“Deye Mon gen Mon”. Beyond the Mountains, there are Mountains…
 
I have never had to write about the reasons why I give, because I have never been able to up until recently. We have always received. My 3 siblings and I grew up in a mostly single parent house in Easton, PA. Life was always rocky and my mom did the best she could to provide the best she could. She worked as a nurses aid in several nursing homes and came home late most nights. We were recipients of social services, went to food pantries for food when we had nothing, bounced around a shelter or two, then lived in Section 8. My mom once lost her purse on a bus we were riding in a week before Christmas. It wasn’t returned and I’ll never forget the stress of her trying to recoup the cash she worked hard for, and lost trying to provide a good Christmas for us. We spent a Christmas or two at the local VFW, where vets dressed as Santa handed donated gifts out to families like ours. We also spent a lot of time at the Salvation   Army, and The Boys & Girls Club, where we got childcare, lunch, learned and made friendships that are bonded in the struggle. Through these programs we were able to go on trips, camping and do things my mom couldn’t provide or knew about.
We were raised in a religious house and taught to always appreciate family first, to love and help each other because thats was all we had in the end. We were also brought up to appreciate the connections we make in life, cultivate opportunities and learn from every relationship. Eventually my mom became mentally ill, and I raised my sister through her last years of high school.
 
Every situation is different but divorce drove a huge wedge between my parents and we were caught in the middle. My Dad and I have a great relationship now that I’m a adult, but as a kid drama got in the way. We spent a lot of time apart during my childhood, but the time we spent together are solid memories and lessons I hold to this day. Even though I didn’t see him often, he was always on the phone checking on me and school. He immigrated from Haiti back in the day, worked hard to get where he is now, and is one of my heroes and lessons in life. Growing up in Haiti and coming here was no easy task. He is a major voice in my reasoning and I’m thankful for his advice. He’s always wanted better for us than what he still preaches. We still  talk everyday and love spending time together. My Grandmother was a teacher in Haiti and continued to do so late into her life. She knew since she had the skills to make a change, she would teach as many people as possible to make Haiti better.

A positive example is something not everyone has. I have been fortunate in having many to learn guidance from, and I’m thankful for them. These people have taught me that there is always a chance to be better, learn more, develop skills, and the chance to change my future outlook.
I do not have a four year degree. I received a education through an apprenticeship because someone gave me a chance to better myself by learning. I moved out of Pennsylvania to New York and followed the advice to learn more, and it has taken me this far. I will continue to use these lessons given to me to continue to grow.
While I have always dreamed of getting out of the struggle, doing better and giving back one day, I never thought it would be possible in early adulthood. I’m 33.. and when I think about everything we’ve been through, it really wasn’t that long ago.. we received because people cared to give, and learned lessons that people were willing to take time to teach. I am beyond grateful for everyone that has had a hand in my development.… It takes a village and I am thankful for those in my “village” that have given time and energy to help guide me (us) to see the positive chances that are available. It seems like the good years flew by, but the bad ones seemed to last forever.
I am here to help and be a positive example for kids that are in the situation I was in. Everyday is a chance to build more and do more. I see my reflection in those that can’t afford food or proper eye care. Its tough to try to move forward without the basics. The world is a tough place. The lessons we learn are much more clear when you can actually see, focus and understand. This is how I pay it forward.
My company is writing several “Vision Scholarships” to local non-profits to help those in need of proper vision care as well as supporting other programs at other organizations. The Nyack Center is one of our focuses for giving because of the impact they continue to have on our local youth.The programs they offer feed and nurture. From the breakfast club, to daily activities and after school programs, the Nyack Center continues to help develop the minds of youth, and teach positive skills that will go on for future success. There are mountains beyond the mountains my friends, lets help each other over them.
 
It takes a village and this is my way of #Giving.
 
 
 
~Carl Cameau ABO, LDO
 
Hudson Spectacles/Eyevolution Optique 42 South Franklin St
Nyack,NY 10960

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Nicole Hines was born and raised in Nyack. She attended Nyack Public Schools. She and her husband Anthony are childhood sweethearts and raised their family of 3 in Nyack. Nicole has worked at Nyack Center for 14 years but, her history with Nyack Center is much longer. Nicole first came to Nyack Center as a teen in our After-School Program. She remembers fondly her days; doing homework, dancing, playing ping pong and pool, arts and crafts with Ms. Kris Burns. However, her 11-year-old passion was for Double Dutch. 

Double Dutch is a competitive team sport involving several people and 2 or more jump ropes.  Nicole's mom, Martha Hines brought Double Dutch back to Nyack. Nicole was best at speed in her Double Dutch experience under the coaching of Edie Forman. 

Double Dutch may have been what brought her to Nyack Center but, the mission and love for community is what kept her here. "I love the mission, I love the families we serve. I have a passion for helping others." says Nicole. She credits her beloved Grandmother, Bea Mickle for instilling that passion. Bea, a hero in her own right, fostered over 80 children and adopted 8 children in addition to her 4 biological ones. 

