July 2012 Issue 12-03 - Hidden Ridge HOAhiddenridgehoa.org/2012 newsletters/Issue 12-03a...

Jewel of the Catskills

The Hidden Ridge GEM July 2012 Issue 12-03

From the Editor The President’s Message

Dear Fellow Hidden Ridgers,

Today is July 4th and I am finally settling down

to writing my message for this month - one that can

be published! Two copies have already landed in the trash

because they were “too truthful” and I was told by my per-

sonal editor to scratch them. So I won’t be truthful even

though this is our country’s birthday and our first president

was never able to tell a lie. So here is a fictional version of

what I would like to say.

Once upon a time, in a land far away, there lived a

prince who was beloved by his friends and family, but found

wanting by the country’s population over which he was to

preside. He was given great counsel by his advisors and the

King’s court magistrates. However, this prince always felt

he had the right to do things his way regardless of what oth-

ers thought.

One of the things this prince would do was to drive his

horse into a state of total exhaustion even knowing that do-

ing this was detrimental to the animal and would cause him

to eventually lose whatever race he was running. He didn’t

care - he wanted it his way. Some of his friends would en-

courage him in his misbehavior because they were miscre-

ants who would always complain about the way the country

was being run and as a result, they were out of favor with

the king and his court. They felt that by encouraging the

prince, they would get even with the king and remain in the

prince’s favor when he came into power. Of course, for their

support, they expected the prince to do favors for them in

return and they would constantly annoy him with their de-

mands. The prince would then go to the king with these,

voicing them as his own..

Now, the king loved the prince, but, he was wise and

knew from whence these demands came and for what pur-

pose. So he told the prince, “No.” The prince would huff

and puff and behind the king’s back he would attempt to

meet the demands of his “followers.”

One time, one of these so-called friends asked the prince

to “throw” the next race so that she could win the bet and

she would share the profits with him. The prince agreed.

Then, a terrible tragedy occurred. In attempting to throw the

race, the prince was thrown from his horse and died.

The prince’s brother, who was good and kind and knew

people well, was now the next in line to the throne. All of

Dear Fellow Hidden Ridgers, Our Welcome Back Breakfast, July 4th dinner and

show as well as the Pool Party were great successes. A good

time was had by all. Kudos to Karen Seltzer and the Social

Committee who collected money, shopped, schlepped, set up,

served and cleaned up.

Our Clubhouse is open and all of the necessary renovations

have been completed. The Clubhouse was inspected and the

2002 Fire Code requirements have been met. The Clubhouse

has gained a beautiful seating area around the television.

Thanks to Nan Kristt for her donation.

Through the efforts of our maintenance crew under Ed Hertz

and our beautification committee under Ellen Burzichelli, the

grounds are looking great. Thanks to all of you who have taken

time to make our community look so good. However, these

efforts are wasted when dog owners are not being responsible

about picking up after their pets. Remember, this is your com-

munity, too.

At the end of the General Meeting on July 1, 2012, there

were six candidates who had filed their letter of intent to run or

were nominated from the floor to fill the four seats that are

open this year. As of this writing, two of the candidates, Judge

Fred Hirsh and Ruth Shifman, rescinded their nominations. I

want to thank them for their intention to run even if they were

unable to fulfill this commitment.

I want to remind the community that the Board is made up

of volunteers who work together to make this a viable commu-

nity. It is important for you when making your decision as to

who you will vote for this year to consider the “record” of

those running. This is not a popularity contest! Think about the

person’s background, what they bring “to the table,” and how

they demonstrate their support of the community.

In addition to voting for Directors, there are four important

items on which the Board is asking the community to cast their

votes. These items are relating to insurance, voting rights, dog

rules and rental rules. Full descriptions of these items are in-

cluded in the election packet. We want to hear your voice on

these policy changes.

You will have a chance to ask your questions of the candi-

dates on July 15th at “Meet the Candidates” and then vote at our

Annual Meeting on July 29st. Both activities will be in the club-

house. Bagels and coffee will be served at the Annual Meeting.

It is important that each of you exercise your right to vote. If

you cannot attend the meeting in person, you can send in an

absentee ballot or appoint someone as your proxy. Details are

included with the election packet that is in this mailing. Thank

you for caring for your community! Bonnie Siegel

Hidden Ridge GEM . July 2012

Bonnie Siegel President 791-6056 917-969-9646

Ellen Burzichelli V. Pres. 794-7298 954-785-9034

Ed Hertz Secretary 791-7209 561-706-3301

Lenny Kirschenbaum Treasurer 794-3395

Jerry Bassik Director 791-4273

Jill Friedman Director 305-213-4507

Karen Seltzer Director 794-2752 917-861-6291

Hidden Ridge H.O.A.

PO Box 976

Monticello, NY 12701

Patrol/Safety number: 845-794-8180

Advertising Ed Hertz

Audit Lenny Kirschenbaum

Beautification Ellen Burzichelli

Clubhouse Karen Seltzer/Ed Hertz/

Bonnie Siegel

Cul de Sac Liaisons Jill Friedman

Grievances Bonnie Siegel

Lenny Kirschenbaum

HR GEM Newsletter Jerry Bassik

Insurance Certification Ellen Burzichelli

Insurance Matters Bonnie Siegel

Long Range Planning Bonnie Siegel

Maintenance Ed Hertz,/Bonnie Siegel

Pool & Pool Pavilion Jill Friedman

Safety & Snow Removal Lenny Kirschenbaum

Sales & Rentals Ed Hertz/Ellen Burzichelli

Sanitation & Recycling Lenny Kirschenbaum

Social Committee Karen Seltzer

Website Bonnie Siegel

Next Board Meeting: TBA

Social Committee Meeting: TBA Please see the bulletin boards or website.

Wanted: Ads to defray costs of printing the GEM,

such as, business cards, etc.

Prices for ad space in newsletter:

full page $25/issue $125/year

1/2 page $15/issue $ 75/year

1/4 page $10/issue $ 50/year

business card $ 5/issue $ 25/year

Call Linda at 845-791-6056 (May - Oct.)

