Good Friday, April 2, 2021, became even more sad for me because my friend, Naomi Lasher, died early that morning. Naomi and I became acquainted in the 1970’s, when I worked as Secretary to Dr. Orlando DiGirolamo, Director of Music and Art in the Ossining School District. Naomi served as a volunteer, arranging bus trips for the OHS Band and serving as chaperone. Our children were also students in the Ossining schools.

In 2010, Naomi and I ran into each other in the A & P. When she inquired about what I was doing, I explained that it was my hope to move back to Briarcliff. A few days later, when I called, at her request, Naomi asked if I would be interested in moving into their home to provide back-up for her, as Gordon had Alzheimer’s and should not be left alone. I gladly moved in and, on their wedding anniversary, provided dinner and piano music as they danced in the dance hall. Months later, it became necessary for Gordon to be moved into a nursing home. (See the picture of Gordon, Deborah, Tom and Naomi just before they drove him to the Bethel Nursing Home.

Naomi was a very gifted person. She illustrated the Haggadah that her family used for their Passover Seders. She published her first book, “The Sum of all the Parts,” that contained short stories about her early life. She started a second book, but that remains in her computer with Deborah. A certified Scottish Country Dance Coach, Naomi choreographed and coached some of the dances performed by her friends in the dance hall of her home. That was a thrilling sight that I never tired of viewing. We loved shopping together, going to concerts, dining out and sharing our stories over cups of tea.(See two pictures at Traveler’s Rest where we celebrated Naomi’s birthday on December 27, 2014). Also, see the picture of a “Singing Valentine provided by a Westchester Chordsmen Quartet on February 16, 2020, that included my son James, whom Naomi adored.

I miss my friend very much, and still have the impulse to share something with her. Naomi lived a rich, full life, and I am blessed to have known her.

"I remember when Mika and I were on our way to school and we were

stopped by police because the Canadian Governor General, who at that

time was the Earl of Athlone, was visiting Toronto, and his motorcade was

passing by.  Mika who was always a pisser, stuck her head in his limo and

said "Hello, Earl."  The Governor did not even blink.  He smiled at her and

answered "Hello, Little Girl."

That was a long time ago.  When Mika and I were living in Canada."