November 17, 2017 by The Rye City Review

RyeCity REVIEW THE

November 17, 2017 | Vol. 5, Number 46 | www.ryecityreview.com

In Westchester, ‘Trump-Effect’ nets huge gains for Dems By JAMES PERO Staff Writer

Cerebral Palsy of Westchester hosted its 12th annual A Taste of Westchester, giving attendees a chance to try more than 30 of the county’s finest dining establishments, while raising money to fund a park for children with and without disabilities. For story, see page 6. Photo/Sibylla Chipaziwa

City approves proposal to landmark cemeteries, square By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer The Rye City Council has approved the preservation of three historical locations and added them to a list of places protected under local law. The decision to landmark Baird Square, the Milton Cemetery and the Purdy Family Burial Ground as protected sites, which would prevent any advance to alter, demolish or reconstruct the locations, comes as part of a continuation of the city Landmarks Advisory Committee’s agenda to further preserve Rye’s downtown as a historic district.

The proposal was approved by the City Council unanimously on Nov. 8. “This is a continuation of promoting our history, culture and heritage, and makes our city more attractive and a desirable place to live,” said Maurio Sax, a member of the landmarks committee, who explained last month that the effort would prevent overdevelopment and environmental destruction of Rye’s monuments. Baird Square, which is located at the intersection of Boston Post Road, Purchase Street and Milton Road, was named in memory of the Rev. Charles W. Baird,

the beloved former minister of the Rye Presbyterian Church. The land, gifted to the city by Baird, is surrounded by a low ledge and edged on one side with a sidewalk leading uphill toward Christ’s Church. Born in Princeton, New Jersey, in 1828, Baird was one of the longest serving ministers of the church, serving from 1861 until his death in 1887. The Purdy Family Burial Ground, which is located on the same parcel of land as the Milton Cemetery, served as the private burial plot for one of Westchester’s first families. A plaque located on the land reports that

the Purdy family purchased the property in 1685. After occupying Massachusetts in the 1600s, the French Huguenot family drifted around a number of locations in the New England region. Most of the Purdy family descendants populated Rye and CrotonOn-Hudson. Historically, the American Revolution split the Purdy family into two opposing sides: those that supported King George III, who all signed a declaration of endorsement for the king at the time in White Plains, and those LANDMARK continued on page 8

Anti-Trump sentiments fueling voter angst rose from merely prognostications to a blue wave of Democratic voters this year helping push the party to victory in Westchester County as well as key states across the country. On top of state Sen. George Latimer’s sound defeat of Republican County Executive Rob Astorino, Democrats saw major gains in the county’s Legislature, where successful challenges helped increase a partisan advantage from nine seats to 12, securing a super majority and mirroring party success throughout city, town and village elections. According to Doug Forand, a senior partner at political consulting firm Red Horse Strategies in Brooklyn, New York, Democratic wins this election cycle—a non-presidential, offyear election usually characterized by tepid voter turnout— weren’t just a result of success on the campaign trail, but a product of strategic opposition to President Donald Trump. The outcome has been termed the “Trump-Effect.” “[Trump opposition] was a very significant element of this election season,” Forand said. “We weren’t surprised. We’ve done a couple special elections and we started to see this wave materializing.” According to Forand, whose firm worked on the Latimer campaign as well as campaigns of other Democrats in the county, like most strategists and

Democratic candidates moving to capitalize on simmering resentment toward the Trump administration, he was unsure of what the magnitude of Trump opposition would be, but with passing time and the crystallization of solid voting data, its efficacy has been borne out, and indicates a full-blown political phenomenon. Forand said that Red Horse has already begun to analyze the results of previous Westchester County executive races, and according to the firm’s calculations, voter turnout in this election has outpaced the last four executive races, with the closest turnout coming in 2005 when nearly 9,000 less voters re-elected Democrat Andy Spano over then-challenger Astorino. But compared to 2013—the last county executive race which pitted Astorino against New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson— county Board of Elections data shows there was a 46 percent increase in Democratic voters this year, while Republican votership remained almost completely static. According to Jake Dilemani, the senior vice president for Mercury Public Affairs, a multinational political consulting group, even Latimer’s worst re-election performance for his New York state Senate seat would have been enough to beat Astorino this year. Astorino was first elected in 2009 and had dealt rather easily with two previous Democratic challengers. TRUMP continued on page 8

2 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

November 17, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 3

Daniel Warren first-graders discover powers of magnets Daniel Warren Elementary School first-graders kicked off their new science unit on magnets by exploring the properties of magnetism through a number of science demonstrations and hands-on activities. Thanks to a generous grant from the PTSA, the students welcomed Brad Line, a scientist from High Touch High Tech, to their classrooms on Nov. 1 and Nov. 2

and experienced the science enrichment program on magnets. Line, who brought energy and excitement to his presentations, interacted with the students as they discovered how the north and south poles of a magnet attract and repel each other. As part of the experiments, the students explored the different properties of magnets, watched how a magnet can attract a chain

of paper clips and experienced how it can move a toy car. “At this age group, it’s important for the students to actually experience [the concepts they’re studying about] because it can really deepen their understanding,” first-grade teacher Stephanie Cataldo said. “It’s a great program and opportunity to kick off our unit on magnets.” (Submitted)

Daniel Warren Elementary School first-grade students explored the properties of magnetism.

