January 5, 2018 by The Rye City Review

RyeCity REVIEW THE

January 1, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 1 | www.ryecityreview.com

CountyExec.Latimerbans gunshowsoncountyproperty

Diner Brew Co., a cidery based in Mount Vernon, was founded by New Rochelle native Chris Sheldon with the intent to offer customers a unique twist on traditional hard ciders. For story, see page 6. Photo/Taylor Brown

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer

Westchester Jewish Council gala honors members The Westchester Jewish Council, WJC, will celebrate its 42nd Anniversary Gala on Feb. 10, at 7:15 p.m. at Congregation Kol Ami, 252 Soundview Ave. in White Plains. The celebration will honor WJC board members Betsy Bernstein of Harrison, Michael

Karnes of Ossining and Gary Trachten of New Rochelle, for their dedication and service to the Westchester Jewish community. The evening will feature a cocktail dinner and dessert by Foremost Caterers with entertainment by comedian Avi Liberman. Kosher dietary laws will be observed.

Bernstein, a member of the WJC board since 2005, co-chairs the Julian Y. Bernstein Distinguished Service Awards, named for her husband whose passing in 2005 was the impetus for Betsy Bernstein to continue the work he had begun as a council board member. Betsy Bernstein is also a

founding member of the WJC committee that created the Leadership Development Institute and serves as an ad-hoc member of other committees where marketing/marketing research is needed. Concurrently, she has served for a number of terms on the GALA continued on page 3

An executive order signed by new County Executive George Latimer, a Democrat, will forbid controversial firearm and knife shows on county-owned property—a move that a new Democratic majority hopes to eventually codify into law. “This venue was created decades ago,” said Latimer at a Jan. 2 press conference, as he gestured around the Westchester County Center. “It is a tremendous showplace for Westchester County; it is a showplace for family entertainment.” The executive order will effectively reinstate a ban that was struck down by former County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican, upon taking office in 2010. A ban had existed prior to Astorino’s election and was initially signed by former County Executive Andrew Spano, a Democrat, in the wake of the Columbine shootings in Colorado. Latimer’s executive order— which will not impact the legality of shows on private property— marks a culmination of controversy over the past year which saw Democrats and Republicans, as well as an invigorated electorate, debate whether or not to continue hosting shows. Earlier this year, a piece of legislation banning the shows was passed by the county Legislature’s Democratic majority but was nev-

er signed into law by Astorino who instead vetoed the measure. While county Democrats contend that the shows would increase the likelihood of illegal gun sales as well as work to promote “gun culture” in Westchester, Republicans maintained that disallowing the shows infringed on residents’ constitutional rights. One gun show last year turned particularly controversial after a Democratic legislative aide snapped pictures of Confederate and Nazi memorabilia and books being sold and displayed inside the show, giving rise to Democratic calls for its removal. Last year’s show marked the first in nearly two decades after several were cancelled due to mass shootings in Columbine High School and Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. The debate over guns in Westchester has also made its way into local conversations, particularly in the town/village of Harrison, the village of Rye Brook, and the town of Mamaroneck, the latter of which briefly attempted to ban carrying weapons on its public property—an initiative that was quickly dropped after vehement public backlash. Rye Brook, however, successfully passed a local law restricting where gun stores can set up shop last year after a gun store in Harrison began operating in BAN continued on page 3

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January 5, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 3

Rye Neck Board of Education sets Feb. 13 bond vote The Rye Neck school district Board of Education unanimously adopted a resolution at its Dec. 20 meeting to present a bond proposal to the greater community for a vote on Feb. 13. The proposal addresses urgent districtwide roof replacements that will address the aging infrastructure, as well as renovations that will meet contemporary standards of high-quality educational programs and provide expanded learning opportunities to students. The proposal consists of two stand-alone propositions. The first proposition, at approximately $6.28 million, includes safety improvements by replacing the flat roof sections at each of the district’s buildings. The middle and high school roof, which covers more than 100,000 square feet, is a 23-year-old structure that needs to be completely replaced. Daniel Warren and F.E. Bellows elementary schools have smaller flat roof sections that are also