561-498-9338 (Nov.- Apr.)

Please contact me for the contract form if you need one.

Linda Solomon Editor-in-Chief

Bonnie Siegel Senior Editor

Jerry Bassik Advertising

Ellen Burzichelli Contributing Writers

Lenny Keusch

Peter Morello

Lenny Kirschenbaum

Allan Meyers

Robbie Schecter

Karen Seltzer

Terry Steinberg

If you would like to contribute to the July issue or consider

writing a regular byline, please notify the Editor-in-Chief

Please send your information to:

Linda Solomon at [email protected]

Important Reminder

Hidden Ridge H.O.A. Committee Liaisons

Upcoming Events

Classifieds

Vice-president Ellen Burzichelli reminds all homeowners

that a current copy of your insurance certification is re-

quired by our HOA. The forms should indicate home unit

number. Handwritten details are unacceptable on these

documents. Please make sure that the dates that the policy is

in effect are indicated. Some homeowners will be getting a

letter to remind them to send in their renewed policy infor-

mation. Send your certification forms directly to the Hidden

Ridge Office, P.O. Box 976, Monticello, NY 12701.

GEM Staff

Welcome to our New Neighbors

Robert & Bonnie Fernandez 37 HR Terr.

Jerry & Alice Chiappetta 95 HR Drive

2011-2012 Board of Directors

Want to announce something to our commu-

nity? Call Linda and place an ad in the GEM.

Please call 845-791-6056 or

email: [email protected]

DEADLINE for AUGUST ISSUE - July25th

7-2 Vera Zablozki

7-4 Brian Kudler

7-7 Gloria Glick

7-9 Ilya Glaz

7-13 Lou Kind

7-14 Albert Levine

7-15 Jennifer Mitgang

Rachel Schatten

7-16 Selma Seid

7-19 Arthur Press

7-20 Sylvia Singer

7-25 Theo Goldstein

7-26 Ruth Epstein

7-27 Mark Rachleff

7-28 Linda Solomon

7-29 Alice Chiappetta

Milton Siegel

7-31 Iris Lynn

7-31 Bette Richman

Life Cycle Events


Happy Birthday

Happy Anniversary

1. Clocks and Watches 15. Watches

2. China 16. Silver Hollowware

3. Crystal and Glass 17. Furniture

4. Electrical Appliances 18. Porcelain

5. Silverware 19. Bronze

6. Wood 20. Platinum Watches and Jewelry

7. Desk Sets –Pens and Pencil Sets 25. Sterling Silver Jubilee

8. Linens and Laces 30. Diamond Watches and Jewelry

9. Leather 35. Jade

10. Diamond Watches and Jewelry 40. Ruby

11. Fashion Jewelry and Accessories 45. Sapphire

12. Pearl or Colored Gems 50. Golden Jubilee

SPECIAL GEMS and CONGRATS

Get Well Wishes

Irving Allen

Senta Bar

Charley Fox

Larry Miles

Shirley Siegel

Wishing all a full and speedy recovery

NEW HIDDEN RIDGE DIRECTORY

The deadline for submitting updated information for the

Directory is July 15, 2012. New directories will be dis-

tributed at the Annual Meeting on July 29, 2012. Please

get your forms to me as soon as possible with your pref-

erence for the confidentiality of any of the items. Thank

you.

Bonnie Siegel, President

Mazal Tov to Jeff and Iris Lynn on the marriage of

their daughter, Melissa on July 1st.

Congratulations to Marisa Scheinfeld, grand-

daughter of our own Ruth Scheinfeld and daughter

of Dr. Barry Scheinfeld on the publication of her article,

“The Ruins of the Borscht Belt” in Tablet Magazine. You

can read the article at: http://www.tabletmag.com/jewish-

arts-and-culture/102787/the-ruins-of-the-borscht-belt.

A very special Happy Birthday to Al Levine who turns 90

on July 14th.!

Happy Anniversary

6-25 Erica & Norman Sadowsky

7-02 Gloria & Michael Cserhalmi

7-04 Miriam & Melvin Marder

7-05 Florence & Jack Sachs

7-06 Joyce & Sam Glaser

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Leo (July 23-August 20)

Independence Day

July 4

Emma Lazarus’ Birthday

July 22, 1849

Bastille Day

July 14

In Memoriam The Hidden Ridge Community offers condolences to:

Paul, Daniel and David Neiger, family and friends on

the untimely passing of their wife and mother,

Robin Gayle Neiger

We offer our condolences to

Steven and Tanya Schecter, Stan and Robbie Schecter

on the loss of Tanya’s father, Petr Gik.

We offer condolences to Ron and Rita Kukafka on the

loss of Rita’s mother, Tamara Herskowitz.

May their memories be for a blessing.

Here are two fairly simple Greek inspired

dishes.

Lemon Chicken Breasts

with Artichokes and Potatoes

Ingredients:

1/4 C lemon juice

1 T extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp. dried oregano

1/2 tsp. dried marjoram

4 medium red bliss potatoes, each cut into 8 pieces

1 (9 oz.) box frozen artichoke hearts, thawed

1 tsp. salt, divided

2 lbs. bone-in chicken breasts, cut into pieces

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 425o.

2. Coat a 9 x 7” baking dish with cooking spray.

3. Combine lemon juice, oregano and marjoram in a

large bowl. Add the potatoes and artichokes, and

toss.

4. Using a slotted spoon, lift the vegetables out of the

lemon juice mixture, and transfer to the baking

dish; sprinkle with 1/2 tsp. of the salt.

5. Whisk the remaining 1/2 tsp. salt into lemon juice

mixture in the bowl; add chicken and toss well to

coat.

6. Place chicken in baking dish and drizzle with any

remaining lemon juice.

7. Bake, basting occasionally, until chicken is cooked

to 160o and potatoes are tender….about 50 min-

utes.

