RyeCity REVIEW THE
November 11, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 46 | www.ryecityreview.com
Latimer bests Killian to hold onto Senate seat By SIBYLLA CHIPAZIWA Assistant Editor
F OOD FIGHT At the moment Rye Town Park is without a restaurant operator for the 2017 season as Seaside Johnnies has turned down a one-year contract extension of its lease. For story, see page 8. File photo
Rye forms committee in wake of Harrison gun store saga By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer With much attention centered on a new gun store set to open in Harrison, the city of Rye has formed an “open-ended” committee to investigate gun-related issues and potentially the creation of a gun ordinance. On Nov. 2, during a Rye City Council meeting, Mayor Joe Sack requested help from his colleagues in analyzing any potential action the city could take to better accommodate the existing laws in Rye related to gun
issues. “There may or may not be anything that individual residents or the city of Rye can do with regard to something that happens outside our jurisdiction,” said Mayor Joe Sack, a Republican. “But, I think that it raises the issue of what, if anything, can we do within our own city.” The formation of the city committee, which will be cochaired by Councilwoman Danielle Tagger-Epstein, a Democrat, and Councilman Terry McCartney, a Republican, comes in
response to the controversial planned opening of L&L Sports at 261 Halstead Ave in the town/ village of Harrison. The planned gun store, which is set to open its doors within the next few weeks, is located less than 1,000 feet from Parsons Memorial Elementary School and near St. Gregory the Great’s Church. While the Rye committee is in its preliminary stages of organizing, the city has not waited to contact officials in Harrison. Rye City Manager Marcus Serrano said he spoke to Harrison Building Inspector Robert
FitzSimmons about the department’s decision to grant Louis Zacchio, the L&L storeowner, permission to open his storefront. “The building inspector said it conducted all the necessary protocol, and felt that it complied with federal laws in granting a building permit to the gun storeowner,” Serrano said. In Harrison, petitioners against the gun store have advocated for exploring town ordinances which could have placed tighter restrictions on the Gun GUN continued on page 8
In a battle of neighbors, New York state Sen. George Latimer held on to his 37th District seat after a contentious campaign against Republican Julie Killian. As polls closed at 9 p.m. on Nov. 8, some Latimer supporters started to trickle into Rosa’s La Scarbitta Ristorante on Halstead Avenue in the village of Mamaroneck, two doors down from Latimer’s campaign headquarters. According to unofficial results from the Westchester County Board of Elections as of press time, Latimer, a Rye Democrat, won with 66,751 or 55 percent of votes to Killian’s 53,975 or 45 percent with 99 percent of districts reporting. For Latimer, the win continues a streak of 17 consecutive election victories without tasting defeat. But the wins have not always been easy. “We’ve turned politics into a blood sport; we’ve turned it into a demolition derby, and that’s not what politics is,” he said. At his headquarters as the first numbers came in, Meg Cameron, chairwoman of the Rye City Democratic Committee, said that she was not surprised at the results. “George’s achievements and long record of service are much greater than Julie’s, even though they’re both well-known and respected in the community,” she said. However, much of the talk
among Democrats on election night was of a Killian television ad accusing Latimer of turning a blind eye to sexual assault in Albany. Cameron added that she was “very disappointed” at how the campaign played out. “Given this is a ‘hometown’ race, and Rye is kind of a small town, [Killian] ran such an ugly campaign,” Cameron said. Surrounded by other prominent elected officials representing Westchester, Latimer celebrated another win. “I had a good feeling, but I know that it was going to be a competitive race,” Latimer, 62, told the Review after declaring victory. “I have great respect for my opponent, and whatever we disagreed on, I never did not respect her skill set as an advocate.” In Port Chester, Killian, a Rye City councilwoman, held camp at Saltaire Oyster Bar amid a contingent of supporters that remained hopeful well into the night as the numbers started to climb in her opponent’s favor. LATIMER continued on page 9
INSIDE Public safety commissioner OK’d Story on page 3.
2 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
November 11, 2016 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 3
Public safety commissioner referendum passes By CHRISTIAN FALCONE Editor-in-Chief Voters in Rye approved an Election Day ballot proposition to create a public safety commissioner position. Doing so will also bring about a new Department of Public Safety in the city, just the third such department in Westchester County. With more than 6,100 votes cast on Tuesday, the referendum easily passed by a 68 percent to 32 percent margin with 99 percent of city precincts reporting as of press time, according to unofficial tallies from the Westchester County Board of Elections. With that outcome, the city police and fire departments will be transformed into a Department of Public Safety unit with one centralized public safety commissioner providing oversight. In order to get to this point, the city needed to first alter its charter; talk of such change was introduced in May and finally approved by the Rye City Council during a July meeting, leading to the Nov. 8 referendum. Currently, the city of White Plains and the county are the only municipalities in Westchester with public safety departments. Mayor Joe Sack, a Republican, said the new position makes sense from a cost savings and cost effectiveness perspective; instead considering paying two commissioners, the city will only have to fund one joint position. He added that he was unsure of when the transition will take place but was hopeful that it would be not long after Election Day. The goal of the changeover is
Rye City Police Commissioner Michael Corcoran is likely to be appointed to the new position of public safety commissioner after a citywide referendum passed rather easily on Tuesday night. Photo/Andrew Dapolite
geared toward streamlining oversight of the two departments with an eye toward addressing outstanding issues within the Fire Department, particularly a lack of top-down leadership. Sack stressed to the Review that the departments themselves would not be combined, just the oversight. In doing so, the idea is to leverage the professional management currently in place in the Police Department. With that mind, the city is expected to turn to current Police Commissioner Michael Corcoran, who was hired by the city back in February, to now also oversee Fire Department operations. “[Corcoran] has not been offered the job nor has he accepted it,” the mayor said, “[but] we assumed he would be in line for it.” This isn’t the first time that the city has discussed the idea of a public safety commissioner. Talk of streamlining fire and police previously took place during the
Doug French administration in 2012. But that discussion didn’t lead to any action. “We needed to have this discussion anyway,” Sack said about renewed efforts toward a public safety commissioner. “The fact that we have a great guy in Corcoran was just kind of gravy.” Issues within the city Fire Department have existed for some time. Calls for increased professional firefighter staffing have been ongoing coupled with the dichotomy between the professionals and a dwindling volunteer base. Traditionally, the Fire Department has always been run by the Board of Fire Wardens, a committee of volunteer firefighters. But Sack said that based on the city’s analysis and discussion, that hierarchy may no longer be working effectively based on the challenges of the 21st century, for things such as recruiting and budgeting. Prior to the proposition, the Board of Fire Warden’s regulatory powers had already been minimized. In 2012, the City Council changed the charter so that the city manager would be placed in charge of the Fire Department, in conjunction with the board. CONTACT: chris@hometwn.com
City postpones Crown Castle decision A Rye City Council decision on a controversial proposal to add additional wireless infrastructure to telephone poles across the city will be delayed, allowing city officials to vet the project even further. The extensions, which were agreed to by both the City Council as well as the telecom contractor Crown Castle—who would be carrying out the plan—will push forward two key dates, according to CityAttorney Kristen Wilson. The first extension will be for the city’s State Environmental Quality Review, SEQR, determination—a vetting of the project’s environmental impact—that will now have to be finalized by Dec. 8.