more than 20 years old and are due for replacement. The proposed work will prevent collateral building damage due to roof failure, as previously experienced in the middle and high school building. The second proposition, at approximately $21.33 million, will address the need to expand and upgrade the district’s outdated and overcrowded facilities due to increased enrollment and insufficient space. It will also address the need for modern, flexible and collaborative classroom and laboratory spaces that can accommodate high-quality science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics, STEAM, educational programs. The proposition includes the addition of eight classrooms at the middle school and high school campus, which will be housed at a new two-story Collaborative Science Center. The expansion would enable current makeshift classrooms to

be returned to general use, easing space shortages throughout the campus. The proposition also includes the expansion of the athletic facility by creating a new middle school gymnasium and locker rooms, which allow middle school and high school students to have separate facilities. The project is the result of the district’s thoughtful consideration of the impact on the community, as well as extensive research and planning by the district’s Facility Advisory Committee and input from the community. Residents are encouraged to visit the district’s website for detailed information on the proposal. The district has scheduled to bond public hearings on Jan. 10, 24 and Feb. 7, in addition to other meetings and scheduled building tours. The vote is scheduled for Feb. 13 from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Rye Neck High School Community Room. (Submitted)

BAN from page 1

Ongoing controversy over gun shows held at Westchester County Center may come to an end with the reinstatement of a ban by newly inaugurated Democratic County Executive George Latimer and incoming legislation. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.org

proximity to an elementary school, spurring public outcry. That store continues to operate. According to Latimer, Democratic lawmakers will work to pass legislation that will ban gun shows on county-owned proper-

ty in a more permanent fashion this year, aided by the help of a new super majority in the Legislature. According to tentative dates on a web page for Northeast Collectors, the trade organiza-

tion that runs Westchester’s gun shows, there were dates already slated for 2018 for another gun show event, but no contract had been agreed to.

international Israel & Diaspora “Jewish Peace Corp,” under the board of trustees of the Jewish auspices the Jewish Agency. Community Center of Harrison. Michael Karnes joined the Gary Trachten has been on the Board of the WJC in 1992. He has board of the WJC for nine years served as a board member, secreincluding four years as an officer tary and most recently as treasuron its executive committee, and er. Karnes, a lifelong member of for the past six years as the event Temple Beth Abraham in Tarrychair for the annual Westchester town, was the youngest president Jewish Music and Arts Festival. in the 118-year history of the Trachten also serves on the congregation and has served in boards of Hillels of Westches- that role three times. ter, is a past president of Pelham Karnes has served on the exJewish Center, and serves on the ecutive board and board of govadvisory board of Project T.E.N., ernors of the JCC on the Hud-

son, (now known as the Shames JCC on the Hudson) and continues to serve as a voluntary arbitrator in the New York City Civil Court Small Claims Division. During his first term as president of Temple Beth Abraham, Karnes met Jane Rubin when she served as a vice-president. Karnes welcomed Rubin and her two sons, Alan and Gary, into his life. With the addition of Marisa to the family, Karnes and Rubin have become the proud grandparents of Ellie, Judah and Sam. (Submitted)

GALA from page 1

CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

4 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • January 5, 2018

What’s going on... Rye Free Reading Room

and puppetry. Parents and caregivers participate with the children at the library and are encouraged to continue the activities at home. Because the program is often a child’s first experience in an audience setting, it is important that adults strive to arrive on time and actively help children focus on the presentation. For more information, call the Children’s Reference Desk at 231-3162.

Little Garden Club of Rye For more information on hours and programs, visit ryelibrary.org.

Rye Library Writers On Saturday, Jan. 6 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. in the Ogden Nash Room. Share work and brainstorm with fellow writers and be encouraged in a welcoming and supportive environment. Discuss works in progress, writing topics, the writing process and individual writing joys and challenges. Open to novice and experienced writers.

Mother Goose Monday On Mondays from 10 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. or 10:45 a.m. to 11:05 a.m. in the Children’s Room. Recommended for infants and toddlers. Nursery rhymes, songs, and finger plays. “Granny Jean” Klein, wellversed in early childhood development, introduces babies and toddlers to playful rhymes, songs,

On Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 10:30 a.m. to noon in the Meeting Room. Meet Nancy Berner and Susan Lowry, authors of “Gardens of the Hudson Valley.” The book focuses on the region’s historic landscape and how gardens have been integrated into it. Photographers Steve Gross and Susan Daley have selected 25 gardens between Yonkers and Hudson, including famous estate gardens that are open to the public, like Kykuit, Boscobel, the Vanderbilt mansion and Olana, and private gardens that combine sweeping views and lush plantings.

or 11 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Please choose one session to attend. Children will wiggle to music, giggle to funny rhymes, and pretend to be wild and wonderful animals in this lively interactive program with “Dawny Dew” Halasz. Music is a natural connection tool. It brings people together and helps them interact with one another. Children are engaged with the use of puppets, felt board activities, nursery rhymes, and songs. This activity encourages active participation by parents and other caregivers. This 20-minute weekly musical program promotes early language skills and socialization. Please note that doors close five minutes after the program begins to prevent interruptions and help focus audience attention on the presenter. Please be prepared to enjoy the Children’s Room while waiting for the next session to begin. For more information, contact the Children’s Reference Desk at 231-3162.

