RyeCity REVIEW THE
March 16, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 11 | www.ryecityreview.com
IT’S ALMOST TIME
Learn the importance of camps, plus everything you need to know about sending your child to one. For more, see page 11.
Governor stumps for Mayer in Larchmont Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, made a pit stop in the village of Larchmont over the weekend to stump for state Senate candidate and current state Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer, in her pivotal upcoming special election. On March 11, in the village’s VFW Post, Cuomo, accompanied by County Executive George Latimer, a Democrat, and Democratic Senate Minority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, endorsed Mayer in her race against Julie Killian, a Republican from Rye. The two candidates are competing for the Senate’s 37th District seat which was vacated by Latimer at the outset of the calendar year after winning the county
executive race in November 2017. The special election is scheduled for April 24. During the rally, Cuomo impressed upon the audience the importance of the Senate seat— which will help decide the fate of a slim, one-seat majority by Senate Republicans—and its national implications. “In the face of the concerted federal assault from Washington, it is more important than ever that we have strong, progressive leaders in office fighting for our shared values like Shelley Mayer,” Cuomo said. In April, Democrats will look to capitalize on Democratic resentment toward President Don-
ald Trump which helped propel Democrats throughout Westchester County and nationally into office. Killian responded to the event with a statement. “I hope the governor is here to assess the damage from the storms and provide a real plan of action to help local families who are still suffering without power,” she said referring to two significant storms that caused chaos on the county in the span of eight] days. “In Westchester County, politics should be the furthest thing from the governor’s mind right now.” Democrats are banking on another large turnout for this election to follow on the heels of Elec-
tion Day last November, which saw Democrats win almost every seat in play locally due to myriad of factors, including discontent with Republican control of the White House. For her part, Killian will be tasked with ameliorating a distinct Democratic edge in Senate District 37, which encompasses parts of Yonkers and much of the Sound Shore region. According to the county Board of Elections, 37th Senate District’s enrollment numbers in 2017 favor Democrats by 28,000 registered voters—a figure that mirrors the nearly 2-1 advantage Democrats enjoy countywide. -Reporting by James Pero
Westchester approves immigration bill By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer In an 11-3 vote on March 12, Westchester lawmakers passed a bill to set a policy on immigration enforcement that will limit the county’s ability to cooperate with federal law enforcement agencies. Known as the Immigration Protection Act, the policy will limit what information the county Public Safety and Corrections departments can share with agencies like the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, and will prevent county authorities from aiding federal law enforcement in investigations based on race, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity and national origin. The bill was supported by the county Democratic Caucus, in addition to one Republican, Legislator David Tubiolo, of Yonkers. Two Democrats, legislators Mike Kaplowitz, of Yorktown, and Lyndon Williams, of Mount Vernon, were not present for the vote. County Legislator Catherine Borgia, an Ossining Democrat, said, “We have made history tonight by passing the Immigration Protection Act, which enhances safety in Westchester County by increasing trust and cooperation between county employees, particularly law enforcement and all residents.” According to the legislation, the county will not honor federal detainer requests made by ICE agents and Customs and Border Protection unless accompanied
by a judicial warrant. The law will also prohibit law enforcement from interviewing undocumented immigrants housed in the county’s jail for the purpose of immigration-based offenses without a warrant. In a joint statement, Legislator Margaret Cunzio, of Mount Pleasant, and Minority Leader John Testa, of Peekskill, both Republicans who voted against the bill, said the law would make Westchester a “sanctuary county,” as it would “protect undocumented criminals sitting in the county jail, and eliminate the distinction between legal and illegal immigration.” They also took issue with a provision that was omitted from the final bill that would have allowed count law enforcement to communicate with federal immigration authorities if the person in question was a known gang member. This is a reasonable exception since we know of MS13’s growing presence… it was removed and when we asked for it to remain in the law, it was denied, the statement read. A similar immigration bill was passed by the county Legislature last year in a 9-8 party line vote; however, it was vetoed by former County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican. The new legislation must now be signed into law by County Executive George Latimer, a Democrat, who has already pledged to approve the bill. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
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2 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
March 16, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 3
Change your clocks, check your batteries
The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York reminds you to check your smoke alarms now that daylight saving time is here. Photo courtesy pixabay.com
