Eastchester REVIEW THE
February 24, 2017 | Vol. 5, Number 8| www.eastchesterreview.com
Tuckahoe schools seek $660K referendum By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer
Tuckahoe Dems to run on second ‘hotel’ line By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer Three Democratic candidates for the Tuckahoe Board of Trustees have garnered enough signatures to also run on an independent line as the Hold Hotel Accountable Party, the Review has learned. Mayoral candidate Anthony Fiore and trustee candidates Nicholas Naber and Kathryn Thompson, all Democrats, submitted a petition to the village to run on the independent line in a village race that is expected to be hotly contested. The Hold Hotel Accountable Party, which was confirmed after securing more than 120 signatures from registered Tuckahoe voters, is honing in on a central
issue in Tuckahoe for nearly a year: a hotel development project on Marbledale Road. “We thought that it was essential that part of our platform was to hold this hotel to a higher environmental standard, which, I think, the Republicans didn’t do,” said Naber, explaining why the Democrats decided to also establish their new line. He added that he and his running mates hope to attract all voters who were concerned about the hotel without letting partisan politics stigmatize the candidates in the eyes of voters. Naber said that while campaigning, he realized that ideology doesn’t necessarily play role in village government. “What I’ve learned with knocking on doors and talking to people in the
community is that party politics usually guide a person’s national views,” he said. “Whereas, on the local level… you just want what’s best for your village.” That party name identifies with what could be the defining issue of the March election, a Marriott hotel development project which requires the cleanup of a contaminated 3.5-acre property on Marbledale Road, which had formerly been a marble quarry that was used as a landfill in the 1960s and ‘70s. The project includes the removal of contaminated soil through a plan approved by the state Department of Environmental Conservation, DEC, which has been scrutinized by more than 1,700 residents of Tuckahoe and surrounding communities, and has
drawn a lawsuit against the various state and village agencies responsible for approving the project. The Hold Hotel Accountable line, which will now appear on the March election day ballot, is one of two independent lines in this year’s race making the 2017 village campaign an DEMS continued on page 5
The Tuckahoe school district will put to referendum the purchase of a private property adjacent to the William E. Cottle Elementary School, paving the way for a capital project which would require a separate referendum later this year. Carl Albano, the schools superintendent, said that the district was looking to buy property to facilitate a larger capital project when it learned that the private home across the street from the elementary school was up for sale in December. The district has scheduled a March 14 public referendum with the hope that voters will approve the purchase of 110 Ridge St. in Eastchester for $660,000 from its undesignated fund balance. The district has made a 10 percent deposit on the property, of which all but $15,000 is refundable. Albano said the district would likely build an administration building on the property, allowing the district to move its current offices out of the conjoined middle and high school building on Siwanoy Boulevard . But the district would have to demolish the existing structure at 110 Ridge St. as it would not comply with state codes for an administration building. A new administrative building would free up space in the middle and high school building for as many as three additional classrooms, which could begin to mitigate overcrowding, which has become a mounting concern throughout the district, especially at Cottle, where the student body is over capacity.
Although moving the district office to 110 Ridge St. would not directly affect the population concerns at Cottle, it would spark the district’s plan to enact a larger planned capital project, which could include building a second story on a wing of that elementary school. That project, if approved by voters in a likely second public referendum later this year, could cost between $20 million and $31 million, which the district would bond for. According to Albano, the outcome of the March referendum would help to set a scope of work for the later bond referendum. “If we are the owners of 110 Ridge St., then [we] will really look to refine the capital projects,” he said, noting that the district has proposed several projects, but would have to prioritize the ones the district would likely vote to fund. Regardless of the outcome of the March 14 referendum, the district would put the larger capital bond to vote at the end of this year. That capital project would also address infrastructural concerns, and would allow the district to update classroom space. The current proposal aims to build Science, Technology, Engineering and Math, STEM, classrooms in the elementary school and an up-to-date library and media center in the middle and high school. But according to Albano, addressing an expanding student population which is beginning to strain the district’s facilities is a main priority of the project. “The big driver is surging enrollment,” Albano told the Review. REFERENDUM continued on page 8
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2 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017
February 24, 2017 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 3
Mackin is St. Pat’s parade grand marshal The Eastchester Irish American Social Club, EIASC, announced Sean Mackin, Eastchester resident and owner of Preferred Mechanical Inc. and Preferred Sprinkler Corp., as grand marshal for the EIASC’s 13th annual Eastchester St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The parade is on Sunday, March 12 at 3 p.m. The gala honoring Mackin and parade honorees Nancy Heffernan, Caroline O’Connell and Margaret Reynolds Stapleton, all of Eastchester, is on Saturday, March 4 at the Greentree Country Club in New Rochelle. Gala and Parade details can be found by visiting eastchesterirish.org. Born in Belfast, County Antrim, Mackin became a key voice in the Irish peace process working with elected officials in Washington, D.C., to
Sean Mackin, of Eastchester, has been named as this year’s grand marshal of the town’s St. Patrick’s parade, which will be held on Sunday, March 12. Contributed photo
promote peace and justice in Northern Ireland. His efforts began at an early age when he joined the Irish republican movement, and was arrested and imprisoned several times. In 1983, he immigrated to the United States and eventually became an American citizen. “My commitments to peace, justice and helping others have grown while living in America, but they come from my Irish roots, and I’m grateful to cel-
ebrate those ideals at Eastchester’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade with my family and community,” Mackin said. He and wife Philomena, members of the EIASC for 18 years, have three children: daughter Jennifer and son-in-law Taylor who have three children, Gavin, Ryan and Ella Rose; son Sean Og; and son Ciaran and his partner Chelsey and their son Pierce. They all live in Eastchester. In addition to his success in business, Mackin is a humanitarian and advocate for Irish American causes. He is cofounder and chairman of the New York Irish Center, known for its outstanding services to the senior Irish generation and suicide prevention assistance for the Irish community. In 2014, he was honored by the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform for his work with undocumented Irish. At the gala, the grand marshal and honorees will be presented with their parade sashes. Traditionally sold out, the gala is open to EIASC members and their guests. EIASC
Young participants march down White Plains Road during last year’s Eastchester St. Patrick’s Day parade. File photo
membership is open to those of Irish descent and anyone interested in Irish culture. Membership information can be
found at eastchesterirish.org. EIASC, which celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016, is a nonprofit organization founded
in 1966 with members from Eastchester, Tuckahoe, Bronxville, Crestwood and surrounding communities. (Submitted)
4 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017
What’s going on... Eastchester Public Library
For walkers up to age 2. Introduce your baby to music through rhythmic and melodic sounds, joyful singing, and a variety of instruments. Registration is required online. Please provide child’s name and age in the comment box.
Visiting Nurse Service of New York.
Tuckahoe Public Library
EPL Mystery Club On Wednesday, March 1 at 2:30 p.m. Join the library in exploring the careers and books of bestselling mystery authors of the 1960s, whose literary creations are loved by readers 50 years later. New members are welcome. March’s featured author is Ruth Rendell.