Spin-A-Yarn

Tunes for Tots

On Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Ogden Nash Room. Open to the public. Information needlework, fabric arts get-together. Bring your own project and supplies and work and chat.

On Thursday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Children’s Room. Recommended for infants and toddlers. Nurture your toddler’s love of books through music, movement and instruments while helping to develop their language, motor and social skills. Join Miss Deborah as she incorporates stories, music, dancing, rhythm activities, puppets and more at this special music program for toddlers. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate.

Wiggle, Giggle Time On Wednesday, Jan. 10 at 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m.

Teen STEM: Projectile Launcher On Thursday, Jan. 11 from 4:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Participants will learn about kinetic and potential energy as they design their own launching device. Projectile motion uses kinetic energy and Newton’s laws of motion to understand the motion of objects moving in two dimensions. If you’re not sure what this all means, join Irum Khan as you send ping-pong balls flying. Space is limited. Registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” the event date, and then “Register.”

Graham Clarke’s Musical Fridays On Fridays from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Families are always welcome. Rock out at the Rye Free Reading Room on Friday mornings when popular children’s musician Graham Clarke performs. Kids love Graham’s silly humor and fun songs and will enjoy moving and grooving to the beat with this energetic performer. Please arrive early to find parking; doors will be closed 10 minutes after show begins or when room is at “fire code” capacity, and no one will be admitted after that. Weather permitting, Graham’s performance will be outside on the Village Green where a larger audience can be accommodated.

Ryebrary S.T.E.A.M.ers On Friday, Jan. 12 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Meeting Room. All Ryebrary S.T.E.A.M.ers in grades K–2 are invited to join the librarians once a month in the “New S.T.E.A.M. LAB,” where literacy meets science. Each month, participants will read a book together, then taking inspiration from the story, will teach kids how to think with their hands and minds. It’s inquiry-based learning combined with a hands-on activity in the fields of science, technology, engineering, art or mathematics. Space is limited. Registration is required.

Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” “Kids,” the event date, and then “Register.”

The Great Library Escape On Saturday, Jan. 13 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. for grades K–2, and from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. for grades 3–5 in the Meeting Room. Registration is required for either session. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” “Kids,” the event date, and then “Register.” Are you in grades K–2? Are you a team player? Do you like to solve fun puzzles? Then come to the Rye Free Reading Room for the “Great Library Escape.” But... It’s a secret! Are you in grades 3–5? Are you ready for a real-life gaming adventure? Are you a team player? Do you have what it takes to use critical thinking skills to search for clues and solve fun puzzles? Can you do this in one hour or less? If you answered yes to these questions, then come to the Rye Free Reading Room for a “library lockdown.”

The Rye Arts Center The Rye Arts Center is located at 51 Milton Road in Rye. For more information, call 967-0700 or visit ryeartscenter.org.

Paint a Winter Scene On Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. With instructor Larry D’Amico. For adults. It’s the middle of winter. Warm up those hands by painting a winter scene at The RAC. Join D’Amico for this one-day workshop, exploring the colors and tones of winter. This workshop open to all levels. Please bring a canvas and paint set (acrylic or oil) to class, as well as any seasonal inspiration you may have. Fee: $105; members receive discount.

Make a 3-D Printed Fidget Spinner On Wednesday, Jan. 10 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. With instructor Nicole Zahour. For ages 9 to 12. Learn to work in CAD design to create your own 3-D printed fidget spinner. Mathematics and design concepts will be discussed as each student creates their own unique spinner. Work will be printed after class and available for pick up in a week. All supplies included. Fee: $20; members receive discount.