The days are getting longer, the temperature is warming, and daylight saving time is here. The Firemen’s Association of the State of New York, FASNY, urges all New Yorkers to take this opportunity check their smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure their homes are properly protected. If alarms have removable batteries, those batteries should be replaced. Alarms equipped with sealed-in batteries should be tested to ensure they are in proper working condition. Alarms that are more than 10 years old should be replaced. At the end of 2015, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law that will require all smoke alarms sold in New York state to be equipped with sealed-in, non-removable batteries that last for at least 10 years. The new law will take effect in 2019 and marks an important step in improving New York’s fire safety. According to research from the National Fire Protection Association, three of every five home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms, and the vast majority of smoke
alarm failures are due to dead or missing batteries. Ten-year smoke alarms require little maintenance, and unlike alarms with removable batteries, they are nearly impossible to deactivate. Regardless of the type of alarm in one’s home, FASNY urges everybody to take some time and ensure their alarms are in proper working order. “Smoke alarms are the single most importance appliance found in every home,” said FASNY President Ken Pienkowski. “FASNY urges all New Yorkers to conduct routine, simple maintenance to ensure these lifesaving devices are in proper order. We strongly encourage New Yorkers to install 10-year smoke alarms, which cannot be easily deactivated. Equally important is installing and maintaining carbon monoxide alarms, which are also critical in protecting life.” FASNY smoke and carbon monoxide, CO, alarm tips: Test alarms at least once a month by using the test button. If you have an alarm with a removable battery, be sure to check the batteries every six months,
and change the batteries every year. If a battery is starting to lose its power, the unit will usually chirp to warn you. Do NOT disable the unit. Vacuum or blow out any dust that might have accumulated in the unit. NEVER borrow a battery from an alarm to use somewhere else. NEVER paint a smoke or CO alarm. Install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home, including the basement, and in, or near each sleeping area. Smoke alarms should not be installed near a window because drafts could interfere with their operation. Families should also develop and practice a home fire escape plan. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for testing smoke alarms and replacing the batteries. For more information on smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and other information on fire safety and prevention, visit fasny.com and nfpa.org. (Submitted)
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4 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
What’s going on... Rye Free Reading Room
For more information on hours and programs, visit ryelibrary.org.
Essential Oils with Valerie Altman On Saturday, March 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Ogden Nash Room. Interested in learning about young living essential oils, but don’t know where to start? Join Valerie Altman for an Oils 101 class where you’ll learn what essential oils are, what they can do for you and how you can get started using them in your daily lives.
Yoga for Teens On Saturday, March 17, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Damien Germino will guide participants through a basic yoga session, which will demonstrate how yoga can have profound positive effects, both physically and mentally, when practiced regularly. To register, go to the event descriptions at ryelibrary.org and click on the “Register” button.
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, 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.
Lunch at La Scala On Mondays from noon to 3 p.m. No need to travel to Italy. Join the library here in Rye for six Mondays at noon (bring lunch or a snack) and watch some of the most popular operas ever recorded at Italy’s famed La Scala. On March 19, experience “Andrea Chenier” by Umberto Giordano. Made possible by the support of the Dineen Classical Music Gift Fund.
Teacher-In-The-Library On Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30 p.m.
to 5:30 p.m. in the Meeting Room while the library is open. Rye teachers offer after school homework assistance to students attending local public or private elementary schools in the Rye area. This is a free program. This event is sponsored by the Auxiliary Board of the Rye Free Reading Room, Woman’s Club of Rye/Children’s Philanthrophy Section and the PTO of the Rye schools.
Marilyn’s Musical Maracas - A Bilingual Storytime On Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Join Marilyn Castillo at the library on Tuesday mornings 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.
Spin-A-Yarn 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.
Wiggle, Giggle Time On Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m. 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.
Tunes for Tots On Thursday, March 22 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 music teacher Miss Deborah as she incorporates music, dancing, rhythm activities,
puppets and more at this special music program. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care On Thursday, March 22 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Join the library for a discussion about Alzheimer’s and dementia with MaryAnn Ciambriello, who has more than 30 years in the home care industry. In addition to being a certified Alzheimer’s and dementia trainer, she is known for her passion and her commitment to five-star quality care and has worked in and managed all areas of elder care throughout her career. She is also a service driven visionary who clearly understands the medical, financial and business side of the Alzheimer’s and dementia care business. She is the owner of Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care LLC.
