Credit Card Numbers Hacked at DeCicco's in Ardsley
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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DeCicco's management does not know how many customers credit card numbers were hacked after the cards were used to pay for purchases at the store in mid-April. A news report says that between April 15 and 17 hackers gained access to the card numbers via the credit card processor. Customers contacted the store after they saw fraudulent transactions on their cards. Since that time DeCiccos has beefed up their security and is cooperating with police to determine who was affected. So far, no one shopping at the Scarsdale store has had a similar experience. Here is a message from the DeCicco's Facebook page.
Dear Customers, Employees, and Friends,
During the past week, several of you have relayed to us that you experienced fraudulent activity on your credit cards. Security is paramount to us, and although we NEVER store any credit card data, we launched a vigorous investigation as soon as we were first notified. We have been working around the clock ever since.
We are very sorry to inform you that we now believe we were the victim of a cyber attack at our Ardsley location. We have been working continuously with multiple outside security experts. The threat has been identified and fixed, and we have implemented every suggestion, solution, and upgrade that has been suggested. Over several days, it appears that some, but not all, credit card numbers were compromised; it does not appear that names, addresses, expiration dates, pins, and other personal information was compromised. We are working with credit card companies to attempt to contact affected customers directly (or have them contact affected customers on our behalf). We have also shared all information with the Ardsley Police Department and the Westchester County District Attorney's Office.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. We are urging all customers and employees to be vigilant in monitoring their card activity, and to notify your card provider immediately if you suspect anything suspicious. We have always been proactive in trying to ensure the safety and security of our shoppers by implementing the newest technology, most advanced encryption, and latest security devices. Unfortunately, in this day and age, people and companies both big and small are being targeted by cyber criminals. Thank you for patronage, cooperation, and understanding.
If you have any questions, please contact Danielle Thomas, danielle@deciccos.com or 914-738-1377, Monday through Friday, 9AM to 5PM. If we can be of service in any other way, please let us know.
Sincerely,
The DeCicco Family
Board Recognizes Robyn Lane and Judith Shemtob
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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The Scarsdale School Board accepted the retirements of Quaker Ridge Principal Robyn Lane and third grade teacher Judith Shemtob at their meeting on Monday night April 20th. Praise from Joan Weber, colleagues and parents was abundant for both.
Teacher Judith Shemtob taught at Quaker Ridge for 28 years, coming to Scarsdale after teaching in Massachusetts. Weber said that Shemtob "enabled students to reach their potential," and enriched her classroom with author visits, studies of other cultures, incubating ducklings and tending a garden. She said the Shemtob looks forward to travelling, writing, 5:30 am gym classes and "not rushing through the NY Times."
PTA President Leah Dembitzer said that Shemtob helped students who were struggling and was interested in what parents had to say. She said that parents felt like they were on a team with Shemtob and thanked her for touching the lives of her students.
Principal Robyn Lane called Shemtob a class act who makes others feel appreciated. She said that Shemtob " 
sets high standards for herself and inspires others." Her emails and phone calls to parents "reflect care for each student" and she offers "ideas for partnerships with home." Lane said that Shemtob has taught over 1000 students but still enjoys seeing "the light go on". She said, "Your legacy is firmly routed in what you have taught others."
Weber then turned to Principal Robyn Lane who came to Scarsdale in August 2005 in the midst of a major renovation at the school. She previously worked in Bedford as a teacher and a principal for 15 years. Weber said that Lane managed challenging demands at a time when the role of the principal grew more complex. She was "steadfast in her beliefs, contributed to new curricular efforts, and took a measured view of testing." Weber continued saying, "Grace, charm and empathy have been her hallmarks in the face of personal loss." She quoted Dr. McGill who said, "Robin you bring joy, life and delight to your work, students and school. Keep on growing and continue doing great things."
PTA President Leah Dembitzer paid tribute to a "cherished principal," saying "You are deeply embedded in our hearts." She said "You set the tone for the building that is welcoming, bright and soothing. I speak for the entire parent body when I say we could not have been luckier than to have you."
Heathcote Principal Maria Styles called it a "bittersweet evening," saying she was honored to speak but sorry that Lane was leaving so soon. She said that Lane "handled the ups and downs with a calm elegance." Her "door was always open with a full dish of candy." She read each students report card and personally placed children in classes each year, always with care and concern."
Fox Meadow Principal Duncan Wilson called Lane a "mentor who taught him to listen attentively to teachers and children."
Stylese said that Lane will now have time to play with her grandchildren, be available for her children and take care of her parents. Styles called Lane a "dutiful daughter, loyal friend and colleague" who "leaves Quaker Ridge a better place."
Weber noted that all retirees will be honored at a retirement recognition ceremony on June 2.
Girl Scouts Warm the Hearts of Seniors in White Plains
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- Written by: Girl Scout Troop 1579
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On a recent afternoon, the Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, Troop 1579, sang to the residents of The Kensington, an assisted living residence in White Plains. They performed Girl Scout songs they had been practicing for weeks, and presented flowers and talked to the senior citizens after the concert.
The troop sang songs such as "G for Generosity", which had a phrase for each letter of "Girl Scouts"; "Make New Friends" in a four-part round; "I Love the Mountains", with a catchy, upbeat tune; "On My Honor" with a slow melody; "Down by the Bay", which was a crowd favorite; and "Legs are Moving", a Girl Scout cookie selling version of Megan Trainor's "Lips are Moving". The music helped connect the two generations and the audience really appreciated the concert. Some senior citizens remembered when they were Girl Scouts or Troop Leaders.
