RyeCity REVIEW THE
November 19, 2021 | Vol. 9, Number 44 | www.ryecityreview.com
Gaynor offers new admission in sexual abuse case By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor
Down, but not out Ryan Surhoff stretches for an extra yard against Somers on Nov. 12, 2021. Although the Garnets fell to the Tuskers 26-23 in the Class A championship, their quest for a state title will continue this weekend against Section AIX Minisink Valley. For story, see page 16.
Photo/Mike Smith
Hochul signs New York State redistricting bill
Assemblymember Amy Paulin, a Democrat, announced that Gov. Kathy Hochul has signed her bill into law amending Sections 10 and 34 of the municipal home rule law which provides that the redrawing of county legislative district lines is first and foremost governed by state requirements ensuring fairness and equity. “Fair redistricting is fundamental to democracy,” Paulin said. “By requiring all counties in New York to follow set standards for fair legislative redistricting,
this law keeps communities of interest whole, protects minority voting rights, and gives residents a clear, singular representative to advocate on their behalf. Voters across New York State can now rest assured that their votes will not be diminished by the drawing of unfair legislative districts.” Now enacted, the legislation (A.229c/S.5160b) is effective immediately. Assemblymember Paulin first began fighting for fair county legislative districts when she was the president of the Scarsdale
League of Women Voters, LWV, in 1991. At that time Scarsdale was split into two separate districts, and the Town of Scarsdale, along with the Scarsdale LWV, sued Westchester County on the grounds that the state Municipal Home Rule Law, MHRL, prohibits towns from being divided. The Town of Scarsdale’s lawsuit was dismissed due to lack of standing, and although the Scarsdale LWV lawsuit proceeded it was never decided by the courts. Scarsdale, a small town of only 6.6 square miles, was then split
into 3 districts in 1993. Paulin, who at that time was the President of the County LWV, again sued the County over unfair redistricting. The case went to the NYS Supreme Court, and then to the appellate level. Ultimately the NYS Appellate Division upheld the lower court decision that Westchester County was not required to follow the criteria in the MHRL because it operates under a charter form of government and is bound only by the redistricting HOCHUL continued on page 8
A long-running civil suit against accused sexual abuser Edwin Gaynor has taken a new turn this week, as court documents reveal that a recent letter written by the former educator to attorneys represent yet another admission of guilt on Gaynor’s part. On Nov. 9, Barbara Hart—an attorney for Grant & Eisenhofer P.A., the firm that is handling 34 consolidated Child Victims Act cases against Gaynor, the Archdiocese of New York and several local parishes—filed a handwritten letter, purportedly sent by Gaynor on Nov. 3, into the proceedings against the co-defendants. The hand-written communique, which was mailed from Gaynor’s Ossining address, appears to be an acknowledgment of wrongdoing by the 86-yearold defendant. Gaynor has been accused as a teacher and coach at several local catholic schools— including Immaculate Heart of Mary in Scarsdale and Holy Rosary in Hawthorne—of sexually assaulting underage students over a period of time that stretched from the late 1950s until 1985. “Because I gave into an affliction of sinful sickness when I did 55 years ago, that does not in anyway define who I am or my moral concern of right and wrong,” Gaynor wrote in the Nov. 3 letter. “I have no idea what causes that, or why it came upon me, but I thank god that it has been totally gone from me for well over 40 years.” This latest admission corroborates a 2019 letter by Gaynor, in which he also acknowledged that that he had molested two former students-turned-plaintiffs—
David Pisula and an anonymous plaintiff who was referred to as “R.L.” in the early stages of the lawsuit—at IHM in the 1960s. I was not unkind to [Pisula] in a couple instances as claimed,” Gaynor wrote in 2019. “But I was guilty of molestation, as in my report re: R.L.” Gaynor would go on to dismiss similar claims against him as part of an “avaricious witch hunt,” in a letter he penned on Aug. 5, 2020. It is unclear at the moment, whether these latest admissions by Gaynor will have any effect on the strategy of Gaynor’s co-defendants, which include the Archdiocese, IHM and Holy Rosary. The Archdiocese and IHM had previously moved to strike Gaynor’s written letters from the record, arguing that they were prejudicial in nature. In July 2020, they also filed cross-claims against the former coach, arguing that any sexual misconduct uncovered during the trial should be laid at the feet of Gaynor alone. Counsel for the plaintiffs has argued that Gaynor’s continued employment at and relationships with local parishes—even after his replacement, Dan O’Hare, testified under oath that Gaynor was dismissed from IHM in either 1967 or 1968 due to inappropriate contact with a student—show that the Archdiocese demonstrated a blatant lack of disregard for the well-being of students. Barring any future delays, the lawsuit, which was originally filed in 2019, is scheduled to go to trial next year, with all written and document disclosures to be completed by July 15, 2022, before an official trial date is set. CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
2 • THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021
THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021 • 3
Hurricane Ida FEMA assistance deadline nears
New York residents looking to recapitalize on their damages and losses from Hurricane Ida, face a Dec. 6 deadline. File photo