Baked Orzo, Greek Style

Ingredients:

1 C orzo

1 C frozen peas

1 T canola oil

1 C chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp. dried mint

1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. dried oregano

8 oz. lean ground beef

1 (14.5 oz.) can crushed tomatoes

2 T tomato paste

3/4 C crumbles of feta cheese (about 3 oz.)

Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350o.

2. Coat a 8x 8” baking dish with cooking spray

3. Cook the orzo in plenty of lightly salted boiling water

according to package directions; 2 minutes before drain-

ing, add the peas; drain and transfer to large bowl.

4. Heat oil in a larger, non-stick skillet, over medium-high

heat; add onion and garlic and cook until softened,

about 4 minutes.

5. Add mint, cinnamon, oregano and beef; cook stirring to

break up the clumps, until no longer pink, about 3-4

minutes.

6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste and sim-

mer gently until slightly thickened, 6-7 minutes

7. Combine with orzo; stir in the feta, and transfer to bak-

ing dish.

8. Bake 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and cas-

serole is somewhat set.

Both recipes serve 4. Enjoy!


Dining and Entertainment

Robbie’s Recipes submitted by Robbie Schecter

ALLAN’S ALLEY submitted by Allan Meyers

THE LADY IN THE POOL

“Hey, kid, stop swimming, you’re splashing me.

W’addaya mean I’m standing in the middle of the pool

doing nothing but wearing a noodle around my shoul-

ders? You’re just jealous that I have the best noodle

here. W’addaya mean, ‘My Dollar Store is better than

your Dollar Store?’

We need a new Board of Directors. Imagine keep-

ing the pool at 86o! They must think that we belong to

the Polar Bear Club. There is that weekend couple

who say they won’t come up anymore because the wa-

ter’s too cold….HEY KID STOP SPLASHING!

Ya’ see the type of people who are buying houses

now? It was bad enough when them people bought in.

Now people who are different than us are buying in.

What do they think they have in common with us? See

that couple there, they own a big dog. We should have

rules against it like we have at our condo in Florida.

Oh, hi. Hope you’re happy that you bought here.

Just love your dog to pieces. I use to have a dog. Died

ya’ know?’

You think that big dog is bad? There are people

who have more than one dog. Next thing they’ll bring

horses and cows as pets!

HEY, KID, QUIT SPLASHING! Oh, you want to

leave the pool to go to the bathroom? Well, don’t run,

it’s against the rules. These kids and their parents

never follow the rules. Why, one grandpa’ wanted to

put his baby grandson in the pool. Told him it was

(continued on page 11, column 2)

NEXT OF KIN FORM The Board is requesting the following information

from each and every person residing in Hidden Ridge.

Please note that this information is extremely impor-

tant for legal reasons as well as social. Please provide

the Board with your next of kin, their address and

telephone number. This information will remain con-

fidential as is all vita unless your permission for pub-

lication is granted. These forms were distributed last

month. If you need a blank copy, contact Bonnie

Siegel. Thank you for your cooperation.

Like what you read? Want to keep the GEM going?

Consider writing a piece for the newsletter that will be

of interest to all of our neighbors. Do you winter in

Monticello? If so, have you been to any new restaurants

and/or stores? Would you be willing to write a review?

Please lend your voice and your experiences to continue

the GEM. It is very difficult to keep our little newsletter

viable without input from new voices. Please send your

thoughts and ideas for columns to Linda Solomon, edi-

tor-in-chief. Thanks!

Cul-de-Sac Liaisons

Cul-de-sac Liaisons are listed below. Kindly respect

their privacy and personal life when contacting them.

Thank you.

Cul-de-Sac Numbers Liaison

Azaleas 15-23D Michael Seltzer

Birch 29-43D Helen Klein

Camellias 59-73D Betty Fuchs

Daffodils 89-103D Fran Zatz

Elms 107-125D Julia Glaz

Firs 149-171D Lenny Kirschenbaum

Gardenias 173-187D Jerry Bassik

Hemlocks 193-205D Lenny Keusch

Iris 196-214D Harriet Kopelman

Juniper 126-148D Jeff Lynn

Kerrias 74-96D Rhoda Hertz

Laurels 44-58D Ellen Burzichelli

Magnolias 29-43T Sheila Cole

Narcissus 45-58T Joe Gluck

Oaks 28-46T Jill Friedman

Petunias 6-26T Bonnie Siegel

Roses 8-14D Helene Schulman

Hidden Ridge GEM July 2012

Important Information

By-laws and Rules:

It is important that all community members have a

copy of the by-laws as well as the A to Z book of rules.

If you need a copy, contact Nicole at 845-794-7173 ex-

tension 18 or Bonnie Siegel. The cost is $15 (printing).

Renter’s Corner

Hidden Ridge joyfully welcomes back more

friends from previous summers as well as new

friends who are joining us this summer:

Herb & Joyce Wetter 175 HR Drive

Lenny & Lena Weitzen 198 HR Drive

Ben & Tina Berkenwald 203 HR Drive

Dr. Kenneth Newman 183 HR Drive

George & Shari List 159 HR Drive

Armistead Wooten/Sharema William 43 Drive

submitted by Lenny Keusch, Advertising Committee

We have been in communication with local realtors.

They have noted that a drawback to selling our commu-

nity has been the negative comments made by current

owners when they are showing potential buyers around.

The realtors have recommended that only complimen-

tary remarks about our community be made or discussed.

The Board and the Advertising Committee are in agree-

ment with this suggestion. If we continue to badmouth

our community, the realtors will have a hard time selling

the vacant homes in Hidden Ridge and this is detrimental

to all of us.