The experiments are part of a science enrichment program on magnets led by Brad Line, a scientist at High Touch High Tech. Photos courtesy Rye Neck school district

4 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

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

Thanksgiving. Please bring a friend and enjoy this evening of stories meant for grown-ups. Refreshments will be served.

Shakespeare’s ‘Julius Caesar’

For more information on hours and programs, visit ryelibrary.org. The library will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 23.

NaNoWriMo On Saturday, Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Meeting Room. NaNoWriMo Part 3: The Plot Thickens. With Maureen Mancini Amaturo. Don’t stop now. You’ve been writing and inventing and imagining, so what’s next for your story and your writing life? Participants will discuss how to create scenes, move the plot ahead, and think about satisfying story endings. Not necessary to have a work in progress. Participants will do in-class writing exercises for fun and share comments with anyone who would like feedback on their own work. The goal is to establish a writing routine that allows you to achieve 500 words a day. Join in and see how easy that goal can be.

Tellabration On Saturday, Nov. 18 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Presented by Rye Storytellers Guild. This annual event features the telling of stories throughout the world on the Saturday before

On Sunday, Nov. 19 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. in the Meeting Room. With Dr. Mark Schenker. In the first of his Roman history plays, the Bard tells the story of the murder of Julius Caesar and the gruesome aftermath as Rome descends into a violent mob.

Teacher-In-The-Library On Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Children’s Room. For grades K–5. Drop by the library where Rye teachers offer homework help to students attending local public and private elementary schools in the Rye and close surrounding areas. This is a free program sponsored by the Auxiliary Board of the Rye Free Reading Room, Woman’s Club of Rye/Children’s Philanthropy Section, and the PTO of the Rye Schools.

Marilyn’s Musical Maracas: A Bilingual Storytime On Tuesday, Nov. 21 from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Join Marilyn Castillo for a blast of culture, music, and language in Spanish. Have fun learning simple words, numbers, and colors en español through simple songs and rhymes, while moving to music fiesta style. Music helps children retain words and expressions much more effectively. The rhythm of the music, as well as the repetitive patterns within the song, helps kids memorize new

words, making it an easy way to teach a second language.

Rye STEAM Rollers On Friday, Nov. 24 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Meeting Room. All Rye S.T.E.A.M. Rollers in grades 3–5 are invited to join the librarians once a month in the new S.T.E.A.M. LAB, where literacy meets science. Each month pareticipants will read a book together, then taking inspiration from the story, librarians 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. November’s book is “Grand Canyon” by Jason Chin. Children do not have to pre-read the book. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” “Kids,” the event date, and then “Register.”

year it has spent almost $25,000 on dog and cat food. Can you help offset these costs? Your gift today will help ensure that our rescued animals will have a nutritious meal on Thanksgiving Day—and every day of the year. Please visit ny-petrescue.org to make a donation via PayPal. With sincerest gratitude and warmest wishes for a happy Thanksgiving.

Wainwright House

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.

Thanksgiving Workshop: Polymer Clay On Saturday, Nov. 18 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. for ages 6 to 8, and from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. for ages 9 to 12. Come celebrate fall at The Rye Art Center and get ready for Thanksgiving by creating a cute polymer clay turkey sculpture to decorate your holiday table. Terry Taylor shows students how to use “Magic Color Clay” to create beautiful multi-color coils for the turkey’s tail. Participants will learn how to transform simple balls and coils of clay into a one-of-a-kind turkey sculpture. Includes all supplies. Fee: $15; members receive a discount. To register, visit ryeartscenter.org.

Rye Chamber of Commerce Volunteers wanted Volunteers are needed for the Mistletoe Magic event, to be held on Sunday, Nov. 26. This is an outdoor, pedestrians only event. There are three shifts available: setup from 10 a.m. to noon; activities, including being helper elves and giving out food, from noon to 2 p.m.; and take down and cleanup from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Volunteers are welcome to work more than one shift. To volunteer, please contact Lisa Urban at lisaurban05@gmail.com, or Bill Lawyer at wglhillside@aol.com. Include name, age, phone number and shift(s) desired. There will be a follow-up to finalize assignments.

Pet Rescue Thanksgiving drive During the upcoming holiday season, we’re reminded how thankful we are to have wonderful friends like you who care about helping homeless animals. Thanks to your generosity and support, Pet Rescue is able to give them a second chance. Very often, the dogs and cats the organization rescuez arrive in poor condition. Some have lived on the streets, foraging for food; some have been badly neglected or abused. For these cats and dogs, especially, nutritious food is essential because it gives their immune systems a badly needed boost. In just a week, Pet Rescue can see a difference; they fill out, their eyes and coats glisten and they’re frisky and happy. While some food is donated to Per Rescue, last

Vino & Vinyasa On Thursday, Nov. 30 from 7:45 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. Yoga is all about finding balance, so Wainwright House is thrilled to introduce a monthly Vino & Vinyasa class, where you can have your wine and yoga, too. Join in for an hour of yoga followed by a wine tasting conducted by Larry Kaiser, Wainwright’s general manager and wine connoisseur. Fee: $25 per person, but this event is free to those participating in the MOVEmber Challenge. For more information, contact Laurie Jordan at ljordan@wainwright.org or visit wainwright.org.

