Last week I gave my last tour of the current exhibit at The Katonah Museum of Art of the show: “Bold, Cautious, True: Walt Whitman and American Art of The Civil War Era.” I get sentimental at the end of each show since the Museum provides such an in-depth education on each subject through the time of the exhibit. The Galleries become a home away from home for me as I befriend the art work. Guess I have become a Museum Brat - being uprooted from one exhibit to another several times over the course of a year!

Yet, they always have something wonderful in store for us and I look forward to the educational lectures given in order to train us, the Docents. The next show is “The Art of Contemporary Puppet Theater” from Feb. 28th-June 13th 2010.

We have a wonderful break now in February with “Young Artists 2010” February 7-14th, 2010. The art is from High School Senior Art Classes from 34 schools in five counties. The work of over 300 students will be on display. How exciting is that! As a preview, the work I have featured with this article is by Julie Safferstein of Horace Greely High School in Chappaqua. It is wonderful for family and friends to celebrate the talents, efforts and vision of our students. It is also good for the community to enjoy the excellence of the Art Programs in our Schools.

In the Project Gallery will be a smaller exhibition from a program that the Katonah Museum did in conjunction with six local Elementary Schools “Thinking Through Art.”

I am proud to say that my daughter, Allison Ransom, will have a piece on display from her AP Art Class at John Jay High School under the tutelage of Julie Evans-Kaser. The work, “Affliction 2009,” has just returned from another high school showcase at Concordia College in Bronxville, where it won an award. It is the illustration to the right.

When you see what your children can create, you see them with new eyes. Once again, “Art Makes You See.”

For further information go to the Katonah Museum website KatonahMuseum.org.

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

In December of 1680, twenty-two men from Stamford, Connecticut founded the town of Bedford. They met with Chief Katonah and purchased fur coats, blankets, and a tract of land that was three square miles. That area is known as “Hopp Ground” and is on the Mianus River. They then set out to settle, what is now known as Bedford, and built a grist mill, a cemetery, and a meeting house. There was a large area in the center known as the Village Green, which remains today, but 1/3 the size of the original Green. Many of the buildings around the Village Green are of historic value and have been preserved, adding to the Colonial charm of Bedford.

Most people are not aware that Bedford was part of Connecticut in 1697 and it wasn’t until England’s King William issued a royal degree in 1700, to settle a boundary dispute, that Bedford became part of New York.

The town continued to grow during the Colonial period and served as the Westchester County seat during the Revolutionary War. The county seat was shared with White Plains until Bedford was burned by the British on July 11, 1779. Not only were the town buildings burned, but all the surrounding houses. The Court House in Bedford Village, built in 1787 and renovated in the 1960s, is Westchester County’s oldest government building and is maintained by the Bedford Historical Society. The town of Bedford now consists of three separate and distinct hamlets, Katonah, Bedford Hills, and Bedford Village. Bedford Village is known for its elegant country estates, horse farms, community neighborhoods and weekend hideaways. It is a very desirable place to live because it has maintained its historic buildings and Colonial charm. Let me know if you would like to explore Bedford Village. SonjaLovas.HoulihanLawrence.com

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

My little frog friend continued his sweet tweeting throughout the holidays and into winter. On a very warm and sunny day he tweeted for 25 minutes. My son was home from college at the time and got a big kick out of hearing him since he’s heard so much about this spring peeper. I just love hearing his sweet tweets and they always make me smile. Then, all of a sudden they stopped and it seemed like a week went by with no tweets. I’m not always home during the day so I checked to see if anyone else heard him and, no one had. I became worried and wondered if it was because it was so cold outside and being by the window caused him to go into hibernation. Another possibility was that his food source (bugs) was gone. A full week passed without anyone hearing a sound and then one day there was a squeaky almost hoarse sounding tweet. He sounded sick. It’s still very cold and since the plants are next to the window and might be too cold, I opened a heater vent even if it meant drying out the plants. I then decided it was time to supplement his food source.

I went to the pet store thinking I would pick up some dead flies to sprinkle around the plants but instead they recommended live food. I never imagined I would be buying live bugs and worms to put in my plants, but I did. I can’t really tell if he’s taken a nibble on them, for all I know they just crawled in the dirt. He is however tweeting again, even as I am writing this, and I hope he can hang in there until spring when I’ll move the plants outside so he can join the community chorus of spring peepers. I continue to look through the plants for any sign of him but he remains invisible yet enjoyable. The photo of what my peeper looks like tweeting is from istock photo, enjoy!

Here are links to my other posts about my friend the Spring Peeper: It’s Spring?, Help! My House is Tweeting!, Anonymous Twitter, I Found My Twitter!