Bronxville Public Library
On Monday, Feb. 27 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Coloring has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety. Come and be creative and meet new friends, all while listening to tranquil music. Coloring sheets and materials will be provided.
Tween Cooking Class with Sue On Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. For ages 8 to 13. Join Sue in learning how to make all kinds of delicious foods. You’ll learn how to make appetizers, donuts, spaghetti and meatballs, and more. This is a hands-on cooking class. Registration is required online. Please provide child’s name, age and food allergies in the comment box.
Science & Stories On Tuesday, Feb. 28 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. For ages 5 and up. Science concepts, stories, and related hands-on activities. Registration is required online. Please provide child’s name and age in the comment box. For more information on library hours and programs, visit bronxvillelibrary.org.
Social Needlers
Musical Munchkins – Walkers
On Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to noon. This is a weekly knitting and crochet hour. Socialize while making beautiful items which we donate to the
On Monday, Feb. 27 from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
US Sports Institute programs The town of Eastchester and the US Sports Institute have many classes for ages 2 to 5 to learn soccer or a variety of sports, starting in April. Registration is now open. These morning programs are for all abilities, boys and girls, and provide fun games and activities. Visit eastchester.org/departments/ recreation for more information and to register.
Adult Coloring Group For more information on hours and programs, visit eastchesterlibrary.org.
Eastchester Recreation
TYA Youth Baseball and Softball For more information on library hours and programs, visit tuckahoe.com/library.
Kids’ Yoga On Monday, Feb. 27 at noon. For ages 2 to 5. Yoga comes to life in this fun and creative class designed to stimulate a young child’s growing curiosity. Playful yoga poses, animated breathing exercises and imaginative relaxation techniques teach participants about their bodies. Sprinkled with music, picture books and other age-appropriate props, the child’s inner yogini will be sparked while enhancing language development, motor coordination and play skills. This class is designed as a yoga experience, and promotes body awareness and bonding time for the caregiver and yogini. Please register by calling 961-2121.
Memoir writing class On Thursday, March 2 at 12:30 p.m. Learn how to write about your memories in this monthly program. Please register by calling 961-2121.
AARP Tax Aide Program Every Friday through April 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Get your taxes done. No appointment necessary; first come, first served.
NewYork-Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital
Open to all children living or attending schools in Eastchester, Bronxville and Tuckahoe. For boys ages 4 to 12 and girls in grades 2–8, as of May 1, 2017. Fee: $165. For more information and to register for the spring, visit tyabaseball.com. For questions, email rsyphertya@gmail.com.
Bronxville Adult School
Spring semester registration Registration for the Bronxville Adult School spring semester is now open. The BAS Spring Catalog includes dozens of new trips and classes, as well as the return of many popular favorites. Visit bronxvilleadultschool.org to view the interactive catalog.
Village Lutheran Church The Village Lutheran Church is located at 172 White Plains Road in Bronxville. For more information, call 337-0207 or visit vlc-ny.org.
Prayer Service The next monthly service of prayer for healing will be held on Saturday, Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m. This service is an opportunity to pray for personal needs and concerns, and to receive anointing with oil. It is also part of the church’s anniversary weekend celebrations, providing dedicated time to pray for its congregation and its mission.
Westchester Italian Cultural Center The NewYork-Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital is located at 55 Palmer Road in Bronxville. For more information, visit nyp.org.
Look Good Feel Better On Monday, Feb. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon in the NYP Lawrence Hospital’s Cancer Center Conference Room. This free program is designed for women dealing with hair loss and skin changes from chemotherapy and radiation. You will learn specific techniques to help you look and feel your best while undergoing treatment. To register, call 800-227-2345.
Joint Replacement and Surgery Patient Education classes Every Wednesday from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. in the NYP/Lawrence lobby Conference Room. This free class will teach patients scheduled for joint replacement surgery what to expect before and after an operation. To register, call 787-2119.
2017 Italy trip This summer, Westchester Italian Cultural Center will be traveling to Sicily and Calabria in Italy. Make memories that you’ll cherish forever. Now it is time to book your spot on this fabulous trip to Italy, and start dreaming of strolling in a piazza while eating the most delicious gelato. To learn more about the trip, visit wiccny.org/travel-program or call the center at 771-8700. Deadline for our What’s Going On section is every Thursday at noon. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to news@hometwn.com.
February 24, 2017 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 5 DEMS from page 1
unprecedented one. The other independent line, known as the Tuckahoe Independents, is the only bipartisan ticket in the race, and features its own mayoral candidate, Melba Caliano, a Republican, and two trustee candidates, Sarah DeRise and Jessica Cioffoletti, both Democrats. The all-female slate has spoken out against the hotel proposal, including Caliano, who is a current member of the Planning Board which issued approval of the remediation plan, although she voted against it. The hotel project was a core issue that sparked their decision to run. The Tuckahoe Independents are now also criticizing their Democratic opponents for running an independent party geared toward concerns over the hotel while not actively scrutinizing the project when it was before the Planning Board late last year, according to Mike Dardano, a spokesman for the slate. “They did not speak out with suggestions for a better plan at meetings during the critically important Planning Board decision phase in the summer and early fall of
A full slate of Tuckahoe Democrats running for the village Board of Trustees will also run on the Hold Hotel Accountable line, a party they formed to key in on one central issue in the village race. Photo courtesy changefortuckahoe.com
2016,” Dardano said. “They did not reach out to the concerned citizens group that was working to make the development of this site as safe as possible. All three of the Tuckahoe Independents candidates have been fighting on many fronts on a consistent basis to make sure the community is protected during all phases of this project.” Naber said that regardless of the Democrats’ participation in the past, their intention now is to ensure that the hotel project
is held to the highest environmental standards. “Ultimately, I think we’re both on the same side when it comes to the hotel,” Naber said. “We can really work together moving forward.” Election day in the village is March 21. The mayor and trustees are each elected to serve two-year terms. The mayor receives an annual salary of$7,282, while each trustee earns $5,075 per year. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