If you are at a loss for positive words, here are some

suggestions:

We have a beautiful heated pool which is well main-

tained where we have weekly pool parties;

We have a large beautiful clubhouse, with air condi-

tioning and heat where we have nightly activities,

parties, and weekly card games, free shows and mu-

sic with refreshments, a well-equipped gym, and a

comfortable couch on which to watch cable televi-

sion (also available in our homes);

We are located 90 miles from New York City;

Landscaping is maintained by the HOA and mem-

bers of the community

We have world class golf and tennis at nearby facili-

ties; arts and cultural events in Sullivan and adjacent

counties, i.e., Forestburg Theater, Shadowland Play-

house, Bethel Woods Performing Arts Center, and

Rivoli Theater, to name just a few.

While we do have yearly residents whose winter

needs are addressed by the Board, recreation is sea-

sonal in the summer only.

We need every member of Hidden Ridge to encour-

age buyers to come and purchase a home in our

“Jewel of the Catskills” - Hidden Ridge.

When in Rome… Duck by Peter Morello

On July 23rd 2011, I attended for the first time ever in my

life, a synagogue service at the Temple Anshei in Hurley-

ville. The inviters were Chuck and Charney Greenberg who

informed me that in the morning there would be a Kiddush

followed by a meal in the basement of the synagogue to cele-

brate the birth of their second grandchild. It is from this holy

location that my adventure started.

Several of you in attendance asked me if I would write

about my experiences on that day and I flatly refused not

wanting to write about the sensitive topic of religion. After

much thought, I changed my mind because I thought it would

be a cathartic experience for me to write about what I went

through having been tight-lipped for almost one year now.

To put it succinctly – I have suffered greatly.

Charney was gracious enough to prepare me for my impend-

ing experience by giving me a genuine Hebrew name. After

asking me what my father’s name was, she assigned me the

name of Pinhaus Ben Nachem. She even wrote it down on a

piece of paper so I could get used to it and maybe even prac-

tice saying it, which I did.

Initially, I had no problem with my going to a syna-

gogue. I got a kick out of the formality of having the men

and women sit separately and I must admit that many of the

men in the congregation seemed to be sitting there with

slight grins on their faces. Somehow I got the distinct im-

pression that their blissful state was not influenced by any

religious experience but gave the appearance of happiness of

separation from the distaff side.

It was approximately two weeks after the ceremony that I

began to notice a slight if not initially inexplicable change in

my behavior. I was out with friends at Seafood City in City

Island and it was about 7:45 in the evening on an otherwise

perfect Friday. We all were having a good time and were

eating fried fish and drinking when I slowly became agitated

for reasons I was not able to understand. After several min-

utes of increasing agitation I announced to my friends that I

had to go home. They were all puzzled but no one said any-

thing perhaps because they could see that something was

bothering me. They all wished me a good night and I was out

the door and continued on my way without looking back

once.

I remember driving rather fast and having the feeling of

foreboding if I didn’t get home before sundown at 8:21. I

glanced back and forth at the setting sun the whole way

home as I traveled west down Pelham Parkway and eventu-

ally reached my underground garage. I sat in my car for sev-

eral minutes breathing deeply and feeling a sense of relief

knowing that I arrived at 8:11 with time to spare but had no

explanation for my uneasiness.

The next day was Saturday and I went about my usual

chores of shopping and cleaning and it was when I went

shopping that I had another experience. I went to Arthur

Avenue and entered Teitel Brothers store and went right up

to the current owner, Gil Teitel, and said, “Hey Gil, let me

have a half a pound of Nova Scotia Lox sliced thin please.”

Gil looked at me with a shocked grin on his face and asked

me to step to the side of the counter where he could address

me in private. “Hey, Pete, you know I’m sure, we’re Jewish

here, but we only sell Italian products. Nothing kosher, get

it?”

“Gee, Gil, I forgot. I don’t know what got into me.

Maybe it’s because I saw the Star of David imbedded in the

tile outside the entrance to the store.

“Pete, it’s been there since 1942. You come here often.

How could you not see it until today?”

“You’re right, Gil. I don’t know what came over me. I

tell you what; let me have a half a pound of roast beef and a

half a pound of American yellow and please put them in

separate bags.”

“Separate bags? OK, Pete, whatever you say”

I could see the uneasiness in Gil’s face but I didn’t un-

derstand why. I thought it was perfectly natural to want to

separate meat from dairy. Didn’t everyone do that?

It is from this point forward that things became increas-

ingly bizarre. I had dinner one night at Pasquale Rigoletto’s

Restaurant and ordered a plate of baked ziti. The waiter came

over with a small bowl of Romano cheese and asked if I

wanted some on my pasta. I looked up at him and said, “I’ll

have a bissel.” It just came out of my mouth and it felt so

natural. To make matters worse, my date for the evening

wanted to know why I was discussing a vacuum cleaner with

the waiter.

By now many of you are smiling and enjoying my telling

of my experiences. Well, if you think this is funny then you

try and make a hero out of two sheets of matzo. It can’t be

done. What a crumby mess!

From these confusing experiences and others, I began to

suffer much mental anguish to the point where I knew some-

thing had to be done. I decided to visit Father Rapaglia at

Mount Carmel Church and see what if anything he could

make of my plight.

I visited Father Rapaglia about three weeks after my

symptoms started. I went right to the confessional booth,

where I knew he would be, and when my turn came, I let it

all out eagerly anticipating that he would be my guiding

force out of this situation.

As I did the sign of the cross while kneeling I said,

“Bless me Father for I have sinned it’s been a long time since

my last confession and you won’t believe what I’m going to

tell you.”

“You sound disturbed. What is your name, sir?” was the

reply from Father Rapaglia.

“My name is Peter Morello and recently I went to a syna-

gogue, not because I’m Jewish but I was invited there by

friends to celebrate the birth of their second grandchild and

now I’m having Jewish symptoms. Not only that but…”

“Slow down, Peter. What’s this business about ‘Jewish

symptoms’.” (continued on page 7)



(continued from page 6)

“Well, what I’m saying is that ever since I went to

the synagogue I have been doing – well, you know, Jew-

ish things like separating out dairy and meat and making

sure I arrive home before dark on Fridays and using Yid-

dish words that I’m not even sure I know what they mean

but it just comes out of me. Father, what’s wrong with

me? Am I meshuggeh? There I go again. I can’t help it.”

