors at the Nyack Center (corner of Depew Ave and S. Broadway). With many of the same vendors participating as you

The village of Nyack typically requires shoppers, diners, and other visitors to the village to pay the parking meters between the hours of 11 and 6 every day except Sunday (that is 11AM to 6PM and

Whether you are in Nyack, Piermont, Palisades, Stony Point, Suffern or anywhere in between, deer mating season (fall months) can be a dangerous time for drivers, deer and car hoods. According

Parade starts at 5:30, but the fun begins around 3PM. Be sure to stop by in front of Wright Bros. office for free cookies and hot cider. A good time is always enjoyed by all!;

ShopRite Liquors in Pearl River is hosting their Fall wine tasting on Saturday afternoon, November 5th from 1 to 4PM. There are always lots of lovely wines (100+) to sample from, great prices for

There's a place in Valley Cottage where 80% of the purchase price of these amazing chocolate chip cookies goes toward sending a terminally ill child and their family to the Florida theme parks. The

Apple picking time of the year is with us again! And right in Congers, you can pick directly from the trees at Dr. Davies Farm on Rte 304. They are open from 10AM to 4PM every day. Right now, the

The last time I mentioned that "Slide the City" was coming to Nyack, one of my friends misunderstood and thought that a slide was being run from Nyack to NYC. Hahaha. That would be some slide! But

After the "stinky" hot/humid weather we've had the past couple weeks, this weekend is SUPPOSED to be reasonably nice, weather-wise. A friend of mine makes these GORGEOUS scarves/shawls/wearable-art

A house that is priced correctly gets activity (showings) and offers. Do you have your house listed and no one is showing it? Or it is being shown but no offers are coming in? Or offers are coming

Whether in Nyack, Palisades, Suffern, Stony Point or anywhere in between, the look of your house will help to sell it. A fresh coat of paint is the fastest and most inexpensive way to make your

Nyack Family Bike Day, celebrating bicycling and family fun, is scheduled for September 10th from 11 to 3 at Nayck Memorial Park. Attendees will have numerous activities to pass the

So, as someone cut in front of me in West Nyack, nearly clipping my bumper for the 3rd time in one day, I have started to ask myself when drivers became so impatient, so oblivious to their

A Nyack friend's son got a call today from the "IRS" to let him know that he "owed $5,000 in back taxes." (Be aware, that the IRS does not make phone calls -- they send letters.) The "IRS

Gorgeous new construction in Tappan. The last of 4 homes built in 2015/2016 by SMK Homes. 5 bedrooms and 2.5 baths. At 3244 SqFt, this home is 50% larger than the average house in Tappan.

Ever wonder what features in your neighborhood may be affecting the value of your home? Well, Realtor.com has published a study with these results:The following neighborhood features emerged as the

The nasty, biting mosquitoes will be back among us before you know it. And I've never been a fan of the commercial bug repellents because of the chemicals (i.e. DEET) they contain. So, for the past

ShopRite Liquors in Pearl River is having their semi-annual wine tasting Saturday, April 16th from 1 to 4PM. Typically there are over 100 wines from which to sample. My advice, get there early

OK, so it's more like 2 weeks, but the deals are amazing -- and over 200 restaurants are participating!  No coupons or passes are needed. 3 courses for $20.95 (lunch) or $29.95 (dinner),

People tend to think huge dollar signs when they hear the word "staging," but, in reality, setting the stage for buyers to see your house does help to get it sold! The five basics for staging that

Ever been in Nyack, need to run in somewhere for just 5 minutes and hate to have to pay for parking? Well, a new program has been instituted by the Village of Nyack that gives you 15 minutes of free

I'll be holding an Open House today at this phenomenal home at 1 Kopac Lane in Palisades, NY. With a 2-story entrance, 10' ceilings on the first floor and 9' ceilings upstairs, 4 full bathrooms, a

This was a new one on me, although I've seen Graupel many times before -- in Nyack and many other places. Graupel is the snow that looks like little microbeads or styrofoam pellets. They bounce