2 county, 1 Harrison police injured in Hutch chase An alleged hit-and-run last week escalated into a high-speed chase involving two police agencies which injured three officers before culminating near Lincoln Avenue in Harrison. After 9 p.m. on Feb. 15, 24-year-old James Rozsa, of Norwalk, Connecticut, wove in and out of traffic fleeing from police after another driver had signaled to Jerome Schulman, a county police officer, that Rozsa had rear-ended a car on the Cross County Parkway and then fled the scene, according to a report from the Westchester County Department of Public Safety. Schulman began chasing Rozsa’s white Honda sedan on the northbound Hutchinson River Parkway and was assisted by as many as 10 county police officers. The chase eventually carried into Harrison, where four Harrison police officers engaged in the pursuit, according to police Chief Michael Olsey. On North Street, Rozsa drove onto the shoulder to avoid traffic
James Rosza, 24, of Norwalk, Connecticut, allegedly fled from police officers after also fleeing from the scene of a hit-and-run on the Cross County Parkway in Mount Vernon. He is being charged with a felony, four misdemeanors, and several traffic violations, and also with the unlawful possession of marijuana. Contributed photo
congestion. While attempting to get back onto the road, he was blocked by police. He rammed two county police cars, injuring two officers, and he attempted to strike a Harrison police car. Both damaged county vehicles were
towed away from the scene. Police forced Rozsa to stop near Jefferson Avenue in Harrison, where he was combative with several officers who were attempting to restrain him, according to Kieran O’Leary, a spokesman for the Westchester County Department of Public Safety. A Harrison police officer was injured while attempting to apprehend Rozsa. Rozsa was indicted in Harrison Town Court on Feb. 16. He is being charged with seconddegree assault, a felony, as well as four misdemeanors: reckless endangerment, fleeing from police officers, reckless driving and aggravated unlicensed operation of a vehicle. Rozsa is also being charged with several traffic violations, including the initial hit-and-run. Police also found a small amount of marijuana in the car, for which Rozsa is also being charged with unlawful possession of marijuana, a violation. -Reporting by Corey Stockton
6 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017
Eastchester REVIEW THE
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ranked as the team with the top donations, having raised more than $2,000. “If we can just help one child with the funds raised here… it’s great for everyone,” Carty said. Carty explained that one of the reasons the charity appeals to him is that St. Baldrick’s provides you with a list of cancer fighters and survivors in your area so that you can sponsor your own St. Baldrick’s event. This year, Molly Spillane’s is honoring 8-year-old Margaret Sheker from Larchmont. Sheker is a cancer survivor, having overcome acute lymphoblastic leukemia, which is a form of blood and bone marrow cancer. Ashley Ferrara, co-organizer
By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter Molly Spillane’s is hoping to bring the Mamaroneck community together to “brave the shave” at its first annual St. Baldrick’s event. For the past eight years, Stephen Carty, owner of Mickey Spillane’s in Eastchester and Molly Spillane’s in the village of Mamaroneck, has hosted a St. Baldrick’s head-shaving event at Mickey Spillane’s to raise awareness for childhood cancer. Over this time, the bar has managed to raise more than $300,000. With a new location scheduled this year, Carty is hoping for a high turnout and for Molly Spillane’s to raise $15,000. As of press time, they have raised more than $4,000. The event will be held at Molly Spillane’s in Mamaroneck on Saturday, March 25. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation, a nonprofit organization that aims to raise funds to help find cures for children with cancer, was started in 1999 by Tim Kenny, John Bender and Enda McDonnel, who came up with the idea to raise donations by promising to shave their heads. The idea behind the event is to show solidarity with children who have lost their hair from chemotherapy. Leading up to the event, participants raise money to be donated to the charity. In 2016, there were 1,233 St. Baldrick’s events held worldwide and more than $38 million raised. The St. Baldrick’s Foundation prides itself on being “the largest private funder of childhood cancer research grants.” Its website goes on to explain that 70 percent of the money raised every year goes toward research, 26 percent of funds goes toward fundraising for the events, and 4 percent goes toward the business side of the charity.
St. Baldrick’s attendees shave their heads to show solidarity with children who lose their hair from cancer treatment.
“As charities go, it’s one that I felt was so upfront, no question where the money was going,” Carty said. Carty added that he intends to host St. Baldrick’s at Molly Spillane’s for eight years, and then switch back to Mickey Spillane’s for another eight. The owner explained that Mickey Spillane’s had a lot of involvement from police and fire departments. “Our first event [that] we had in Eastchester, it really was community driven,” Carty said. To date, the Eastchester EMS has gotten involved with Molly Spillane’s and is currently The first St. Baldrick’s event was held on St. Patrick’s Day, making green a popular color at these events. Photos courtesy St.Baldricks.org
Molly Spillane’s has a fundraising goal of $15,000. The money raised from these events goes toward cancer research grants.
of the event and director of banquets at Molly Spillane’s, said she is working on reaching out to another local child as well. This is Ferrara’s first year participating
in fundraising for St. Baldrick’s and although she doesn’t intend to shave her head, she has CONTINUED on next page
February 24, 2017 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 7 already raised $800 of her $2,000 goal. The event has gotten everyone in the Molly Spillane’s family involved. Jake Terenzi, a part-time bartender at Molly Spillane’s and co-organizer of the St. Baldrick’s event, said that getting on board with the event was an easy decision. He said that it sounded like a great idea, and wanted to help out as much as he could. When he first got involved with the event he hadn’t planned on shaving his head, but has since changed his mind. “It’s for the kids, I mean why not. Hair eventually grows back,” he said. Terenzi explained he has two goals for the event. One is to raise $2,000; he is currently at $525. His other goal is to get as many people to shave their heads as possible, which he explained has been harder than raising donations. Last year, Mickey Spillane’s was able to get 38 “shavees”; Molly Spillane’s has a goal for this year of 40 people. As of press time, Molly Spillane’s has more than 10 people signed up to shave their heads, including Carty’s wife, Geraldine Carty. “My wife, five years
ago, shaved off her hair,” Carty said, adding that she raised roughly $20,000, and now shaves her head every year for the event. Ferrara said that Trendon Lynch and Liam Quinn, both bartenders, are also planning to have their heads shaved. And as the event day nears, Carty is hoping to get more of the local police and fire departments, and even the mayor, to participate. “We’d love everyone to get involved, [because cancer] has touched everyone’s life,” Carty said. CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com
Molly Spillane’s event 211 Mamaroneck Ave. Mamaroneck, NY March 25, 6 p.m.