“Let me see if I understand you. You were invited to

a synagogue to celebrate a happy event and now you feel

you are becoming Jewish. Do you think your friends

were trying to proselytize you?”

“Wha’? You mean Jews believe in exorcisms?” I

questioned.

“I’m referring to the process by which a person tries

to convert another individual to their own religion,” Fa-

ther Rapaglia calmly replied.

“I’m not a good Catholic so how can I be a good

Jew?”

“Why aren’t you a good Catholic?”

“Father, that’s a confession for another day. I’m

pouring out my heart to you; don’t ask me to pour out my

liver.”

“OK, Peter. I think I know what’s troubling you.”

“Father, I think I know what you’re going to say. I’m

afraid you’re going to tell me I have the Jewish stig-

mata.”

“Peter, there’s no such thing. Your imagination is

running wild. It seems to me that what’s happened here is

that your friends opened their hearts to you and you in

return opened yours to them.”

I briefly thought about this for a moment and then I

continued questioning Father Rapaglia. “You mean that’s

it? No drama?”

“Why are you expecting drama?”

“Well, we are Catholic. You know, ‘Going My

Way’- Bing Crosby.”

“You have a very fertile imagination,” Father Ra-

paglia replied with a slight chuckle in his voice. “Maybe

you’ll actually spend some time in church one of these

days.”

“All right, Father. So what should I do?”

“You needn’t do anything. Just go about living your

life and be yourself and everything will fall into place.”

“You know, I feel better already just hearing your

reassuring words. So I guess that’s it, right?”

“Well, there’s one more thing you can do for me,

Peter. When you leave the church you will see a wooden

box marked ‘donations.’ Would you please give gener-

ously?” Father Rapaglia asked.

“Sure. Will that help me get back to my normal self

more quickly?” I asked hopefully.

“No, but it will help Mount Carmel purchase a much

needed new boiler.”

“OK, Father. You’ve got a deal. Thanks for your

time.”

“Bless you, Peter and mazel tov.”

“Oh no, you too, Father?”

“I’m just teasing you. Good luck and relax.”

With Father Rapaglia’s encouraging words still fresh

in my head, I left the confessional booth and went to the

back of the church and there was the donation box just

like he said. I dug deeply into my pocket and generously

put twenty-five cents in the slot. While I was still in the

neighborhood I decided to go back to the Teitel Brothers

store and purchase a couple of items.

As I entered the store Gil spied me and tried to avoid

my eyes. “Hey Gil, what’s happening,” I said.

“Look, Pete, don’t start with that lox stuff. Remem-

ber what I said.”

“Don’t worry Gil. I got the message. Let me have a

half a pound of Genoa salami and half a pound of slicing

Provolone and put them in the same bag.”

“I see you’re living large now, Pete,” Gil responded.

“You bet, Gil.”

As I uttered the words for my order I actually felt

comfortable asking for meat and cheese to be put in the

same bag. I didn’t even hesitate when I gave my order

and neither did I realize one of the items was pork. Could

this be a sign that I was getting better? I wasn’t sure at

the time and wanted to test it further.

After driving home from Teitel Brothers I decided to

go back to City Island where my symptoms first began. I

drove right to Seafood City and ordered fried shrimp.

Surely if I was to get better I should have no reaction to

eating such a bottom dweller, I thought. It was with much

trepidation and closed eyes that I took my first bite of one

of the succulent shrimp. It sure tasted good, so I ate an-

other and then another. As I calmly and voraciously emp-

tied my plate, I felt well and couldn’t perceive any

change at all in myself. In fact, I was so happy that I got

up and played several songs on the jukebox and for the

next hour or so I just sat there listening to tunes and hav-

ing a couple of beers. It was only then that I glanced at my watch and I saw the time was 8:23 PM - sundown and

it was a Friday no less. I immediately jumped up with a

sense of panic about me and headed for the door. It was

only then that I realized that there was nothing to fear. I

had mixed meat and dairy, had shell fish and now was

facing sundown on Friday. So what? I went back to my

seat and calmly watched the sun dip below the horizon

without incident.

I knew right at that moment that I was finally un-

shackled from whatever it was that was troubling me and

that Father Rapaglia was right all along. There was no

Jewish stigmata, no one had attempted to proselytize me

and I was certainly not having an exorcism performed on

me. I was overcome with the joy of freedom and lack of

burden and confusion. At last a man could enjoy some

Genoa salami without looking over his shoulder and wor-

rying about his fate. (continued on page 9, column 2)


For Your Information

Terry’s Fitness & Health Corner

5. Eliminate all fried foods (highly caloric).

In your home:

1. Plan your meals and shop smartly - fruits, vegetables,

high fiber breads/cereals, etc.

2. Remember, everything in your mouth counts as calo-

ries, even that handful of healthy almonds you grab

“when no one is looking!”

3. Keep fun, low-calorie snacks (under 140 calories) on

hand, such as, Skinny Cow (or other brand) ice cream

sandwiches, 1/2 cup fruit sorbets, 100 calorie pack

cookies or crackers (1 bag!), 20 frozen grapes, baked

apple, pear or peaches, 100 calorie muffin or a spe-

cial creative snack of your own.

You can be proactive with this easy eating plan. Get

started - you (and your family) will feel more healthy and

energetic. You will enjoy your time exercising much

more. And, the last important point, slow and steady wins

the weight race. No crash diets - stick to your light plan

and count those calories! Next article: “The Importance of CORE S-T-R-E-T-C-H,

Pilates 101.”

Liberty Pest Control Liberty Pest Control has visited the premises and will

return for those who need to address interior concerns.

Please call them at the following number to make ar-

rangements and be sure to let them know you are part of

Hidden Ridge Homeowners Association.

845-361-3100

If you have any questions, speak to Bonnie Siegel.

Thank you.