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

In my quest of Local History in our area, I have discovered The Bedford Hills Historical Museum.

I am often at the Town Hall checking property and tax information for my clients and had found it closed when I would be in the area. I then learned it is only open on Thursdays and Saturdays from 11am to 2pm.

I had seen an article on it when it first opened and thought it was just recently. I finally was in the area at the proscribed time and I met Katherine Nelligan. She is a Board member and is the dependable person that you will meet that puts out the banners and the flags when they are indeed open. Mrs. Nelligan was also secretary to 5 Town of Bedford Supervisors in the adjacent Bedford Town Hall.

I then learned that they had been open for 5 years! Let me tell you - no reason to take the kiddies to Williamsburg! Keep this in mind for school break and vacation times! There are multiple cases and displays that will keep you entranced - even as an adult, for quite some time.

For example, you will find a case dedicated to the dairies that were in the area. Did you know that the current Bedford Police Department Building was a dairy/milk processing plant?

There is a great deal of memorabilia and many documents about the earliest families i.e. Haines, Buxton, Harris and Burbank in the area after whom many of the roads were named. The photos are intriguing. I enjoyed the photos of the Bedford Hills District Nursing Association - DNA - the young Bedford Hills Blue Birds, and the corps of Volunteer Nurses during both World War I & II. The maps alone may take an afternoon. Of course there are the glam society shots as well.

There is evidence also of some of the large homes that were lost over the years. One was owned by Seth Low who was a former Mayor of New York City and President of Columbia University! He was one of the parties involved in changing the name from Bedford Station to Bedford Hills. Another major property was the Metcalfe Estate on what is still known as Lake Marie. Mrs. Metcalfe (Bessie Tyree) was a famous actress who married the theater critic for Life Magazine and they summered in Bedford Hills.

Upon my return I met another Board Member, Richard Schmitt. His family goes back 9 generations - over 400 years! Dingee Rd in South Salem is named after a branch of his family. His family members are buried in Buxton Cemetery and he piqued my interest in exploring that for a story!

They love to share their knowledge about the area and your delight in the large exhibit. Perhaps if they get busier they will expand their hours!

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

As a Realtor, when listing a property, the list of amenities regarding a property includes items such as: close to schools, close to shopping, close to Railroad. Close is a very vague term so I decided to see for myself and let you decide. Take a look at my video where I measure the distance to the school using my Omron Pedometer and stopwatch. I walk the walk and talk on my way to Katonah Elementary.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

For years, I have been envisioning a glamorous makeover of my antique kitchen (actually the house is an antique, the kitchen just was very tired and dated). I pictured the Viking Range, the stone counter tops, the custom made cabinets, the farmhouse sink. But, it became apparent, I was waiting for a day that was not coming any time soon. The reality dawned that maybe I didn’t need all that to make the place cheerful and functional. A distant memory of my dad painting the kitchen cabinets came to mind. Maybe I could do something myself…It started with a visit to Katonah Paint and Hardware. I can always count on Marty for good advice. Yes, he said, it was a lot of labor to do the job, but not much money. In a few days, the kitchen was immediately transformed as the dark wood cabinets metamorphosed to a soft white finish.

Taking down the ceiling the week before Thanksgiving was a bold move, but everyone works better with a deadline. While it would have been genius to address the sagging ceiling first, it didn’t happen that way. As it turned out the “supports” holding the second floor up were shot. After we got the four new beams (which were milled by our neighbor), we added shiplap (which costs about a dollar a foot) to create a new ceiling. I did not realize how much better lighting would change the utility of the kitchen. New lights, costing $10 each, were strategically placed over work areas points of egress and the kitchen table!

You probably would not be surprised to know that while installing the new beams some of the walls came down. Not enough time to start from the beginning with new sheet rock. Up went tongue and groove pine paneling in a matter of hours, which I painted a cheerful yellow. A pitch for Benjamin Moore Aura paint required NO priming, even over bare wood. No taping, no sanding, no dust, and a much more interesting finish… Not to mention, I could get this done in time.

Wait for my next installment called “painting the kitchen floor.”

Jacqueline Dzaluk

Now more than ever, it’s necessary for sellers to spend time and money making their house the best it can be, to stand apart from their competition. It’s not about making more money…it’s about getting an offer.

7 Helpful Tips:

1. Address Red Flags - Any sign of neglect or concerning issues such as mold or mildew, water stains, cracks, peeling paint, etc, need to be addressed. If buyers see red flags they get nervous.


2. De-clutter and Organize - Less is more! Pack up nick nacks, pictures, toys, personal items, even pieces of furniture. Get stuff off counters, dressers, nightstands, shelves. Clean and organize cabinets and closets. Let buyers see the house, not the clutter.