In 2016, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation saw a total of 46,261 shavees. As of now, there are more than 13,900 shavees registered. Photo courtesy St.Baldricks.org
8 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017
A recap of villagewide disruptions BRONXVILLE TODAY Mayor Mary Marvin
At first glance, it appears no corner of the village is free of construction or repair, often soliciting the question, “Mayor, what is going on?” So here is a recap: Midland Avenue/Pondfield Road intersection
The major and most disruptive by far of course occurred at our busiest intersection. In essence, when the flood mitigation contractor continued the threading of pipe under Midland Avenue, they reached an unknown vault from who knows when that caused the pipe to depress and sag, stopping the work. Con Edison monitored the depression as it was close to major gas lines. After discussion, they decided to replace what they saw as aged subterranean gas lines while the hole was opened. Though adding two-plus weeks to the flood project, everyone agreed it was well worth the delay to get new gas mains. Net-net, we anticipate opening Midland Avenue by next weekend, with the possibility of narrower passage if the second gas line closest to Library Lane needs restoration. We have authorized Con Edison to work weekends and holidays to expedite the reopening. A special thank you to the residents of Library Lane who bore the brunt of the disruption with patience and cooperation. Additional village construction
A new gas line is also being installed near the intersection of Kensington Road and Sagamore Road, yet another major pressure point in the village; hence all the metal plates. Our water provider, Suez, also had to undertake major repairs on Route 22 to replace a defective water valve that had been leaking, causing dangerous icing and deep potholes, necessitating periodic interruption of water service. We were not satisfied with Suez’s communications to Bronxville customers as to water service interruptions or the possibility of “brown” water in a wider area when water pressure is restored. We are working with Suez to revamp their
alert/communication system. Yet more excavation is being done by the village contractors on the length of Pondfield Road to line the pipes found damaged and/or leaking during our recent televising project. Much of our sanitation system consists of a labyrinth of 100-year-old clay pipes that are crumbling due to age, so we expect the repairs/replacement to remain an ongoing project. Parking
We are putting out a request for proposal to review our current parking data and analyze the feasibility, size, location and funding sources for a parking level/structure and model possible alternatives. We know the viability of our business district going forward depends more on restaurant and service business than dry good stores with parking already at a premium. With demand only increasing, we have to add to the inventory and not simply reshuffle the deck. Kensington Garage will soon be online so that in the interim, the parking situation will improve as commuters and merchants will be relocated back to Kensington Road. This will free up customer spaces in the Kraft and Garden lots as well as adding a modest increase in garage inventory. Lighting
Eight “tear drop” fixtures will soon be installed in the Kraft Avenue lot as well as new lamps added on the triangle near Studio Arcade and the southbound tracks, both areas brought to our attention by commuters and pedestrians. Environmental study
The village has hired EcoSystems, an environmental analysis firm, to review all studies/documents related to the proposed Marbledale Road hotel site, as well as the analysis conducted on our school grounds by a consultant hired by the school board. We have requested a review of the school findings first, followed by a more global air and water evaluation of the other studies. Street safety
With spring approaching, some of you have asked about traffic-calming devices or an increased number of stop signs
to slow motorists, especially in neighborhoods with many children. The village adheres to state and federal standards in the use of traffic-calming devices. Before any speed bump is installed, a traffic engineering study must be undertaken to determine both its necessity and proper location with verifiable data on traffic volume, speeds and accident rates. Incorrectly installed bumps have subjected municipalities to significant liability. For example, a bump too close to a curve in a road does not provide adequate warning to the unfamiliar driver and can result in increased accidents at that location. Even after it is determined a speed bump would be helpful, a series of signs must be placed in both directions, and the bump and the road markings leading up to it must be brightly painted. Speed bumps that you see without this signage and paint are incorrectly installed, thus exposing a municipality to additional liability. As for rumble strips or roughing of the road, there is no study that has proven they are an effective traffic-calming device. Also, the noise made by the automobiles crossing these rough spots is extremely loud and incessant to neighboring dwellings. As an alternative, residents have suggested the village lower the 30 mph speed limit. Speed limits in New York are regulated by the state, and 30 mph is the lowest permitted villagewide, save for 20 mph in school zones. That being said, we will undertake any study and initiate any corrective action when warranted. In order to increase pedestrian safety, we remind homeowners that one is responsible for all sidewalks that abut their property, including snow removal and re-pavement, to facilitate pedestrian passage. If you notice a sidewalk needing attention, contact the village’s Building Department and staff will issue a “notice to cure.” No monetary penalties attach unless the notice is ignored. I appreciate the residents in every corner of the village who are enduring these disruptions with patience and grace.
REFERENDUM from page 1
The Tuckahoe school district will look to purchase property at110 Ridge St., a private home across the street from William E. Cottle Elementary School and down the road from the Tuckahoe Middle/High School, to convert that property into a district administration office building. Photo/Corey Stockton
The current enrollment at Cottle is 641 students, but the school is ideally suited to seat 559. “We’re getting creative and using every inch of space, but everyone recognizes in the community that we need to do something to expand
the space,” he said, adding that gym locker rooms in that school have been converted into classrooms over the last several years. The capital project would likely go to referendum for a bond in October or November
of this year, according to Albano. Currently, the district’s Moody’s credit rating is Aa3, meaning it is a considered a low credit risk and has a strong ability to borrow. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
Harper is a sweet and friendly boy, about a year old and 30 pounds. He knows some basic training, loves playing in the yard with all his furry friends, and seems to be housebroken, too. He would do best in a home with a fenced-in yard and older children due to his lively, puppy-like personality. Harper is neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, and microchipped. Make him part of your family for an adoption donation of $300 to Pet Rescue. To meet Harper, call 834-6955, visit NYPetRescue.org, or meet him in person at 7 Harrison Ave. in Harrison. (Submitted)
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10 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017
Business Briefs BioInc@NYMC forum focuses on growing, supporting innovation
Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino offered congratulations and thanks to Danone North America, which recently announced it will remain in Westchester County and move its headquarter offices and accessory food laboratory to downtown White Plains. The new location at 100 Bloomingdale Road will become home to more than 400 Danoners beginning early next year during a move to a re-imagined space that previously served as a retail location. “Danone North America is a terrific company,” Astorino said. “Westchester is proud to be a past partner and is excited to be part of its future success. Many thanks to Danone for its continuing investment in Westchester.” Danone’s North American companies, which include well-known brands such as Dannon and Evian, said in a press release that it recognizes that today’s talent prefers to be in an open and flexible working environment that inspires creativity and inclusiveness. Key factors in the relocation decision were the development of a modern, flexible workplace that will fully leverage technology, enhance collaboration, and align with the company’s unique culture and global brand, along with the location in a vibrant community accessible via mass transit. “We prioritized efficient and flexible design solutions for the changing style of our workplace that we envision for our future,” said Dessislava Miteva, the company’s chief people officer and vice president of human resources. “Increasingly we are working in open and flexible spaces that can adapt to the continually evolving needs of our company and our people. We want as much open space as possible to maintain the sense of community we currently have, to encourage informal and ad-hoc communication, and to ensure as much freedom and autonomy as possible in an energetic and exciting workplace. Additionally, being within walking distance to restaurants, shopping and mass transit are important for our company.” Economic viability of the needed construction and ongoing operating and tax considerations were also factors in the site selection, the company said. Danone North America has been working closely with the state of New York, Westchester County and the city of White Plains to secure the assistance needed to help support Danone North America’s growth agenda. Pivotal to Danone North America’s plans were the approval of a zoning amendment by White Plains to allow the company to move its accessory food laboratory, as well as the financial assistance awarded by the county’s Industrial Development Agency and by the state of New York, Empire State Development through its Excelsior Jobs Program and Capital Grant programs. This support will allow the company to expand its operations, attract new talent, update its office design, and retain its research and development team’s innovative accessory food laboratory. “We are deeply grateful for the support and patience of the city, county and state, which have helped to keep our company in the area and allow us to significantly update and upgrade the setting in which we work, which will allow us to continue to be a significant contributor to community stability and growth here in White Plains,” Miteva said.