LEGOLAND Westchester LEGO Star Wars Days From Friday, Nov. 17 through Sunday, Nov. 19. May the Force be with you as Jedi Knights, Droids and Clone Troopers invade LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester during the LEGO Star Wars Days. The weekend features fun-filled activities for all ages including a themed mosaic build in the Master Builder Academy, a Star Wars MINILAND scavenger hunt, and photo opportunities with LEGO Star Wars creations built by the center’s Master Model Builder. Star Wars fans are encouraged to dress as their favorite character while exploring the ultimate LEGO Star Wars galaxy of fun. Costumed fan groups will also make appearances to meet and greet fans of all ages. Annual Pass holders are encouraged to attend the LEGO Star Wars Days kickoff at 4 p.m. on Nov. 17. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester is located at 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers. Tickets start at $15.95; children under 2 are free. Opening hours: Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call 866-243-0770 or visit legolanddiscoverycenter.com/westchester. Deadline for our What’s Going On section is every Thursday at noon. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to news@hometwn.com.

November 17, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 5

Westchester County jail wins national award Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino announced on Nov. 3 that the county jail has received national recognition for its Community Oriented Re-Entry, CORE, program, which provides mental

health services to inmates. Selected from more 500 jails, prisons and other correctional facilities nationwide, Westchester’s efforts won “Program of the Year” honors from the National Com-

mission on Correctional Health Care, a top accreditation group. The award was presented on Nov. 6, in Chicago. “A lot of people talk about the importance of providing mental

The Westchester County jail has received a national award for inmate mental health services. Contributed photo

health services to people in jail,” said Astorino. “This award recognizes that Westchester is delivering services with positive results.” The CORE program follows the key principles of Astorino’s ‘Safer Communities’ initiative: address root causes and then marshal a coordinated response. Launched

in November 2014, CORE is a partnership among the county’s Department of Correction, Department of Community Mental Health, and New York Correct Care Solutions, the inmate health services provider at the jail. The program also relies upon several community partners who specialize in the needs of inmates with mental health issues, as well as from volunteers, such as clergy, musicians, artists and former prisoners committed to recovery. Housed on the fourth floor of the jail, CORE provides intensive daily programs for inmate-patients who have been diagnosed with serious mental illnesses. CORE participants, which include men, women and minors, are screened by qualified mental health professionals and the jail’s administrative team. Emphasizing the principle that “discharge planning begins at intake,” a key goal of CORE is to link inmate-patients with critical services in their home communities. CORE offers both individual and group-based therapy and focuses on improving participants’ life skills, job readiness, family reintegration, spirituality and substance abuse recovery. Through the use of art and music therapy, guest speakers and other workshops, participants are able to discuss their fears, anxieties and other struggles in an interactive and productive manner not custom-

arily seen in jail settings. Several participants and facilitators spoke about the program, citing its honest and straight-forward approach, and how it deals with the mental, psychological and spiritual aspects of treatment and recovery. “They don’t treat me like a number,” said Joe, an inmate who is participating in the program. “They treat me like an individual.” The benefits of the program have been two-fold: Fewer incidents inside the jail, such as fights and assaults on staff, and reduced recidivism outside. “The reasons for CORE’s success are easy to see,” Astorino said. “Issues are addressed rather than ignored and relationships are created so that individuals leave the county jail with a network of experiences and services that will help them.” Astorino added: “For too long, far too many of our nation’s jails and prisons have been filled with the people struggling with mental illness. The feedback we have received on CORE from everyone – from correction officers to inmates to mental health clinicians – has been truly remarkable. Ensuring that this population receives critically needed services while in jail directly enhances public safety when they return to their home communities, both in Westchester and beyond.” (Submitted)

6 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

RyeCity REVIEW THE

170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000

Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com 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

Letters The community’s opinion matters. If you have a view to express, write a letter to the editor by email to chris@hometwn.com. Please include a phone number and name for verification purposes. Community Events If you have an event you would like to share with the community, send it to news@hometwn.com. Delivery For home delivery or to subsribe, call (914) 653-1000 x27. Classifieds & Legals To post your notices or listings, call (914) 653-1000 x27. Postmaster Send address changes to: The Rye City Review c/o HomeTown Media Group, 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601 Visit us online www.ryecityreview.com

The Rye City Review (permit #438660) is published weekly by Home Town Media Group for an annual subscription of $45. Application to mail at the periodicals postage rate is approved at White Plains, N.Y., 10601. Periodicals postage paid at White Plains and additional mailing offices.