3. Modernize - Dated furniture, carpet, drapes, bedding and lighting are big turnoffs. Buyers don’t want to move into Grandma’s house. At the very least, changing bathroom and bedroom linens will make a difference. In some cases however, it’s necessary to stage and present an updated look.


4. Paint - The single best investment is paint! The look and smell of fresh paint really makes a big impact and makes the house appear clean and neat.


5. Add Curb Appeal - First impression is important. Power wash and paint if needed, spruce up landscaping and make sure driveway and walkway are in good condition.


6. Hire a Stager - A professional stager can be a big help with steps 2-5 and offer creative ideas to make your house “show ready.” A staged house tends to sell faster and for more money.


7. Price to Sell - Most important above all is to price your home realistically and competitively. If a buyer realizes great value and knows that others will too, they will act quickly. After all, fear of loss is the biggest motivator!

Posted By: Suzette Kraus

According to Jaap Ketting in “Bedford Hills – a Brief History of Bedford Hills. Town of Bedford, NY” it took a train to make a Town.

Prior to the advent of the Train, Cherry Street was the hub of local activity in the area south of Katonah. There the needs of the residents were met by Squire Wood’s General Store. Squire Wood owned a mill, a saddling place and organized the local farmers to sell their produce to New York. He delivered it via two sloops on the Hudson from The Village of Singsing - now known as Ossining. He also served as Postmaster for many years. There was the Cherry Street School House and the older students went to Katonah for High School. School was part time so that the children could help on the family farms.

The arrival of the train in 1847 brought about the naming of the stop Bedford Station which was comprised of merely a platform for the waiting passengers and freight bound for New York City. Now farmers were able to ship produce directly from their local farms and include fresh milk. Eventually cattle cars were added to the freight trains en route to the New York City slaughter houses. The Post Office then moved to the Station in 1848. There was a stage coach that would run between Bedford Village and the Station to pick up and drop off passengers. The first station car?

The street was then known as New Street until after 1935 when it was renamed Adams Street after the “Adams Brothers General Store” the largest general store in the area. It stood along the tracks where we have the Post Office today. There also was a large Hotel run by Mrs. O’Brien where the large brick Depot Plaza Building now stands.

Bedford Station was renamed to Bedford Hills in 1910.

The Bedford Hills Station area has had a renaissance over the past few years complete with stylish shops and restaurants.

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

If you are looking for a condominium in Katonah, NY, then Wildwood is the place for you! It is the only complex in the Village and there are only 21 units in the complex. A mix of 2 and 3 bedrooms units with 2 ½ baths also offer views as they are built on a hillside. Units without a view have a small patio that backs on the green space. There is ample parking for the residents and guests and it’s a 16-minute walk to the Katonah Metro North Train Station. First time home buyers should hurry, at $339,000 this 2 bedroom, 2 ½ bath unit won’t last: HoulihanLawrence.com/3001374.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

Katonah is a very desirable town to live in because of its historic charm and close proximity to the Katonah Metro North Train. People who live in the City always take into consideration how far it is to the train, how long the train ride is to NYC, and the cost to park. I just listed a condominium at Wildwood and checked the box for “close to train” as an amenity. I began to wonder what the definition of “close” was and decided the only way to determine that was to find out for myself and provide more information. That’s when I decided to walk the walk and talk.

Here’s what I discovered…

Time to walk from the platform to Wildwood Condominiums was: 16.38 minutes, total number of steps: 2,163, distance by car: 0.7 mile

What I’d like to know is how far would you walk to the train?

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

I had a radio show on the other day while I was packing up Christmas. The topic was how both buyers and sellers of Real Estate should prepare for the start of activity once they feel they are ready to get back into the Real Estate Waters!

For Home Sellers, part of the conversation was conventional wisdom in that a house on the Market should really stand out and be very welcoming. The best way to do that was that it should be staged - or at least to some degree if you think you cannot afford a professional stager. As a Realtor, of course I have known this and had put this to practice with clients many times. One participant on the show was more in favor of a professional job.

Her Standout comment was:

“The cost of a Professional Staging is less than what your first price reduction would be.”

That stopped me in my tracks - of course! A typical first price reduction is easily $10,000 - at a drop of a hat and you know a stager could be/would be less than that! As a Home Seller - words to the wise and to agents out there what a great thing to tell your sellers! To the point and easy to remember! Don’t let your home languish out there and be passed over. Be a Star!

As a Realtor, we see many homes that are showroom ready to go on the Market, so if expense is a problem we can give you very good advice. At our office we even have gone out together with other agents from our office and then share our opinions with the homeowners as they prepare to put their home on the Market.