Maintenance Issues

Maintenance Request Forms can be

picked up in the pocket envelope on the bul-

letin board. All requests should be placed in

the Maintenance mailbox on the right side

of the bulletin board.

Lightening Your Diet for a Healthier

“Lighter” Summer Eating Plan

The truth is, all diets boil down to a simple formula -

eating fewer calories than you burn. Break that rule and all

the carb-cutting, fat banning-low glycemic index eating in

the world won’t make a bit of difference. This is why

weight loss experts are now advocating a back to the basics

approach: calorie counting.

The cold hard fact is that you must burn about 3,500

calories in order to lose one pound - that means you can eat

100 fewer calories for 35 days or 500 fewer calories for 7

days or walk an hour a day for 22 days or a combination of

the two by eating less and moving more.

Remember, even if you’re exercising more than usual,

the calories-in, calories-out rule still applies. If you eat

more than you burn, you will gain weight. That goes for all

extra food/calories, even the healthy snacks - fruit, nuts,

cheese, whole wheat pretzels, etc!

Therefore, the only way to stay “light” is to reach your

optimum weight for you now (not when you were a teen-

ager). You, yourself, in your “heart of hearts” know when

you are overweight - so take the step - consult a physician

and begin a basic plan.

Portion Patrol - cutting how much you eat - not what

you eat - will help you win at weight loss. More impor-

tantly, Weight Maintenance - this rule will truly lighten

your eating habits and ultimately keep you fit for life.

Studies show that the most successful and correct way to

count calories is Self-Monitoring. Buy a good calorie

counter and keep a food journal. Write down everything

you eat plus the serving size. This sounds tedious but it

works. Soon you will know everything automatically and it

will become second nature. Weight Watchers touts this pro-

cedure with their points plan. In addition, we are so fortu-

nate today. So many pre-portioned, calorie controlled

foods, snacks and even desserts are easily available.

Simple steps that should be followed strictly to keep you

eating light and thinking light are as follows:

In a restaurant:

1. Order an appetizer, such as a green salad, vegetable-

based soup, 1/2 grapefruit. Avoid the bread basket (just

1 small piece).

2. Split or share your entrée.

3. Never super-size and avoid all-you-can-eat buffets -

just don’t go there!

4. Always order food in it’s natural state, i.e., grilled

chicken vs. chicken quesadillas or sesame chicken.

Interested in

Lowering Your Property Taxes?

At the General Meeting on July 1, 2012, several home-

owners expressed an interest in having their homes reas-

sessed in order to possibly lower taxes. The process in-

volves a reappraisal of the homes and the filing of a tax

grievance with the tax assessor’s office. In the past, some

of the estimates we have already received indicate that the

cost could be in excess of $500 per homeowner. The final

cost will depend upon how many homeowners will be in-

volved in the process.

We are asking that those homeowners who are interested

to contact Ed Hertz.

Email: [email protected] or phone: 561-706-3301


Social Committee

submitted by Karen Seltzer I am very happy to announce that we have had

three very successful parties - the Welcome Back

Brunch and the Independence Day Holiday Dinner and

Pool Party. But, we have just begun! Still to come is

are the many Saturday evenings of good entertain-

ment, dancing, food and fun, Sunday pool parties and

café lunches at the clubhouse, weekly activities, possi-

ble day trips out of the community, and special events,

such as Pot Luck dinners, special dessert nights, etc.

I would like to thank all of the people on the Social

Committee and the many others who come out to help

set up the clubhouse on Saturday mornings. Your help

is sincerely appreciated!

Please, will everyone remember that we do have a

dress code for Saturday nights at the clubhouse. Long

pants for men and long pants or skirts/dresses for

women are required for entry. We appreciate your

cooperation so that we can maintain a more upgraded

standard.

I look forward to greeting all of you at our parties

and fun Saturday nights - and don’t forget Bingo on

Tuesdays!

SAVE THE DATES!

Sunday July 15

Meet the Candidates

Sunday July 29

Annual Meeting and Elections

The Treasurer’s Report

submitted by Lenny Kirschenbaum

As of July 1, 2012 this is the current financial status.

There is a total of $286,907.01 in our accounts.

Four of the units that are in arrears have been taken over

by their banks who are handling the property. Letters from

our attorneys for each of these properties have been sent to

the appropriate parties requesting back maintenance fees as

well as insurance certifications.

Monday/Wednesday Night

Canasta Tournament Weekly Winners

June 4 June 6 June 11

Iris Lynn Iris Lynn Marcia Rose

Lena Rubin Isabel Streisand Helene Schulman

Fran Zatz Lena Rubin Meryl Miles

Isabel Streisand Helen Klein Jeff Lynn

Warren Streisand

June 13 June 18 June 20

Penny Schatten Jeff Lynn Shari List

Marcia Rose Bonnie Siegel Thelma Friedenthal

Thelma Friedenthal Karen Seltzer Lena Rubin

Penny Schatten Helen Klein

June 25 June 27 July 2 Karen Seltzer Helen Klein Karen Seltzer

Joyce Wetter Arlene Goldsmith Isabel Streisdand

Marcia Rose Karen Seltzer Corrine Needleman

Arlene Goldsmith Lee Simon Joyce Wetter

Helen Badain Fran Hershkowitz

Lena Rubin

July 4

Arlene Goldsmith

Karen Seltzer

Helen Klein

Bonnie Kahane

Bonnie Siegel

50-50 Winners

June 30 – Judy Gruber

(continued from page 7) So you all can see that what started out as something

benign and was for a good cause, ended up being a rather

harrowing experience for me through no one’s fault, but

signifies to me the power of mind over matter. Would I go

to a synagogue again? You bet I would. However, just as a

precaution, I would wear my crucifix this time. Just in case,

you know.

Lastly, for those of you who enjoy calling me Pinhaus

Ben Nachem as I travel throughout the community, would

you please have the decency to address me by my rightful

name – Vinny Ben Guido?