County news Golf course closings The six county-owned golf courses closed for the season after play on Sunday, Dec. 31. The courses are Dunwoodie, 231-3490, and Sprain Lake, 231-3481, both in Yonkers; Maple Moor, 995-9200, in White Plains; Mohansic, 862-5283, in Yorktown Heights; Saxon Woods, 231-3461, in Scarsdale; and Hudson Hills, 864-3000, in Ossining. The courses are expected to reopen in March, weather and conditions permitting. The exact date will be announced.

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.

January 5, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 5

Rye Neck students learn ‘The Biology of Friendship’ Juniors and seniors at Rye Neck High School recently welcomed Dr. Michael Platt, a professor of interdisciplinary knowledge at the University of Pennsylvania, as a special guest speaker at their school. During his college-level lecture, “The Biology of Friendship,” Platt discussed the brain’s functions and one’s ability to increase social connec-

tions and friendships. Through years of research, Platt said that he has found that one’s perceptions are centered in the neurons and can be influenced by a variety of factors, including genetic makeup, outside social relationships and increased social interaction. He told the students that although one’s ability to form so-

cial connections rests partly upon genetics, chemical and hormonal makeup, people could improve, build and strengthen their brain neurology simply by using it in social settings. His studies have also shown that reading novels, traveling and mingling with different people can increase one’s perspective on the world and understanding for

Rye Neck High School students welcome Dr. Michael Platt, a professor of interdisciplinary knowledge at the University of Pennsylvania, as a special guest speaker at their school.

the way others think, as well as build empathy. Platt encouraged the students to interact with other people, listen to them closely, make eye contact, work in teams and reduce power distinctions within a group, all of which strengthen the neurological network that makes our social connections stronger. Following the lecture, the students—who had studied some of Platt’s research papers prior to his visit—had the opportunity to share their ideas, make contributions and ask him questions. Platt’s visit was arranged and sponsored by the Rye Neck PTSA High School/Middle School STEAM Committee, chaired by Susan Banker. “His personal charisma and acute intelligence, together with an easy style of delivery, made him a most approachable and attractive model for social interaction, and a speaker of impact for Rye Neck PTSA’s STEAM enrichment program,” Banker said. “We are asking students to go beyond their departmentalized knowledge and strive for ‘out of the box’ innovative thinking, obtainable in this case through Dr. Platt’s studies in the interrelationship of biophysics, psychology and sociology, and economics.” (Submitted)

Rye Neck High School senior Rachel Rubin and junior Curtis Alter interact with Platt, who engaged them in a sensory exercise about the way the human brain processes information. Photos couresty Rye Neck school district

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Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com Reporter | James Pero ext. 20, james@hometwn.com Reporter | Franco Fino ext. 18, franco@hometwn.com General Assignment | Taylor Brown ext. 30, taylor@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Nancy Kaplan ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Photographer Jen Parente Columnists John Carey, Rye City Council, Joe Murphy

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New Rochelle native

brewing up success By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter Diner Brew Co., is putting a unique spin on traditional hard ciders. Chris Sheldon, the founder and head cider maker at Diner brewery, currently sells seven different ciders, including Cidre Des Huguenots, a farmhouse hard cider, Herbalist’s Cider, a lavender coriander hard cider, and Checkmate Sour Cider, a hard cider fermented twice with German and Japanese yeast. “[The ciders] are always going to drink like a dry prosecco or champagne, made from apples, not grapes,” Sheldon told the Review. The ciders fall between 7 and 8 percent alcohol. Sheldon, a native of New Rochelle, said this was important for him because these percentages put his ciders at an alcohol level that falls between that of beer and wine, when a majority of ciders on the market typically fall under that percentage. “It’s nice for the wine drinker, and it’s nice for the beer drinker,” he said. “I wanted to be able to hit both markets.” Sheldon first began trying his hand at brewing in 2008 while he was a junior at Boston College. Sheldon said he and his roommate were feeling unsatisfied with the beer made available to them in stores and at bars, so they sought out a beer-making kit to create their own. While the initial product wasn’t

Chris Sheldon, founder of Diner Brew Co. Photos/Taylor Brown

Pedro Santos, a cider maker for Diner Brew Co., bottles the Cidre Des Huguenots by hand.

satisfactory, Sheldon said, “it kind of like sparked an interest.” He went on to say, “That’s how you start, by fumbling along and trying your best and following your recipe.” After they had run out of ingredients, Sheldon took the kit and made his first batch of cider. “I just listened to someone’s

instructions, used the equipment I had, [and] made sure I was sanitary with my process,” he said. “At the end of the day, the cider that I made that very first time was inspiring.” Fast forward nine years later, and Sheldon has his ciders on tap in 16 different retailers in New York, including Smokehouse in