Depending on the council’s determination, Crown Castle could be required to carry out a full environmental impact statement that would put the project under much greater scrutiny and extend the review process even longer. A second extension prolonging the City Council’s final decision on whether or not to allow the project to proceed was also moved from Nov. 2 to Dec. 22. Before the Dec. 8 deadline, council members will review a SEQR application that was provided to the city in late October and will be charged with issuing a positive or negative declaration. The project in question re-
gards the addition of wireless signal emitters, called nodes, to more than 60 telephone poles citywide. While Crown Castle— which is being contracted by Verizon Wireless—is looking to add nodes in order to bolster Verizon cell service in Rye, residents have rallied against the proposal, citing the potential for adverse health effects and diminished property values. City officials retained outside counsel in July and are working to amend the proposal so that it satisfies its contract with Crown Castle as well as residents’ concerns, all while attempting to avoid any potential lawsuit that could arise. -Reporting by James Pero
4 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
What’s going on... Rye Free Reading Room
Computer workshop: Edge
For more information on hours and programs, visit ryelibrary.org.
On Thursday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Raho Technology Center. The new Internet browser in Windows 10 is called Edge. It has a number of new features and also a new appearance. This workshop will present how to use it for improved Internet use. Attendees that have laptops with Windows 10 should bring them. Taught by former IBM executive Mike Negrelli. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Observers are welcome. No pre-registration is required.
Taste and Learn: Mediterranean cuisine
Teen Coding
On Saturday, Nov. 12 from 11 a.m. to noon in the Meeting Room. The creators and owners of Rye’s Rosemary & Vine will share their knowledge and love of Mediterranean cuisine and offer samples as well. Join in for a chat about what makes this cuisine special. Please register online to ensure enough tastings for all. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on Programs & Events, the event name and date, and then the Register button.
On Thursday, Nov. 17 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Raho Technology Center. For students in grades 6–12. In this workshop, participants will be introduced to the basics of computer programming through games designed specifically for their age and skill level. Explore the Classic Maze with tutorials starring video lectures by Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Angry Birds and Plants vs. Zombies. Create a story or a game using Playlab. Learn about repeat loops, conditionals, and basic algorithms. Please bring earphones to class. Registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on Programs & Events, the event name and date, and then the Register button.
Teacher-in-the-Library On Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Children’s Room. Rye teachers offer after-school homework help to students attending local public and private elementary schools in the Rye area. This is a free program sponsored by the Auxiliary Board of the Rye Free Reading Room, Woman’s Club of Rye/Children’s Philanthropy section, and the PTO of the Rye schools.
Gadgets Science Fun Club On Friday, Nov. 18 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Meeting Room. For grades 3–5. Gadgets Science Fun Club offers children a chance to engage in hands-on inquiry-based experiments. In this one-
hour science workshop, participants will focus on a different STEM or STEAM activity each month with handouts to follow up at home. Through this program, children will begin to see that science, technology engineering, math and the arts can be fun. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on Programs & Events, Kids, the event date and then Register.
It’s a Wrap: Fun Arm Knitting On Saturday, Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Meeting Room. Arm knitting is so much fun, and the best part is that you can do it, even if you don’t know how to knit. Join the library for a work session and go home with a knitted warm and cozy cowl for yourself or as a holiday gift. Your friends will be amazed and delighted as you show them what you made with your arms. Bring two skeins of 6 weight yarn to class. No needles necessary. Taught by frequent arts and crafts instructor Carol Costa.
Family Story Time and Craft On Saturday, Nov. 19 from 11 a.m. to noon in the Children’s Room. For ages 3 1/2 years old and up with their grown-ups. Children listen to ageappropriate stories and participate in fun games, rhymes and other activities to develop pre-literacy skills and an interest in books and reading. Felt boards and other props are sometimes used to enhance stories and model future classroom experiences. A fun craft project is designed around the story theme or a seasonal topic. Parents and caregivers are asked to assist younger children using scissors, glue and other art materials.
Tellabration On Saturday, Nov. 19 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Presented by Rye Storytellers Guild. This annual event features the telling of stories throughout the world on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Please bring a friend and enjoy this evening of stories meant for grown-ups. Refreshments will be served.
The Rye Arts Center The Rye Arts Center is located at 51 Milton Road in Rye. For more information or to register for the programs below, call 967-0700 or visit ryeartscenter.org.
Thanksgiving turkey craft On Saturday, Nov. 12. For ages 6 to 8, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.; for ages 9 to 12, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Come celebrate fall at The Rye Art Center. Get ready for Thanksgiving by creating a cute polymer clay turkey sculpture to decorate your holiday table. Terry Taylor shows students how to use “Magic Color Clay” to create beautiful multi-color coils for the turkey’s tail. Participants will learn how to transform simple balls and coils of clay into a one-of-a-kind turkey sculpture. Includes all supplies. Fee: $12; members receive a discount.
Small works exhibition and sale The exhibit closes on Saturday, Dec. 3. There will be a reception on Saturday, Nov. 19 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Featuring more than 25 artists, this juried exhibition and sale will feature diverse works no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches; affordable art for all.
Rye Meeting House ‘On the Wing’ photo exhibit By popular request, the Bird Homestead nonprofit will hold over “On the Wing,” an exhibit of photographs of birds by Nadia Valla on view at the Meeting House, until Nov. 26. The exhibit features 80 beautiful photos of more than 50 species of birds from the local area. These range from elegant white egrets that wade and fish in the estuary to the brightly colored warblers that pass through during their migration. Valla often captures her subjects from a kayak where she can photograph wading birds and swimming ducks at eye level. The photographs are grouped by species to provide an educational experience, in addition to aesthetic enjoyment. Valla is a French-born photographer and a member of the Little Garden Club of Rye. The exhibit is open Saturday afternoons from noon to 3 p.m. Admission is free. Donations will be gratefully accepted. The Rye Meeting House is located at 624 Milton Road in Rye. For more information, email birdhomestead.meetinghouse@gmail.com or call 967-0099.
Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester
Pre-K and kindergarten program On Sunday, Nov. 20 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. The Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester’s pre-K and kindergarten classes are a wonderful introduction to the religious school experience. Each class focuses on a Jewish holiday with a funfilled program, including cooking, music, storytelling and arts and crafts. Classes meet seven times on Sunday mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. during Religious School and are open to the public. For questions, please email Marcie at maiuvalasit@congregationemanuel.org, or call 967-4382 ext. 15. Congregation Emanu-El of Westchester is located at 2125 E. Westchester Ave.in Rye. For more information, call 967-4382 or visit congregationemanuel.org.
Rye Recreation Turkey Run The 40th annual Turkey Run and Paws Walk for all ages will be held on Saturday, Nov. 26 at Rye Recreation Park. Fee: $15 before Nov. 22; $20 up to the race day. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. on the day. The Paws Walk starts at 9 a.m.; the 1-mile Fun Run starts at 9:30 a.m., and the 3.1- or 5.2 mile race/walk starts at 10 a.m. Register online at ryeny.gov/recreation.cfm. For more information, call 967-2535. 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.