A Taste of Westchester raises $50k for all-inclusive park By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter Cerebral Palsy of Westchester’s A Taste of Westchester event has helped to raise money for the organization to create a fully accessible park for children with and without disabilities. On Nov. 13, Cerebral Palsy of Westchester, CPW, a nonprofit organization that provides services for children and adults with cerebral palsy, a condition caused by brain damage, hosted its 12th annual A Taste of Westchester. Stephanie Russo-Pastihla, associate executive director for CPW, said the funds from the evening will be allocated toward the creation of Harmony Park, an all-accessible sensory garden and park for children that will be located on CPW’s Rye Brook campus. Russo-Pastilha estimated the event raised $50,000. “I would definitely say it was a big success… and [that] we’ve raised more money [this year] than in years past,” she said. A site plan application for the park was submitted to the village of Rye Brook Planning Board in January, which specified that the park would include 14 pieces of recreational equipment “that provide a therapeutic component in the inner courtyard.” According to Richard Osterer, board president of CPW, they have broken ground on the park, but as of press time, there hasn’t been an official opening date announced. Osterer said, “Little ones whose lives are too often defined by challenges will reap the critical benefits of play that come so naturally to ‘typical’ kids.” At $125 a ticket, the event brought out more than 300 people who were given the opportunity to bid on curated gift baskets, purchase raffle tickets, and try dishes from more than 30 restaurants from around Westchester County. All the funds from these sales will go toward CPW. Russo-Pastihla said the participating restaurants played a key role in helping bring in people to the event. Beyond the delicious sam-

From left, tuna tartare with avocado, crispy shallot and soy-lime vinaigrette, and hanger steak with potato gaufrette, jalapeno mashed potatoes and chimichurri by BLT Steak in White Plains. Photos/Sibylla Chipaziwa

ples, eventgoers were treated to a cooking demonstration from Jean-Claude Lanchais, the executive chef at the Renaissance Westchester Hotel. Lanchais made a crab avocado salad with a dressing of mustard, mayonnaise, ketchup and hot sauce. Other notable attendees included Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont, who said he believes the event serves an important role in

making others aware of the work that CPW does. “To host an event like this is sensational,” he said. Belmont added that A Taste of Westchester is also important because it brings friends and family together and raises awareness and funds for a common cause. “We do as much as we can,” he said. CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com

Baskets were auctioned off as part of the evening’s event.

From left, Richard Osterer, and Peter Russo, executive committee chairman for A Taste of Westchester.

A TASTE OF WESTCHESTER PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Albanese’s Chocolate Fantasies in Scarsdale Angelina’s Ristorante in Tuckahoe Antipasti di Napoli at The Briarcliff Manor in Briarcliff Manor Antonees Gourmet Catering in Tuckahoe Basta in Ossining BLT Steak in White Plains Blue Moon Mexican Café in Bronxville Captain Lawrence Brewing Company Chocolations in Mamaroneck Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant & Inn in Chappaqua Don Coqui in White Plains Edible Arrangements of Eastchester in Eastchester Emma’s Ale House in White Plains EQUUS at the Castle Hotel & Spa in Tarrytown Havana Central in Yonkers Hive Living Room + Bar in White Plains Longford’s Own-Made Ice Cream in Rye Lulu Cake Boutique in Scarsdale NoMa Social in New Rochelle Quenas Restaurant in Harrison Texas De Brazil in Yonkers The Gourmet Taste Catering in Rye Brook The Olde Stone Mill in Tuckahoe Walter’s Hot Dogs in Mamaroneck Williams Sonoma in White Plains Wood & Fire in Plesantville

November 17, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 7

8 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

Mock Trial team participates in Yale Princeton Debate Members of the Rye Neck High School Mock Trial team outperformed Yonkers High School during a debate at the annual Yale Princeton Debate, which took place at Ardsley High School on Nov. 3. The topic the students were presented with was whether or not all American citizens who do not vote should pay a fine. Senior debaters Allie Liebmann and Rachel Rubin presented the affirmative side on the topic. “Both girls delivered convincing points that led to a unanimous decision by the judges,” said Marcella Scalise, the Rye Neck High School Mock Trial team coach and a social studies teacher. Sponsored by the Yale and Princeton Alumni Associations of Westchester, Rye Neck was one of six teams from Westchester County who participated in the competition. Mock trial is an academic competition in a courtroom setting that allows students to prepare and argue both the prosecution and defense sides of a case and compete against students from across the state. (Submitted)

LANDMARK from page 1

based in North Salem who were detractors of England’s rule. After the war, a majority of the loyalist supposedly sailed for Nova Scotia, Canada. “My perspective on all the landmarks in the city is that we need to preserve as much Rye history as we can,” said Councilwoman Emily Hurd, a Democrat and liaison to the landmarks committee. “This is a big step forward for the committee.” Other well-known protected sites in Rye include the city’s former municipal hall and current home of the Rye Historical Society, the Square House, along Purchase Street, which had notable guest President George Washington in 1789, and the Jay Mansion, which is owned by the Jay Heritage Center. The Timothy Knapp House and the Parsons Estate at the