Innovative industries, including biomed and tech, have put the Hudson Valley on the map and attracted researchers, entrepreneurs, and startups to New York state. Expert panelists shared their thoughts on growing innovation in New York, the impact it has on the economy, and obstacles that researchers and inventors face. As 2017 begins, these industries look to Congress to protect their intellectual property rights to their inventions, technologies, and advances in medicine that make them successful job-creators in the Hudson Valley. The panel was held at BioInc at New York Medical College, BioInc@NYMC, and moderated by Randi Schwartz, director of BioInc@NYMC and associate dean for academic administration at New York Medical College School of Medicine. The panel featured experts including Larry Gottlieb, president and CEO of the Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation, HVEDC; Amy Gallup Klann, Ph.D., counsel at Leason Ellis; Marc Zemel, managing director at MKM Ventures, CEO and co-founder of MOE Medical Devices and Retia Medical; Josephine Young, associate at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP; and Brian Pomper, executive director of the Innovation Alliance. Nathan Tinker, executive director of NewYorkBIO, was a guest speaker. The health care industry in the Hudson Valley, which includes pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical companies, is the largest area employer, as with 2015 data gathered by the HVEDC reporting 158,707 jobs. Additionally, area medical research universities like panel host New York Medical College provide a highly skilled workforce, and also fuel a need for inventors in the life sciences. “BioInc@NYMC is like no other resource in the Hudson Valley. We’re proud to offer biotech entrepreneurs and startups a place to launch successful businesses. We welcome the Innovation Alliance to New York, in an ongoing effort to connect our local innovators with a strong network and up-to-date information on issues that impact them directly,” Schwartz said. “Innovation isn’t a linear concept. Even though we wish it were to be as simple as having an idea, executing a plan, and seeing success, to be truly competitive and successful in 2017 we must take many factors into consideration. Knowing the regulatory policies in place, the patent system to protect our work, the latest in academia and research, how to connect with investors—innovators take an idea and create so much more. Like any attentive constituency, the Innovation Alliance exists to help educate and advise from a first-hand perspective, and we are proud to be here today in the Hudson Valley alongside such great talent,” Pomper said. “New York is home to a bioscience community that is unparalleled—not only do we have one of the largest communities in the world, but the strongest in terms of resources, jobs, academia, clinical trials, and innovators. NewYorkBIO exists to support the development and growth of New York’s life science industry and today’s discussion explored some of the most important issues to our members, including protecting intellectual property rights and supporting patent holders. I’ve had a chance to meet some of the Hudson Valley’s inventors and patent holders at today’s
event, and I’m happy to be here at BioInc at New York Medical College to visit their innovative space,” Tinker said. “Today’s panel demonstrated not only the variety in talent in the Hudson Valley, but the variety of opportunities and resources available to entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers. My experience in biology, coupled with my current legal practice focus on the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, has allowed me to experience many important proceedings and analyses,” Gallup Klann said. Zemel shared his story of innovation and growth as an entrepreneur here in the Hudson Valley. As the CEO and co-founder of two startup, he knows the challenges of developing specialized technology and growing a business. Since 2011, he has helped oversee the advancement of MOE Medical Devices, a startup developing nanosecond pulsed electrical plasma treatments for dermatology, and Retia Medical, a cardiovascular monitoring company, in his role as CEO. Additionally, Zemel holds 18 patents (issued or pending) and understands the importance of the U.S. patent system. “I’m a patent-holder, and I have worked long hours over the years to bring my ideas to fruition. I’m proud to call the Hudson Valley home, and to be surrounded by support I need to survive. Our elected officials must hold the highest priority in protecting the small inventors, like me, who contribute to the American economy. This includes voting against legislation that weakens our patent system—for without the patent system, I wouldn’t be here today,” Zemel said. Startups have found success in Westchester County due to its close proximity to New York City, the opportunity to collaborate with other small and mid-sized businesses in the area, and the business-friendly environment fostered by the HVEDC. The Hudson Valley manufacturing industry is an integral partner of the area’s biomed and tech innovators and has contributed 44,800 jobs in the region, according to a 2016 NYS Labor Department Report. This industry innovates new processes and technologies that help area businesses produce a more advanced product for the client, in a shorter amount of time. “The Hudson Valley Economic Development Corporation is proud of how far our region has
come, in terms of innovation and job growth. NY BioHud Valley is a great example of how we’ve taken a cluster and turned it into a strong network of biomed and biotech companies—and it is vital we stay on the cutting edge of policy changes and proposals to help our members succeed and bring jobs to New York,” Gottlieb said. In 2016, the U.S. Department of Commerce found that intellectual property industries supported 45 million jobs and contributed $6 trillion dollars to the U.S. gross domestic product. Yet also in 2016, legislation was introduced in Congress that proposed broad changes to the patent system that would hinder the ability for inventors to protect their intellectual property rights. At the BioInc@ NYMC panel, innovators and patent-holders in the Hudson Valley voiced their concern for potentially harmful legislation in 2017. A working paper conducted by Harvard Business School and New York University professors for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in 2016 found that innovation and startups benefit immensely from the protections patents offer. Obtaining a patent sets a startup up for long-term success: employment growth increases by 36 percent after the first patent is approved, and sales growth increases by 51 percent over the next five years. The study also found that patents help many innovators reach the ultimate financial goal. A startup with a patent approval is twice as likely to end up listed on the stock exchange. American innovators, abundant in the Hudson Valley, look to lawmakers to prioritize policies that protect and promote their work. Although much remains to be seen as the new incoming administration sets its legislative priorities, innovation remains the backbone of the Hudson Valley and the U.S. The BioInc@NYMC panel and event offered a unique opportunity for interaction and discussion between experts, experienced entrepreneurs, and small inventors alike. The next Business Briefs section will run in February. Please send any submission for our February edition to news@hometwn.com, with “Business” in the subject line of your email. Each submission may include one picture. If you have any questions, email us at news@hometwn.com.