(continued from page 1, Editor’s Message)

the former contender's “friends” never again found a will-

ing patsy for their ploys against the new prince and his

predecessor, the king. They eventually found themselves so

out of favor, that they decided to move to another country.

Of course, we now know that they attempted to make the

king of their new country miserable, too, and so he had

them beheaded! The End.

I hope you enjoyed my story. There is no truth in it!

Linda Solomon

MEET THE CANDIDATES

Jerry Bassik I am a Naval War Veteran of the Ko-

rean Combat. I was honorably dis-

charged and then I went to work in an

electronics factory in the Bronx as a Pro-

duction Manager. During one of my resi-

dences in the Bronx, I was vice-president

of our neighborhood Homeowner’s As-

sociation. Later in my career, I went to School for Insur-

ance Agents. I worked for Allstate Insurance Co. for 30

years until my retirement.

I have been living in Hidden Ridge for 13 years (some

of it part-time in the summers). The last 3 years I have been

an all-year resident. I have gone to school in Orange

County to become a NYS Licensed Security Agent. For the

past 9 months, I have been on the Board and assisting

Lenny Kirschenbaum, the other full-time resident on the

Board, with the duties of maintaining Hidden Ridge during

the winters. I also assist the Editor-in-Chief of the GEM by

procuring advertisements from local vendors. I believe with

my background and experience, I can continue to be an as-

set to the community.

Ellen Burzichelli I have been a member of the Hidden

Ridge community since 1999. Presently, I

am acting as Vice President. My current

responsibilities are as head of the Beauti-

fication Committee, maintaining the

books for the insurance certification and

as the head of the new Homeowner Orientation Committee.

My career experience includes 23 years with American

Express, several years as a manager in the Customer Ser-

vice Operations area in Plantation, Florida where I created

budgets and ran units of over 100 people. My final assign-

ment was in American Express headquarters in New York

where I was a director of customer service strategy. In that

position I was responsible for long term plan development

as well as oversight for customer service operations in the

operating centers. I decided to start another career in my

retirement years and am an active real estate agent with

Century 21 in Fort Lauderdale. I really enjoy the business!

I am looking forward to using my leadership skills and

expertise to work with the Board and the community to

really make Hidden Ridge the true Jewel of the Catskills.

Ed Hertz Hello, my name is Ed Hertz and I am

seeking re-election to the Hidden Ridge

HOA’s Board. I have been a renter and

homeowner for the past 7 years.

My responsibility for the past 2 years

on the Board has been the heading up of

Maintenance. Along with a dedicated

Board of Directors and very able maintenance crew under

the watchful eye of Mike Bauer, we have accomplished


a great deal. I hope you are all very pleased with the quality

and quantity of work that has been completed in my tenure.

Another responsibility that I have accepted is to oversee the

sales and rentals of homes here in Hidden Ridge. I act as

liaison to the realtors and the Advertising Committee, dedi-

cated to the sale and rental of even more homes. Wishing

you and yours a healthy and safe summer. Your vote would

be much appreciated.

Bonnie Siegel I have been a resident at Hidden Ridge since 2005. My ex-

perience includes 30+ years with the NYC Department of

Education as a classroom teacher, staff developer, District

and School Administrator. In those roles I was responsible

for overseeing budgets in excess of $1,000,000.00 imple-

menting and running after-school and summer school pro-

grams for 28 schools. In these positions, one needs to be a

quick thinker and problem solver.

It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve on the

Board of Directors since November, 2007, as Secretary

(2007-2010) and then as President (2010-present). I have

also been an active member of the Social

committee, assisting in planning and

preparation of activities for the commu-

nity.

As President, I have supervised or

taken the lead on the following initiatives/

projects at Hidden Ridge:

Completion of the four year plan for

new walkways;

A major law suit ($100,000) was dismissed due to me-

ticulous records being kept by the Board;

Purchase and installation of security cameras to deter

vandalism and theft;

Purchase and installation of a new heater, pump and

filter system for the pool;

Purchase and installation of a new sound system;

Interaction with our legal counsel and insurance broker

in regard to resolution of concerns for the HOA;

Improvement of communication to the community via

the GEM newsletter, website, email, bulletin boards,

cul de sac liaisons.

I am task oriented and hope that my fellow Hidden

Ridgers can detect these qualities and have experienced a

positive change in our community. I welcome the opportu-

nity to continue to serve on the Board in the coming term.

Thank you.

Ruth Shifman

Rescinded nomination by telephone

as of Ju

ly 4, 2012

The Hidden Ridge Community is

grateful to the following people

for their contributions to making

our property more beautiful!

To Nan Kristt for donating the lovely white couch

in our clubhouse for TV watching.

To Sam Glaser for donating the plants for the Ter-

race Circle.

To Eddie Erlich for donating plants to beautify the

pool pavilion and the new light poles on the roads

as well as the timer switches for the pool pavilion

bathrooms, the soaker hoses for the plants sur-

rounding the clubhouse and, especially, his time as

“pool boy.”

To the contributors/vendors of the GEM.


(continued from page 4)

against the rules. He yelled they were wearing swimmers.

What ever the hell swimmers are, I wouldn’t let the kid in

the pool

By the way, how are you feeling? Really, I had it

much worse than you did. You should’a gone to my doc-

tor. Your husband had what? My husband had it worse.

In fact it was so bad that it made all the medical books.

See that young girl there? She rents and smokes in her

house. Her house is not near mine, but I warned all her

neighbors about her, and they sure gave it to her. She

says there is no rule against smoking in one’s house and

that she will not buy here nor will any of her friends or

family ever buy here. OH, HI, HONEY!!! Still not mar-

ried? Well, I have a nice young man for you.

See those women flaunting their bodies? Well, I had a

body just like that. Still would, but I GOT SICK.

I DON’T TALK LOUD! That woman talks loud, and

she shrieks! Can’t tell her anything. All she says that it’s

so 30 seconds!

HEY KID, YA’ SWIMMING AGAIN? What do you

mean that I’ve been in the water a long time without go-

ing to the bathroom? How long will I stay? Well,…

that…’depends’!”