November 11, 2016 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 5
Letters to the Editor
Thank you for your support To the Editor, My deep appreciation to the voters of Westchester County for their strong vote of confidence on my third term as senator. I look forward to working with the community over the next two years to fight for the issues we care about. State Sen. George Latimer, Rye
About Letters to the Editor Publication is not guaranteed. We reserve the right to edit letters for content or space, at our discretion, without notification from the company. We reserve the right to reject submissions at our discretion without notice to the author. Sorry, but we are unable to notify authors in advance if and when a letter will be printed. Deadline for submission is Friday before publication. The maximum length of letters that appear in our pages is 625 words, but letters are usually significantly shorter to accommodate space needs. The letter should be signed and include the
writer’s address and phone number for verification purposes. We will not publish letters that cannot be verified. Publication by frequent letter writers will be limited to one per month. The opinions of letter writers do not reflect those of this newspaper. Please submit via fax to (914) 653-5000 or email to chris@hometwn.com or via post to Home Town Media Group, C/O Letters to the Editor, 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203, White Plains N.Y. 10601. We do not accept unsolicited Op-Ed submissions, film reviews, or food reviews.
6 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
RyeCity REVIEW THE
170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000
Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthal ext. 31, irathal@hometwn.com
Astorino looks to repurpose revenue from county airport
Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer
Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com
A potential 40-year agreement announced by Republican Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino looks to privatize management of the county’s airport in exchange for more than $100 million in additional tax revenue. The potential deal, announced by the Astorino administration last week, would put the investment firm, Oaktree Capital Management, in charge of $30 million in improvements at the 70-year-old facility—which sees about 1.75 million passengers per year—and would look to alter a current management agreement with the company AvPorts to allow revenue from the airport to be used for general budgetary purposes for the first time in Westchester’s history.
Reporter | James Pero ext. 20, james@hometwn.com Reporter | Franco Fino ext. 18, franco@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writer Corey Stockton Staff Photographers Bobby Begun, Andrew Dapolite Columnists John Carey, Rye City Council, Lenore Skenazy, Joe Murphy
“We are creating a reliable, long-term source of funding that will assist taxpayers, help pay for parks, police, day care and all of our other services, and enhance the passenger experience at our airport,” Astorino said regarding the 700-acre facility located in White Plains. The county hopes that through applying under an FAA airport privatization program rolled out under former President Bill Clinton, revenue from the airport would be authorized for use outside of the airport’s immediate needs.Currently, any revenue generated by the facility is required to be spent by the county at the airport according to the current lease. According to administration officials, the county would see $15 million in revenue from the deal within the first year, $5 mil-
lion annually over the next four years, and $2 million annually for the remainder of the lease agreement. The agreement would also see Oaktree investing its capital in both general amenities as well as the airport’s IT; specifically a renovated passenger lounge, concessions, and a reconfigured ticketing and boarding system. While Astorino has lauded the deal as a potential wellspring of extra revenue for the county, Democratic lawmakers—who would be in charge of vetting and approving a final iteration of the plan—have criticized the administration’s attempt to tie approval for the proposal to the county’s Dec. 27 budget deadline. “To expect the board to vote on a $140 million public-private partnership for one of our county’s assets, and tying it to
While Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino has lauded a publicprivate partnership with the investment firm Oaktree Management as a means of shoring up extra revenue at the county airport, his Democratic counterparts in the county’s legislative branch have raised flags. Photos courtesy Westchester County
the budget, is just unrealistic,” said Legislator Catherine Parker, a Rye Democrat. Other similar agreements, Parker said, like a $60 million public-private management contract for Playland, have required much longer vetting periods. “The due diligence required for these deals is often very complex, and as we saw with the Playland deal, it took six years for there to be a finalized plan,”
Letters
The community’s opinion matters. If you have a view to express, write a letter to the editor by email to chris@hometwn.com. Please include a phone number and name for verification purposes.
Community Events
If you have an event you would like to share with the community, send it to news@hometwn.com.
Delivery
For home delivery or to subsribe, call (914) 653-1000 x27.
Classifieds & Legals
To post your notices or listings, call (914) 653-1000 x27.
Postmaster
Send address changes to: The Rye City Review c/o HomeTown Media Group, 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601
Visit us online www.ryecityreview.com Follow us on Twitter, @ryecityreview Like us on Facebook, facebook.com/ryecityreview The Rye City Review (permit #438660) is published by Home Town Media Group weekly for an annual subscription of $32. Application to mail at the peridcals postage rate is approved at Port Chester, N.Y., 10573. Periodicals postage paid at Port Chester and additional mailing offices.
Westchester County Airport is open 24/7 and currently served by six passenger airlines and sees about 1.75 million travelers a year, with nonstop service and connections nationwide and worldwide.
Parker said. Likewise, Legislator Ken Jenkins, a Yonkers Democrat, said that expecting a proper analysis from the county Board of Legislators before the budget adoption deadline is “completely unrealistic.” “There are still significant questions about the lease proposal itself,” said Jenkins, who plans to run for county executive in 2017. Among the reservations regarding the current proposal, Jenkins listed the lack of any request for proposals process— a public proposal process that is used to attract and compare potential managers—as well as reservations on whether or not the county will actually qualify to restructure under the FAA’s guidelines. In a release from the Astorino administration, officials made clear to point out that the airport would still be owned by the county, but managed by Oaktree under a new lease. As a part of the agreement, administration officials said, responsibility for capital projects at the airport would also be transferred to the new management company. Currently, as announced last month in a preliminary capital budget, the county is looking to spend $11 million in infrastructure and improvements at the airport. The county’s budget was released on Nov. 10, after press time.A spokesperson for the county executive could not be reached for comment as of press time. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
November 11, 2016 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 7
8 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
Officials scramble to salvage restaurant for 2017 Scarpino prevails in Westchester DA race By ANDREW DAPOLITE Contributor
The Rye Town Park Commission is now faced with no food and beverage to offer patrons of the park for the 2017 season, after the current owners and operators of Seaside Johnnies, John Ambrose and Sam Chernin, announced that they would not accept a one-year extension for next year. File photo
By FRANO FINO Staff Writer The Rye Town Park Commission is now scrambling to address a looming restaurant vacancy, following the unofficial departure of John Ambrose and Sam Chernin, the current owners and operators of Rye Town Park’s Seaside Johnnies. During a park commission meeting on Oct. 18, the commission unanimously voted to extend Seaside Johnnies’ current deal, which expires at the end of 2016, for a year in fear of the potential of a vacant restaurant next season. But, on Nov. 4, Ambrose told the Review that he plans on rejecting the one-year offer. “I won’t accept a one-year deal,” Ambrose said. “After running the business for 17 years, it just doesn’t make any sense for me at this point.” In September, after receiving a number of alarming emails from residents who felt that they were not thoroughly involved in choosing a new operator, the park commission rejected a 10-year proposal from Ambrose, which came in response to a June request for proposals, RFP, the commission sent out seeking solicitors interested in operating a restaurant at the park.Initially, two restaurant proposals were submitted to the park commission in response to a request for proposals. Ambrose was proposing to