What do YOU think and what is your experience?

If you need any further advice and/or names of stagers that we have used - feel free to contact me: KBenvinRansom@HoulihanLawrence.com

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

Condition is a very important factor when buyers are evaluating a home to purchase. Homes that have been properly cared for, updated, clean and are staged, sell first and at the highest price. There are no conditions that can’t be overcome by price, but attention to a few details will add value and result in a much higher price for the homeowner.

The worst offenders are:

• Odors: pet, smoke, and food
• Lack of maintenance on mechanicals: furnace, air conditioner, water tank, well, septic, roof
• Landscaping: overgrowth and poor condition
• Paint: dirty walls and woodwork are a real turn off
• Dirty windows and broken seals
• Outdated or too much wallpaper
• Clutter: does not allow the buyers to see themselves in the house

Most buyers don’t want to buy a “project” or someone else’s problems, so make sure your house is clean, clean, clean, and in good condition. Even if you don’t have the latest, greatest, state-of-the-art kitchen and baths, the overall condition of the house will contribute greatly to its salability.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

I was doing my errands in Katonah one day and stopped into Kelloggs & Lawrence Hardware. Jeff Kellogg assisted me and we got talking about how long his family had run the business. The answer was over 120 years! Their store still has a wonderful old-fashioned feeling and they carry many high quality items for Country Living.

His Great Grandfather, Henry Kellogg, who had first been a customs agent in New York City had a hardware store and lumberyard in the original Katonah. When it was time to make room for the New York City Reservoir System and many of the buildings were to be moved to the new site, it was decided that they were to have a new building. There it stood alone for two years before the other buildings and homes made their way pulled on greased rails in 1897. It also became the family home on the second floor for many years and the new Katonah Post Office shared the frontage on The Parkway.

As a Realtor, I enjoy giving gift certificates from their store to new homeowners since it is a wonderful experience and they carry many useful and necessary items - with style!

KelloggsandLawrence.com

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

As this new year of hope in 2010 begins, I cannot help but address the issue of homelessness in domestic animals. The housing crisis of the past three years has left many homeowners in the difficult position of either losing their house or having to change their living standard to reflect their reduced budget. Dogs, cats and cherished family pets that are truly members of that unit became victims of the dire situation many found themselves facing.

As a Realtor in Westchester County I feverishly work and research which rental properties accept pets and specifically dogs. Man’s best friend gets the short end of the stick every time unless there is a more conscious effort to change the by-laws and hearts of landlords. Co-op boards are beginning to make exceptions in some complexes and new pet-friendly buildings are sought out by animal lovers.

Please check out Pet Rescue in Westchester as this loving and wonderful group of volunteers works to find homes for abandoned and surrendered pets. The New Rochelle Humane society also is an area leader in protecting the lives of animals. It is never too early to introduce respect and love of animals to children, so please visit also BestFriendsNextGen.org to inspire and educate kids in their local community.

Thankfully, many homeowners and pet-owners continue their lives as before, enjoying the benefits and values of caring for a pet. Please remember me as your pet-riendly Realtor when looking for a house in Westchester!

Posted By: Jan Vinikoor

In addition to ice skating and playing on the ponds in Northern Westchester, the frozen reservoirs draw the fishermen back on the frozen water. In my travels looking at homes I am always amazed when I see ice fishing on the reservoirs. Ice fishing is popular at Amawalk, Cross River, Muscoot, and the Titicus Reservoirs. These reservoirs are all owned by New York City and a free ”NY City Public Access Permit” is required. If you’re wondering what’s for dinner it’s trout; it must be at least 12 inches in length before you take it home, and three is the limit!

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

During our office meeting this week I learned that Bedford and Katonah have gained favor with the banks. Mortgage companies and banks have different ratings on areas based on a number of economic factors. Angelo DiMichelo, with Thoroughbred Mortgage, reported our home market is now considered “soft.” A year ago this area was considered to be in a “distressed” area so that’s another indication the market is improving.

There are 4 categories of ratings:

• Severely distressed
• Distressed
• Soft
• Normal

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

This beautiful colonial is my broker pick of the week! This colonial has a very open and expansive feel. The arrangement of living room, dining room and kitchen with open family room make this a great house for entertaining. Your guests will not be crowded in the kitchen because it is so open and inviting. The property is exactly what everyone wants, private, flat, and well landscaped. There are many custom features in this house, and while there is snow on the ground now, there is also an inviting 20 x 40 in-ground pool. It is properly priced so put this house on the must see list! For more information about this great house visit HoulihanLawrence.com/3001234.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

As a resident of Harrison living in the Sunnyridge neighborhood for thirty-five years, I have earned the nick-name “The Mayor of Sunnyridge.”