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Mamaroneck, Growlers in Tuckahoe and DeCicco & Sons in Larchmont. “The passion grew into an obsession, which then started taking over all of the livable spaces I was in,” he said. Sheldon said after realizing that cider making had begun taking over his life, he knew he had to turn it into a profession. Sheldon knew he would need help running his business, so he turned to Pedro Santos. The two met at a meeting of the Dogs of Wort, a homebrewing club in New Rochelle, which Sheldon co-founded. Santos shares a similar background to Sheldon in how they both became home brewers during college. “I just got tired of drinking what was available,” said Santos, who attended college in Puerto Rico. He began working with Sheldon a month ago, and has already witnessed the rapid growth of Diner Brew Co. “I think it’s going to grow really big, to the point that we’re going to get more employees, expand and move somewhere bigger,” Santos said. Part of what has made Sheldon’s product so popular are his unique

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Diner Brew Co., a cidery brewery in Mount Vernon, sells seven different ciders.

Tea is brewed for the Herbalist Cider.

flavor twists on hard ciders. “I don’t want my ciders to ever be comparable to an apple-based malt beverage,” he said. With his products Sheldon hopes to be able to expand people’s expectations and understanding of what can be done with a hard cider. He showcases this desire in two of his drinks, the White Shiro Miso hard cider and the Double Perk, a coffee cider. “This is kind of pushing boundaries,” Sheldon admits. He explained that his dream for the company doesn’t stop there. Sheldon currently holds a farm cidery license, which allows him to produce and sell cider in New York State, and is working on acquiring his farm brewery license, which would allow him to brew and sell beer as well as cider in New York State. Sheldon said he sees the company growing in many different directions, but despite his business’ success, he intends to take things slow. For a full list of places with Diner Brew Co. on tap, or to order their merchandise, visit Dinerbrewco.com. CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com

January 5, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 7

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BCW announces new board members The Business Council of Westchester has announced the election of a slate of new board members that bring a diverse range of experience and talents to the county’s largest and most influential business organization. “We are truly honored to have such a distinguished group of business leaders joining our board of directors. They bring many years of experience in the fields of healthcare, biotech, sports marketing, education and real estate. We are fortunate to have these proven leaders join our board as we move forward with major initiatives in 2018,” said Marsha Gordon, BCW president and CEO. Elected to three-year terms were five new board members.

Kristin Bernert, senior vice president of Business Operations for the New York Knicks and Westchester Knicks. Photo courtesy liberty.wnba.com

David Campbell, vice president of LeChase Construction Services in Armonk. Photo courtesy linkedin.com

Erin Loosen serves as associate director of Government Affairs & Public Policy for Regeneron. Photo courtesy linkedin.com

Dr. Joseph Ricca serves as superintendent of schools for the White Plains City School District. Photo courtesy whiteplainspublicschools.org

Lynn Richmond is the executive vice president and chief strategy officer for Montefiore Medicine. Photo courtesy modernhealthcare.com

Kristin Bernert

David Campbell

Erin Loosen

Dr. Joseph Ricca

Lynn Richmond

is senior vice president of Business Operations for the New York Knicks and Westchester Knicks. After overseeing the WNBA New York Liberty’s business development for five seasons and basketball operations for two seasons, she was promoted to her current position in October 2016. In her current role, Bernert oversees all aspects of business operations, including marketing, ticket sales, sponsorships and player relations, as well as the Knicks entry into the new e-sports league with the NBA and NBA 2k. Bernert has nearly two decades of sports business experience, previously serving as president of the Los Angeles Sparks. She also worked as vice president of Team Business Development for the NBA and WNBA.

serves as vice president of LeChase Construction Services in Armonk. As a builder, Campbell has added value to projects nationwide for top construction firms since 1987. He has held various leadership positions in project planning, project management and executive management. He received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Warren National University and served as adjunct professor at New York University in the construction program from 1997-1999. Campbell received certification as a cost consultant from the American Association of Cost Engineers International and both CM-Lean and CM-BIM certifications from the Associated General Contractors of America.