Buying a home, whether in Nyack, Nanuet, New City, Suffern, or elsewhere, is a serious endeavor, but it can also be fun.  There are several things that can be pitfalls in the process, but your

I've lived in Nyack for more years than I've lived anywhere during my life. I've moved 14 times and each time I swear I'm going to get rid of stuff. So far I've only been able to really do that

Did you know that for a mere $25.00, People to People can provide a full Thanksgiving Dinner to a family of 4? Or that $100 can feed a family of 4 for 3 weeks? Did you also know that 95% of the

Saturday, November 7th, ShopRite Liquors in Pearl River will hold their fall wine tasting from 1 to 4PM. With over 100 wines to sample, it's a great opportunity to try the ones you have yet to

Saturday October 24th, Wright Bros. office will become "Fright Bros." in honor of the Halloween Parade in Nyack. We will have balloons for the young and the young-at-heart and we'll be sharing

My friend, Claudia Jacobs, Stager extraordinaire, is holding her "Staging Tips for Selling Your Home" class for BOCES at the Nyack Campus. Cost is $45, class is from 6 to 9PM this coming Tuesday,

Fall has always been my favorite season. There's something about warm days, cool nights, turning off the air conditioner, and the crispness in the air. Add in the fact that the apples are ready for

The town of Clarkstown has announced that on Saturday, Oct 3rd, they will provide free shredding and a chance to recycle some electronic equipment that may just be gathering dust in your house. It

There are many benefits to going green. You help the environment, protect the planet for future generations, and – let's face it – you can save money on energy costs and a variety of other

A friend brought a Craigslist ad for a rental in West Nyack to my attention earlier this week. It was a very long ad, with few details on the property, calling out the fact that the For Sale sign in

About an hour's drive from Nyack, there is an afternoon of reveling in bacon  and all things bacon-related coming up on October 3rd, from 2 to 6PM, I'm already salivating just thinking about

I have a number of friends in Congers and the Nyack villages who are actually raising chickens in their yards so that they can have fresh eggs and meat that they know is free of growth hormones

Finally, I have found a comprehensive list of Farmers' Markets that are held in Rockland County!  Since I grew up eating farm-fresh fruits and vegetables all summer long (from my Grandparents'

Good food with good people, for a good cause! The evening's proceeds benefit the Rockland County YMCA youth programs, helping provide learning opportunities for children in need. The YUMCA is

On Friday, June 26th from 8AM to 3PM, The Breast Center at Nyack Hospital will offer free breast exams, mammography, and, if needed, pelvic exams with PAP tests for women ages 40 and over who have

The last one (April 18th) saw people turned away as early as 11AM for shredding, so the town has decided to fill up 2 trucks with shredded papers  for a 2nd event on May 9th. Location is

ShopRite Liquors in Pearl River has 2 large wine tastings each year. The spring tasting is Saturday, April 25th from 1 to 4 PM.  According to Anthony Palmieri, wine manager for ShopRite,

The second part of my"Real Estate" research was in Phoenix and Tuscon Arizonia. The desert setting and weather was fanastic!  As you can see from this photo, during  my climb up the

Upon Returning from my winter vacation and escaping all the snow, this was a welcome memory of the tropical site while in St. Petersburg, Florida at the boat dock! Patricia Paikin,

The town of Clarkstown is, once again, providing an opportunity to get rid of your paper and electronic stuff. Saturday, April 18th from 9AM to noon at Germonds Park, the town will shred up to 3

Sonny's on 9W in Congers has added a lush lunch menu with prices from $4.95 (appetizers) to $10.95 (the most expensive entrees).  All entrees are served with either soup or salad. Entrees

Mark your calendars for March 9 to 22!  The Hudson Valley Restaurant Week is almost here again.  There are more than 200 restaurants participating, so there will be something for

Calling all Dog, Cat, and Ferret owners from Palisades to Tomkins Cove from Suffern to Nyack!  Rockland County's Health Department is, once again, holding Rabies Shot Clinics for Cats, Dogs,

The snow, sleet, rain, and ice storm (winter storm Linus) with a beginning that coincides with kick-off for tonight's Super Bowl XLIX is expected to blanket Rockland County from