My career as a realtor for the last twenty-five years has enabled me to list and sell many of the homes I live amongst. My daily walks with my trusty beagles has given me an imtimate view and relationship with this area. Sunnyridge embodies all the suburban characteristics and flavor home buyers seek. Mature trees, distinctive landscaping and unique houses comprise the network of streets called “Sunnyridge Farm” by name. Going back to 1853, this 165-acre farm was purchased by Josiah Macy, a retired sea captain who fell in love with the rural scene and built his own house on North street Harrison. Josiah claims he could see all the way to Long Island Sound from his home’s site. Years later, the farm was sub-divided and custom houses we’re built by local builders.

English tudors were built in the late 1920’s and 1930’s, shingled colonials in the 1940’s and over the years new home sites we’re created from tear downs. Since as recently as 2007, four new luxury colonials grace Sunnyridge Road and have found buyers in the $1,700,000 range. Today, as in years past, the convenience to Harrison’s train station, school and shops lure families who recognize the ease of this location. Walk-score.com rates streets for their walk-ability - take a look at how we fare! In the meantime, visit me at jvinikoor.houlihanlawrence.com to see many of the fantastic properties I represent.

Posted By: Jan Vinikoor

Do you like to leave your building and within a few steps you are at the Sound Shore? Or does a stroll around Glen Island thrill you? Being across the street from the New York Athletic Club isn’t bad either nor is looking out over the Pelham Country Club.

What about playing tennis on the building’s tennis court? Or going for a swim at the swimming pool in the summer? And in the winter you could go for a work-out in the gym?

Not bad for a sports enthusiast. Where can you do all of this? There is the perfect condo for sale at 703 Pelham Road in New Rochelle. It’s on the market for $383,999. And there will be an Open House this Sunday (1/17) from 11:00am to 2:00pm. The apartment is meticulous…two bedrooms, two full bathrooms, a nice living room/dining room and a great kitchen. Most of the floors are hardwood covered and it has a 24-hour concierge. In other words, your parcels and laundry are taken care off. And in addition, your visitors are always announced. The ideal way of living. Oh, did I forget, it has two parking spots side by side in the downstairs garage. So if you are not the sporty-type…you don’t even have to step outside!

Posted By: H. Juergen Hess

There is going to be a National Census held in 2010.

Census taking in the United States has gone on since the early 1600s. It first was taken in Virginia and people were counted in most of the British colonies that later became the United States. According to the U.S. Constitution, there is to be a national census every 10 years. The first census after the American Revolution was taken in 1790 under Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson.

So, expect a census to come in the mail and fill it out as well as you can. The main purpose is to properly allocate Congressional seats, electoral votes and government programs. To be included in the count are citizens, non-citizen legal residents, illegal immigrants and non-citizen long-term visitors.

To get the job done there are also hundreds of thousands of jobs being offered nationwide. They are part-time in nature and you can work up to 40 hours. The pay is $18-20/hour. You are also paid for the four sessions needed for training. The time slots for the job are 8am- noon, noon-4pm and 4pm-8pm seven days a week. You get to check off what days and times work for you. They claim that the jobs will be within your community and will require clerical skills, reading, number skills, evaluating alternatives, and organizational skills. Therefore there is a half hour exam being given in various centers to judge these skills.

How do I know all of this? Well, I just came back from taking the exam. I live in Katonah and I was offered Mt. Kisco, Chappaqua, Peekskill and I chose Cross River. You are given 28 questions and they are to be answered within 30 minutes and cover the skills I had already mentioned. There is also map reading and as a Realtor, perhaps I had an edge for a couple of questions. I had to bring identification. I brought my passport, 2 pencils and a pen - no calculators allowed. If you do not have a Passport they will let you know what documentation to bring.

There is also a practice exam on the site that I strongly suggest you take to understand the format of their questions, so they do not seem like “Greek” to you when you sit to take the exam! Perhaps take the test before you call so you get a glimpse of what it is all about.

If you do not fill out your census or leave out information, expect a call or a visit from someone like me. I look forward to meeting more of the community and actually feel proud as a “Legacy”! My Mother worked for the 1980 census in Tarrytown, NY.

For more information and the 800 # to call to schedule your test go to http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs.

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

“A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11)

This quote was used by Guest Lecturer Philip Kunhardt at The Katonah Museum to either illustrate the words of Abraham Lincoln or Walt Whitman - I was taking notes so furiously that I lost track. What I do know is that it aptly fit Mr. Kunhardt.