The Hidden Ridge Book Club will

be meeting on Saturday, July 14th at 2:00 PM poolside,

weather permitting. We will be reading Just Send Me

Word: A True Story of Love and Survival in the Gulag by

Orlando Figes, a Barnes and Noble staff pick.

Contact Linda Solomon if you have any questions.

917-747-8660.

submitted by Rhoda Hertz

Drain cleaners are among the most dangerous

household products. The best way to avoid using

caustic drain cleaners is to prevent clogs and

build-ups in the first place.

Scrape dishes well before you put them in the

sink and don’t pour your cooking grease or oil down the

drain. Grease builds up in your pipes, eventually blocking

them and causing sewer leaks and spills.

Instead, allow the grease or oil to cool, collect in a seal-

able container, then throw it away or compost it.

H.R. Club News

Going Green

MEET THE CANDIDATES

Judge Fred Hirsh, who was nominated from the

floor at the General Meeting, has sent a letter of dec-

lination to the Board. It reads as follows:

Bonnie:

I have had the opportunity to fully re-

view the Code of Judicial Conduct and

the opinions of the Committee on Judicial

Conduct regarding judge’s service on

HOA Boards. While the Code and opin-

ions do not prohibit a judge from serving

on the Board, the rules place significant

restrictions on my ability to fully partici-

pate in the decision making functions of

the Board.

Under these circumstances, I do not

believe it would be in the best interest of

the Hidden Ridge Homeowners Associa-

tion for me to be a member of the Board.

Therefore, I most respectfully decline

the nomination.”

Sincerely,

Fred J. Hirsh

Keep Saving the Soda and Other Tabs for the Ronald McDonald

House University of Miami Hospitals

Bring your tabs to Rhoda Hertz at 88 HR Drive. These

aluminum tabs are sold and the monies are then used to

house children who have cancer while undergoing treat-

ment for this horrible disease. This money also allows

parents to accompany their ill children for the length of

their stay. Rhoda also has an outlet in Monticello where

tabs can be dropped off and used for the exact same pur-

pose. Many thanks.


Recycling Shed

The Recycling Shed is now open. Please remember to follow the do’s and don’ts that were sent out last year.

For those of you who need a reminder, here is the list from Thompson Sanitation:

Robin Gayle Neiger

In Loving Memory

For my wife and our mother, Always,

Paul, Daniel and David


NEEDED - TENNIS PLAYERS Contact Mike Seltzer: 845-794-2752

NEEDED - POOL PLAYERS Contact Herb Wetter - 954-649-5494

Call me for nagging little repairs that you’ve

been putting off - painting, plumbing, electrical,

landscape, and general house repairs

Cabinetry or leaky faucets - same precision work

PO Box 366 Cabinetry

White Lake, NY Custom Countertops

845-583-7913 Interior Design

Page AD 6 Hidden Ridge GEM . July 2012

PATRONIZE OUR ADVERTISERS!

Thank them for supporting the Hidden

Ridge GEM - they will appreciate your

business.


Hidden Ridge Turnkey Unit

for Sale by owner

Great Condition - Must See! Recently Painted

New: dining room windows

carpeting

ceiling on enclosed porch

hot water heater

storm door

Includes: tiled kitchen floor

extended kitchen cabinets

fire place

attic storage with built-in lad-

der

FULLY FURNISHED

Great Location - walk to pool

Call 845-707-4645 for appt.

Classifieds


LOVELY HOME FOR

SALE OR RENT

Updated end unit

on Hidden Ridge Terrace

Fully furnished

New appliances

Well maintained

Sylvia/Donald Singer 917-923-6216 or 561-585-4400

Lunch Buffet Mon - Sat

$6.25

Dinner Buffet Mon - Thurs

$9.49

Fri - Sat and all day Sunday

$10.49

HIDDEN RIDGE WEB SITE

Did you know that the website for

Hidden Ridge has weekly updates of

all the information you want to know

about our community? You don’t have to wait for

the monthly newsletters only to get your news -

just sign on to hiddenridgehoa.org. You will find

updated Board minutes on the “Community Docu-

ments” page and the latest news on the “News:

page. Hope you enjoy. Webmaster


SOL

Sy and Diane Weiss Funeral and Cemetery

Pre-Arrangement Consultants

Serving South Florida Communities [email protected] 754-264-2823 754-264-2822


Home for Sale

In

Beautiful Hidden Ridge Beautiful 2 bedroom/2 bathroom unit in

the middle of our lovely community.

Basement, enclosed porch and no steps.

Enjoy an active clubhouse, a heated pool,

and the camaraderie of a fun-loving com-

munity!

If you or your friend(s) are interested,

please call:

Barbara 917-502-7929

Hidden Ridge Directory Information Sheet

Please complete the following form and return it with your maintenance payment. Return this form if there are any recent

changes.

Name: ________________________________________________

Hidden Ridge Address: ____________________________________ Phone: ____________

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The following information will be kept confidential. However, it will be included in the Hidden Ridge Directory if you check the appropriate line(s). Please indicate be-

low.

___ I want my alternate address/es and phone numbers included in the Hidden Ridge Directory.

Alternate Address #1: ____________________________________________

____________________________________________

Phone: __________________________

___ I want my cell phone number/s included in the Hidden Ridge Directory.

Cell Phone: _________________________ Cell Phone: _________________________

___ I want my email address/es included in the Hidden Ridge Directory.

Email Address #1: _______________________Email Address #2: _______________________

___ I want my birthday/s (list name/date for more than one) and anniversary listed in the GEM

Birthdays _____________________________________ Anniversary ____________________

Hidden Ridge GEM

6 Hidden Ridge Terrace

Monticello, NY 12701

Issue 12-03(July)

Jewel of the Catskills

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July 2012 Issue 12-03 - Hidden Ridge HOAhiddenridgehoa.org/2012 newsletters/Issue 12-03a...

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