The city of Rye has approved a proposal by the city Landmarks Advisory Committee to designate Baird Square, the Milton Cemetery and the Purdy Family Burial Ground as protected sites. Photo courtesy ryeny.gov

Rye Nature Center are also protected sites. According to Sax, the landmarks committee has several other proposals in the pipeline as well. He said the committee is expecting a proposal to replace the city’s welcome signs, which

run along Rye’s borders. The landmarks committee first discussed the idea last year; however, it fell by the wayside after a formal proposal was never introduced. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

TRUMP from page 1

From left, Rye Neck High School Mock Trial team member Rachel Rubin, social studies teacher Marcella Scalise and Mock Trial team member Allie Liebmann.

Democrats this election cycle had the benefit of a backlash against President Donald Trump as well as a strong union turnout to help vote down a ballot proposal for a constitutional convention. The perfect storm led to a blue tidal wave on Election Day that saw the party capture victories across the board. Photo courtesy Flickr.com

Rye Neck High School Mock Trial team members Conor Flood, Emily Michaels, Allie Liebmann, Rachel Rubin, Olivia Dunne and Jack Masciopinto and teacher Marcella Scalise. Photos courtesy Rye Neck school district

Connect with us on @linkedin.com/company/hometown-media

“President Trump’s low approval ratings and the general disgust among the electorate… certainly contributed to the Democratic enthusiasm experienced across the country, and right here in Westchester,” Dilemani said. “[Latimer’s] immense talent for retail politicking and an incredible work ethic, coupled with his representing a substantial share of the county’s swing turf in the state Senate, where he has consistently won re-election, made him the best Democratic candidate for this race.” But lesser-known Democrats also benefited on Election Day. Damon Maher, a New Rochelle Democrat, wrestled away control of a seat that had been in Republican hands since 2010, defeating incumbent county Legislator Sheila Marcotte, of the 10th legislative district. “I

spoke with at least 2,000 people along the way in Tuckahoe and New Rochelle,” said Maher, who by his tally knocked on nearly 9,000 doors during the campaign. “When you mentioned the Republican Party and Astorino, for some people that’s all they had to hear.” Against Marcotte, a formidable Republican opponent who had won three previous re-elections to the seat, Maher was the beneficiary of 7,158 Democratic votes, an increase of 3,481 votes over Marcotte’s previous Democratic opponent, Haina Just-Michael, in 2015. In total, the Maher-Marcotte race saw a turnout increase of 53 percent, or more than 4,600 additional votes, compared to the 2015 race. Maher also credited nationally spearheaded grassroots Dem-

ocratic groups like Indivisible, which have used their framework—a model crafted after the far-right Tea Party movement—to galvanize Democrats across the country, and seemed to help mobilize Westchester voters as well. Locally, Democrats carried out sweeps in communities throughout the county, in some cases shifting the balance of governmental power to Democrats. Forand said that for many Democrats that voted, their return to the fold marked a foray into local politics and a clear message that they’re re-engaged with their communities. “In some ways this is a rekindling of understanding how important local races are,” he said. “There’s a recognition that every race matters.” CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

November 17, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 9

Rye Neck students inducted into honor society Twenty-three Rye Neck High School juniors and seniors were inducted into the school’s Thespian Society troupe during the annual International Thespian Society induction ceremony on

Nov. 6. The International Thespian Society, a division of the Educational Theatre Association, is an honor society for high school students who are recognized for

their dedication and participation in the theater and performing arts. Inductees are required to earn points and complete at least 100 hours of service in the field. They earn points either by par-

Juniors and seniors are induceted on Nov. 6. Photos courtesy Rye Neck school district

ticipating in theater productions at the high school, taking theater classes, attending theater enrichment opportunities or a combination of all three. Once a student has earned enough points, he or she can be inducted into the International Thespian Society during their junior or senior year. “I’m so proud of how well they have performed over the past few years, sometimes under intense pressure, and through it

all they’ve thrived, achieved and learned so much,” said Scott Harris, theater director and Thespian Society troupe director. “Rye Neck’s theater students are wonderful, and as a theater teacher, it’s really my pleasure to be able to work with such fine young students.” International Thespian Society inductees include seniors Anne Alcin, Sabrina Angulo, Emma Finkenberg, Joshua

Goldin-McCarthy, Margaret Kohler, Omar Laguerre-Lewis, Danny Morningstar, Raven Parham, Alyssa Rainaldi, Keeley Stuff, Leo Swatski, Rebecca Taylor and Yoli Zarate; as well as juniors Sydney Bisceglia, Jazzy Cores, Stella Ewen-Tanaka, Kathleen Fox, Ryan Germani, Jake Guagnini, Milo Haviland, Ris Igrec, Grace O’Rourke and Zoe Schuman. (Submitted)

Students needing to complete 100 hours of service, perform in theater productions, take theater classes, attend theater enrichment programs in order to be inducted.