Longtime area resident and noted Lincoln scholar and author/historian, Philip Kunhardt, spoke to a full house at The Katonah Museum of Art on Jan. 10. The lecture was to accompany the current exhibit, “Bold, Cautious, True: Walt Whitman and American Art of the Civil War Era.” The focus of the lecture was “The President and the Poet: The Converging Lives of Abraham Lincoln and Walt Whitman.”

Philip Kunhardt was the recipient along with his brother, Peter, in 2009 of The Order of Lincoln Award from The Lincoln Academy of Springfield, Illinois for their lifetime contribution to the understanding and appreciation of Abraham Lincoln. He has written several books on Lincoln for Smithsonian Magazine, received a grant from the U.S. State Department to speak to audiences in Russia about Abraham Lincoln and has directed conferences on Lincoln, including one at Bard College in March 2009.

He spoke of Lincoln’s and Whitman’s passion, their similarities and their differences. The strongest point was how deeply they admired each other. They also influenced each other. They were passionate about the other’s writings and causes. They never met. Yet there were times when they were in proximity of one another. During the years that Whitman acted as field nurse in the tent hospitals just outside of Washington, D.C. he used to post himself at a corner where he knew Lincoln’s carriage would pass on a daily basis. Over time they began to acknowledge each other with a bow. No one mourned Lincoln’s assassination more publicly than Walt Whitman.

Mr. Kunhardt completed his lecture with a portrait slide show of the two gentleman over the years. Whitman always appeared much older than Lincoln who was 10 years his senior. He had a more rapid decline after Lincoln’s death. Artist Thomas Eakins photographed him during this time and his decline was much in evidence during that visit to his Camden, New Jersey home. Yet he wrote, from that deep well of sorrow his two most famous poems - “When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom’d” and one known by schoolchildren for generations “O Captain, My Captain.”

History Class was never like this! Kudos once again to The Katonah Museum of Art for bringing such opportunities for an in depth education to the community. I have been rewarded and enriched with a much deeper understanding of the era, the sorrow and the strife that the country endured.

The exhibit continues with tours at 2:30 each day the Museum is open Tuesdays through Sunday until January 24th. Go to KatonahMuseum.org for more information.

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

It was early Saturday morning while on my way to work I noticed the pond at the Pound Ridge Town Park was frozen and the sign was up that indicates it’s safe for skating. I just have to share with you the fun things residents in Pound Ridge do when the all news reports tell you about “bone chilling temperatures.” Many residents, especially the kids jump for joy when the snow begins to fall and the temperatures drop because they know their favorite pond will be freezing and ready for outdoor enjoyment!

It was the perfect sunny day to go ice skating day in Northern Westchester and later in the afternoon on the way to show my last house I was in Katonah and passed Todd’s Pond. Much to my delight, there were dozens of people on the pond skating! After finishing up my day, I circled back by the pond and actually ventured out on the ice myself (without skates) to give you a better perspective of the neighborhood activity. I’ll have to tell you, my client loved the house and seeing the neighbors skating on the pond was a real plus. I hope the family has a pair of skates in their closet and fishing poles for the summer.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

There’s something energizing about a “squeaky snow” day. This is good because you don’t want to spend much time standing still when it’s this cold. I’ve a typical Westchester Realtor’s Saturday planned, combining activities to support my home buyer and seller clients, homeowner chores, and enjoying the benefits of living here along the Hudson River.

Following my daily review of the Westchester real estate market, I’ll head to my Briarcliff Manor office, stopping en route at the Farmers’ Market just down the street. I’m thrilled that the community market winter schedule has been expanded for 2010!

The first appointment for today is an initial consultation with first-time home buyers. We’ll start with an overview of the home buying process in Westchester County, then go view the house they found on the new Houlihan Lawrence website and tour the surrounding neighborhoods. Finally, back at the office, we’ll review the current real estate market, discuss their needs and hopes in more detail and prepare a follow-up agenda.

Two more appointments are scheduled for the afternoon. Then on the drive home I hope to get some pictures of ice on the Hudson River to share in a future blog. I had intended to finish taking down the Christmas decorations today – but those red bows look so jaunty, I think I’ll let them stay awhile longer. Lastly I’ll spend an hour or so setting up custom market reports to provide my clients with the latest information.

It looks like the local real estate market will be fairly busy in January and February. There is pent-up demand out there, and those who qualify want to take advantage of the home buyer tax credits available. Sellers take note – don’t wait till April to put your house on the market, and do consult with your local Realtor about proper presentation.

Posted By: Liz Pereira

The Harrison Central School district has the distinction of having its Superintendent Lou Wool, be chosen New York State’s Superintendent of the year for 2010.