"I just get a good feeling from helping" says Nicole when sharing some stories about young people she has worked with. One young woman she helped by taking her into her home when she had no place to live. Nicole feels connected to young people., "I can relate to young people having a hard time. I want to be here for them. I offer them guidance, an ear, my home, my car or a meal.

When asked about the future of Nyack Center, Nicole said, "I would love to see Nyack Center add a gym. A gym would provide more options and a safe place for kids, teens and young adults to play basketball." 

Nicole is one of our heroes and like her grandmother Bea before her makes a difference in the lives of children, teens and adults in our community. Nicole summed it up by saying, "My time at Nyack Center has influenced me to be the person I am today. I am able to let my heart shine through Nyack Center." Lucky Nyack Center, Lucky Nyack!

Nyack Center staff & community members will be submitting posts following this year's theme, "We can be heroes"... We can all be heroes and make a difference in our world!...#nyackcenter 
#wecanbeheroes #community

Honor our heroes Jen Hatch & Sue Smith and Annie Hekker Weiss & Paul Weiss at our Legacy Gala on Saturday Nov 4, 2017! Support our children and programs by becoming a sponsor, purchasing a celebratory ad in honor of our incredible honorerees and/or purchase your tickets to this yearly extravaganza before its SOLD OUT! 

​Click link below. 

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He always dreamed of coming to the U.S. 20 years ago Didier Dumas did just that. Some 11 years ago he fulfilled another dream and opened his amazing patisserie in Nyack. His pastry and cooking are beautiful confections created in his kitchens with staff he treats like family.  

Didier says, "I always knew I wanted to be a baker." He describes how as a young boy he spent summers at his Grandparents farm in Provence. His Grandmother and Aunt were legendary cooks and bakers who taught him to make sponge cake, eclairs and patachoux.
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Back home in Marseille, not much for school, Didier began a pre-apprenticeship at 13 washing dishes and learning to make cookies and cream puffs. At 16 he was a full apprentice up a 4am, baking and learning his craft from his mentor Pierre Zeppini. From Pierre, he learned the importance of loving your work and to respect the customers and the job. 

"I would go to the bakery after school, look in the window always fascinated, dreaming of decorating and creating beautiful pastry." Now he finds pleasure in simple baking- croissants, creating a new recipes and teaching.  

Didier remembers the joy of realizing he could bake and "do it with my hands, make it myself with my hands." Now he wants to share that joy by teaching children how to create with their hands. 

Didier and an amazing committee led by Una Baker have created an event, A Summer Soiree, to benefit our children's cooking program. It will be a sunset garden party at a private residence on the river sponsored by Whole Foods Market. Indulge in a delicious tapas style menu created by Didier and friends like Chefs from Alain's Bistro, Communal Kitchen, Didier Dumas, 8 North Broadway and Roost. Wines will be provided by D'vine-The Grape D'Vine & Salud Wine Bar. Live jazz by Ray LeVier and Friends.                     Tickets are $100 per person and available below.-Sorry friends event sold out
        

Giving Tuesday and Thanksgiving are just around the corner so our blog in the next week will be giving thanks! Our hearts are full of the love our community shared with Nyack Center at our Legacy Gala! It was a wonderful  evening honoring Donna Cox, Susan Wilmink and Thomas Schneck to benefit our beloved Nyack Center! Thank you to Steve Canal and family, Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty, Docuware, Christopher St. Financial, and R2M Realty and all our sponsors, Festoon and Kristina Burns, our amazing board, staff and community of support. It was our most successful gala to date!

​Read all about our Gala  at http://www.lohud.com/story/life/2016/11/01/nyack-gala-promotes-community-prince-tribute/92903552/

Click here to see photos from our Legacy Gala 2016
​ https://makelinphotography.smugmug.com/Nyack-Gala-2016/
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Our heartfelt thank you to our Legacy Gala Co-Chairs-Tracie McLee and Noemi Radziemski along with Legacy Planning Committee-Alex Cabraie, Kim Cross, Kenyatta Jones-Arietta, Denise Lipson, Glenn Meyerson, Jennifer Smith, Jane Smith, Venita Whidbee-Jordan, Esq., Lori Zawel
and our Honorary Committee-Mary & Paul Adler, Elizabeth Chapman & William Munn, Hon. Harriet Cornell, Jen Hatch & Sue Smith, Victoria Hertz & Rod Greenwood, Hon. Terry Hekker, Chris & Bert Hughes, Hon. Ellen Jaffee, Sakina Jaffrey & Francis Wilkinson, Julie Kassel & Steve Cea, Leonard Kurz, Rebecca & Peter Lang, Martha Roth & Bill Irwin, Billy Procida, Linie Chang Rand & Joe Rand, Kathy & Ivan Rudolph-Shabinsky, Sally & Roger Seiler, Kara Sheridan & Elliott Forrest, Hon. Jen Laird White & Richard White. Last but, not least our amazing staff lead by Nicole Hines and Shelly Pitt.