who joined Regeneron in 2012, serves as associate director of Government Affairs & Public Policy. She is a seasoned corporate affairs professional focused on growing Regeneron’s local, regional and state presence. During her tenure at Regeneron, Loosen has held numerous positions. Currently, she has primary responsibility for Regeneron’s New York State government affairs and also supports Regeneron’s Washington, D.C. based federal Public Policy team. With a strong background in legislative affairs and deep understanding of economic development, Loosen is poised to help support and grow Regeneron’s leadership position in the life-sciences industry.

serves as superintendent of schools for the White Plains City School District. Previously, he served as superintendent of the Elmsford school district and the East Hanover Township School District in East Hanover, New Jersey. Ricca is an expert in the fields of academic achievement, character education, social and emotional learning, instructional technologies, professional evaluation, equity in education, community relations and curriculum development. As superintendent of schools, he has worked to create and support the highest quality educational organization while maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency. Ricca, who began his career as a history teacher, has served as an assistant principal and principal as well as a superintendent of schools/chief educational officer.

is the executive vice president and chief strategy officer for Montefiore Medicine with responsibility for Strategic Planning, Public Affairs, Government and Community Relations, Health Policy and Community Health. Richmond guides the organization’s strategic direction and its relationships with external constituents, including elected and governmental officials, community and the public, as well as leading the development and implementation of an integrated, enterprisewide strategy across Montefiore and Einstein. She is responsible for Montefiore’s participation in the New York State/Federal Waiver program known as DSRIP and oversees DSRIP initiatives.

In addition to the new board members, Anthony Justic, partner of Maier Markey & Justic, was re-elected chairman. Michael Fosina, president of NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital, is joining the executive committee. (Submitted)

10 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • January 5, 2018

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Empire City announces comedy shows in January

Adrienne Iapalucci, featured standup for Yannis Pappas.

Make a New Year’s resolution to laugh a priority with Empire City Casino, the destination for a pair of Wednesday Night Comedy shows on Jan. 17 and Jan. 31. Comedy Central funnyman and MSG Networks’ ”The Bracket” host, Yannis Pappas, headlines on Jan. 17, while onthe-rise Westchester native standup Paul Virzi tops the bill on Jan. 31 in the casino’s popular Good Time Room. Pappas has appeared on AXS TV, TruTV, VH1 and “Good Morning America,” and was the first comedian to ever do standup on the new “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon. His album, “Let Me BeYannis,” was awarded Album of the Year for 2016 by SiriusXM Comedy, and his half-hour Comedy Central special is available on Amazon, iTunes and ComedyCentral. com. Pappas will be joined by featured stand-up Adrienne Iapalucci and Tom Cassidy as the host. Bronx-born Iapalucci competed on season seven of the hit NBC television series, “Last Comic Standing,” while Cassidy

Tom Cassidy, host of the Jan. 17 Empire City Casino comedy night.

Yannis Pappas, headliner for the Jan. 17 comedy show. Photos courtesy Empire City Casino

launched his career in Philadelphia at The Laff House Comedy Club. Virzi’s 2015 debut comedy album “Night at the Stand” reached No. 1 on iTunes and No. 4 on Billboard’s Top 100. Virzi has made appearances on a gamut of television programs including TruTV’s “Comedy Knockout,” AXS TV’s “Gotham Comedy Live,” the NFL Network’s “Good Morning Football,” FOX’s “Redeye,” and has also written for the ESPN ESPY Awards. He was first attracted to stand-up comedy at age nine when he watched Eddie Murphy’s “Raw.” Joining Virzi is featured comedian Randy Syphax, who has performed in the New York Comedy Festival, and the evening’s host, Bronston Jones, who stands at 6

feet 7 inches tall with giant-sized jokes called “certifiably unique” by LA Weekly. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door the night of the show. Admission is $5 for Empire Club members and $25 for non-members. Non-members can stop by any promotions booth prior to the show and join the Empire Club for free. Elite Club and President’s Club members gain free admission. All attendees receive a complimentary drink ticket. While visiting Empire City, patrons can try their luck on the IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars slot machine, where the record jackpot, only available at Empire City, is fast-approaching the $2.7 million mark. (Submitted)

January 5, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 11

Rye Neck students design chair prototypes Rye Neck High School students in Lori Penesis’ Advanced Engineering classes are creating prototypes for new chairs in

their creative learning spaces. They’re applying the concepts they’ve learned in their physics classes for a structural engineer-

ing application to solve a real-world problem. Penesis said that her students have been working in groups