How would you like to be within walking distance of all that Pearl River affords? And in a brand new, 3300 SqFt home, to boot?  Situated on a corner lot at Mountainview and Orangeburg Rd

If you liked La Triestina on Swartout Lake in Congers, you are going to love Sonny's At the Lake. Same location, new owner, great food, and improved wine list!  Late last summer, La Triestina's

Nyack's Village Board approved the final design of a 5,000 SqFt concrete skatepark to be built in Memorial Park. The park, the first of its kind in Rockland county, is schedule to be completed

Having been raised baking everything from fresh bread to cookies, cakes, and pies, it takes a lot for a cookie to impress me. Today I found one that is very worthy of mention. A local Valley

I normally do not cook the turkey for Thanksgiving dinner, but this year I have company from out of state visiting for the holiday and I will be preparing the majority of the meal. Everyone is

I haven't done this for a few years, but I have company coming to town for Thanksgiving week. We are planning to go watch the big balloons for Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade get inflated the evening

Tomorrow is the big annual Halloween Parade in Nyack! Streets start closing at 4PM and the Zombie Apocalypse Crawl starts at 5PM with the parade kicking off from Memorial Park around 5.

I just found out about a series of gourmet dinners with cabaret-type performances that will be held at Piermont's Pier 701 between now and the middle of December. This is a first-of-its-kind supper

On October 11, there is a festival at Provident Bank Park in Pomona called Smoke-N-fire Food Fest.  A portion of the ticket sales benefits a local Clarkstown Charity called

Recently, someone asked me how long I had lived in Nyack and when I gave the reply, I realized that I have now lived here longer than I have lived anywhere else, including childhood homes.  I

Calling all gourmands in or visiting Rockland County! Next trip up 9W towards the south entrance of Rockland Lake in Valley Cottage, be sure to stop in and be hungry!  Today, August 23rd,

When I worked for a large chemical company, we went through intensive, 3-day safe driving courses every couple of years. The course was taught by retired NYC policemen who drilled the 5 rules for

I'm always mesmerized by the 3-D chalk works that you see on the internet and in social media. Now, this weekend, we have the chance to see these street drawings live and up close! The Hudson Valley

Last Thursday kicked off the concert series at The Shops at Nanuet. There are free concerts scheduled at 6PM every Thursday between now and August 28th. Location is in Nanuet Plaza at

Clarkstown Police Department has reported an increased number of automobile burglaries recently in the Nanuet area - they weren't specific other than Nanuet. I had my car stolen once and it is not a

Bring your dogs and cats to PetScentrix Grooming and Supplies on Lake Road in Congers for a Pet Pedi and help to raise funds to rebuild Hi-Tor!  On Sunday June 22nd between 10AM and 3PM you can

50+ breweries will be coming to the outdoor area of Growler & Gill Craft Beer Shoppe in Nanuet on Saturday June 7th!  There are 2 sessions: 12 to 4 PM (this one is sold out) and a 2nd from

Well, the streets are a mess anyway, after the ravages of this past winter, so O&R has started digging up several of them to replace aging gas mains in Nyack. Work will be performed from

For the latest update on the construction of the new New York Bridge 2014 (formerly the Tappan Zee Bridge) enjoy the video on the internet www.newNYBridge.com, and view the "New NY Bridge 2014

Clarkstown PD has been participating all week in a campaign to get drivers to (imagine this) pay attention to what they are doing while behind the wheel.  I personally have seen the police

For a heart-warming experience and a chance to enjoy some early spring exercise join the March of Dimes "March for Babies" on May 4th at the Blue Hill Plaza in Pearl River. 