Residents of the Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties who had damage or losses as a direct result of Hurricane Ida have until Monday, Dec. 6, to apply to FEMA for disaster assistance. Here are answers to your top five frequently asked questions: Q: Do I need to wait for FEMA to inspect my home before I begin repairs? A: No. Do not wait for a FEMA inspection before beginning repairs. First, file a claim with your insurance company then apply for FEMA assistance. If you have no insurance or your insurance coverage is not enough to make your home safe, livable and functional, FEMA may be able to help. Send copies of your insurance documents; coverage, settlement and/or determination letter to FEMA, and save any receipts, contracts and estimates for repair of disaster-caused damage to show to the FEMA inspector. The inspector will advise you to send them to FEMA. Q: I already applied for FEMA assistance. Will FEMA reimburse me for the costs of cleaning up my apartment after Hurricane Ida? A: Homeowners and renters who are approved for FEMA disaster assistance may be eligible for a one-time payment to address minimal damage the storm inflicted on the home, eliminate potential safety concerns and prevent additional losses. Q: FEMA referred me to the
U.S. Small Business Administration, but I can’t afford a loan. What should I do? A: If you applied to FEMA for disaster assistance and were referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration, it is important that you complete and submit the SBA loan application. If you are approved for a loan, you don’t have to accept it. After you apply, SBA will determine if you should be referred back to FEMA to be considered for its Other Needs Assistance, which includes replacement of essential household items and other disaster-related expenses. For more information, call the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba. gov. Q: I own and live in a condo. Am I eligible for FEMA assistance? A: If you reside in one of the nine counties designated for federal disaster assistance for Ida and the damage to your unit was not covered by insurance, you may be eligible for certain kinds of help from FEMA. First, file a claim with your insurance company then apply to FEMA. Send copies of your insurance coverage, settlement, or determination letter to FEMA. The agency will review your information and determine what types of assistance you may qualify for. Eligible disaster-caused damage may include fixtures, installations, plumbing and appliances within your unit. Q: The apartment I rent is un-
dergoing repairs from Hurricane Ida damage and I can no longer live there. Will FEMA help me pay for a temporary place to live? A: If your apartment is in one of the nine counties designated for disaster assistance for Ida, you may be eligible for a FEMA grant for rental assistance. That award can help with the cost of security deposits, rent and necessary utilities such as electric and gas while your apartment is being repaired. Ways to apply for FEMA disaster assistance: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-6213362. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language. Visit a Disaster Recovery Center and meet with FEMA staff and representatives of other federal and state agencies who can provide information about disaster assistance. To find a recovery center near you, visit fema.gov. For additional online resources, as well as FEMA downloadable pamphlets and other aids, visit DisasterAssistance.gov and click “information.” For the latest information on New York’s recovery efforts, visit fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion2 and on Facebook at facebook.com/fema. (Submitted)
4 • THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021
Experts offer guidance on COVID vaccines By LARRY THAUL Contributor Two experts presenting to The Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit on Tuesday, Nov. 9, claim that Westchester County residents rank among the most protected in the United States Our progress toward herd immunity has been outstanding over the past year given the wide administration of vaccines in our area. In contrast, the unvaccinated comprise 99% of current U.S. deaths. These figures, trends, and a host of useful recommendations and data summarized the status and effects of COVID in our community among related concerns. The meeting was a webinar co-hosted by LMC Media. Dr. Robert W. Amler, dean of the school of Health Sciences and Practice and Vice President for Government Affairs of the NY Medical College, laid the groundwork through a slide deck showing historically how far public health has progressed over the last century in controlling the spread of disease worldwide. He stressed that the first key COVID strategy remains avoidance, by blocking the virus through masking andsocial distancing. Further, getting the flu vaccine is important and if you get flu-like symptoms, be sure to get tested to ensure it is not COVID. Regarding the COVID vaccine’s efficacy, Dr. Amler indicated that although symptom severity can vary, the vaccines have clearly worked extremely well as part of an overall strategy to control transmissibility. He clarified that the CDC follows many COVID variants but that the focus is on the Delta as a “variant of high consequence.” Dr. Amler was clear that we won’t know the exact percentage of population needed to reach group or ‘herd’ immunity until we see it. At the point of lasting protected immunity, the virus will have nowhere to go, and die. He indicated we’re likely to see additional strains of COVID for the near future at minimum, and he made no forecasts about the upcoming winter, advising us to remain vigilant. On a positive note, Dr. Amler emphasized that our county has among the highest percentage of college educated residents which he correlated with the willingness to keep informed, follow the pandemic discourse, and take actions consistent with advisories from
