Mount Kisco Chamber to Honor Two Local Stalwarts at Annual Gala

The Mount Kisco Chamber of Commerce will honor Northern Westchester Hospital and a lifelong villager at its upcoming annual gala.

The Citizen of the Year award will go to Charlie Pieragostini who, throughout his career, has shaped the health and well-being of Mount Kisco residents for decades, chamber officials said.

Northern Westchester Hospital will be given the Organization of the Year award.

MKCC Executive Director Gina Picinich cited the role each honoree plays in making the village a wonderful place to live and work. Both the Hospital and Pieragostini have made significant contributions that have shaped the health, well-being and recreational opportunities for Mount Kisco residents.

"We couldn't have a better duo, who each in their own ways big and small makes Mount Kisco such a wonderful place to be," said Picinich. "We're grateful for the work that both Charlie and Northern Westchester has done and the invaluable service they have provided over the years."

The awards will be given at the Chamber of Commerce's Annual Gala on May 11 at the Holiday Inn in Mount Kisco. Tickets and sponsorships are available at www.mtkiscochamber.com.

Pieragostini, a lifelong resident, raised his family in Mount Kisco. Through his work as Superintendent of Recreation for the Village, and his volunteerism, Pieragostini has helped to enhance the recreation and fitness opportunities for all residents, chamber officials said.

Beyond the responsibilities listed on a job description, Pieragostini is constantly exploring and expanding recreational opportunities for the residents of Mount Kisco. With much determination, elbow grease and help from others, Pieragostini lead efforts to build a skate park, a designated soccer field, and rehabilitate the three-pool complex at Leonard Park. Pieragostini was also a leader in the efforts to construct the multi-purpose building, where residents participate in programs year round.

Over the years, Pieragostini has identified needs based on trends and population shifts and worked to bring opportunities to Mount Kisco and throughout Northern Westchester. He was the first AYSO Soccer Commissioner in the village and he was one of the original members of the Fox Lane Booster Club 25 years ago. As President of North East Westchester Special Recreation, he has helped to provide programs to special needs children and adults.

Amusingly, Pieragostini was born at Northern Westchester Hospital, as was his wife Jane and his two children, Leigh-Ann and Brian.

Chamber officials pointed out that it was nearly 100 years ago -- on August 20, 1916 -- that Northern Westchester Hospital opened its doors as the 15-bed Mount Kisco Hospital with the mission to serve all community members.

During that time, officials said, NWH has continued to deliver on that promise and has evolved into one of the highest-quality hospitals in the nation. It's mission to deliver exceptional healthcare to our community has remained a constant for a century.

NWH celebrates this milestone - providing a century of care - recognizing the dramatic changes that have occurred with advancements in technology, its clinical capabilities and the care it provides, the growth and improvements to the facility, and the impact on the lives of those in our community.

For more information on the dinner and awards, contact the Mount Kisco Chamber of Commerce at director@mtkiscochamber.com or call 914-666-7525.