The town of Clarkstown is having an expo on affordable energy saving and water conservation actions and practices for inside and outside your home. The expo will be Saturday, April 26 from 9AM to

Upon returning from my winter vacation in Arizona and Florida, I made a visit to the new mall, "The Shops at Nanuet".  After their recent opening this past fall, the new mall will 

The perfect way to celebrate the end of winter and the beginning of spring is to attend the "Spring Tasting" at the ShopRite Liquors in Pearl River.  The event is scheduled for Saturday, March

Three times each year, the Rockland County Department of Health and the Rockland-Westchester Veterinary Medical Association sponsor a rabies clinic at the Fire Training Center on Memorial Drive in

I'm originally from the Midwest and snow never bothered me when I expected to have it start snowing for Halloween and to do so, intermittently, until April or so. Having lived in the Mid-Atlantic

I love spicy food.  And Buffalo Chicken is one of my favorites - whether it is wings, on pizza, or in this dip. The first time I got to sample this wonderful party food was on New Year's Eve in

As my Grandfather would have said . . . "Now I've seen everything!"  Who would think that one of the most iconic baseball fields would see outdoor ice hockey during January?  But, today

Given that Nyack and the rest of Rockland County are supposed to get slammed with Winter Storm Hercules (when did they start naming winter storms???), I realize that it is time for me to put

Enjoyed an enlightening, well-organized session at the Pfizer campus (formerly Lederle Laboratories) in Pearl River.  Since Pfizer only uses a portion of the 'campus', they are 

I worked for a major corporation with an objective of keeping their employees safe.  Since I was driving a company car in the wintry states, that company sent me to somewhere in the middle of

Throughout New York State. including all the locations in Rockland from Palisades to Tomkins Cove, Nyack to Suffern, resident homeowners need to apply to the NYS Taxation Department for their 2014

2013 has not been one of my favorite years so far, but I still have much to be thankful for. I'm thankful for a loving, wonderful Mother who made such a huge and positive impact on my life. She

I drove myself and my 2 chocolate labs from Nyack to the Iowa/Illinois border last Tuesday to attend my nephew's wedding. It's about a 14.5 hour trip and I normally make it without an overnight.

Nyack has a wine bar!  If you haven't been yet, you owe it to yourself to check it out. The name is Avida Wine Bar.  It is located at 159 Main Street, across from the Catherine Street

There's a new virus making its way to a computer near you unless you are careful.  The name of the virus is CryptoLocker and it is "ransomware."If this virus infects your computer, it will

A very special event to support keeping the arts in our schools is coming up. It is from 10AM to 4PM Saturday, Sept 28, 2013 at St. Thomas Aquinas College, Romano Student Center,  125 Rte 340,

The 101st annual Rockland County Volunteer Firemen's Association will be held in New City on September 7th.  The parade is also a celebration of the 125th anniversary of the New City Fire

From an unassuming location along Rte 9W, La Triestina shines! About a year ago, they acquired a new chef.  The food is absolutely fabulous - fresh, varied, imaginative, as well as the "

Provident Bank Park in Pomona will host The Beach Boys in concert with Liverpool this Wednesday, August 14th.  Tickets are on sale at tickets.com or at the Provident Bank Park box office.  

I admit it - I am addicted to Candy Crush Saga. There, now I've said it. I started playing the game when a friend of mine from West Nyack mentioned it. And I wish she had never said anything about!

I nearly drove off 9W the other day when I noticed the sign that Aldi is coming to Stony Point in August.  This is, indeed, good news for those who want fresh food at a reasonable price.  

I'm a sap for cookbooks - especially those that come with little personal snippets from the chef. I read the ingredients and directions and can imagine the taste, texture, and appearance.  Now

I wish such a thing had existed when I was of an age to be able to participate! Helen Hayes Youth Theatre is again holding its summer theatre camp. Kids between the ages of 4 and 18 attend,,

The Clarkstown Police Department will increase traffic enforcement on the following streets during the month of April: Strawtown Road, West Nyack Prides Crossing, New City Grandview Avenue, Nanuet

Sometimes you just have to shake your head. I'm going to get on my "soap box" here for a minute.  As in any field, there are some people who give everyone a bad reputation. Realtors are no

It's that time again! Rockland County Department of Health is providing free rabies shots for dogs, cats, and ferrets. A $5.00 donation per shot will help defray the costs.  There is no

While minding my own business at PetSmart in Nanuet last week, an out-of-control little Miniature Doberman Pinscher (MinPin) jumped from his 6 inch height and bit me on the hand. To say that the

I've never been a big New Year's Eve celebrator - my personal philosophy is that every evening is the night before another chance to "do it over" and make it better. I also never understood the need

This is my current debate with myself.  See, my family is scattered all across the United States and although we keep in touch by phone and email, it is always nice to get together from time to

I hate the thought of cold, snowy, icy days, but they will be here soon enough! So, before they arrive, here is a list of things to do to make sure you're ready, in case you need to drive through

This year is truly a year to give thanks: for life, health, happiness, family, friends, colleagues, and thanks for everything associated with surviving the past year! What have we gotten through?

