2,905,611 VISITORS VISIT 8,324,077 TIMES 3 TIMES EVERY DAY IN ONE YEAR. HIGHEST ACTIVITY IN WPCNR HISTORY.White PlainsCitizeNetReporter lifted its worldwide visits from unique visitors to wpcnr.com to 8,324,077,a 1,306,419 increase in visits in one year from 7,017,658 visits to the site last year which covers White Plains and Westchester County. The 8,324,077 visits were made by 2,005,611 unique visitors who visited wpcnr an average of 3 visits a day. ON JULY 20- -2026 visitors have accessed wpcnr and made 3,072 visits an average of 1.6 visits. In the last week 33,495 individual vistors made 54,458 visits, averaging 1.6 visits. In the last month, 152,940 visitors recorded 229,338 visits (1.5 visits)
Michael J. Smith, President of Berkeley College (right, second from top) delivers opening remarks during “Long Haulers: Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome and the Aftermath of Cognitive Disability,” a webinar sponsored by Berkeley College and the National Rehabilitation Association’s Metropolitan New York Chapter on June 29, 2021.
WPCNR WESTCHESTER HEALTH.Special to WPCNR from Berkeley College, White Plains. July 1, 2021:
Many of the effects of COVID-19 are still unknown, but there are resources and support for those suffering long-term symptoms of the virus, said experts during “Long Haulers: Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome and the Aftermath of Cognitive Disability,” a webinar sponsored by Berkeley College and the National Rehabilitation Association’s Metropolitan New York Chapter on June 29, 2021. More than 600 attendees registered for the event, which focused on “long haulers” – those experiencing cognitive deficits after their initial infection from COVID-19.
“The truth is, we still don’t have all of the answers,” said Michael J. Smith, President of Berkeley College, in his opening remarks. “The one thing we do know is that COVID changed a lot about our lives. Our hope at Berkeley College is that by hosting this event, everyone gets a better understanding of how to navigate the important resources that exist, and that those with long hauler symptoms understand that they are not alone.”
Sharon McLennon-Wier, PhD, Director of Disability Services, Berkeley College, spoke about the stigma that those who contracted COVID-19 may be experiencing.
“It’s quite a psychological adjustment to how society is going to treat you, with a new label,” McLennon-Wier said. “Stigma is a very strong word – it’s a horrible word, because you feel that you are not good enough to compete in society. But a lot of what stigma is about is fear. When we look at stigma in regard to COVID-19, a lot of it is just not knowing what the expectations may be.”
Bonnie Marks, PsyD, Senior Psychologist, Brain Injury Day Treatment Program, Rusk Institute, spoke about the varied and persistent symptoms of COVID-19, including impaired concentration, loss of short-term memory, frequent headaches and fatigue.
“It ranges from mild to incapacitating,” Marks said. “There are a wide range of symptoms.”
Research by hospitals such as Memorial Sloan Kettering, Johns Hopkins, National Institutes of Health and others will continue to inform the conversation in the coming months and years, she added.
Photo Caption:Bonnie Marks, PsyD, Senior Psychologist, Brain Injury Day Treatment Program, Rusk Institute, presented a pyramid of potential long hauler symptoms from NYU Langone Health during “Long Haulers: Post-Acute COVID-19 Syndrome and the Aftermath of Cognitive Disability,” a webinar sponsored by Berkeley College and the National Rehabilitation Association’s Metropolitan New York Chapter on June 29, 2021.
Tracie DeFreitas, Principal Consultant, ADA Specialist, Job Accommodation Network (JAN), spoke about resources for long haulers.
“It’s important to learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act and whether the law applies to you,” DeFreitas said. “This is a law that might afford you the possibility of adjustments at work – reasonable accommodations that might help you address some of the limitations you are experiencing in terms of performing job duties.”
WPCNR VALLEY LIFE. Special to WPCNR. June 30, 2021:
ABBEY INN HELPS BRING PEEKSKILL BACK WITH THE SIMPLY PERFECT VENUE TYING A RIBBON AROUND IT HIGH ABOVE THE HUDSON: From left, Scott Davis, Bankwell VP, Commercial Real Estate Lender; Councilwoman Kathy Talbot; Councilwoman Patricia Riley; Irene Ginsburg; GDC Founder and Principal Martin Ginsburg; Deputy Mayor Vivian McKenzie; Councilman Ramon Fernandez and Abbey Inn & Spa GM Gilbert Baeriswil
Peekskill City officials joined with Ginsburg Development Companies Tuesday to celebrate the official Grand Opening of The Abbey Inn & Spa, one year delayed., the Gateway to the Hudson Highlands which is enjoying a post-pandemic surge of bookings for summer weddings and events.
The 42-room boutique hotel opened at the beginning of the pandemic in early 2020 and it was unable to hold a public reception. The Grand Opening celebrated the hotel’s first year and its designation as the #3 top new hotel of 2020 in the United States by USA Today’s 10 Best.