The scouts wish to thank "music teacher" Mrs. Meili, a volunteer troop mother, who chose the songs, choreographed the dance moves and coached the girls through hours of practice to bring joy to their audience. They also want to thank Mrs. Hosseinbukus, Troop Leader, who made the arrangements and supported the girls with practice sessions in her home. The girls learned a lot from the singing excursion and everyone had a great day.
Photo credit: Diane Gurden
Powassan Virus: What You Need To Know
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- Written by: Stacie M. Waldman
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An alarming tick-born virus has emerged in the Northeast and poses risks to adults and children. Powassan virus is a tick-borne disease that can be transmitted to humans and has no known cure. It has long-term neurological consequences for at least half of those infected and in some cases it is fatal. The news of the virus is trending on Twitter and is one of Facebook's top stories. So what is Powassan virus and are you and your kids at risk of infection? What are the signs and symptoms of the virus? If it's not curable, can it be prevented?
Definition: According to the CDC, Powassan virus is a Flavivirus that is transmitted to humans by the black- legged deer tick (and some other tick types as well). Humans are dead end hosts, meaning humans can't transmit the disease to another host once they are infected. Powassan causes no symptoms in some, and very severe symptoms in others, including encephalitis, or swelling of the brain, which can be fatal. Half of patients who are diagnosed with Powassan go on to develop long-term sequelae including muscle wasting, memory loss, and chronic headaches. Whereas Powassan is a virus, Lyme disease is a bacterial infection; both are transmitted by deer ticks. A tick needs to feed for 24 -48 hours before it can transmit the Lyme infection to a human. In order for a tick to transmit Powassan virus, it only needs to be attached for as little as an hour or two (and studies in mice have shown 15 minutes). "It is pretty scary," said Judy Stone, MD, an infectious disease specialist and blogger for Forbes.com. "The tick doesn't have to be attached for long to transmit infection."
Statistics: There have been approximately 60 reported cases in the last ten years, mostly in the Northeast and Great Lakes areas. However, more than half of these cases were reported in the last four years and the numbers seem to be increasing as recognition of the signs and symptoms and diagnostic testing improve. Diagnosis is still in its infancy due to the rarity of the virus and not all cases are symptomatic. People have tested seropositive in our area (lower Westchester) without symptoms. Those cases would not have been reported and therefore the true prevalence is likely higher than the data suggests. Ticks in Branford and Bridgeport, Connecticut recently tested positive for being carriers of Powassan virus, so epidemiologists have warned the public that this tick-borne threat is real and prevention measures should be taken seriously. Most cases of Powassan occur in late spring, early summer, and mid fall since that is when the ticks that carry the virus are most active.
Signs and Symptoms: If symptomatic, a person may develop a fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, and memory loss. If it worsens, a person may develop encephalitis or respiratory failure. Half of symptomatic people will go on to experience chronic neurologic effects from Powassan virus.
Diagnosis/Treatment: If a person shows signs or symptoms of Powassan virus, medical attention should be sought immediately. Although it is not typically tested for, it can be detected in blood and spinal fluid. There is no treatment. Supportive care will be given including IV fluids, respiratory support, and medications to reduce swelling of the brain.
Prevention: Preventiing Powassan virus is particularly important since it is incurable and has the potential to be fatal. Avoid brushy or wooded areas and areas with overgrown grass. Long pants should be worn even if it's hot outside and pants should be tucked into socks. Long sleeves should be worn as well. Places like EMS and REI sell lightweight and breathable clothing. Do a full body check when you return home from the outdoors. Parents should be especially mindful of checking their children's hair. DEET insect repellant works to repel ticks –- use DEET with a minimum concentration of 20%. Dr. Stone recommends using DEET with a concentration of 30-50% and re-applying it to bare skin every 4-6 hours. Clothing and gear can be treated with Permethrin. Although natural repellants may claim to deter ticks, these have not been proven by the EPA to prevent ticks from attaching to clothing and skin.
For more information, see the CDC website.
The Center @ 862 Seeks Board Members and Scholarship Funds Available from the PTA
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- Written by: Joanne Wallenstein
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The Board of The Center @ 862 (also known as the Scarsdale Teen Center) invites community members who support the mission of a safe, alcohol and drug free place for Scarsdale youth, to join them.
Responsibilities of the Board include oversight of and setting policy for The Center, promoting community relations and encouraging community driven programming and events. Board members work in various committees depending on their interest and skills. While lawyers and financial wizards are always welcome, the Board also needs energetic fundraisers, publicity gurus to reach the tech savvy teen and skillful jack of all trade volunteers.
The Center, located at 862 Scarsdale Avenue, first opened its doors in 1999. It provides programming to Scarsdale's middle school tweens and high school teens residing in Scarsdale and/or attending Scarsdale's public schools. Staff supports teens organizing their own events at The Center as well. Learn more at: www.TheCenter862.com
For further information, contact the Nominating Committee at 914-722-8358 or email info@scarsdaleteencenter.com.
Scholarship Funds Available:
Applications for a one-year grant from the Scarsdale High School PTA Scholarship Fund for college are now available. Grants are made anonymously on the basis of financial need. The application form and the dean's evaluation form may be downloaded from the Scarsdale High School PTA website, http://www.scarsdaleschools.org/scholarshipfund, or may be obtained from the deans' offices at the High School. Completed applications must be submitted by May 1st.
For additional information regarding the Scholarship Fund, please visit the SHS PTA website or contact Monica Rieckhoff: monica.rieckhoff@gmail.com.