Dr. Robert W. Amler
Dr. Sherlita Amler
the public health experts and officials. Dr. Sherlita Amler, the Westchester County Health Commissioner since 2011, provided a range of relevant statistics for the county beginning with COVID-tracking data since Mar. 2020. The vaccine accounted for a tremendous drop-off in deaths since its introduction in Dec. 2020 through Jan. 2021, especially for those over the ages of 65. The vaccine is 94% effective in preventing hospitalizations for those 65 years old and older. Further, of the 29 hospitalizations in the county as of Nov. 8, 21 were people who hadn’t received a vaccine. She stated that when students age 12 through17 are vaccinated, there will no longer be a requirement for those exposed to the COVID virus to quarantine. As of Nov. 2, Dr. Amler made clear that the trend toward a wider vaccinated public continues with the Emergency Use Authorization for those age 5 through11. She stated that only the Pfizer vaccine for those 18 years old and older has full FDA approval. She encouraged all residents age 65 and older and at high risk medically, or who perform a high risk job such as working in a nursing home, hospital, or other areas of severe exposure, should complete getting their shots and booster. Dr. Amler cited a striking statistic: in the 11-month span from Nov. 2020 to Oct. 2021, new COVID cases dropped countywide from 477 to only 49 with hospitalizations down from 23 to 2. The number of fully vaccinated age 65 years old and older in Westchester now stands at over 86%. Indeed, over 99.9% of those age 65 years old and older have had at least 1 shot. Countywide, among those age 12 and older, 92% have had at least 1 dose and 82% have had two doses. Her charge to all was confident and
positive: stay calm, stay tuned, and use the knowledge at hand to improvise our way through this pandemic. On the question of travel, Dr. Robert Amler advised the following: evaluate the importance of the trip, find out the COVID transmissibility level in the country or location you will be visiting, determine the availability of medical care in the area, and know the length of the flight. He stressed that testing forms the basis of confidence. PCR tests are best but take a bit longer. He stated that home testing kits tend to give both false positives and false negatives and are not very reliable. Moreover, tests of the body’s own antigen levels produce more false-positives, and the antibodies’ strength and sustainability are unknown. For the holidays, Dr. Sherlita Amler strongly recommends we all employ multiple layers of protection and that grandparents take as many precautions as possible to minimize exposures from grandchildren. These include masking, social distancing, and double vaccinations and boosters as well as first vaccine doses for children age 5 through11 administered before Thanksgiving. Testing before visiting relatives helps, as well. Both physicians, our health commissioner and the health sciences dean, advised everyone to get the booster. They pointed out that evidence supports the choice of having a different booster from your previous shots though there is no evidence as to an advantage to any specific combination of shots and booster. Though no single mask was recommended, surgical masks are preferred, if available, as they afford multiple layers. However, they agreed that any mask is better than none to prevent the spread. (Submitted)
THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021 • 5
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6 • THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021
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Holidays on the Hill
train show is re-imagined This year, the Lasdon Holidays on the Hill Annual Train Show is going to another level. Literally. The re-imagined show in the Conservatory at Lasdon Park Arboretum and Veterans Memorial in Somers, has been expanded to more than 5,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibit space. Starting with a stroll through whimsical holiday scenes leading to the Conservatory, G-scale trains will be chugging along on nine multi-level tracks, over bridges, under tunnels and through colorful holiday plants. Santa will be available to meet with children in his Holiday Cottage, located opposite the Conservatory, at scheduled times during each session. Visits with Santa are available as space and time permits. “Westchester County is filled with holiday traditions, and the Lasdon Holidays on the Hill Train Show is one not to be missed,” Westchester County Executive George Latimer said. “Kids and adults will make lasting memories walking through the many holiday scenes and taking pictures with Santa.” Westchester County Parks Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said, “The Lasdon Holidays on the Hill Train Show never disappoints. Thank you to our hard working and creative staff for making it an even bigger show this season.” Tickets will be sold online only with scheduled viewing times, and no tickets will be sold on site. Tickets are available through Dec. 31. Admission is $20 per adult, $10 per child and admission is free for children ages 2 and under. The cost for senior citizens, age 62 and older, is $15. The Holidays on the Hill Annual Train Show will be open as scheduled, rain or shine. The exhibit is presented by Westchester County Parks and the Friends of Lasdon Park and Arboretum with support from SavATree in Bedford Hills, and Prospero Nursery and Masonry in White Plains. Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial is a Westchester County Park located on Route 35 in Somers. The GPS address is 2610 Amawalk Road, Katonah, NY 10536. For more information, visit the Friends of Lasdon Park and Arboretum website at lasdonpark.org or call 864-7268.
THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021 • 7
8 • THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021
Sedona Taphouse to raise funds for Alzheimer’s Legislators celebrate first Albanian Heritage Mmonth Every month, Mamaroneck’s Sedona Taphouse supports local charities and community groups, through its Monday Steak Out For Charity. For the month of November, Sedona will raise funds for two groups: the Alzheimer’s Association and the Larchmont Mamaroneck Lions Foundation. For the five Mondays in November 2021, for every dine-in order of the special 50% off steak meal, Sedona will donate $2 to the Alzheimer’s Association and the LM Lions. Sedona’s support will help raise awareness of Alzheimer’s and dementia during November, which is National Family Caregiver Month and National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month. To learn more, visit alz.org/nadam The Larchmont Mamaroneck Lions focus on supporting existing nonprofit and communi-
ty service groups, by bringing leaders together to determine needs, solutions and resources. The LM Lions Foundation is their 501c3 service fund, to encourage community partnerships and matching donations in support of local needs and Lions’ causes. The LM Lions are pleased to be the recipient of Sedona’s support and to be partnered with the Alzheimer’s Association. Sedona’s November donation kicks off the “Friends of the Lions” campaign, allowing individuals and businesses who support the service efforts of the Lions, to make donations to the LM Lions foundation or volunteer for Lions service projects. The LIM Lions are part of Lions Clubs International, the world’s largest service organization of more than 1.4 million members. The Lions have six
core causes. Its signature cause is vision/blindness, along with hunger, the environment, diabetes, childhood cancer and the future of youth. They are signatories of the United Nations resolutions on women’s and refugee rights. The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia— by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Its vision is a world without Alzheimer’s and all dementia. Visit alz.org. The Hudson Valley Chapter serves families living with dementia in seven counties in New York, including Duchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. To learn more about the programs and services offered locally, visit alz.org/hudsonvalley. (Submitted)
Stepinac students fight to end homelessness Stepinac High School students recently slept overnight outdoors in cardboard boxes on the school’s athletic fields and raised more than $40,000 to help the unsheltered homeless in their communities and New York City. The volunteer event in which 250 students participated in, set new records for Stepinac, including the amount of money raised in the Cardboard Box City Campaign, which was organized by the school’s Campus Ministry. By spending an entire chilly evening in cardboard boxes in an open field instead of the comfort and warmth of their homes, the students gained an understanding of the personal challenges that America’s unsheltered homeless— estimated at more than a half million individuals and families including many who are children— experience. Their impressive efforts will help bring relief to some of the unsheltered homeless in Westchester communities where the students live as well as in New York City. In advance of the evening event, students were instructed to bring with them large cardboard boxes as well as blankets and pillows. They were also advised to eat dinner before arriving, as their overnight stay would be a long one, lasting
The Westchester County Board of Legislators recognized its first Albanian Heritage Month on Monday, Oct. 8 with a special ceremony and video presentation honoring children’s health advocate Albana Krasniqi of Yonkers, and prominent surgeon and telemedicine innovator, Dr. Rifat Latifi of Somers. In his opening remarks, Chairman Ben Boykin said “in proclaiming November as Albanian Heritage Month in Westchester County, we salute and recognize the meaningful contributions and exemplary citizenship Albanian-Americans have displayed in all walks of life– in politics, business, law enforcement, education, medicine, the arts and much more.” “The Albanians are a singular people – strong, determined and independent,” Boykin said. “Their country has endured much turmoil and adversity, but yet they always move forward with their eye to a better future. Their value of hard work, integrity, family, and loyalty has served them well, both in their homeland and here in America, and their hands stretch across an ocean to help those in need in both communities.” Legislator David Tubiolo presented the first proclamation. “As County Legislator for Yonkers and Mount Vernon, I am proud to be representing the highest concentration of Albanians in Westchester County,” Tubiolo said. “Today is a very HOCHUL from page 1
Earlier this month, Stepinac High School students spent a night on the turf, sheltered only by large cardboard boxes in an effort to raise awareness and funds to help unsheltered homelessness in the New York City area. Contributed photo
nearly 12 hours before ending at 8 a.m. the next day. The success of the campaign was the result of the energy and generosity of the students who mobilized parents, friends, members of the administration, faculty and staff to join in lending their support. Contributions to Stepinac’s vitally important community cause can still be made via this link: www. stepinac.org/boxcity. Service to the community to help make a difference in the
lives of those in need is a key component of Stepinac’s Campus Ministry program. Because seniors are required to complete 100 hours of community service in order to graduate, participation in the Campus Ministry program starting in the freshman year helps to establish a strong foundation in the student’s life-long commitment to serving the community, one of the distinguishing hallmarks of Stepinac’s alumni. (Submitted)
criteria in its charter. The County had two subsequent redistricting cycles in 2001 and 2011, and fortunately the leadership in place at those times, including now Westchester County Executive George Latimer, who in 2001 chaired the County Board of Legislators, facilitated a fair redistricting plan that involved members of the chamber’s minority party and outside “good government” groups, even though the legal requirements were not in place to require it. This legislation requires the 23 counties in New York that operate under a charter to follow the same