Lou N.Wool has been the district’s superintendent since 2002 and has transformed the school system into a high achieving and challenging academic community.

This achievement is extraordinary as initially there was resistance, of course, to programs and ideas put forward by Superintendent Wool. Mr. Wool was committed to the belief that

Harrison’s school must offer and encourage all its pupils the opportunity to be enrolled in all levels of learning. Harrison High School now ranks among top performing schools with a 95% Regents diploma rate.

Harrison’s diversity is similar to other Westchester districts where families reflect all levels of economic abilities and the homogeneous profile has all but disappeared. Mr. Wool attributes his success to the support and dedication of the teachers.

Together with school board and community members, the equal access to education was realized. Under his leadership, pupils have higher proficiency in all levels of State mandated testing.

Harrison’s school district of 3,482 students has always been a draw for new families moving up from New York City and surrounding areas. Now more than ever, they can feel proud of their decision to send their children to school here.

Mr. Wool was also recognized for his success in financial management. Harrison received a AAA rating from Standard and Poors, one of only 3 districts to receive this designation.

As a past President of the Harrison PTA and a proud parent of former graduates, I especially take pride in my school district’s achievements.

Hats off to Lou Wool and an exciting 2010 in our town.

Posted By: Jan Vinikoor

In order for your home to sell it needs to be well priced and by that I mean buyers must perceive it as the best value. Take a look at the charts showing months of inventory for Bedford Central and Katonah -Lewisboro School Districts.

Click here for full-sized graph of Katonah-Lewisboro inventory

Click here for full-sized graph of Bedford inventory

Katonah-Lewisboro had a horrible start to the year in 2009 with 49.7 months of inventory and Bedford Central was only slightly better with 29.5. With statistics like that, there had to be a compelling reason for a buyer to select a house so price was the critical component. The year finally started to rebound by June in both areas with Katonah-Lewisboro ending the year with 19.2 months of inventory and Bedford Central at 11.3.

Current important indicators so far this year are pointing to a stronger 1st quarter but as the charts reflect, it can be like riding on a roller coaster! Would you like to know what’s happening in your market area? Leave me a comment or contact me slovas@houlihanlawrence.com.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

Wooo Hoo! The Houlihan Lawrence new website is now live. Come check it out at www.houlihanlawrence.com.

For a brief tutorial of the site, check out my previous post for a short video.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

If your home is currently on the market you are probably getting tired, frustrated and beginning to wonder if your home will ever sell. You may even wonder if it is not attractive enough to sell? Understanding current market conditions is critical to selling your home. If your Realtor does not thoroughly understand these trends, like the number of days on the market, months of inventory, and median price of homes, you will miss the mark and your house might sit unsold.

The primary reasons for a home not selling will be one or more of the following:

• Price
• Difficult to show (restrictive hours)
• Condition of the property
• Seller’s motivation
• Location
• Exposure to buyers – Marketing

Since I could write at great length about each of these, I will be covering these topics in future posts. Knowing and understanding the current market, where it’s been and the current trends are critical if you want to position your house to sell. If you would like complete and up-to-date market statistics specific to your home leave a comment and I’ll get back to you with up-to-date information.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas

As an agent who has a special focus on the society I live in and ways to improve it, I want to start 2010 with a plea.

Westchester County is an area rich in resources, jobs and the generosity of its people. I am lucky to have been raised here and schooled in the notion of helping others less fortunate than myself. Our schools and religious institutions also make great efforts to run programs so folks can get on board. I do know that even here houses get foreclosed on, many lose jobs and others just feel the immense pressure to hold on. Every town faces financial difficulties in moving ahead with plans or even set agendas. I do believe 2010 will be the year that we move in a positive direction with a better and more appreciative mindset.

All that being said, I would like to remind us all of the many organizations set up to receive items that would be of great benefit to our neighbors and friends. Whether you are cleaning the closets or have outgrown some garments, making a charitable donation with these items is the avenue to take.

• Big Brothers Big Sisters will pick up the largest selection of give aways: clothing, blankets, shoes, & toys - 914-963-4453
• Salvation Army will also pick up from your home - 1-800-95-TRUCK
• Furniture Sharehouse in Larchmont will pick up and redistribute to clients referred by social service agencies.
• New Rochelle Humane Society Thrift Shop - 914-633-7683 NewRochelleHumaneSociety.com.
• Eye Glass Give Away GivetheGiftofSight.org will take old prescription glasses and put them to good use - 1-888-935-4589

The Winter Coat Drive to benefit homeless men and women is taking place in January. Your warm winter coats will be collected by The Rye City Lions Club, Rye Rotary and The Osborn Retirement Home. However the drop off is The Osborn’s Resale Shop at 101 Theall Road, Rye (TheOsborn.org will offer details).

