In Our Backyard
At 15 miles south, New York City is our backyard, so why bother searching out local services and amenities when they're readily available in one of the biggest cities in the world? Well, because, even if we work in the city, we shop, socialize, raise children, maintain houses and relax here in Rockland County. Consequently, this column is dedicated to the pursuit of excellence with nary a bridge, tunnel, or toll required. It rests on the premise that they're out there — dedicated people with vision and creativity, and a commitment to provide quality to those who've decamped to the burbs. So let's get to it!
Inaugural kudos go to former Superintendent of Parks and Recreation, Joseph B. Clarke, and the Orangetown Parks Department for creating the Joseph B. Clarke Rail-Trail. It's not often that cumbersome county legislatures can translate lofty notions into concrete — or, in this case, asphalt — but Clarke turned the trick just prior to his retirement in 1997. He wanted the abandoned tracks of the Erie Railroad converted to "a ribbon" of green winding through the villages of Orangetown, effectively tying them together into a cohesive group. Clarke must have understood that suburban life is, in the words of one neighbor, "'a bit much in the car," and that an area's vibrancy is enhanced when people get out of their SUV's and enjoy pleasant public spaces. With 80% federal funding from a program encouraging green spaces across the country, and the balance coming from the New York State Department of Transportation, Clarke"s vision is now a semi- shaded path enjoyed by walkers, joggers and bikers (and the occasional black bear!).
The four mile trail begins off Oak Tree Road, opposite Finn McCools, and ends at Route 303 in Orangeburg. A pedestrian bridge spanning 303 will open in the near future taking the trail to Greenbush Road, by the Orangeburg Library. (Phase II, slated for completion in 2008, will extend the path on to Blauvelt.) In Sparkill, the trail forks and the more ambitious traveler can head north towards the river villages. The paved trail, however, is unusual in that it makes Tappan, Sparkill. and Orangeburg accessible by bicycle. Not a bad idea as future gas prices are anybody's guess, and biking on Oak Tree Road qualifies as an Extreme Sport. More importantly, however, the trail represents a local attempt to reduce car traffic and it's nothing short of miraculous that so much time, money and effort have been directed towards the realization of a bike path. In our automobile-centric era, Clarke's efforts on behalf of the residents of Rockland are refreshingly pedestrian.
My second citation goes to Catherine Holland, owner of Elements Day Spa in Piermont, and her superb facialist, Jill LoCascio. Now, I'm not a connoisseur of spas, but I have been to a few toney ones in my day, and LoCascio's facials are as good – better, in fact — than many I've paid twice as much for. She is gentle, thorough, and extremely attentive. There was even a divine foot massage at the end. Need I say more?
Holland sets a relaxed and friendly tone, and appointments are available seven days a week with LoCascio for facials and waxing, or with one of Element's four NY State licensed massage therapists. Holland is happy to accommodate bridal parties of up to six people for the big day overhaul, and offers prenatal massage to those expecting. This is a lovely and unpretentious place to unwind. One is pampered without feeling as though people are walking on eggshells for fear of provoking the dreaded wrath of an overpaying, unsatisfied customer. Of course, with Holland's guidance, no such customer exists at Elements Day Spa.
For more information on:
Joseph B. Clarke Rail-Trail www.recreation@orangetown.com
Elements Day Spa www.elementsny.com