10 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

November 17, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 11

found objects that often represent human empowerment. He is best known for his “Soundsuits”—colorful and whimsical suits that were first created in response to the Rodney King riots, pictured above. These suits fully cover the body and empower the wearer by preventing any bias by the viewer about the wearer’s identity. Influenced by the Dada art movement, artist Arman protested against the materialist ideals found in the Modernism movement. Using found and discarded items, he constructed new pieces that act as a voice of nonconformity. The exhibition title’s use of the word “object” has double meaning: the word can be defined as a tangible item, as well as an act of protest or opposition. In this exhibition, both artists embrace both meanings, as the objects in their works act as agents of social commentary. “Their shared love of objects found in popular culture makes their work visually arresting and intellectually satisfying, full of rich associations and symbolic meaning,” explained KMA Executive Director Darsie Alexander. In KMA’s Learning Lab, collected materials will be on hand for visitors to use as part of a collaborative installation or personal artwork. Visitors are invited to incorporate their own tchotchkes into the collective piece. For more information, visit katonahmuseum.org.

Sponsored by

The Review, in collaboration with ArtsWestchester, offers a rundown of art-related events throughout Westchester County. You can find our Arts in the Area page each month.

New book by acclaimed choral conductor “A Practical Guide to Choral Conducting,” a new book by critically acclaimed choral conductor and Westchester resident Dr. Harold Rosenbaum, was recently published by Routledge. It offers a valuable resource to conductors, singers, organists and music teachers about challenges that all conductors of choral ensembles face. The book reveals a behind-the-scenes look at 50 great choral works from throughout history, along with analyses and suggestions that will help to aid conductors in directing each piece. Rosenbaum lends his keen ears, observations from his 45-year career and personal insight to provide practical technical ideas for conductors and singers to consider during performances. Rosenbaum is the founder and conductor of The New York Virtuoso Singers, now in its 30th season. For more information about the book, visit routledge.com.

-Mary Alice Franklin

Baroque master exhibited at iona college

Songcatchers celebrates 40 years with documentary Songcatchers continues its 40th anniversary celebration with the premiere of a new documentary, “40 Years of Music-Making: A Tribute to Songcatchers,” by filmmaker Nicholas Carter. Presented in tandem with New Rochelle Council on the Arts on Nov. 19, the documentary chronicles the history of the nonprofit choral group. The documentary also honors the group’s founder, Sister Beth Dowd, who began the group with a mission to nurture programs that “create a peaceful community spirit and enable growth of body, mind and spirit.” The event will feature a performance by the group’s intergenerational concert choir, which will be joined by former members and friends to sing a selection of their favorite and signature songs. For more information, visit songcatchers.org. -Mary Alice Franklin

An exhibition presented by Iona College Council on the Arts this month explores Flemish artists of the 16th and 17th centuries and the Flemish Baroque period. Twenty-six works from the collection of Seena and Arnold Davis were carefully chosen by curators Tom Ruggio and Thomas Germano to provide a narrative of the Baroque period, with Peter Paul Rubens as the connective tissue. All of the works “somehow relate to the political and religious climate from which Rubens emerged, his development in Antwerp, travels to Italy, artists who worked alongside him and students in his workshop,” explains Ruggio. “Peter Paul Rubens and the Flemish 17th Century” showcases four works by Rubens, including “Head of Marie de’ Medici (Study for Reconciliation of the Queen and her Son).” The exhibition is on view through Nov. 30 at Iona College’s Brother Kenneth Chapman Gallery. For more information, visit bit.ly/IonaCollegeArts.

-Rocio De La Roca

Arman, Nick Cave at Katonah Museum of Art Through Jan. 7, 2018, Katonah Museum of Art, KMA, presents the work of two visual artists who each gather and reassemble everyday items from their surroundings as a way to create a commentary and open dialogue about their environments. “Object Out Loud: Arman and Nick Cave” showcases more than 20 works that utilize the power of these found materials to speak volumes about the society from which they were taken. Nick Cave creates garments and sculptures out of

Artists explore voting rights On Nov. 6, 1917, women won the right to vote in New York state. As a result, organizations throughout the county are also taking a look at the history of women’s suffrage and voting rights. ArtsWestchester: The “Give Us The Vote” exhibition commemorates this anniversary with works that shine a light on the suffrage movement, as well as works that examine barriers to the voting ballot that still exist in America today. For instance, Natalie Baxter’s suspended white and gold flags and umbrellas reference the 1916 protest during which delegates had to walk through a line of women wearing white attire with gold sashes and umbrellas; her work “The Golden Lane” is pictured above. Laurel Garcia Colvin combines images of women’s rights figures from throughout history, leading to the recent women’s rights marches, along with protest signs and resources for visitors to write to their local representatives. Works in the exhibition look at what it took to get to this point, and the work that still needs to be done for equal voting rights for all citizens of the United States. For more information, visit artsw.org/giveusthevote.

Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art: In conjunction with ArtsWestchester’s “Give Us The Vote” exhibition, two artists have created a voting booth for Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art, HVCCA, which is on view through Dec. 17. For “Women Warriors,” five large-scale panels by artist Isis Kenney depict suffragettes like Susan B. Anthony and Sojourner Truth in their fight for equal rights. It also portrays modern day feminist icons such as Sonia Sotomayor, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and Oprah Winfrey as superheroes. Culture-laden flags by popular muralist Cey Adams are also on display. According to HVCCA director and co-founder Livia Straus, “[The exhibition] looks to history to teach what has been accomplished and what ingrained issues still must be addressed.” Kenney and Adams both use bold visual signifiers of hip-hop to address what it is to be an American. For more information, visit hvcca.org. New Castle Historical Society: The New Castle Historical Society’s exhibition explores women’s suffrage and the life of Carrie Chapman Catt, a leading suffragist and former New Castle resident. Through historic documents, replica artifacts such as “Votes for Women” sashes, pennants and buttons, as well as historic photographs of suffragists participating in rallies, this exhibition explores the story of the men and women who fought for the creation of the 19th Amendment. Catt, a founder of the League of Women Voters, was a driving force in the expansion of the suffragist movement as she proposed that supporters campaign for suffrage on the state and federal levels simultaneously. The exhibition is on view through June 30, 2018. For more information, visit newcastlehs.org. Neuberger Museum of Art: In Neuberger Museum of Art’s “Votes!” a set of wall panels, provided by the New York State Museum, delineate the struggle for voting rights that women faced between 1848 and 1917. The project also focuses on New Yorkbased cartoonist and suffrage activist Lou Rogers, who was born Annie Rogers. Her political cartoons had a pro-women stance and were published in many magazines and newspapers. Finally, a voting booth in conjunction with ArtsWestchester’s “Give Us The Vote” exhibition will be designed as an art installation by Purchase College’s Political Science class. For more information, visit neuberger.org. -Mary Alice Franklin

These articles appear in the November 2017 issue of ArtsNews, ArtsWestchester’s monthly publication. ArtsNews is distributed throughout Westchester County. A digital copy of the full issue is also available at artsw.org/artsnews.

12 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

The Classifieds • Advertising that gets results OUR RATES:

$42.50 for up to 4 lines. Each additional line $2.00. Classifieds ads appear in all five of our publications.

HOW TO REACH US:

Email: ads@hometwn.com Phone: (914) 653-1000 x27 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203, White Plains N.Y. 10601

DEADLINE:

Placement, correction or cancellation of an ad may be phoned in any time before noon on Monday for publication

ADOPTION Loving family from Europe, looking to adopt a baby into home filled with happiness, security, unconditional love. We whole-heartedly welcome a child of any race/ethnicity. Please contact Chantal, Geoffrey and big brother Noah, through our NY adoption agency! 1-914-939-1180 adopt@foreverfamiliesthroughadoption.org

AUCTIONS A U C T I O N - R E A L P R O P E R T Y TA X FORECLOSURES ESSEX COUNTY. November 29, 11AM. Best Western Plus, Ticonderoga Inn & Suites, Ticonderoga. Call: 800-243-0061; AAR, Inc. Free Brochure: www.NYSAuctions.comm

AUTO DONATIONS Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 914-468-4999 Today! Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 315-400-0797 Today!

COLLECTABLES T O P C A S H PA I D I N S TA N T LY F O R COLLECTIBLES! -WE BUY Baseball Cards, Autographs, Records, Silver Coins, Golf Items, Art, Jewelry, Comics Etc., Call Jim Today @ 914-310-5153

HELP WANTED AIRLINE CAREERS Start Here! Get trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM for free information 866-296-7094

MISCELLANEOUS SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 - MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill-Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSawmills.com. 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N

REAL ESTATE Wooded upstate NY land with LAKES, PONDS & STR EAMS being liquidated NOW! 13 tracts! 5 to 41 acres! 50-60% below market! No closing costs! Owner terms! 888-905-8847 NewYorkLandandLakes.com

ATTENTION LAW FIRMS Are You Seeking Class Action Lawsuit Plaintiffs?

WANTED TO BUY Buying Diamonds, gold, silver, antique and modern jewelry, better furs, U.S. and foreign coins, paintings, bronzes, complete estates. Highest prices paid. Call 914-260-8783 for appointment

SOONER OR LATER... SOMEONE’S GOING TO BLAB IT ON

WVOX

You are entitled to cost-effective advertising placement in more than 330 daily and weekly newspapers across New York State! • Affordable turn-key campaign solutions • Reach more than 8.3 million readers • Regional and National placement also available