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Legislator David Tubiolo and Albana Krasniq. Contributed photo
Legislator Vedat Gashi and Dr. Rifat Latifi. Contributed photo
special day and we are honoring a very special person, Albana Krasniqi, who grew up in Pristina, came to America to get her education and then came back to help the community that made her.” Ms. Krasniqi thanked Tubiolo and the entire Board. “It is an honor to be among other successful and distinguished Albanian Americans who are being recognized for their contributions as we celebrate Albanian Heritage Month,”Krasniqi said. “I would also like to thank the Albanian American community for supporting my work with Gift of Life International. Your many generous donations helped to save the lives of over 200 children from Kosova.” Legislator Vedat Gashi presented the second proclamation to Dr. Rifat Latifi. “When I was elected, I became the first Albanian-American to serve on the Board of Legislators, and while I am a proud American,
I will never forget my Albanian roots,” Vedat said. “I have immense pride in taking part in the Board’s first celebration of Albanian-American Heritage Month. We have stars throughout the world in Albania, but we have a super star here in Westchester County, Dr. Rifat Latifi, who has an amazing record of accomplishment as a surgeon, author and telemedicine innovator.” Latifi responded by saying, “Thank you for honoring me on the occasion of celebration of the month of Albanian Heritage. I am humbled and touched by your generosity and honor. Today I come to accept this honor as recognition that belongs to my family, friends, my partners and many collaborators from around the world, but particularly those in Kosova and Albania for the past work, but more importantly as an impetus and further inspiration to continue the work that we started more than 20 years ago.” (Submitted)
redistricting standards as all other counties in New York. It also modernizes those standards to bring them in line with generally accepted best practices for redistricting. Pursuant to the new law, lines must be drawn in a manner that ensures: (1) Districts are as nearly equal in population as is practicable. (2) Districts are not drawn with the intent or result of denying equal opportunity of racial or language minority groups to participate in the political process. (3) Districts consist of contiguous territory. (4) Districts are not drawn to favor incumbents or any particu-
lar party or candidate, or unjustly divide communities of interest, including smaller municipalities. (5) Form to promote orderly and efficient administration of elections. “County redistricting should first and foremost be subject to standardized state and federal constitutional requirements in order to ensure fairness and equity,” Paulin said. “It is in this way that we preserve the will of the people of New York State. Politicians should be chosen by voters, not the other way around.” This bill is sponsored in the New York State Senate by Sen. James Skoufis. (Submitted)
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THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021 • 9
Con Ed reminds customers to conserve this winter Con Edison reminds customers they can save money for their households and businesses by conserving natural gas and electricity this winter as the cost of energy rises. The average residential gas-heating bill from November 2021 through March 2022 will be about $341 per month, up about 24 percent from last winter’s average monthly bill of $275, according to the company’s projections. That estimate is based on average monthly usage of 162 therms and assumes normal winter weather. The increase is mostly due to supply costs, but the projected bill also reflects increases in the delivery charges. Con Edison does not set supply costs and does not make a profit on the supply. The company uses a variety of buying methods and hedges, including shortterm and long-term contracts, to get the best prices for its customers and offset increases in the cost of supply. The cost of natural gas has increased as the demand for the commodity has increased, exports have increased, and severe
weather has hindered production in the Gulf area. These and other factors have caused a decline in the amount of gas in storage in the United States. Delivery charges fund investments Con Edison makes to keep service safe and reliable and help customers use gas more efficiently. The best strategy for Con Edison’s 1.1 million gas customers is to carefully manage their usage. Customers can save money on heating by using these tips: Set your thermostat at the lowest temperature at which you are comfortable and safe. Each degree lower decreases heating costs. Make sure heating vents are not blocked by furniture, carpeting or anything else that could obstruct the flow of heat. Have a qualified contractor clean and inspect your heating system. Insulate hot-water pipes and warm-air ducts that pass through unheated areas. Clean or replace filters for your hot-air furnace and heat-pump. Swap out window shades seasonally. Light-colored window
coverings reflect the sun’s energy, while darker ones absorb it and release heat. In addition, Con Edison offers incentives to help customers make upgrades that can help them save energy and money: Get $75 off a gas furnace or boiler tune-up. Save up to $135 (limited time offer) on an eligible smart thermostat from our Marketplace. Get a $50 discount when you purchase an eligible Nest, ecobee, Honeywell Home, or Emerson Sensi smart thermostat and enroll your device to receive an additional $85 rebate. Residential and business customers can increase comfort and save money year-round with heat-pump technology. Con Edison and a partner have a program that allows residential customers to save up to $3,000 (limited time offer) on weatherizing their home. Under the program, a contractor performs the work with no upfront costs to the customer. Get more information on Con Edison’s rebates and incentives for upgrades that save energy and money.