Rye Neck High School students in Lori Penesis’ Advanced Engineering classes work on creating prototypes for new chairs. Photos courtesy Rye Neck school district

to brainstorm ideas about how they can improve the furniture in their classrooms. Using PVC piping for the desk attachment, plastic for the fittings and synthetic wood for the desktops, the students are designing their own prototypes. “One group is working on creating a symmetrical desk,” Penesis said. “They will rotate the desk all around and lock it for a left-handed user.” Throughout the course of the semester, the students have been researching different types of engineering designs and thoroughly studying the role of an engineer. They’re also learning how various mechanisms work, and how to troubleshoot and safely build a functional product. “If you look at something simple, you get surprised at how much thought goes into it because you take it for granted,” Penesis said. “The idea that the students are able to use what they know, through physics and science, to solve a problem that they see around them, like the chair, that’s an interesting thing. They’re learning as they go.” Penesis’ classes will create two different prototypes for chairs and continue to gather feedback about the users’ experience. (Submitted)

The students apply concepts they’ve learned in their physics classes to create a structural engineering application that helps solve a real-world problem.

12 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • January 5, 2018

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14 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • January 5, 2018

Jeets’ dilemma LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

If I had ever had the good fortune of being a beloved professional sports star, there’s one thing—for sure—that I wouldn’t be so quick to do; namely, risk my athletic legacy by jumping headfirst into a front-office role. Now don’t get me wrong; I understand the allure that these decision-making jobs hold for former pros. With few exceptions, successful professional athletes who attempt to make that leap are driven, single-minded repositories of knowledge in their fields and confident that their unique vision can turn even the most hapless franchise into a winner. But you have to wonder: does the risk match the reward? Over the last few months, retired Yankee great Derek Jeter has made another splash in the sports world, putting together an ownership group to take over the failing Miami Marlins. Since assuming control of the organiza-

tion, Jeter has followed up with a reportedly disastrous meeting with season-ticket holders by jettisoning the team’s biggest draws in Giancarlo Stanton (to the Yankees, no less), Marcell Ozuna and Dee Gordon and announcing plans to actually raise ticket prices in 2018, earning him exactly zero good-will from the Marlin “faithful.” But while it remains to be seen if Jeter’s plan eventually leads the fish back to prominence, one thing is certain: the beginning has been rocky to say the least. If he does fail in his new role with the Marlins, however, Jeter will have plenty of company. New York fans are well acquainted with former stars stepping into new positions after their retirements and otherwise damaging the legacy they built in their playing days. Knicks fans remember all too well the tenure of Isiah Thomas, who followed up a Hall of Fame professional playing career with disastrous stints as the general manager and team president of the New York Knicks. Even Michael

SPORTS

Jordan, who assumed controlling ownership of the Charlotte Hornets/Bobcats in 2010, has guided the team to a less-than-impressive 188-288 record. Of course, MJ is considered by many to be the greatest basketball player of all time, so I’d imagine the Hornets could lose 70 games a year without it counting too heavily against his reputation, but how many people—at least in New York—now view Thomas as a failed GM, rather than an alltime great player? But in the end, I would guess that it is precisely that daunting challenge that makes this a great opportunity for Jeter. If he can somehow make the Marlins a viable contender, he will have accomplished something that very few retired athletes can lay claim to. At the very least, however, if the Yankees win a title with Stanton anchoring the lineup, he can be assured of his own ticker tape parade down New York’s Canyon of Heroes. So that’s something.

Follow Mike on Twiter @LiveMike_Sports

Derek Jeter has had a rocky start to his tenure as the part-owner of the Miami Marlins. And there isn’t a long history of athletes having success behind the scenes. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.org

Rye stays perfect against Harrison BOYS BASKETBALL

league

RYE 64 HARRISON 52 COUNTY CENTER

12/23/17

Game Notes: • Rye had 4 players score in double figures • The Garnets are off to an 8-0 start • Rye and Harrison will play again on Jan. 6 By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On Dec. 23, the Rye boys’ basketball team shined on the brightest stage that Section I has to offer, as the Garnets topped league rival Harrison 64-52 at the Westchester County Center. The win—Rye’s seventh of the year—helped the Garnets head into the new year with an unblemished record. After an uncharacteristically inconsistent first quarter, the Garnets began to heat up in the second, amassing a 26-17 lead over the Huskies before the half.