November 17, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 13

14 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

Holiday squabbles LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

As people around the nation prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving next week, the Internet is awash in folks telling their own Turkey Day horror stories, publicly preparing for the worst as they get ready to enjoy a delicious—yet stressful—time with their families. Most of the tales are wellworn at this point. From decades old resentments flaring into fullblown arguments around the dinner table, to heated political discussions that turn the meal sour, nearly everyone has had some sort of experience that, at one time or another, made them at least consider plopping down on their own couch with a TV dinner instead of subjecting themselves to a potentially calamitous Thanksgiving gathering. In that regard, I’ve been fairly lucky. Our family’s Thanksgivings are traditionally festive

affairs full of good food and good times—politics have rarely, if ever, come between us no matter how much wine happens to be flowing. But each year— and especially this one—there is one touchy subject that lurks like a powder keg: sports. My family, while close-knit, has no shortage of diverse rooting interests. I may be the lone Red Sox fan in the group, but we’ll have Met fans sitting with lifetime Yankee supporters, Jets and Giants rooters breaking bread with one another, and cousins competing in family fantasy leagues sniping at each other about impactful stat corrections. It can sometimes be overwhelming. No strangers to busting chops, my family members can often be brutal at gatherings. I’ve written here before about the Johnny Damon Yankees jersey that was gifted to me at Christmas by my grandma, after Damon left Boston for the Bronx. When Mets’ starter Noah Syndergaard got hurt in April, my teenaged cousin—who bleeds Orange and

SPORTS

Blue—found a Thor bobblehead waiting for him when the family got together for the Fourth of July. This year, I don’t really know what to expect. The Sox beat the Yanks for the AL East title, but the Bombers came within one game of the World Series. The Jets may have bragging rights over the Giants for now, but success for Gang Green is always a tenuous thing, so I don’t expect to hear much from the Flight Crew around the table. The only thing I know for sure is that my cousin Andy, a lifelong Eagles fan, will find someway to slip the birds’ dominance in the NFC into just about every conversation we have. I think I’ll have to keep in mind that Thursday isn’t about petty squabbles, it’s about family, food and giving thanks. I, for one, am just thankful that the Giants aren’t playing until 8:30 p.m. Maybe everyone will go home by the time they kick off.

Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports

On Nov. 23, families around the nation will come together for Thanksgiving. Sports Editor Mike Smith just hopes his meal isn’t ruined by sports squabbles around the table. Photo courtesy pexels.com

TO COVER LOCAL SPORTS, YOU NEED A

LIVE MIKE! Follow Mike Smith @LiveMike_Sports stats • recaps • commentary Follow Mike Smith @ryecityreview for Mike’s live, in-game action updates

SPORTS

November 17, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 15

Titans up for new challenges

Rich Myers will take over coaching duties for the Titans this year. Myers has spent 15 years working with the White Plains Plainsmen club program. Contributed photo

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor With a host of returning players—and a new coach calling the shots—the Rye Town/Harrison Titans hit the ice last week in preparation for the 2016-17. Given the team’s success over the past few years, the Titans are hoping to once again vie for supremacy in a crowded Division I landscape. Newly appointed head coach Rich Myers will be behind the bench for the Titans this season, following 15 years of coaching

at the club level with the White Plains Plainsmen. According to Myers, his familiarity with the players on the combined team that features players from Blind Brook, Harrison, Rye Neck and Port Chester has been a boon in the early-goings of the preseason. “Fortunately, I’ve either personally coached or coached against nearly every kids on this team, and they know me too,” Myers said. “And I’ve been pleasantly surprised as far as the skill level of the team; there’s not a big drop-off talent-wise.” After earning appearances in the Section I finals in both 2015 and 2016, the Titans head into the upcoming campaign coming off an 11-9 regular season record and a first-round playoff exit against Clarkstown. This year’s squad brings back a number of standouts, including speedy winger Max Chalfin, who led all returners with 20 points last season. Chalfin will be joined on the offensive end by fellow senior Sam Kaplan, who had 10 assists last season, and junior Jack Shapiro, who tallied 11 total points. Senior defenseman Matt Milone will give the Titans a solid physical presence on the blue

line and should also be a major offensive contributor as well. Although Myers admitted that he’s still becoming familiar with the talent on the roster, with nearly 30 players on the roster, he hopes to see the Titans use their depth and skill to their advantage. “We plan to run a high-intensity, fast-tempo speed game,” he said. “But you can’t make kids faster, so we if that style doesn’t fit, we’re going to have to make adjustments going forward.” The Titans officially kick off the year on Nov. 24, when they suit up for the annual White Plains Invitational Tournament held at the Ebersole Ice Rink. With three games in three days, the tourney should help the Titans figure out where they are as they get ready for the rest of the regular season. “Early on, I just want to see that we are outworking other teams, and I want to see that we are making sound hockey decisions,” Myers said. “Everyone is in the same boat early on, everyone is a little rusty, but our guys have been playing together, and I think that is an advantage.”

Max Bucci controls the puck in a game last season.

CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

Matt Milone fires a shot in 2016. Milone will be the team’s most experienced defenseman this winter. Photos/Mike Smith

Max Chalfin fights for a puck last season. Chalfin comes into this season as the team’s returning leader in points.

16 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • November 17, 2017

s e h s i l b u P Eastchester REVIEW THE

Harrison REVIEW THE

Mamaroneck REVIEW THE

THE

CityREVIEW NewRochelle

RyeCity REVIEW INSIDE

THE

INSIDE WESTCHESTER COUNTY

170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains N.Y. 10601 (914) 653-1000