“The pandemic represented an existential threat for many hotels with an established clientele, so opening a new hotel during this health emergency was a worst-case scenario,” said Martin Ginsburg, Founder of Ginsburg Development Companies, the developer of the Abbey Inn & Spa.
“Despite the immense challenges, the public recognized The Abbey Inn & Spa’s exceptional quality and immediately embraced our facility. Even during the severe lockdowns of 2020, the Abbey Inn & Spa experienced remarkable patronage from clients seeking luxurious mental-health breaks from quarantines in small apartments and homes.”
“I want to congratulate Martin Ginsburg and his team for making it through the most challenging year of the pandemic and keeping to his vision to bring the best Inn and Spa in the Hudson Valley to the great City of Peekskill. The Abbey stands at the gateway to the Hudson Highlands and it is a major attraction in the continued revitalization of our city to create special places for residents and tourists alike,” said Peekskill Mayor André Rainey.
Nestled high atop historic Fort Hill in Peekskill, New York, the Abbey Inn & Spa is set within a space as striking as its surroundings: The former convent of the Episcopal Sisters of Saint Mary’s, now beautifully repurposed with luxury accommodations and amenities including Apropos, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, a serene spa and fitness area, and stunning meeting, event, and gathering spaces both indoors and outdoors overlooking the Hudson River.
Managed by Hay Creek Hotels, The Abbey Inn &Spa features a design that is distinctly contemporary with a universal feel, preserving the aged granite and brick exteriors of the former convent, while reconfiguring interior spaces and transforming two chapels—one sizable, the other monumental—into meeting and event spaces that are nothing short of spectacular.
“Despite the challenges with the pandemic past and present, we have been able to provide the highest level of quality and service to our guests. Everyone on staff did whatever it took to delight and surprise our guests with great success. I am so proud. We look forward to the next chapter in this beautiful resort’s history,” said George Soderberg, Senior Vice President, Hay Creek Hotels, the manager of The Abbey Inn & Spa.
The Abbey Inn & Spa has nearly 40 weddings booked between now and the end of the year. Corporate events are picking up as well.
The Abbey Inn & Spa occupies former convent buildings once inhabited between 1872 and 1963 by the Community of St. Mary—said to be the oldest Episcopal religious community in the U.S. The hotel is adjacent to Fort Hill Park and its 52 wooded acres, scene of a historic three-day Revolutionary War battle in the late 1700s. Today, the area is laid out with luscious trails for leisurely walks through the trees.
Guests arriving at The Abbey Inn & Spa are welcomed into a handsome lobby with arched-window views of the Hudson River, and access to an enclosed wrap around porch decked out with rocking chairs to enjoy the breathtaking sights. Artwork fills the public spaces of the hotel, including a 47-photograph permanent exhibit in the corridors by Peekskill photographer Joseph Squillante that takes visitors on a journey along the Hudson River from its source in the Adirondacks to New York Harbor.
The hotel offers 3 Luxury Suites, 6 Suites, 21 Premier King Rooms, and 12 Superior Rooms. Many rooms have entirely unique design, with distinctive ceilings shaped by the convent’s original roof and/or window casements. All are styled in soothing tones of cream and brown, with contemporary furniture and furnishings, luxurious amenities and much more.
Inspired by the bounty of the Hudson Valley, The Abbey Inn & Spa’s signature dining concept, Apropos, combines chef-driven cuisine with breathtaking views of the Hudson River—offering the perfect seasonal respite for locals and visitors alike. Helmed by Executive Chef John Paidas, this elevated, contemporary-American eatery features Mediterranean-influenced and locally sourced ingredients, punctuated by warm hospitality in an elevated yet approachable setting.
A mix of comfortable booths and chairs around natural wood tables fill the dining room and four-season porch, with art and design complementing the restaurant’s connection to its imbedded sense of place. The stylish, zinc-topped bar across the hall—The Apropos Bar—also serves as a gathering place for guests and locals to enjoy small plates and beverages from the creative cocktail and mocktail program, wine from the comprehensive 200-bottle wine list, or selections from the impressive local beer program.
The Abbey Inn Spa is a sanctuary that invites guests and locals to experience a higher level of luxury and renewal. Designed to create a lifestyle and atmosphere that embraces the nature, purity, and freshness of the region, guests can indulge in a variety of high-end offerings including four tranquil treatment rooms, intimate relaxation lounge, his and hers saunas and a vast array of wellness-enhancing services.
The Spa offers Microdermabrasion and the latest platform, Oxygeneo, for antiaging and rejuvenation. In addition, guests can also enjoy access to an on-site Fitness Center; featuring a bubbling whirlpool, cardio equipment, and more — designed in keeping with the original architecture.
The Abbey Inn & Spa is generously arrayed for meetings, celebrations and gatherings of all types, with 3,166 square feet of interior event space. Blending elements of historic charm with stunning contemporary furnishings, highlights of the meetings and event spaces include the Highlands Ballroom—a beautifully restored former chapel, the Cellar Tasting Room, and the awe-inspiring former convent chapel—the Cornerstone Meeting Room—which is donned with original calligraphic murals.