expand on his current restaurant theme while adding a tropical twist. Seaside Johnnies, which overlooks Oakland Beach and the Long Island Sound—it opens seasonally from April until September—was first opened in Rye Town Park in 2000. Angelo Liberatore, an operating partner of the Fort Pond Bay Company—which operates Half Moon in Dobbs Ferry, Harvest on Hudson in HastingOn-Hudson, and East by Northeast and The Stone Lion Inn in Montauk—proposed to operate a full-service, seafood-focused concept restaurant. However, the restaurateur withdrew his plan from consideration sensing he would not have enough time to prepare for the 2017 season. Despite the risk of losing approximately $100,000 as a result Ambrose walking away with no alternative in place for the 2017 season, some members of the commission are still hopeful.“It’s not certain that he’s not going to accept the one-year license extension,” said Rye Town Supervisor Gary Zuckerman, a Democrat and president of the commission. “I hope to be able to discuss the situation face-to-face with Mr. Ambrose.” However, Ambrose told the Review that unless the commission is willing to offer a longer deal, he will step aside and just submit a new proposal
when the commission is forced to send out a new RFP. “I think the door is still open for a longer term, or at least I hope so,” he said. Prior to Ambrose rejecting the one-year extension, last month the commission voted to hire a restaurant consultant and reopen a new request for proposals geared toward 2018 for the restaurant space. In light of that, Liberatore told the Review that he plans on submitting a proposal to operate a restaurant at Rye Town Park beginning in 2018. “I would love to do something with [Rye Town Park],” Liberatore said when reached on Monday by the Review. “I would have to look at the request for proposals, first, but I would most likely resubmit a proposal.” The Rye Town Park Commission—which consists of representatives from the city and town of Rye, the villages of Port Chester and Rye Brook, and the Rye Neck section of the village of Mamaroneck—is responsible for setting policy at the park and governing its operations. The commission conducted a special closed-door meeting on Nov. 9 to discuss the situation with the restaurant space, according to Zuckerman. Rye City Councilwoman Julie Killian, a Republican and a member of the commission, declined to comment when reached by phone. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
Democrat Anthony Scarpino will be taking over the office of Westchester County district attorney after a decisive victory against Republican Bruce Bendish on Tuesday. As polling results flowed into election headquarters at The Coliseum in White Plains, Scarpino held an impressive early lead, ultimately capturing 70 percent of the nearly 345,000 votes that were cast. “I was caught a little bit off guard,” Scarpino told the Review on Wednesday morning. “I was cautiously optimistic that I was going to win because of the enrollment, but the numbers were overwhelming.” According to Westchester County’s voter rolls, there are roughly 152,000 more registered Democrats than Republicans in the county. At the center of this year’s race for the county’s top law enforcement position was the question of qualifications. Scarpino, currently a partner at the law firm of DelBello Donnellan Weingarten Wise and Wiederkehr, began his 37year career in public service as an FBI agent before serving as a judge in the city of Mount Vernon as well as a justice at the county and state Supreme Court levels.
DiFiore was also a judge before she became DA. Judicial experience counts.” According to Scarpino, the issues that he plans to address in his new role include Westchester’s heroin and illegal drug epidemic—a situation he described as “a scourge that is destroying our youth”—as well as Internet predators, phone scams, child and elder abuse, domestic violence, and injustices against immigrants who he believes Anthony Scarpino are preyed upon by people who In contrast, Bendish served as take advantage of their fear of an assistant district attorney in deportation. Westchester County for 14 years Bendish, while disappointed before opening a private practice with the results, cited the voter for criminal defense. registration disadvantage couThroughout the campaign, pled with a high voter turnout in Scarpino was often attacked by a presidential year as contributhis opponent for not having tried ing to his campaign’s demise. cases in a courtroom, which he “I think if you look at the talcalls a mischaracterization of lies of the polls in a non-presihis record. dential year, things are quite “It’s one thing to say, ‘You different,” Bendish said. “But I were not a prosecutor in a case,’ congratulate Anthony Scarpino because I was not a DA,” Scarpi- on his victory and it is my hope no said, “but being a trial judge, that he will have success as the you try cases.” next Westchester County district Scarpino also countered that attorney.” Bendish had not served as a real law enforcement officer. “I had a baseball coach when I was growing up, that used to say that everybody has a hole in their swing,” Scarpino said. “Everybody’s resume is short. Bruce Bendish was never a trial judge. Jeanine Pirro was a DA, but she was a judge first. Janet
GUN from page 1
Free Schools Act, a federal law which regulates the possession of guns on school grounds or within 1,000 feet of a school. Gun stores, however, are specifically except from that law. According to Tagger-Epstein, although the committee has not yet established a list of goals, the lack of a gun ordinance in the city of Rye is definitely on her radar. “I want to make sure that we have something on the book that protects all of our residents,” Tagger-Epstein said. “I understand gun ownership, and I respect the responsibility of owning a gun, but this is not a Second Amendment issue.” However, Rye City Attorney Kristen Wilson confirmed that the city will not attempt to prohibit the sale and purchase of guns. “The committee will look at ways to see where these busi-
The city of Rye has established a committee to explore gun-related issues within its own vicinity in response to a gun store that is scheduled to open in nearby Harrison. Photo/Franco Fino
nesses could open up and where specifically we would prefer them to be,” she said. There is currently no time
table for when the committee will meet. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
November 11, 2016 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 9
City Council raises debt limit
LATIMER from page 1
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer
State Sen. George Latimer celebrates with supporters in Mamaroneck after hearing that he had clinched his race against Julie Killian. Photo/Andrew Dapolite
Overall Killian said she was pleased with the way her campaign was run and learned a lot over the last eight months. Her advocates stressed the need to bring reform issues to the forefront, most notably a push for term limits on elected officials in Albany. “The fight for term limits, tax and mandate relief, fair school funding, drug abuse education, special needs responsiveness and economic growth will continue,” she said. “I hope that Albany will take up the mantle on these challenges.” Although Republican Donald Trump followed through with a historic upset, his successful candidacy did little to help Westchester Republicans further down the ballot. “While President-elect Trump ran strong across the country, including in parts
of upstate New York, Secretary Clinton had a strong showing in Democratic Westchester County, winning almost 65 percent of the vote,” Killian said. “I’m proud to have earned the support of many Democrats, Independents and Republicans, performing 12 percent better than the top of the ticket.” Following the defeat, speculation is sure to ensue whether Killian, 56, will consider running for the seat again in two years. Latimer stressed that the Senate seat is not a “blank check” given to him. “It’s a promissory note that I have given to the voters,” he said. “I now have to produce along the lines that I said in discussions and debates. The burden is on me to prove that I’ve meant
everything I’ve said, and I intend to execute.” Standing on a wooden chair in the small but intimate gathering at Rosa’s, Latimer thanked his supporters amid applause and chants of his name. “When you win [a political campaign], the work begins. And we have plenty of work in the state of New York,” he said. The soon-to-be three-term senator talked about the need for reform, getting education policy focused locally, stronger environmental protections and dealing with the high property tax burden as just some of what needs to be done. “The only way you can judge us is how well we fight for those issues,” he said. -With reporting by Christian Falcone
CONTACT: sibylla@hometwn.com
Deliberations over raising the city’s allowable debt limit came to a close last week after the Rye City Council authorized a resolution that will alter several facets of the city’s debt regulations. Among the major changes after the council’s decision will be two major shifts in the way the council issues debt. One difference, according to City Manager Marcus Serrano, will be the amount of debt the council will be able to issue without public referendum. While that number was previously only $600,000, now the council will be able to authorize $11.2 million of debt without a referendum, or a vote of the public. Additionally, Serrano explained, if the council wishes to issue debt above that $11.2 million threshold, a referendum will be automatically triggered. Previously, in order to go to referendum and authorize more debt, the council was required to receive signatures from 5 percent of the city’s registered
voters from the previous year. One last alteration, which Serrano described as a “last minute” addition to the law, requires the council to go to public referendum on any purchase of land over $1 million. According to Councilwoman Kirstin Bucci, a Republican, who worked on the new debt stipulations extensively, the inclusion of this provision was viewed as a matter of fairness. “The thinking for that was that ultimately, [the council] spends other people’s money,” said Bucci, adding that large land acquisitions may fall outside of the scope of typical debt expenses. “If we’re stepping outside of that [normal spending] that’s something that we should be asking residents for their permission for.” Council members hope that the increased amount of allowable debt will help the city fund critical infrastructure projects, pay for looming legal fees— such as an ongoing lawsuit with the environmental group Save the Sound—and various other capital improvements. Before the change, accord-