Today is the day, Nov. 5th our Legacy Gala! Thank you all for your volunteering, donations generous auction items and work to make this a fantastic night! There is lots in store-Purple festooned room, violette precipitation cocktails, amazing live and silent auction items, live music, and after party with DJ! We will have a special guest appearance of the “artist formerly known as” and  a special presentation by our honorees. 
 
Check out the wonderful article by Karen Roberts on the event-
http://www.lohud.com/story/life/2016/11/01/nyack-gala-promotes-community-prince-tribute/92903552/

#nyackcenter #legacygala #purple rain #everychildmatters #community

NYC WEEKEND EXPERIENCE – Begin your NYC Weekend Stay by checking into the exclusive Affinia Hotel before going to see the highly acclaimed -  Broadway Musical Book of Mormons.  You and a will enjoy Center Orchestra Seats.  Make a reservation for dinner at Le Marais where prime steaks headline a French-influenced menu at this kosher restaurant & butcher shop.  
Generously donated by:  Kathy & Glenn Meyerson and Antonio Oliviera & Jennifer Wilcox
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Newport Road Trip – Get ready to roll out of Dodge to scenic Newport, Rhode Island for 5 days/4 nights.  Located on Historic Hill, three lucky couples (sleeps up to 6) will enjoy this newly-renovated, private 3 bedroom, 3 bath antique cottage home, originally built in 1800.  This remarkable home includes a master bedroom, two additional bedrooms, a family room with a sofa bed and is conveniently located within walking distance to Thames Street, Tennis Hall of Fame, Newport Harbor and other shops and restaurants.  The only problem with this getaway is that you may never want to leave.
Generously Donated by:  Rainey Mancini & Garrett ________
Value: Priceless   Minimum bid:  $1,000
Advance reservations required.  Date to be mutually agreed upon with winner and owners of home.  $150 Cleaning fee is the responsibility of the winner.  Because of the historic and architectural components, the owners request that no children and no pets are allowed during your stay. Expires one year from this date.

Nyack Center's Legacy Gala is this Sat. Nov. 5 honoring Donna Cox, Susan Wilmink & Thomas Schneck. A fabulous evening of live music, delicious food, decor by Festoon, live and silent auction, auctioneer extrordinaire Ned Kelly, desserts by Nyack's favorite french patisserie Didier Dumas all to benefit Nyack Center. 
​Dont' delay... we have been sold out the last 2 years!
go to www.nyackcenter.org to purchase tickets
#nyackcenter #legacygala #community



​To see recent article in the Journal News about the event, Nyack Center's mission and Make a Difference Scholarship go to-
www.lohud.com/story/life/2016/11/01/nyack-gala-promotes-community-prince-trib

 
Ski & Stay Escape! It is time to meet Haystack Mountain and make it your own with this 3-Day Ski & Stay Experience at The Hermitage Club, a private, four-season community celebrating the outdoors and family fun.  This ultimate ski experience accommodates a family of four for 2 nights and 3 days at either The White House Inn, Inn at Saw Mill Farm or Snow Goose Inn (up to 2 rooms per night).  The lucky winner will have three days of access (from arrival day through departure day) to Hermitage Club top-notch amenities for 4 guests including:
 
·      Alpine Skiing and Snowboarding
·      Cross Country Skiing (XC Ski Rentals Included!)
·      Tubing and Ice Skating (skate rentals included)
·      Access to Clubhouse, Fitness Center and Family Center
 
Located in Deerfield Valley in Southern Vermont, members enjoy the finer things in life with NO LIFT LINES and UNCROWDED TRAILS, and other seasonal recreational activities. The 80,000 square foot newly built, clubhouse is impressive and equipped with state of the art fitness center, luxurious spa, fine dining and much more!  
 
Generously donated by Noemi & Michael Radziemski and The Hermitage Club
 
Value:  $3,000 Minimum bid: $800
Advance reservations required.  Not valid during holiday periods including Christmas Day through New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Weekend and Presidents Weekend) and special events weekends. 
 
Click here www.hermitageclub.com to view why this is the Best Ski Experience on the East Coast!

​…The Yankees Win! – Any NY Yankees Fan will be on top with these two field seat tickets to a NY Yankee 2016 Season game - Section 121B row 12 seats 1 and 2.  Enjoy the tremendous views and all Yankee Stadium has to offer behind home plate. 
Generously donated by:  Anonymous Donor

 

​Donna Cox
 
   This quote sits at the top of Donna Cox’s website: "The distance between mediocre and exceptional is measured in steps. Always take the extra steps and you will always be exceptional." It was the favorite expression of Donna’s Father, Donald Scruggs and continues to guide and inspire Donna both personally and professionally to try to make the world a better place – one step at a time.
   For 10 years Nyack resident Cox has sponsored the center's annual June event, "Men Cooking," one of the largest fundraisers for Nyack Center. Cox is a founding member of Rockland County's first LGBT Center; supports Gay Pride Rockland, People to People and the Steven A. Cox Foundation causes that promote social justice and equality.