Rye was led by a balanced offensive effort that saw four players, including Max Samberg (15 points), AJ Thompson (10) Matt Tepedino (11) and Collin Kelly (18) reach double-digits. That depth of scoring has been Rye’s calling card this year and a major reason for the Garnets’ scorching start. Tepedino admitted that Rye’s second-quarter explosion was simply a question of settling into the game. The Huskies, paced by Tyler Menniti’s 13 points, hung tough but were unable climb back into contention once the Garnets got it going offensively. “We only scored eight points in that first quarter, so we started a bit slow,” Tepedino said. “We knew we needed to pick up the pace of the game, and when we did, our shots started falling.” With the win over the Huskies—and a Dec. 29 victory over Pearl River in which Quinn Kelly notched 23 points—the Garnets head into 2018 as the owners of an 8-0 record, although they will get set for several upcoming league games which should prove to be tests for the team. Both Rye

and Harrison will be in action on Jan. 5, as the Huskies take on Pelham and Rye hosts Eastchester, before the two rivals are slated to meet again the following day. According to Tepedino, however, it may be tough for the upcoming game against Harrison to approach the thrill of playing them at the County Center. The game may have been even more significant because of the uncertain future of the White Plains venue playing host to a slate of postseason basketball games. In December, Section I announced that in breaking with the longstanding tradition of holding both boys and girls semifinal and championship rounds at the County Center, the sectional title games will be played at Pace University. “It’s always a great atmosphere anytime we play Harrison, especially at the County Center,” he said. “And it was definitely bittersweet because every year, we always talk about how the goal is to get to the County Center, and now we just don’t know.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

Rye’s Matt Tepedino drives past a Harrison defender at the Westchester County Center on Dec. 23. The Garnets topped the Huskies 64-52. Photo/Mike Smith

SPORTS

January 5, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 15

Titans roll against New Ro ICE HOCKEY

non-league

RTH 5 NEW ROCHELLE 2 ICE HUTCH ARENA

12/20/17

Game Notes: • Matt Milone had two goals in the Titans’ win • Nico Barry made 20 saves for Rye Town/Harrison • The Titans are currently 6-0

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On Dec. 20, the Rye Town/ Harrison Titans fought through a slow start and a rash of penalties to top New Rochelle 5-2 and keep their perfect season intact. But even at 6-0 on the year, the surging Titans know they will have to continue to improve as they hope to make a deep playoff push. Heading into the third period with a slight 3-2 lead, senior Matt Milone gave the Titans some a much-needed cushion, beating Huguenot netminder Nathan

Alex Vasapolli celebrates a goal against the Titans.

Kirschenbaum with a top-shelf wrister from the point. A few minutes later, Joey Harrison put the game away with the Titans’ second goal of the period, ending any chance of a New Rochelle comeback.

“At that point, it was a onegoal game, and anything can happen,” Milone said. “I think that goal helped us gain a little more confidence.” Toward the end of the second period, the Huguenots seemed

Jack Shapiro makes a move on Marc Alexander at the Ice Hutch. Photos/Mike Smith

Matt Milone celebrates a third-period goal against New Rochelle on Dec. 20. Milone had two goals in the Titans’ 5-2 win.

to be gaining momentum, taking advantage of some inopportune Titans penalties to storm back into contention. According to Milone, staying out of the box has been something of a problem for the Titans this year, despite the team’s undefeated record. “It’s the same thing that happened to us against Harvey on Monday night,” Milone said. “And it’s something we know we have to work on.” With a renewed commitment to clean hockey in the third, however, the Titans’ skills were on full display. “At intermission, I just told them to forget the first 30 minutes and concentrate on the last 15,” said head coach Rich Myers. “And you saw that from them at the end, winning what was essentially a 15-minute game at that point.” The win was Rye Town/Harrison’s second over New Rochelle this year, having previously beaten the Huguenots 4-3 on Nov. 25. “The first time we played, it

Nico Barry makes a pad save on a shot by New Rochelle’s David Benko. Barry had 20 saves.

was only our second game together,” Milone said. “We were still learning how to play as a unit, but we have definitely improved since then.” The Titans stayed perfect on Dec. 22, topping previously unbeaten North Rockland on the

road before rounding out 2017 with their first loss of the year, a 4-0 defeat at the hands of a surging Rivertowns team. The club will be back in action on Jan. 8 when they host Scarsdale. CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

16 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • January 5, 2018