ing to Serrano, Rye stood as an outlier amongst municipalities in New York state which, by and large, are subject to much less stringent debt regulations and therefore can issue much higher amounts. “99.9 percent of municipalities follow the state’s guidelines,” Serrano said. “We found only one or two other municipalities statewide that are structured the way ours was.” If the city were to follow the state debt limit regulations, the council would be able to authorize $150 million without referendum. Though a previous iteration of the city’s new debt regulations—which would have eliminated the municipally mandated debt limit entirely—would have required passage by public referendum, the current law must only be signed off on by New York’s secretary of state. Serrano said that it may take several weeks for that to happen. Councilman Richard Mecca could not be reached for comment. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
10 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
Central Ave. Bridge repair to take an extra year Renovations to the Central Avenue Bridge will experience significant delays, according to members of the Rye City Council who have criticized the MTA for failing to communicate a specific reason for the extended wait. The work, according to Mayor Joe Sack, a Republican, who spoke about the issue during the last City Council meeting on Nov. 2, will be delayed for a year, pushing the total construction time from six months to 19. “As to why the delay is so long, we haven’t gotten a response,” City Manager Marcus Serrano said. Serrano said the MTA’s truncated response as to why the delays would be extended an additional 12 months high-
lighted other track shutdowns that have obstructed the agency’s ability to work on the bridge. MTA spokesperson Nancy Gamerman told the Review that because the work requires temporary closure of two of the four New Haven line tracks the work must be limited to a three-hour period overnight. The bridge on Central Avenue—next to the Rye Roadhouse restaurant—passes over the Metro-North Railroad and falls under the authority of the transit authority. While the City Council had requested an MTA official attend the November council meeting to explain to residents why the delay has been extended by such a large degree, no MTA officials attended.
According to Serrano, the city is still awaiting a response from the MTA and is currently working to get an official to attend the next council meeting, which is scheduled for Nov. 16. In April, repairs to the bridge were announced by the City Council and original cost projections from the MTA totaled just under $2 million, all from state sources. The project—which an MTA official described as “extensive”—include the removal of the bridge deck in order to repair its superstructure, repairing steel beams, removing lead paint and repaving. In the meantime, pedestrian traffic is still being allowed on the bridge, according to Serrano. -Reporting by James Pero
Connect with us on @linkedin.com/company/hometown-media
Central Avenue Bridge in Rye will see its repair time more than triple in the wake of various MTA delays. File photo
11 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
Business Briefs NewYork-Presbyterian launches digital health platform NewYork-Presbyterian has announced the rollout of NYP OnDemand, a new suite of digital health services designed to improve and expand patient care, while also extending access to the clinical expertise of NewYork-Presbyterian’s physicians to their peers throughout the hospital’s vast health care network. NewYork-Presbyterian is one of the largest, most comprehensive medical institutions in the nation and the only one on this scale to implement an enterprisewide, comprehensive digital health portfolio. The project was catalyzed by the visionary support of Rita and Gustave Hauser, NewYork-Presbyterian’s longtime philanthropic partners. This most recent gift builds on the couple’s previous investments in telehealth infrastructure, further elevating the hospital’s ability to connect patients and clinical staff in new and innovative ways. “At NewYork-Presbyterian, we are looking to redefine the intersection of technology and healthcare and our new digital health platform is our way of strengthening traditional telehealth services,” said Dr. Steven J. Corwin, president and CEO of NewYork-Presbyterian. “I would like to extend our deepest thanks to Rita and Gustave Hauser, for providing support for this platform. Together with ColumbiaDoctors and Weill Cornell Medicine, we are using data and technology to provide the very best care and treatment outcomes for our patients—wherever they may be— as well as seamless peer-to-peer access for our physicians across the entire organization.” NYP OnDemand is comprised of telehealth services for both patients and providers, available on the NewYork-Presbyterian website and mobile app, and will ultimately include these key areas of service: • Digital Second Opinion: NewYork-Presbyterian specialists from both ColumbiaDoctors and Weill Cornell Medicine can now offer their world-class clinical expertise for second opinions to patients around the country—and eventually, the globe— through an easy-to-access online portal. Patients are walked through the entire process without having to wait for an in-person appointment. • Inter-hospital Digital Consults: Connecting patients at NewYork-Presbyterian’s regional network hospitals to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital specialists, inter-hospital digital consults provide greater access to advanced, specialty care for patients across the New York City metro region and facilitate real-time communication between providers. • Digital Emergency and Urgent Care: As part of a new pilot program, visitors to the Lisa Perry Emergency Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/ Weill Cornell now have the option of a virtual visit through real-time video interactions with a clinician after having an initial triage and medical screening exam. This will be done in a private room with a webcam/monitor, significantly reducing time spent in the emergency department. For any non-emergency conditions that require expedited treatment, patients will eventually also be able to access a separate virtual urgent care service from NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell doctors from the comfort of their home via the NYP OnDemand smartphone application.
• Digital Follow-Up Appointments: Launching in fall 2016, digital follow-ups will provide patients a virtual follow-up option, instead of asking patients to come back to the office in person. The service offers a more convenient way to access care without another trip to the doctor. “When patients visit ColumbiaDoctors at NewYork-Presbyterian, they know they will see outstanding physicians who will combine the latest technologies with highly personalized care and caring. This new suite of digital health services will help to maintain and enhance that experience,” said Dr. Lee Goldman, dean of the Faculties of Health Sciences and Medicine and chief executive of Columbia University Medical Center. “NYP OnDemand extends the reach of our worldclass doctors beyond their offices, ensuring that patients receive quality healthcare when and where it’s most convenient for them,” said Dr. Augustine M.K. Choi, interim dean of Weill Cornell Medicine. “We are proud to join NewYork-Presbyterian and Columbia Doctors in offering these vital telehealth services to our patients.” Among the first services available for patients is NYP OnDemand Second Opinion. Launched earlier this summer in collaboration with ColumbiaDoctors and Weill Cornell Medicine, the service connects patients from anywhere in the country seeking a second opinion on their diagnosis from clinical experts at NewYork-Presbyterian. After a patient initiates the process online, they are assigned a care coordinator matched with the best physician for their condition, resulting in a written second opinion to the patient—all without having to leave the comfort of home. Equipped with the second opinion, the patient can then make a more informed decision about their treatment plan and, if they choose, opt to receive care at NewYorkPresbyterian. To date, NYP OnDemand second opinions are offered by more than 300 physicians in 80 medical specialties. In addition to the patient access services, NYP OnDemand also facilitates real-time peer-to-peer physician consults within the nine hospitals that are part of the NewYork-Presbyterian system. The NewYork-Presbyterian Telestroke Initiative, which has been deployed at NewYork-Presbyterian/The Allen Hospital and NewYork-Presbyterian/Lower Manhattan Hospital, uses video conferencing and data sharing to allow 24/7 coverage for acute stroke care with rapid evaluation by a neurologist with stroke expertise. To date, the telestroke service has resulted in improved doorto-treatment times, which has been shown to improve overall patient outcomes. In the coming months, additional digital consult services such as behavioral health, emergency medicine and pediatrics will also be established. The NYP OnDemand suite of services was developed by NewYork-Presbyterian’s Innovation Center, launched in 2014 to deliver both clinician- and consumer-facing solutions to enhance care delivery. For more information on NYP OnDemand, visit nyp.org/ondemand.