The Rockland County Health Department is holding another rabies vaccination day on October 14th from 10 AM to 1 PM.  It will be at the facilities on Fireman's Drive in Pomona. Bring your dogs,

YAY!!! Rte 59 has zero orange & white barrels, zero traffic cones, and I watched the crew remove the last of the "Road Construction" signs this morning!  The road is now fully open and can

Nyack Hospital is once again providing free mammograms and clinical breast exams to uninsured and underinsured women over the age of 40.  The free exams will be provided this Friday, September

How long has it been since the Rte 59 work began and the route became a disaster area in West Nyack? I'm talking about the part between Crosfield Avenue and the entrance to ShopRite, not the part

I know I just wrote about summer coming to an end, but today I received the forecast from the Farmer's Almanac about the coming winter.  Now I wish summer wasn't coming to an end! I grew up on

I can't believe it is nearly the end of August!  Where did the summer months fly off to? I must admit that I have a love/hate relationship with summer.  I love the ability to leave the

Operation Slow Down is targeting new streets in Nanuet, New City, Valley Cottage, Bardonia, West Nyack, & Congers this month. Traffic control efforst will be stepped up on the following:

OK, so it's probably too late to make it for today's clinic where cats, dogs, and ferrets can receive their rabies vaccination for free (they request a $5.00 per animal donation, but it is not

This Friday, September 28th, Nyack Hospital's Breast Center (160 N Midland Avenue, Nyack) will again be providing an incredibly valuable service to uninsured and underinsured women in the county.

Being a "dog person", as compared to being a "cat person", I was unaware of the services provided by T.A.R.A. (The Animal Rights Alliance).  They have a mobile van that performs low cost spay

I think it is very nice of the Clarkstown Police Department to announces, in advance, the roads where they will be monitoring speed and handing out tickets.  During the month of May, the

It was made official today - Rockland County is getting a Fairway Market!  It will be one of the anchor stores at the "new" mall: The Shops at Nanuet.   With opening scheduled for the

Did you know that every Monday night there is an affordable way to learn Salsa dancing in Nyack?  Actually it is Afro Cuban Salsa dancing, but the classes are a great way to learn something new

Gavin DeGraw and Colbie Caillat are starring in the first concert to be held June 7th at Provident Bank Park on Old Pomona Road in Pomona.   DeGraw, best known for his hits "Chariot" and

Everyone’s heart goes out when a child gets sick. Dina DiGiacomo, the owner of Body Inkorporated in Nyack, has pledged 100% of the profits from tattoos and other permanent cosmetic procedures

Now, I've lived in Rockland for quite a while, but just recently was introduced to this website: www.rocklandsteps.org/walks where you can get information on a series of guided walks through several

This will be the 5th year in a row that adventurous people will take a cool dip in the Hudson to raise money to benefit local, ailing children. This year's event is set for March 4th from noon to

Swimming in the Hudson at any time of year is just not my "thing."  Swimming in the Hudson on Super Bowl Sunday when the temps are typically at or below freezing, seems absolutely crazy.  