Easily accessible to New York City, Peekskill can be accessed via rail on Metro North, one hour north of the city. Conveniently located between the Westchester County Airport (25-miles by car) and Stewart International Airport (24-miles), the city is situated amidst a vibrant waterfront, including Riverfront Green Park with sculptures, a playground, and assorted dining options and theatres.
For more information on The Abbey Inn & Spa or to make reservations, please contact 914.736.1200, or visit www.theabbeyinn.com.
WPCNR COUNTY CLARION-LEDGER.From the Westchester County Department of Communications. June 30, 2021:
If you have not yet gotten your COVID-19 vaccine, it’s not too late! The COVID-19 vaccine is highly effective in preventing serious illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19, and it is still being offered at multiple locations throughout Westchester County.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “Westchester County is finally emerging on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic. One thing is clear – the vaccinations are working. We are seeing the lowest numbers of positive COVID-19 cases since the onset of the pandemic, with Westchester vaccinating more than 80 percent of our population. If you have not yet gotten the vaccine please make an appointment to do so, and help us turn the corner on this deadly disease.”
The COVID-19 Vaccine is being offered at the following locations:
· Westchester County Health Department Clinic
134 Court Street, White Plains
Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
First and second doses of the Moderna and Pfizer vaccine will be given. If you are receiving your second dose, please bring your vaccination card with you.
Appointments encouraged, walk-ins welcome.
The facility is fully accessible with wheelchairs available onsite.
*Childhood vaccines are available by appointment*
· Westchester County Center
198 Central Avenue, White Plains
Every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Except July 4, hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
First and second doses of Pfizer, and single dose Johnson & Johnson, will be given. If you are receiving your second dose, please bring your vaccination card with you.
Walk-ins are welcome and will be offered either Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson.
Those with appointments will receive Pfizer
· New York National Guard Armory
2 Quincy Place, Yonkers
First and second doses of Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson will be given. If you are receiving your second dose, please bring your vaccination card with you.
Appointments are required for the Pfizer vaccine. Johnson & Johnson will be distributed to walk-ins only.
The COVID-19 vaccine is free, and everyone 12 years of age and older is eligible to receive it. Many local pharmacies and physician’s offices throughout Westchester County offer vaccinations. To locate other clinics, pharmacies and locations that offer the COVID-19 vaccine, use the CDC Vaccine Finder tool at
Westchester will be hosting satellite clinics throughout the County for the month of July, as well as second doses in July and August. More information to come.
County Executive Latimer is offering senior and disabled constituents, including those who are not registered with ParaTransit, free transportation to receive their COVID-19 vaccines. Call ParaTransit reservations at (914) 995-7272, 24 hours prior to your vaccination date to schedule your ride. For additional questions, email Evan Latainer, Director of the Office for People with Disabilities at [email protected]
Sense the life of a patriot as you explore the White Plains Heritage Trail, which guides you along 24 historic sites in an 11-mile loop through White Plains, West Harrison and North Castle and enjoy White Plains historic walking loops which highlight White Plains’ rich history. These trails are a great way to get your exercise while learning of the important role White Plains had in the founding of our nation.
Historical Sites include:
The White Plains County Court House, located on South Broadway, was the site of the Provincial Assembly of the Colony of New York. The Assembly approved the Declaration of Independence on July 9 1776, and changed its name to the Convention of the Representatives of the State of New York. On July 11, Judge John Thomas of Purchase read the Declaration aloud from the courthouse steps. Since this was the first time New York was called a state and the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed in New York, White Plains became known as “The Birthplace of the State of New York.
The Battle of White Plains Park located at Whitney and Battle Avenues is the site of The Battle of White Plains. The Battle of White Plains was part of the greater struggle for New York in 1776. Directed by General Howe, British and Hessian troops drove the Continental army off Chatterton Hill, but they did not pursue them or take on the main line of Washington’s army, which was spread across White Plains. Over the next few days, while Howe waited for reinforcements and then for the ground to dry from a heavy rainstorm, Washington withdrew from Purdy Hill to Mount Misery and Miller Hill in North Castle. The rocky terrain and swamps there made a second successful attack by the British impossible. Howe and his forces returned to New York City, and Washington’s army crossed the Hudson at Peekskill. They would be victorious at Trenton and Princeton in the following weeks.
It is believed General Washington utilized the Jacob Purdy House from October 23 to 31, 1776 as his headquarters for the Battle of White Plains and then moved to North Castle. He returned to Purdy House in the summer of 1778. The house was moved to its current location at 60 Park Avenue in 1973 to avoid demolition. By 1989 it was fully restored.
The Captain John Falconer House was on the Village Street, what is now present-day Main Street east of Broadway. British soldiers headquartered there after Washington’s withdrawal to North Castle in 1776. Falconer House was also the Frenchman Duc de Lauzun’s headquarters in 1781. His troops, known as “Lauzun’s Legion,” camped on Battle Hill before marching onto the last major land battle of the war, the Siege of Yorktown, Virginia.