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Astorino thanks Danone for continued Westchester investment
INSIDE WESTCHESTER COUNTY
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February 24, 2017 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 11
When truth is stranger than fiction HISTORICALLY SPEAKING Richard Forliano
Mark Twain once said, “Truth is stranger than fiction. Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities. Truth isn’t.” Recent historical research has only established in this new year of 2017 that there was a relationship between America’s most misunderstood founding father, Alexander Hamilton, and Eastchester Revolutionary War hero, Theodosius Fowler. From the papers of Alexander Hamilton it has been discovered that he, the secretary of the Treasury, had a business relationship with Fowler, a major landowner in Eastchester and a Revolutionary War hero, as well as a New York City merchant. Fowler agreed to supply rations to army posts in western Pennsylvania that were set up to force farmers to pay an unpopular federal tax. When the farmers actually rebelled, President George Washington with Hamilton at his side put together an army to put down this insurrection. More than a decade later, the papers of Hamilton show that Hamilton repaid a debt to Fowler of $1,451, an amount equal to more than $31,000 today. It is beyond question that Hamilton and Fowler had a business and political relationship. The paths of Eastchester native Fowler and Hamilton had crossed before. It is inconclusive how close of a relationship they had. But common sense shows that they knew each other during the Revolution, were members of the emerging Federalist Party, and most likely had a personal as well as a business relations. Both Fowler and Hamilton were in their late teens when they joined the Revolutionary cause, both receiving commissions in Washington’s Continental Army. Hamilton had just been a brilliant student at King’s College, and it is likely that Fowler also had a classical training in Enlightenment thinking. But after that, the similarities of their youthful backgrounds end. Alexander Hamilton was the illegitimate child of a wayward woman who left him an orphan when he was only 12. Theodosius Fowler was a descendant of Eastchester’s most prolific family that dominated Eastchester politics in
the 18th century. Henry Fowler, the patriarch of the family, had signed the famed Eastchester Covenant, and for 24 years, four Fowlers had served as town supervisor. Theodosius had defied his Loyalist father and joined Washington’s army at the same time as Hamilton as the British prepared to invade New York. The time was the late summer of 1776. King George III sent the largest amphibious force ever assembled of 32,000 troops to seize Manhattan and use it as a base to gain control over the Hudson. Both Hamilton and Fowler fought with Washington’s army as New York City would be eventually lost to the British for the duration of the war. After the loss of New York City in the fall of 1776, the military careers of Hamilton and Fowler would temporarily separate for two years. Hamilton accompanied Washington as he retreated across New Jersey in the late fall of 1776, crossed the Delaware on Christmas Day, and celebrated a much needed victory at Trenton on Christmas Day. By 1777, Hamilton had become George Washington’s top aide and witnessed Washington’s loss of Philadelphia with successive defeats at Germantown and Brandywine. After the New York City loss, Theodosius Fowler was put under the command of Benedict Arnold. Arnold was stationed in upstate New York and in October 1777 he led a bayonet charge at the Battle of Saratoga that snatched victory from the jaws of defeat. That victory was the first time that a major British army was forced to surrender, and using that information Benjamin Franklin was able to entice France to sign a treaty of alliance with the new American nation. Fowler took part in that decisive victory that most professional historians believe was the turning point in the American Revolution. On hearing about the victory at Saratoga, George Washington sent his chief aide, a 22-year-old Alexander Hamilton, to negotiate with Arnold’s commander, Horatio Gates. Gates reluctantly agreed to transfer two brigades of around a thousand troops from upstate New York to the winter encampment at Valley Forge outside Philadelphia. Theodosius Fowler was an officer in one of those two brigades. It is possible that Hamilton and Fowler might
have either struck up or renewed an acquaintance at this time. Fowler and Hamilton spent the lowest part of the American Revolution at Valley Forge and fought in the Battle of Monmouth in the sweltering heat of early summer in 1778. Fowler was again transferred from Washington’s army to upstate New York to battle the Iroquois tribes allied with England. The fighting was so fierce and its toll on Fowler so severe and his loss of weight so dramatic that his own lieutenant did not recognize him. By the winter of 1781, Fowler was again transferred back to Washington’s army which was stationed in nearby Dobbs Ferry. The times were desperate for the Revolutionary cause. Patriot troops were threatening to mutiny because they had not been paid nor properly feed and clothed. Our French allies stated that if there was not a decisive victory by the end of the year they would withdraw. Even Alexander Hamilton threatened to resign his commission if he was not restored to active combat. At that time, Washington, with Lt. Col. Hamilton and Capt. Fowler under his command, made one last gamble. The Continental army with their French allies marched 600 miles to Yorktown, Virginia. Both Hamilton and Fowler participated in the final major battle of the war at Yorktown when a British army under Lord Cornwallis surrendered to George Washington. At the present time, there is no way of knowing for sure when the relationship between Alexander Hamilton and Theodosius Fowler began and to what extent it was both personal and political. But these two men did know each other, had at the very least a business and political relationship, and possibly a personal relationship. It is very satisfying to know that the Founding Father Alexander Hamilton and the Eastchester native and Revolutionary War hero Theodosius Fowler were allies in the birth of the American nation. Please contact us at historian@eastchesterhistoricalsociety.org about any comments or questions you might have about this column. Also, any questions about sources of information will be addressed.
Both Alexander Hamilton and Eastchester hero Theodosius Fowler were present at the British surrender at Yorktown, the last major battle of the American Revolution. Photo courtesy Richard Forliano
LEGAL NOTICES
Village of Tuckahoe NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Annual Election of the Village of Tuckahoe will be held on
MARCH 21, 2017 Between the hours of 7:00AM and 9:00PM The Polling Places will be as follows: ALL DISTRICTS 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 32, 33 will vote in the Tuckahoe Community Center located at 71 Columbus Avenue At such election, the following officers to be elected for the term set opposite their title respectively: MAYOR Anthony Fiore, Jr..................................2 year term Steve Ecklond.........................................2 year term Melba Caliano.........................................2 year term
TRUSTEE Nicholas Naber......................................2 year term Kathryn Thompson.............................2 year term Tom Giordano..........................................2 year term Greg Luisi...................................................2 year term Jessica Cioffoletti................................2 year term Sarah DeRise..........................................2 year term
By order of THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES Steven Ecklond, Mayor Thomas Giordano Greg Luisi Steve Alfasi Antonio Leo Camille DiSalvo, Clerk, Tuckahoe, NY February 21, 2017
12 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017
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February 24, 2017 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 13
Sudden onset unattractiveness RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy
When you go to the periodontist for oral surgery and all you’re worried about is the potential pain, you may forget to ask whether you will spend the next couple of weeks looking like a chipmunk beaten up by a gang of biker squirrels. Or at least I forgot to ask. So now when I look in the mirror, I see a face with golf ball bulges turning purple, lips stretched wide like taffy and my jaw the shape of a juice box. On the subway, I wrap my scarf as high as I can and try to ignore the fact that now when I breathe, I fog up my glasses. When I dared to venture out to the bakery (perhaps the source of this whole problem), I ran into an acquaintance and had to act like I wasn’t melting from shame (and the boiling scarf). “It’s, uh, great to see you too! Bye!” Even at home, I am surprised to feel sickeningly selfconscious around those nearest and dearest. Surely, beauty is not purplish-skin deep? Or is it? Being suddenly disfigured, even temporarily, made me wonder how other people— the gashed, pocked and bloated—face the world. So I asked around. My Upper East Side friend Mandy recalled the time she went to a fancy restaurant for lunch and ate something that made her feel like her throat was closing up. “Then I looked at my arm and there were all these blotches on it and I was starting to panic,” she said. “So
I staggered across the street and bought a big bottle of Benadryl and the pharmacist told me to take a double dose right now, and I was like, ‘Okay.’” The problem was, that night she was meeting a new guy. They had tickets to “An American in Paris.” So she ran home, changed into clothes that covered as much of her as possible, and met her date at the theater. The show, as far as she can recall, was delightful. “But I fell asleep and the guy kept elbowing me gently to wake me up, till my head lolled back on the seat again,” she said. Each time she fell back asleep, she snored. “And every time I would wake up, I was furiously itching myself all over.” It may not come as a huge surprise that they did not date again. But for Mandy, at least, the sudden onset unattractiveness was short-lived. Marisa, a grant writer in Manhattan, went through chemo 12 years ago, just a year after her husband died. Their son was in second grade. Today she is the proud mom of a college freshman, but the permanent loss of her eyelashes and eyebrows still smarts. “I get called sir a lot, then they look and go, ‘Oh, sorry,’” she said. What surprised Marisa most was how hard it has been to adjust. “I can be as vain as the next person, right?” Of course, right! It’s not just you, Marisa! It’s all of us. When entrepreneur Kathryn picked up MRSA, the antibiotic-resistant illness, the disease manifested itself in black holes on her face the diameter of a pencil eraser. As she noted matter-of-factly, even when psychological researchers show very young kids
pictures of people with some kind of physical imperfection, the kids “attribute that they’re stupid, lazy, dishonest, evil— things that are all truly NOT indicated by how somebody looks.” We are a culture hardwired, it seems, to distrust the imperfect, no matter how dumb and cruel that is. Genevieve fainted at the Herald Square subway station last August, breaking all her front teeth. “Luckily for all the other passengers, I was off the train before it happened,” she said. Yes, she’s a comedian—for real. But going out in public wasn’t funny. That first week, “Even with the check-out person at Duane Reade, I was talking with as little space between my lips as possible, trying to hide these jagged teeth.” Gone was the perk that noncelebrities and the non-disfigured take for granted: The ability to be invisible. Genevieve stopped going out, “until I woke up one day and realized: I don’t see people anymore!” She decided to bite the bullet (as well as she could) and go back onstage. “After six months of hiding from the public, I told the audience that I had broken all of my front teeth. Then I immediately covered my mouth,” she said. THAT got their attention. So she told them, “That’s a fun trick you can use on first dates. Mention you have a terribly unattractive physical impediment, and then hide it. You will hold their attention the rest of the night.” And then, if they can see beyond whatever it is, you’ve got a winner. CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com
Astorino highlights African-American heritage trail
Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino highlights the county’s African-American heritage trail and announces the 2017 Trailblazer Award winners at the Jay Heritage Center in Rye on Feb. 13. Photo courtesy Westchester County
In celebration of Black History Month, Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino was joined on Feb. 13 by Barbara Edwards, chair of the Westchester County African American Advisory Board, at the Jay Heritage Center in Rye to unveil the new Westchester County Guide to African-American History and Heritage and to announce this year’s Trailblazer Award winners. “Black History Month is a time to celebrate and reflect on the many contributions African Americans have made throughout the United States,” Astorino said. “Westchester County is home to several unique sites for visitors to observe this important month and our updated Guide to African American Heritage and History is a roadmap to discover the rich African-American culture in our backyard.” The guide, produced by the Westchester County Office of Tourism & Film, maps various historical destinations throughout the county that date back to the 17th century, and can be found online at westchestergov. com. Natasha Caputo, director of the Office of Tourism & Film, said this guide is designed to give visitors and residents the best way to explore the county’s historical landmarks. “This guide gives visitors and residents alike a comprehensive way to follow our AfricanAmerican trail and explore the great historical landmarks we have here in Westchester,” Caputo said. “Not only does the guide have information about each destination on the trail, but we have included a map, information on events, art exhibits, notable Westchester residents and information on transportation and accommodations.”
Astorino also highlighted four landmarks on the trail: • The Jay Heritage Center, located in Rye, not only is the childhood home of Founding Father John Jay, but it was the home of several generations of people, both free and enslaved, who worked for the Jay family. Jay was the founder of the Manumission Society of New York, which advocated for the abolition of slavery and established schools to educate free AfricanAmericans. The Jay Heritage Center houses various artifacts, including a manumission document declaring freedom for a Westchester slave. • Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow, a property of Historic Hudson Valley, is a nationally significant late 17th- and early 18th-century milling and trading complex that was part of a vast 52,000-acre estate owned by the Anglo-Dutch Philipse family. Enslaved individuals of African descent operated the commercial center of the estate in what is now the village of Sleepy Hollow. • Philipse Manor Hall in Yonkers, listed in the National Register of Historic Places, served as the Lower Mill complex for Philipsburg Manor in the 17th century and contributed significantly to the development of New York’s commercial life. The records of their business and lives indicate that enslaved Africans were vital to their success and the development of Westchester. • St. Paul’s Church in Mount Vernon, a National Historic Site, was the center of community life in the 18th and 19th century. Many of the 9,000 interred in the cemetery are persons of African descent buried here in the 19th and 20th centuries. The church records at St. Paul’s include the
sexton’s book and burial records denoting the race of those entered into the historic graveyard. In addition to promoting the history and heritage of AfricanAmericans in Westchester, Astorino and Edwards announced the honorees for this year’s Trailblazer Award ceremony. For the past 18 years, Westchester County honors individual African-Americans each year with this award for their commitment to service, and generous use of their talent, which together create a bright future for us all. Edwards, who has worked with the county to coordinate the Trailblazer Awards for the past 18 years, spoke about the significance of the award and how it has shaped the county. “The history of AfricanAmericans in Westchester has significantly shaped the development and richness of Westchester County,” Edwards said. “The 2017 Trailblazers, who will be honored this next week, inspire us by continuing the legacy of our ancestors’ perseverance, while making a positive impact for future generations.” The 2017 Trailblazer Awards winners are: • The Elizabeth Catlett Award for Arts and Culture – Vinnie Bagwell • The Betty Shabazz Award for Civic Engagement – Eddie Mae Barnes • The Rev. L. Alger Adams Award for Publishing – Sandra Blackwell • The Robert C. Weaver Award for Housing – Mack Carter • The Whitney M. Young, Jr. Award for Human Services – Nathaniel Fields • The Dr. Valiere Alcena Award for Health Services – Judith Watson, RN (Submitted)
