I have been a resident of White Plains for 32 years. I graduated from White Plains Senior High School in 2008. I joined the Army in 2011 and was assigned to the US Army’s 10th Mountain Light Infantry Division. In 2013 I deployed with the Division to Afghanistan. Following my deployment I transferred from the Active Duty Army to the New York Army National Guard and decided to pursue a degree in Architecture from New York Institute of Technology. Following my college graduation I decided to attend the US Army Officer Candidate School where I received a commission as a Second Lieutenant. Following OCS I attended Infantry Basic Officer Leader Course and US Army Ranger School. I currently work as a full time Design Consultant for Remodeling Consultants of Westchester, with specific emphasis in residential remodeling while concurrently serving as an Infantry Officer in the New York Army National Guard.
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
My parents are long time residents of White Plains as well. My father graduated from WPHS in 1964! He used to be the sports editor of the newspaper in White Plains. My mother, Chris, worked in Development in the healthcare and educational realms, and was very well respected for her fundraising. My wife, Maiara, is graduating as a Radiological Technician from Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY, and has numerous offers for full time jobs in the area.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
I love the Design Process involved with Remodeling Kitchens, Bathrooms and Additions. Creating new living spaces for people to enjoy is a really gratifying experience. As for my Army side, I have always had a strong sense of duty and patriotism and truly enjoy teaching and leading soldiers.
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Francescos in White Plains!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
32 years.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
My father Chuck Stogel who has been a Sportswriter for his entire life has so many amazing stories of local, regional, national and global people and events.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
I would travel to Italy.
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Saving Private Ryan
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be honest.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Skydiving
Q: What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
Metallica
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Roosters Market in White Plains
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
I would have lunch with both my grandfathers and ask them about their military experiences during WW2! Francescos!
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Roosters Market Bacon Egg and Cheese!
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Company Commander and Battalion Commander in the US Army National Guard.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
One of my favorite musical artists of all time is Sam Cooke. Legend!
Q: What is the most beautiful place you have ever been?
Bahamas
Q: Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
July 4th!
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
La Mandas Chicken Scarp!
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My soldiers
Q: What is one or two of your favorite smells?
Italian Food
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Best Place Ever