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Natural gas supplies are expected to remain tight this winter, and any disruption from interstate gas transmission providers could further constrain supplies. Con Edison, however, has secured adequate supplies for its gas customers, approximately 370,000 of whom use gas to heat their homes or businesses in Manhattan, the Bronx, Westchester County, and parts of Queens. Con Edison places safety first when running its energy systems. The company has replaced more than 421 miles of cast-iron and unprotected steel gas main the past five years and is on track to replace an additional 200 miles in 2021 and 2022. In addition, Con Edison conducts monthly leak surveys of its gas distribution system, uses predictive analytics to reduce damage to the system by contractors, inspects customers’ indoor services for leaks and is installing the first-of-its-kind natural gas detector to notify operators of customers’ potential gas leaks. Con Edison also urges customers to conserve electricity during the winter months, particularly with electric costs also on the rise in Westchester County. Higher natural gas prices increase electricity prices because
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natural gas is the fuel used to make nearly all the power for homes and businesses in the New York City area. As with natural gas, Con Edison seeks the best prices it can get for electricity and provides it to customers at the same price it pays, meaning the company does not make a profit on it. The average Westchester residential electric bill from November 2021 through March 2022 is projected to be $163.31 per
month, up 15.2 percent from last winter’s average monthly bill of $141.79. The Westchester estimate is based on average monthly usage of 600 kilowatt hours. The average NYC residential electric bill for the same period will be about $95.77 per month, up 0.7 percent from last winter’s average bill of $95.08, according to the company’s projection. The estimate assumes 300 kilowatt hours of usage per month. (Submitted)
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THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021 • 13
Legal Notices NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 10/01/21 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 47 Boxwood rd, Suite B, Yonkers NY 10710. Notice of Formation of HomePrestige Realty, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice Of Formation Of Limited Liability Company;. LLC. Name: FOCUS REI LLC. Articles Of Organization were filed with the Secretary Of State New York. (SSNY) on 6/14/21. Office Location: Westchester County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC. 128 Pelhamdale Avenue 2nd fl Mount Vernon New York 10553, Principal business location of the LLC. Purpose: any lawful business activity address. I can be NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 07/22/2021 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:238 Broadfield Rd, New Rochelle, New York 10804. Notice of Formation of IsabelleK Jewels LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 9/5/2021 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:9 North ave, New Rochelle Ny, 10805. Notice of Formation of Stricker S&S LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 08/24/2021. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Notice of Formation of The Ink Effect, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 8/23/21 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:25 Martine Ave Apt 715 White Plains, NY 10606 . Notice of Formation of A Gifted Story, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 9/16//21. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 5 Mill Pond Lane, New Rochelle, NY 10805. Notice of Formation of RFC NY LAB LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 10/14/21. Office Location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 180 Forest Avenue, Rye, NY 10580. Notice of Formation of Stack Bio Solutions L.L.C. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 10/12/2021 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228 Notice of Formation of JB23 LLC Arts of Org filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice of formation of NORTHEAST COMMONS, LLC Arts. Of Org. filed with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/20/2021. Office location: Westchester County. The street address is: PO BOX 280, BRONXVILLE, NY 10708. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process served to: Sandra DeFeo-Borducci, PO BOX 280, BRONXVILLE, NY 10708. Purpose: any lawful act. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 10/26/2021 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:PO Box 789, Mamaroneck, New York 10543. Notice of Formation of Deal House Capital Fund II, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity.