This winter season has been so confused!  This year in Nyack and vicinity we had snow in October and then 50+ degree temperatures in January! My snow shovel is feeling neglected, as it has only

Working just 2 doors from Art Cafe is a wonderful place to be! The food is fresh, delicious, and unique. The staff is friendly, helpful, and considerate. Their salads are creative and fabulous,

I always make resolutions for the start of each new year and it doesn't take too long into the new year for me to forget about them or to relax about those resolutions.  I have figured out why

Holidays are tough on dogs. Take my 2 labs, for instance. Normally, trees in Nyack are outside and are meant to be a target for certain activities. But in December, there is one in the house and it

I am really looking forward to the Thanksgiving holiday this year!  I look forward to it every year, but this year is special, as much of my family is making the trip from as far away as

Given the amount of damage from last weekend's freak snow storm, some of the people and companies who clean up and remove fallen trees and branches seem to be taking advantage of peoples' needs

With this being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Breast Centers at Nyack Hospital and Good Samaritan Hospital (Suffern), in conjunction with Cancer Services Program of the Hudson Valley. are

La Triestina, a wonderful restaurant on 9W in Congers, has instituted a Happy Hour, complete with a menu of snacks and "bar food". Hours are from 4PM to 7PM and prices are reduced from their normal

It's that time of the year again!  The 5th Annual Italian Festival is scheduled for October 2nd. Starting at 11AM, it will be held at Congers Station Park along Burnside Avenue at Lake Road

Are you looking for something fun for the entire family to do this Sunday? Come out to New City's newly revitalized Main Street and enjoy the Chamber of Commerce's Street Fair. Vendors from

If you are looking for a wonderful meal in a quiet restaurant where you can actually hear the people you're dining with, you need to check out Alains French Bistro in Central Nyack. It is located in

The Rockland Boulders will be having an Italian Heritage night at Provident Park in Pomona Wednesday, August 24th. Game time is 7:05PM. Gates open at 6PM. The Congers Valley Cottage Rotary Club will

Having lived in Kansas City and Chicago (both are very important jazz locales, believe it or not), I miss having an occasional evening of good jazz close by. Next week - Sunday to Sunday the last

"Psycho" will likely remain the scariest movie that I have ever seen. Certain scenes still evoke a response, even all these years after the first time I saw it. Tonight, July 18th, in Nyack, as

I've been reading with great interest, over the past few months, about the proposed changes to the current Exit 11 from the Southbound lanes of the NYS Thruway. The proposals vary from completely

If you're looking for something fun to do, while being outdoors, and contributing to a good cause, this may be just the thing for you! On Sunday, June 5th, motorcycle riders can complete a 62

I have so much stuff waiting at my Nyack home to be sold at a good yard sale that this news is truly welcome! It sure beats me having to organize a yard sale and advertise it! Saturday, May,

No, it's not an invasion, but a chance to learn some new things in history. The Historical Society of Rockland County has an exhibit that tells a (until recently) top secret story. In 1944, an

The Town of Clarkstown is hosting the New York State Department of Transportation on April 5th and May 3rd at Town Board Workshops. The purpose is to provide a complete overview of the Tappan Zee

On Sunday, April 10th from 10AM to 1PM at the Rockland County Fire Training Center in Pomona, pet owners can get the rabies vaccine for their cats and dogs. There is no charge for the vaccination,

The Spring Valley Rotary Club will be hosting a Spaghetti Dinner fund raiser this coming Wednesday March16th. The dinner is being held at Elmwood Elementary School (43 Robert Pitt Drive) in Monsey.

If you haven't yet discovered La Triestina on 9W in Congers, you are in for a treat! This family-owned and operated restaurant is a delightful place to enjoy an afternoon or an evening. From the

I can almost see and smell the spring flowers blooming in the back yard of my Central Nyack home! It's a gorgeous sunny day - the kind with a clear blue sky, bright sunshine, and my dogs going out

If you're looking for a fun way to spend a Friday evening while enjoying one of the foremost Irish traditional music groups in the world, and contributing to a good cause? Look no farther! This

Being on the "green" bandwagon is gaining in popularity as people learn more about how to protect our ecosystem. On Saturday March 5th, from 9:30 am to 4:15 pm, at Clarkstown South High School in

Chief Peter Noonan has retired after serving New City, Congers, Valley Cottage, Bardonia, Upper Nyack, Central Nyack, West Nyack, and Nanuet since 1978 in varying capacities. He has been Chief

With all the snow that is still on the ground in Nyack and the rest of Rockland County, NY, it can be difficult to think spring will ever arrive, but it will get here! And with it will come the