Rosario joins BHHS Westchester’s Scarsdale office Angel Rosario has joined the Scarsdale office of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties. The announcement was made by Mark
Nadler, director of Westchester Sales. In a statement Nadler said, “Angel is a true professional and we are thrilled to have him join our exclusive team. He will be a remarkable addition to our staff.” After being in the banking industry for 35 years, Rosario decided it was time to embark on a new and exciting career. “During my tenure as a business relationship manager, I advised and negotiated with commercial clients on lending, product pricing and account management. As a sales and branch manager, I headed a team that was responsible for sales production and daily operations, which honed my sales and leadership skills,” Rosario said. “I believe that all of these experiences have led me to this new venture.” A resident of Westchester Country for 33 years, Rosario knows the area very well. He and his wife raised two sons who both attended Iona Prep and Iona College. Contact Rosario today for all of your buying and selling needs in Westchester County. Call 917-5973913 or email AngelRosario@bhhswestchester.com.
Westchester and Rockland counties in New York and Fairfield County, Connecticut, for resales and resale dollar volume. Invite this talented neighborhood specialist in to learn about the real estate services that Weichert, Realtors has to offer. Damashek can be reached in Weichert’s Larchmont office at 2090 Boston Post Road, or call 833-0800 for more information. Since 1969, Weichert, Realtors has grown from a single office into one of the nation’s leading providers of homeownership services by putting its customers first. A family of full-service real estate and financial services companies, Weichert helps customers buy and sell both residential and commercial real estate, and streamlines the delivery of mortgages and home and title insurance. Weichert leverages its customer website, weichert. com, one of the most visited real estate websites in the nation, to help families and individuals For more information, Weichert’s customer service center can be reached at 1-800-USA-SOLD.
Damashek of Weichert, Realtors Larchmont recognized for regional awards
The next Business Briefs section will run in December. Please send any submission for our December 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.
Nicholas Germak, regional vice president of Weichert, Realtors, announced that Ann Marie Damashek of the Larchmont office was recognized for outstanding performance in August. Damashek led the sales region, which is comprised of offices throughout Orange, Dutchess,
12 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
The Classifieds • Advertising that gets results OUR RATES:
UP TO 4 LINES $42.50 for 2 weeks minimum. Each Additional Line $2.00
HOW TO REACH US:
(914) 653-1000 x27 Fax: 653-5000 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203, White Plains N.Y. 10601
ADOPTION
REAL ESTATE AUCTIONS
ADOPT: Caring married couple looking to adopt. Stable employment and a loving and happy home awaits your child. Please call Blair and John at 1-888-753-9328
AUCTION REAL PROPERTY TAX FORECLOSURES ESSEX COUNTY. Selling properties November 16 @ 11AM. Held at Best Western Inn, Ticonderoga. 800-243-0061 AAR, Inc. Free brochure: www.NYSAuctions.com
ADOPTION: Hopeful mom promises your baby a loving, secure & happy home. Expenses paid. Debbie, 1-877-600-4973
AUCTIONS SELL YOUR REAL ESTATE In 30 DAYS or LESS at AUCTION. Residential, Commercial, Estates, Luxury Homes, Pre-Foreclosures, Short Sales, Distressed. Licensed Brokers, RealEstateAuction.com CALL 844-247-7653
AUTO DONATIONS Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 914-468-4999 Today! Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 315-400-0797 Today!
COLLECTABLES TO P C A S H PA I D I N S TA N T LY F O R COLLECTIBLES! -WE BUY Baseball Cards, Autographs, Records, Silver Coins, Golf Items, Art, Jewelry, Comics Etc., Call Joe Today @ 914-310-5153
SERVICES Original illustration art done for magazine, book, pulp, paperback and comic covers and interiors, ads, calendars, posters, pinups, sci fi, westerns, etc. Also antique paper: maps, posters collections of photos, postcards, autographs, etc. Finder’s fees paid. Mwi0729@aol.com, 914-588-9359. Experienced mother looking to watch your children any time full or part time. Extremely reliable with great references and a car. Fun, upbeat personsonality. Call Brenda at 914-202-5964.
WANTED TO BUY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Up to $40 Box! Sealed & Unexpired. Payment Made SAME DAY. Highest Prices Paid!! Call Kerri Today! 800-413-3479 www.CashForYourTestStrips.com
LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation of Kislin Family Ventures, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 07/27/16. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 800 Westchester Avenue, Suite N641, Rye Brook, NY 10573. Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice of Formation of THE THERAPY NEST OT, PLLC Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 8/17/2016. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 11 Ellsworth St., Rye, NY 10580. Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice of Formation of THE THERAPY NEST, LLC Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 6/8/2015. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 11 Ellsworth St., Rye, NY 10580. Purpose: any lawful activity.
FARMING
Notice is hereby given that a license, number 1297440 for On-Premises Beer, Liquor and Wine has been applied for by the undersigned to sell liquor at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 66 Purchase Street, Rye, in Westchester County, NY 10580 for on premises consumption. WM Restaurant Corp. doing business as Water Moon
Our Hunters will Pay Top $$$ To hunt your land. Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1-866-309-1507 www. BaseCampLeasing.com
Drive with Uber.
FOR SALE Selling 8 grave cemetery plots in Valhalla Cemetary in New York. Prestige Sharon Garden location. Owner relocated to another state. Call for details: 240-630-8814.
HELP WANTED AIRLINE CAREERS Start Here ñGet trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM for free information 866-296-7093
MISCELLANEOUS SAWMILLS from only $4397.00- MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD:† www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N
REAL ESTATE FINGER LAKES LAND BARGAIN! 23 acres$39,900 Private lake access, woods, fields, apple trees, lots of wildlife! 3 hrs NY City! Paved rd, utils, terms avail! 888-905-8847 NewYorkLandandLakes.com ABANDONED CATSKILL MTN FARM! LENDER ORDERED SALE! 39 acres-assessed value-$95,700, Available now for $89,900! Valley views, woods, fields, apple trees, great hunting! 3 hrs NY City! Owner terms! 888-701-7509 LAKEFRONT LAND SALE! 5 acres-343 feet water front-an amazing $99,900 Unspoiled lake, woods, views, perfect for getaway cabin! 3.5 hrs NY City! Wine Country! EZ terms! 888479-3394 NewYorkLandandLakes.com
DEADLINE:
Placement, correction or cancellation of an ad may be phoned in any time before noon on Monday for publication
We make homeownership a dream come true!