Notice of Formation of Ego Sum Dominus Pax LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/15/2021. Office Location: Westchester County. SSNY is the designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 100 Knollwood Avenue, Mamaroneck, NY 10543. Purpose: Computer programming. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 07/07/21 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The Limited Liability Company, P.O. Box 8269, Pelham, NY 10803. Notice of Formation of JB Business LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 10/28/2021 Office location: Westchester County.SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 266 E Grassy Sprain Road, Yonkers, NY 10710. Notice of Formation of Meraki Designs, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice of Formation of Scarsdale Fencing Center LLCArticles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 8/23/2021. Office location: Westchester County. Registered Agent Solutions, Inc. (99 Washington Avenue, Suite 1008, Albany, NY 12260) is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. Principal business address: 303 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale NY 10583. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. Notice of Formation of Brittany Bendall Fitness LLC. Art. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/1/2021. Office: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 17 Wainwright St., Rye, NY 10580. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. Notice of Formation of FSstore1, LLC, a domestic limited liability company (LLC). Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 1/14/2021. The LLC is located in Westchester County. The SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to the office location: 39 Ramona Court, New Rochelle, NY 10804. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act or activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 10/26/2021 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:248 Harrison Ave.#1004, Harrison, NY10528. Notice of Formation of Rio Mental Health Counseling Services PLLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 09/17/2021 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to:149 South 11th Ave,Mount Vernon, New York 10550. Notice of Formation of South Eleventh Ave LLC. Arts of Org. filed with Purpose: any lawful activity. “Notice of Formation of a Limited Liability Company (LLC). The name of the LLC is: 46 N Fulton LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) office on: November 10, 2021. The County in which the Office is to be located: Westchester. The SSNY is designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC is: PO Box 789, Mamaroneck, NY 10543. Purpose: any lawful activity.” Notice of Formation of KAY’S STUDIO, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with DOS on 11/08/2021. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 140 Pelham Road, Apt. 3m, New Rochelle, NY 108051. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 8/25/2021 Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against
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NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS HARRISON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT Notice is hereby given that PROPOSALS for: RFP #2022-5: Financial Advisor will be received until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, December 3, 2021 at the Business Office of the Harrison Central School District, located at 50 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528; (914) 630-3011. All proposals will be opened at said time and place. Specifications and forms may be obtained at www.bidnetdirect.com/new-york or from the district Business Office beginning Friday, November 19, 2021. All addenda will be transmitted to registered specifications holders and posted to www.bidnetdirect. com/new-york. Proposals shall be submitted in sealed envelopes bearing the name and address of the proposer on the outside, addressed to: PURCHASING AGENT, HARRISON CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT and clearly marked on the outside with the opening date and “RFP #2022-5: Financial Advisor”. The Harrison Central School District is not responsible for proposals opened prior to the opening if proposal number and opening date do not appear on the envelope. The proposer assumes the risk of any delay in the mail, or in the handling of the mail by employees of the Harrison Central School District, as well as improper hand delivery. The Harrison Central School District reserves the right to waive any informalities in the proposals, or to reject all proposals, or to accept any proposal which in the opinion of the Board will be to their best interest. By order of the Board of Education Gene George Purchasing and Transportation Agent Dated: November 19, 2021
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14 • THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021
SPORTS
THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021 • 15
The fog of war Mike Smith
I’ve been covering high school sports long enough to the point where I rarely, if ever, encounter a situation that is wholly and completely new. Sure, every season is unique, with different beats, storylines, winners and losers, but actual firsts are few and far between. But I sure had one on Friday night. On paper, the Section I Class A football championship game between Somers and Rye didn’t need any bells and whistles. The stage was set for an epic clash as it was. Two undefeated teams—neither of which had lost an in-section game since the Garnets topped the Tuskers in 2019—battling for the ultimate bragging rights in the deepest division in the state. We were pretty much guaranteed a classic before the two teams took the field, and the two teams certainly delivered as much from a football standpoint. But what I wasn’t counting on—nor was anyone—was the fog. Just before kickoff on Friday night, a thick, soupy mist enveloped the field at Arlington High School unlike anything I’ve seen in my decade-plus of covering high school athletics. Although the consistency and opacity of the haze ebbed and flowed throughout the four quarters, for the majority of the game—a 26-23 thriller won by the Tuskers—the action on the field played out in this surreal, dreamlike state where maybe only half of the players on the