The coats will be distributed at The Open Arms Men’s Shelter and The Samaritan Women’s Shelter.

Let us all begin the New Year helping the less fortunate and finding ways to better all the towns and villages we call home. I know I am a happier and better person for it.

Posted By: Jan Vinikoor

Happy New Year! I believe in building blocks - do not think that your resolve for a better year had to end at the stroke of midnight! One New Year’s Resolution that is a great way to improve your outlook, daily performance, relieve tension and tune into your higher positive power is to sing! Sing away the last year! Or two!

As a Realtor for Houlihan Lawrence and a long time resident of the Bedford/Katonah/Mt. Kisco area I am concerned with helping families new to the area find what is of interest to them. It is always more than just finding the right house. Of course there are the schools and after-school activities, where to get the dog groomed, and sometimes there is someone that has to find a knitting shop. That is a snap!

Something almost stumped me once was when a family was being relocated by Jet Blue from Toronto, Canada to the New York area. The Mother enjoyed singing with the “Sweet Adeline’s” in Toronto. Due to the Magic of The Internet I found them! It was the early days of the Internet and there were very few websites, but I had to search within articles to look for leads. In this area they are known as “The Golden Apple Chorus.” My client was MORE than delighted.

The GOLDEN APPLE CHORUS was founded in April, 1969, as an a cappella ensemble of women singers in barbershop harmony. They are a local chapter of Sweet Adeline’s International. There are 600 groups worldwide. They rehearse weekly year round at the Hawthorne Reformed Church, 65 Broadway, Hawthorne, NY. Visitors are welcome anytime. Their selections cover a great deal of The Great American Songbook and are delightful. After a few sessions there is a gentle audition with a few of the members. Their Motto is “Real Women, Real Harmony, Real Fun!” I have been to their “Holiday Harmony Concerts” plus their annual performances. I know they have won regional awards and they have an incredible director, Dr. Anastasio (Stash) Rossi. I also found out that the head of the group and I both attended Our Lady of Victory Academy in Dobbs Ferry. Can’t keep a Victory girl down! Love those small world stories! Once my daughter is off to College I hope to join. The counterpart for men would be The Chordsmen in White Plains.

If you prefer classical choral music there is THE MASTER SINGERS OF WESTCHESTER. They were founded in 1981 and practice for 8 months of the year at The Fox Lane Middle School in Bedford. When it is concert time either at the Bedford Presbyterian Church or the Westmoreland Nature Sanctuary, they perform with an orchestra and professional soloists. Men and women may join without an audition. Just have a love of singing! They will help you with Baroque and Classical techniques at the rehearsals.

The singers live throughout Westchester and in nearby Connecticut. New singers are welcome. Recent Concerts performed Vivaldi’s “Magnificat,” Haydn’s “Missa Brevis in F Major” and a Manhattanville College Chorus favorite of mine: “Faure’s Requiem.”

I was not able to attend this December’s concert at the Bedford Presbyterian Church to hear Benjamin Britten’s “A Ceremony of Carols” due to the ice storm which blanketed the area. It was sad to miss that part of my Christmas Tradition.

I know it seems like a lot to do after a long day or even life - but it is refreshing, positive and you may also find that everything falls right into place after such an uplifting evening and may just be what the Doctor ordered! Due to their proximity to my home in Katonah how can I not join this wonderful ensemble?!

Plus the outfits for the performances for each group are to die for!

For great attention to all the details of finding your future home contact me. Happy New Year!

Golden Apple Chorus

Master Singers of Westchester

The Chordsmen

Posted By: Karen Benvin Ransom

I’d like to give a “shout out” and thanks to Thoroughbred Mortgage for an outstanding job of processing a loan in 28 days! They received executed contracts for a home sale on December 2nd and the sellers and buyers needed a quick turn around. Angelo DiMichelo was the mortgage broker on the transaction, I’ve worked with him for years, and he’s great! Angelo and his team at Thoroughbred Mortgage were able to accomplish what could be seen as a miracle in today’s mortgage market. Everything needed a quick turn around and they were able to process the loan in record time. It was a total team effort starting with the sellers and buyers, the Realtors, (Sonja Lovas and Sara Zipp), Thoroughbred Mortgage, the attorneys, and Title Company.

Wow, so here’s a huge thanks and what a great example of what can happen when everyone works together as a team! If you are looking for mortgage rates and/or information, Angelo DiMichelo is available at (917) 860-9145 (cell) or you can contact me, Sonja Lovas www.houlihanlawrence.com/sonjalovas.

Posted By: Sonja Lovas