No experience is required, but you’ll need a Smartphone. It’s fun and easy. For more information, call
800-917-6440 The State of New York Mortgage Agency offers: • Competitive, fixed-rate mortgages for first-time homebuyers • Downpayment assistance available up to $15,000 • Special program for veterans, active-duty military, National Guard and reservists • Funds available for renovation
1-800-382-HOME(4663)
www.sonyma.org
November 11, 2016 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 13
When squirrels attack RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy
Recently, a squirrel chomped the leg of a senior citizen sitting on the porch of a retirement home in Deltona, Florida. A TV station there, WESH, reports that the victim ran inside, furry felon still attached, whereupon it bit two or three more seniors. This is terrible. (Especially for a squirrel fanatic like me. I’m the gal tossing almonds to my friends as I walk to the subway. One bad squirrel does not a bad species make!) But I bring it up because at the end of this “news” story, the reporter said in all seriousness, “Tonight I spoke with the parent company which runs the senior living center here in Deltona. They described in detail what happened, but did not say what, if anything, they’re doing to prevent another attack.” That’s right. The company did not abjectly, automatically and immediately announce any dramatic new measures it will take to make sure this once-in-a-lifetime incident does not happen once-in-a-lifetime again. What does the reporter think should happen? Perhaps the parent company could chop down all the trees on its property, or cover the porch in wire mesh? Maybe it could hire some squirrel assassins? Give HAZMAT suits to the golden agers who insist on venturing outside despite the terrible danger? This “Something must be done!” mentality is so pervasive, we think it’s normal, even prudent. But it’s not. It’s nutty. It’s making us dumb, wasteful, mean, ungrateful and scared. We saw this M.O. in action a
few years back when Applebee’s accidentally served a toddler an alcoholic drink. Because this happened to come on the heels of a similar incident or two— out of the millions and millions of meals Applebee’s serves at more than 2,000 locations across America—and because it got insanely intense media attention, the company vowed to give only single-serve juice packs to kids from now on. As if they’d been deliberately serving kids mojitos just for fun, for years. With Halloween season just over, the squirrel story also calls to mind the fact that there were indeed a few reports of nails and pins in trick or treat candy. These stories were forwarded to me, as proof of the dangers of Halloween. Which is, admittedly, a hard thing to parse. On the one hand, billions of pieces of candy didn’t have nails. But a couple did. So I guess it does make sense to feel your candy, and if there’s something hard or sharp in it, resist the urge to chomp. But as a country, we have become so infected with the belief idea that if something bad happens anywhere, ever, even once, that is proof positive that whatever is normally quite safe (ordering apple juice, trick or treating, sitting on the porch) is not safe enough. If you need proof of this conviction, try getting through airport security with an unopened can of Coke. You might as well be toting a crossbow. No TSA apparatchik is allowed to play the odds—even odds of a trillion to one—and let you go through. In a litigious society like ours, we also face an extra, boomerang worry: After first worrying that an extremely unlikely event
is extremely likely to happen again (in the exact same way), we now also worry that if it does, we will have to prove we were proactively preparing. Otherwise, how will we look in court? The way we do this is by wasting a lot of time, or money, or by making new rules. The media’s role in this riot of irrationality is obvious. Like the reporter at WESH, our scribes and scolds act as if any person, place or company that doesn’t immediately change their ways in the face of some unpredictable happenstance just doesn’t care enough. Tsk tsk. It’s why your ketchup comes with a safety seal around the bottle, which has another safety seal under the cap. It’s why kids go to Halloween parties instead of trick or treating. It’s why we have to jettison our Coke and take our shoes off before getting to the gate. Normal life is peppered with kabukiesque precautions. But there’s a downside to insisting that the very, very safe— the statistically safe—is not safe enough and must be stopped. Kids (and now maybe seniors) cower inside. Companies waste money on unnecessary safeguards. Airport trashcans overflow with drinks. Precautionary measures get added on, but never taken off. This means that if, some day, a single would-be terrorist hides a feisty, rabid squirrel under her wig (not that most squirrels are rabid!), you can bet that the TSA will start instituting mandatory hair-tugs as we take off our shoes. Not that I want to give them any ideas. CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com
Astorino launches ‘Safe Sleep’ campaign Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino recently introduced a public awareness campaign aimed at preventing infant deaths attributed to unsafe sleep environments by promoting the “ABCs of Safe Sleep” throughout Westchester. The ABCs of Safe Sleep, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and others, are a reminder that the safest way for babies to sleep is Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib. “Any preventable infant death is one too many,” Astorino said. “That’s why it’s critical to remember your baby should sleep alone, on his or her back, and in a crib—every time. Every parent, family member and caregiver needs to know the safe way to put babies to sleep. We’re talking about saving lives.” Joining Astorino were representatives from the county’s departments of Social Services and Health, the district attorney’s office, the medical community, parents and nonprofit partners. The bilingual campaign will include a video, county bus shelter and interior bus ads, posters and flyers that illustrate the ABCs of Safe Sleep in both English and Spanish. Westchester County will promote the campaign through its various programs and offices, in addition to its email newsletter, website and social media platforms. The video will also be available to show in county offices and health clinics. In addition, nonprofit partners will help distribute the information to more than 750 child care providers and more than 3,000 parents through the Child Care Council of Westchester, as well as through the Westchester County Diaper Bank in partnership with the Junior League of Central Westchester. All materials are also available to medical practices and community groups to share more broadly. “The district attorney’s office is always horrified when faced with the death of an infant, but even more so when it is discovered that such a tragedy could have been avoided with proper education and awareness,” said acting District Attorney James A. McCarty. “This information addressing a safe sleeping environment will go a long way toward reducing the number of sleep-related infant deaths that our office encounters.” “Through my work as a member of the county’s Child Fatal-
Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, far right, introduces a live demonstration of the “ABCs of Safe Sleep” as given by Dr. Jennifer Canter, second from left, director of Child Abuse Pediatrics Program at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. They are joined by new parents Oscar and Bruny Bravo with their son, Daniel, 8 months old. Photo courtesy Westchester County
ity Review Team, I have evaluated far too many infant deaths, and the most common thread among them was an unsafe sleep environment that included pillows or stuffed animals, soft bedding or bed-sharing,” said Dr. Jennifer Canter, director of the Child Abuse Pediatrics Program at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, who is featured in the video. “I hope this campaign reminds parents to always practice Safe Sleep and to make sure everyone who cares for their baby does so, too.” About 90 infants die each year in New York state from sleep-related causes, according to the state Department of Health. Locally, the Westchester County Child Fatality Review Team reviewed nearly 80 child fatalities over the past 10 years. Since 2008, 38 percent of the cases had identified an unsafe sleeping environment. This figure climbs to 60 percent for child fatalities under the age of 1. While that doesn’t mean unsafe sleep was necessarily determined to be the cause, it nevertheless was present and of concern to investigators—highlighting the need for a public education campaign. “Losing a child is absolutely devastating,” said DSS Commissioner Kevin McGuire. “But the worst thing is when the death could have been prevented. It’s critically important that all parents know the ABCs of Safe Sleep, and that they share these practices with anyone caring for their child.” In July, New York state passed a law requiring that maternity patients receive safe sleep information that includes recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, by either providing a leaflet or showing a video, both of which are available through the state Department of Health.