field were visible at any one time. I’ve covered games in driving rain, howling winds and temperatures so cold that my phone battery has instantly drained on the sidelines. But I can’t honestly remember a time when the bleachers on the other side of the field were so obscured they might as well have been in another state. Perhaps there was no play that exemplified the challenges of reporting—and photographing—in these conditions quite like a long Somers pass in the third quarter, when Tuskers’ quarterback Matt Fitzsimmons lofted a deep, arcing heave down the Rye sidelines that— from where I stood—simply disappeared into the mist. I could ascertain from the cheers on the Somers side that the play had not gone the Garnets’ way—it was a 55-yard touchdown reception for game MVP Trey Mancuso—but from my vantage point, that score was nothing more than a rumor. Did the conditions affect the outcome? Nobody on either side would dare use the fog as an excuse. But did the conditions make for a unique atmosphere? That’s undeniable. It was a great game between two great teams that played out in what looked like a deleted scene from a 2007 Frank Darabont horror film. And for someone like myself, who isn’t easily impressed anymore, it was an experience I won’t soon forget. Even if I couldn’t see most of the game.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
Rye’s Owen Kovacs and Caden Whaling set up in the backfield during Rye’s Class A Section I championship game on Nov. 12, 2021. The fog at Arlington High School—and the thrilling finish—made this title game an instant classic. Photo/Mike Smith
TO COVER LOCAL SPORTS, YOU NEED A Follow Mike Smith @LiveMike_Sports stats • recaps • commentary for Mike’s live, in-game action updates
SPORTS
16 • THE REVIEW • November 19, 2021
Garnets fall in Class A classic FOOTBALL
non-class leaguea
CHAMPIONSHIP
SOMERS 26 RYE 23 ARLINGTON HS
11/12/21
Game Notes: • Somers won on an 82-yard kickoff return by Matt Kapica • There were 6 lead changes in the game • Rye will play Section IX Minisink Valley on 11/19
By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On Nov. 12, two of the winningest programs in Section I football squared off, as Somers and Rye took the field at Arlington High School to determine the 2021 Class A champion. After a back-and-forth contest, it was the Tuskers who came out on top, edging the Garnets 26-23 to emerge as section champions. But even though the Garnets fell short in their title shot, they’ll still have a chance to potentially get some revenge in the upcoming state tourney. For 48 minutes on Friday night, the meeting between Rye
and Somers—neither of which had lost a Section I game since 2019—was as tightly contested as can be. In fact, the game’s deciding score wasn’t recorded until there were just under eight minutes left in regulation when, just moments after Rye took a 23-19 lead on an 86-yard touchdown catch by Jack McRedmond, the Tuskers’ Matt Kapica busted a big play of his own, taking the ensuing kickoff 82 yards for the game-winning score. Kapica’s burst marked the sixth—and final—lead change of the game, and the third in the fourth quarter alone. “Even though we didn’t come out with a win tonight, I’m really proud of my boys,” said Rye running back Caden Whaling. “We played our hearts out, they played their hearts out; this was a game that could have gone either way and we learned a lot about ourselves tonight.” One thing the Garnets (101) reaffirmed for certain is their resiliency. After a safety staked them to a 2-0 lead in the second quarter, the Garnets went into halftime trailing 6-2. But the Rye offense woke up in the third quarter, scoring twice to establish a 16-6 lead. “I mean, we just had to wake up,” said Whaling. “We had to get
into our blocks, run hard, keep our feet driving and play to the whistle.” And while the seesaw fourth quarter didn’t end up going the Garnets’ way, Whaling said that his team’s performance in the second half proved that Rye has the toughness—and talent—to hang with a Somers team that was projected to run away with the Class A title by many. Whaling— who was hampered by injuries for much of the second half of the season—had a resurgent day running the football, going for 97 yards and a touchdown, while quarterback Owen Kovacs threw for 219 yards and two scores to McRedmond. “We learned that we are resilient and that we can come back,” Whaling said. “At halftime, we just had to calm down, pull everyone together, and get going.” Despite Friday’s loss, Rye’s quest for a state title isn’t over just yet. As members of Section I, the Garnets received an at-large bid to the state tournament and will continue the season on Nov. 19 at Middletown High School, when they take on Section IX winner Minisink Valley. The Warriors scored an upset win over twotime defending Class A state champions Cornwall on Friday,
Owen Kovacs is brought down by a Somers defender on Nov. 12, 2021. Photos/Mike Smith
Jack McRedmond sacks Somers quarterback Matt Fitzsimmons for a safety on Nov. 12, 2021. McRedmond also caught two touchdown passes in the game.
beating the Dragons 13-7. A win against Minisink Valley could potentially set up a rematch against Somers in the state semifinals.
“This is going to be the most intense week of practice,” Whaling said. “Second chances are rare. We have a second chance,
we’re gonna go out, try to keep winning, and get a ring.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
Caden Whaling breaks a tackle against Somers at Arlington High School. Whaling rushed for 97 yards and a touchdown.