14 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017
SPORTS
Highs, lows of the postseason LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
There’s no question when it comes to postseason athletes, the intensity and pressure for our coaches and student-athletes get ratcheted up tenfold. And while that may be all well and good 99 percent of the time, creating indelible moments for our local sports stars, win or lose, sometimes the
grand stage of the playoffs can shine a light on some more negative aspects of the game. Don’t get me wrong; there has been no shortage of absolutely fantastic moments over the last week. Kate Robbins’ third-quarter buzzer-beater against Pelham that propelled Rye to a come-frombehind win over the Pelicans; the Harrison boys’ team putting together an unheard of upset of Ardsley from their spot as the No. 24 seed; heck, even the atmosphere
in Scarsdale High School’s gym as Mamaroneck’s boys tried— and ultimately failed—to rally back from a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter of their Class AA playoff game against the Raiders; these moments all represent sports at its finest. But there have also been a handful of moments over the last week or so that kind of make you scratch your head. One early playoff story that has gotten a fair amount of press
has been the brawl that transpired between members of the Peekskill girls’ basketball team after a hard-fought loss to Tappan Zee on Feb. 18. According to observers, Red Devils’ players began arguing with one another following the game, leading to a fracas involving fans, parents and punches. Police were called and one woman was hospitalized, turning an already disappointing end to the season into something much worse for the Red Devils. I can’t speak to the underlying tensions that led to the fight, but one would have to assume that the pressure cooker of postseason
Following his team’s double-overtime loss to New Rochelle on Saturday, White Plains basketball coach Spencer Mayfield took to Twitter to voice his displeasure with the officiating. When it comes to the postseason, even great games can be marred by controversy. Photo courtesy twitter.com
play factored into it somehow. Of course, not all scandals— for lack of a better word—are quite as dramatic. That same day, in a first-round meeting between league foes New Rochelle and White Plains, the Huguenots escaped with a thrilling double-overtime win over the Tigers in what, if you just looked at the box score, one would assume was a classic showdown. But White Plains coach Spencer Mayfield took to Twitter after the game to fire back at the officials for what he saw as an uneven performance in which New Rochelle accumulated 32 chances at the foul line to his Tigers’ scant five. Did the referees cost White Plains the game? I couldn’t tell you. But I can say that, from a coaching standpoint, it’s impossible not to get frustrated when the numbers are that skewed. And sometimes, the ire of fans is directed at the governing body of local sports. When the leading scorer on Scarsdale’s hockey team, Ben Schwartz, was ejected from the final game of the regular season, Raider fans expected him to serve his mandatory one-game sus-
pension during the team’s firstround playoff game against Rivertown—which most expected to be an easy win for Scarsdale, even without the standout winger on the ice. But Rivertown forfeited the game, and Schwartz’ suspension was carried over into the highly-anticipated quarterfinal matchup between Scarsdale and No. 2-seeded Suffern, despite vocal protests from the Raider faithful. Many felt that Section I misinterpreted the rule and believed that the decision to hold Schwartz out for the Suffern game put an asterisk next to the Mounties’ 5-3 win on Feb. 21. No matter what happens in the postseason, no matter who wins, no matter how games go, there’s going to be grousing, complaining, and, in some instances, some undignified behavior. But as the playoffs continue, let’s just hope that the good moments outweigh the bad, and even those tough losses and bad situations provide our athletes— and our coaches—with some valuable life lessons.
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February 24, 2017 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 15
THE ROUNDUP BOYS BASKETBALL CLASS A
OUTBRACKET
Pearl River 63 Eastchester 44 AT EASTCHESTER HS
2/16/17
Hampered by an early injury to forward Luke Elson, the Eagles simply couldn’t find their rhythm against the Pirates, falling 63-44 to Pearl River. Matt Coffey led the Pirates with 15 points, and Eastchester was led by the duo of Jack Heffernan and sophomore Mike Zeolla who both had 11. The Pirates fell in their next game against No. 3-seeded Rye on Feb. 18. CLASS B
FIRST ROUND
Putnam Valley will play No. 2-seeded Pleasantville on Feb. 22, after press time.
GIRLS BASKETBALL CLASS B
FIRST ROUND
Bronxville 63 Blind Brook 42 AT BRONXVILLE HS
2/18/17
The No. 4-seeded Broncos had little trouble with the Trojans on Saturday, topping the No. 13-seed by 21 points at home. Bronxville was led by Brooke Tatarian, who paced the Broncos with 18 points. Ellie Walsh had 13 points in the win. Bronxville will host No. 5 Woodlands on Feb. 22, after press time.
Putnam Valley 56 CLASS A FIRST ROUND Bronxville 45 Eastchester 68 AT BRONXVILLE HS 2/18/17 No. 7 Bronxville couldn’t Yonkers 47 quite get past the No. 10 Tigers on Saturday, as Darnelle Schillingford scored 16 points to lead Putnam Valley to an 11-point victory over their hosts. Jack Reilly scored 15 points in the losing effort.
AT EASTCHESTER HS
2/18/17
Cassidy Mitchell continued her stellar play in the first round of the playoffs, dropping 22 points on Yonkers to help the No. 5-seed advance to the next round. Lauren Gresia also had
18 points for Eastchester in the win. The Eagles will be on the road for the quarterfinals, and will travel to Lakeland to take on the No. 4-seed on Feb. 23, after press time.
ICE HOCKEY DIVISION II
FIRST ROUND
Mount Pleasant 4 ETBE 3 (OT) AT ICE HUTCH
2/20/17
The Eagles saw a three-goal lead evaporate in the final period, as the Ice Cats came out strong to stun the ETBE team in overtime Up 3-0 heading into the third period, the Eagles surrendered a quick goal to Mike O’Donohue before Vinny Spaziante scored three unanswered goals, the final one coming just three minutes into the overtime period. The Ice Cats will play No. 2-seed Byram Hills on Feb. 22, after press time, at the Brewster Ice Arena. -Reporting by Mike Smith To report game scores, you can email Sports Editor Mike Smith at sports@hometwn.com.
Ethan Reich makes a save against Mount Pleasant on Feb. 20. Reich made 41 saves against the Ice Cats, but ETBE fell 4-3 in overtime.
KJ Popov tries to control a rebound on Feb. 16. Photos/Mike Smith
Jack Heffernan rises up for a shot against Pearl River on Feb. 16. Heffernan had 11 points in the Eagles’ loss.
Babyak wins 3 golds Bronxville High School junior Andrew Babyak has won a silver medal and three gold medals at the Section I Boys Swimming Championship finals, which took place at Felix Festa Middle School in West Nyack on Feb. 8. Babyak, who swims for the New Rochelle-Bronxville combined team, placed first in the 200-yard freestyle and 500-yard freestyle individual events. He also won a gold medal in the 200-yard freestyle relay as a member of the team, which currently holds the fastest time in the state in that discipline, and a silver medal as a member of the 400-yard freestyle relay. Following his outstanding performance, Babyak has qualified for the New York State Championship for the fourth consecutive year, which will take place on March 3 and 4 at the Nassau County Aquatic Center in East Meadow, New York. In addition, Bronxville High School sophomore Tim Cush-
Bronxville High School junior Andrew Babyak won a silver medal and three gold medals at the Section I Boys Swimming Championship finals, and has qualified for the New York State Championship for the fourth consecutive year. Photo courtesy Bronxville school district
man, a fellow member of the New Rochelle-Bronxville swim team, qualified for the state
championship after finishing fourth in the 100-yard backstroke. (Submitted)
16 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • February 24, 2017