Westchester’s campaign aims to reinforce the importance of the ABCs of Safe Sleep after parents leave the hospital, so that the message is always top of mind and gets shared with any other family members or caregivers who also may care for the child. “New parents will learn the ABCs of Safe Sleep at local hospitals, but this message is so important that we want to share these safe sleep practices with all potential caregivers,” said Dr. Sherlita Almer, county health commissioner. The ABCs of Safe Sleep Talk to all caregivers about the ABCs of Safe Sleep to keep your baby safe and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, SIDS, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Use #SafeSleep to share on social media. Alone: • Babies should always sleep alone in a crib • Never with adults, no siblings or pets in the crib • No blankets, pillows, bumpers or toys • Dress baby in one morelayer of clothing than you • Back: • Always place baby on his or her back • No sleeping on tummy or sides • Tummy time is for supervised play time • No pillows or wedges in crib Crib: • Baby should sleep in a safe and separate crib or bassinet • Use tightly fitted sheets with no blankets • Never allow baby to sleep on a couch • No futons, chairs or waterbeds For more information, please visit westchestergov.com, or contact DSS Deputy Commissioner John Befus at jab6@westchestergov.com to learn more about becoming a partner. (Submitted)
14 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016
A rigged system Ortiz, in his final season at age 40, was a revelation. He hit LIVE MIKE .315 with 38 homers and led the Mike Smith league in both RBIs (127) and doubles (48). But somehow, I woke up on Tuesday, Nov. baseball writers just didn’t feel 8 to the sinking feeling that, de- he did enough to warrant considspite our best intentions, we are eration for the MVP. operating under an inherently Sure, Ortiz’s teammate Mookflawed system. ie Betts—an ascendant center We live in a world where poli- fielder who is a difference-maktics often supersedes worthiness, er both offensively and defenwhere old biases manifest them- sively—will probably win the selves in the actions of decision- award, and as a Red Sox fan, I makers, and some people simply can’t complain. But the other can’t get a fair shake. two finalists, Mike Trout and I mean, seriously; how is Da- Jose Altuve, put up great numvid Ortiz not even a finalist for bers for teams that didn’t even American League MVP? reach the postseason. On Monday, the Baseball The only explanation is that Writers Association of America, designated hitters just don’t get BWAA, announced its finalists the love they deserve. for all of the major 2016 awards, While the designated hitter including MVP, Cy Young, and position has only been around Rookie and Manager of the Year. since 1973, only one player who And once again, the writers’ considered DH to be his primary anti-designated hitter sentiment position—Frank Thomas—has reared its head as Big Papi failed ever been selected to the Baseto make it into the final three of ball Hall of Fame. No DH has the MVP race. ever won the MVP (Thomas
SPORTS
won two as a first baseman early in his career), and if this year is any indication, it doesn’t look like that is going to change any time soon. Baseball writers—the majority of which are “traditionalists”—routinely devalue the designated hitter position. If Ortiz played 130 games at first base and made 45 errors, I have no doubt that he’d be in the mix. But because he plays DH, which the writers consider a “lesser” position, his achievements simply don’t mean as much. And it’s not just the DH. Zach Britton, the Orioles’ superb closer who gave up just four earned runs this year, was thought by many to be a possibility for the Cy Young. But did he make the final cut? Nope! Instead, three starting pitchers, not one of whom had as much of an impact on their teams as Britton had this year, beat him out. Ultimately, it’s not a huge deal. True fans appreciate the
On Nov. 7, the Baseball Writers Association of America announced its 2016 awards finalists. Once again, designated hitters like David Ortiz, pictured, and closers got hosed. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.org
contributions of both Ortiz and Britton, and Big Papi’s final season will go down in history as one of the best ever for a player on his way to retirement.
But somehow, we have to wake up these baseball writers and let them know that a great DH can and should be a viable candidate for the MVP.
Let’s make baseball awards great again.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
Rye Athlete of the Week RHS Crew Team By ISABEL CASTRO Contributor This week’s Athletes of the Week are the men in the Youth 4+ boat for the Rye High School Crew Team that recently placed third at the Head of the Charles regatta. The Head of the Charles is the largest and most prestigious regatta in the world, with 88 boats from 24 different countries in the boys’ event. The men in the boat consist of coxswain Zach Szabo (senior), bow seat Jack Hartman (junior), 2 seat Jimmy Cronin (junior), 3 seat Tim Rudolph-Math (junior), and stroke seat
John Dailey (senior). This group of competitors was the first Americans to cross the line in the Head of the Charles regatta, only beaten by an English and Canadian crew out of 85 other entries. Since there are no lightweight events in the fall, as lightweights they competed in the open weight class. Stan Nelson, RHS varsity coach, said that it “was a phenomenal result for the lightweight crew, considering the 25mph headwind they had during the race which usually favor the heavyweight crews.” All the rowers dedicate any time they have outside
of school towards rowing. They practice six times a week from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m. with occasional afternoon sessions. Dailey has committed to Georgetown University to row. Szabo has not chosen to pursue rowing in college, and the other rowers are starting the recruiting process now. All five of the athletes are High Honor Roll students that also participate in multiple AP and honors classes.
Sponsor: www.PiazzaPizzaRye.com We Deliver
Piazza Pizzeria 921-4444
SPORTS
November 11, 2016 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 15
Looking ahead to winter By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor For most of our autumn teams, sadly, the fall season has come to an end. While there are some programs in our area still toiling away on the practice fields, with hopes of hoisting a state title in the near future, most of our athletes’ seasons winded down weeks ago. But as we look ahead to the upcoming winter campaigns— the ice hockey preseason started on Nov. 7 and all other sports begin on Nov. 14—there appears to be more than enough to look forward in the near future. On the ice, two of our local squads enter into the 201617 season coming off fantastic showings last year. Rye Town/ Harrison, a program that has improved by leaps and bounds over the last few seasons, made their way to the Division II title game last season, while Mamaroneck, which has long been the stan-
Katie Popp looks for an open teammate against Harrison in a game last February. Popp and the Garnets will look to repeat as Section I champs this year.
dard bearer of Section I, skated all the way to a state title. But no matter how these
teams fare in the postseason this year, one thing is for certain; the regular season should be filled
Harrison’s Avery LaBarbera drives down the court against Rye. LaBarbera is hoping her Huskies can knock the Garnets off. Photos/Mike Smith
Mamaroneck hockey coach Mike Chiapparelli congratulates his team after a playoff win against Scarsdale last year.
with close, hard-fought games as Section I has moved away from geographically based leagues and will once again feature conferences based on power rankings. As such, Mamaroneck will be competing against teams like Suffern, Scarsdale, Pelham and Rye, creating a true power conference that will likely be fun to watch for hockey fans. Other leagues, however, don’t need artificial refiguring to make for instant classics. In the girls’ basketball world, we were treated to a number of great games last season featuring any combination of Harrison, Rye and Eastchester. Although it was Rye who would go the furthest, winning a Section I title and making a deep push to the Class A state semifinals, each team will bring back some bona fide stars, most notably Harrison’s Avery LaBarbera and Rye’s Katie Popp, which should set the stage for some epic matchups this winter. Add to that the myriad wrestling tournaments that dot the schedule in December and January—well before the action truly heats up in the divisional and sectional meets, not to mention the cheerleading competitions that predate the second-ever New York State Cheerleading Championships in March, there is no shortage of storylines to keep sports fans interested over
Harrison’s Zach Evans goes up for a layup against Tappan Zee last March. Evans is one of several Huskies who graduated last spring.
the next few months, no matter which sports they follow. So although we might be saying farewell to the fall season, there will be plenty to keep us
interested in the winter. As far as I’m concerned, the season can’t start soon enough. CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
16 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 11, 2016