Using Your iPad and iPod with the new iOS 11, Part 2 On Thursday, March 22 from 10 a.m. to noon in the Raho Technology Center. This session covers many iPad and iPod features such as using the App Store, and downloading apps. Reading books via iBooks and the Amazon Kindle Reader. Also covered will be iTunes for listening to music, podcasting, and viewing TV shows and movies. Attendees should bring their fully charged iPads to class. It is not necessary to have an iPad to attend as there will demonstrations and handouts. First come, first served. Former IBM executive and instructor Mike Negrelli specializes in teaching adults and senior citizens.
How to Correct Reading Challenges and ADHD Naturally On Thursday, March 22 from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Suzanne Buchauer, who has a master’s degree in education, presents a groundbreaking, drug-free correction program called the Davis Correction Programs, which has achieved a 97 percent success rate for adults and children with reading, math, and ADD/ADHD challenges. This fun, empowering process uses the participant’s strengths and talents to overcome learning challenges, with fast results. Presented by Holistic Moms of Westchester.
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.
Rye S.T.E.A.M. Rollers On Friday, Feb. 23 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, 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 sci-
ence, 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.”
Practice SAT exam On Saturday, March 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Take a full-length practice SAT exam under real test conditions. Detailed score reports high-lighting personal strengths and weaknesses will be available at applerouth.com the Friday after the test. The exam and reports are free. Register at applerouth.com/signup. Call 371-8000 for more information. Test-takers should bring water, a snack, pencils and a calculator.
The Rye Arts Center The Rye Arts Center is located at 51 Milton Road in Rye. Winter classes have begun. For more information, call 967-0700 or visit ryeartscenter.org.
Spring and Summer Classes Spring and summer classes are now available. The Rye Arts Center offers a wide range of visual and performing arts and STEAM program opportunities for children, teens and adults at all skill levels. Explore the center’s guide and find the perfect creative outlet for you and your family at ryeartscenter. org.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester LEGO City Builder Enjoy building city scenes with LEGO bricks at home? Let your creativity loose with LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester’s newest play space: LEGO City Builder. This is an interactive city that visitors can add their own elements and designs right into the display. The new play area includes skyscrapers, police and fire stations, cafes, suburban streets, beaches, a LEGO Friends section and more. Celebrate the grand opening of this exciting new space with photo opportunities and custom builds created by Master Model Builder Anthony Maddaloni. Admission starts at $16.95; children under age 2 are free. Opening hours are Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester is located at 39 Fitzgerald St. in Yonkers. For more information, call 844-740-9223 or visit westchester.legolanddiscoverycenter.com.
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.
March 16, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 5
County to offer free Narcan training
The Westchester County Department of Health will offer free training for the public on how to respond to an opioid overdose using Narcan. Photo courtesy Westchester County
Would you know what to do if someone overdosed? The Westchester County health department offers free life-saving Naloxone (Narcan) training for residents. When administered correctly, the nasal spray Narcan restores breathing that has been dangerously slowed by an overdose of heroin or prescription painkillers. Narcan works within a minute or two and gives emergency responders time to get the person to a hospital. Residents who participate in the free trainings learn how to administer Narcan, and are given a free Narcan kit. Residents 18 years of age or older who want to be trained to administer Naloxone (Narcan) should register online at westchestergov.com/health for the training dates listed below. Register early as space is limited. The next scheduled Narcan trainings are: • Thursday, March 29 at 6 p.m. at The Warner Library, 121 N. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591 • Friday, April 20 at 10 a.m. at the Port Chester - Rye Brook Public Library, 1 Haseco Ave., Port Chester, NY 10573 What is Naloxone (Narcan)? Naloxone is a life-saving drug that can revive overdose victims. Its brand name is Narcan. Naloxone (Narcan) helps restore breathing to a person who is overdosing from opioid drugs such as heroin and prescription drugs such as oxycontin, oxycodone and fentanyl. It also is used to reverse the effects of narcotic drugs used during surgery and to treat pain. How is Naloxone (Narcan) administered? Westchester County Department of Health offers trainings on how to administer Narcan through a nasal spray. In a clinical setting, Narcan can be injected intravenously. How do I find out more about Naloxone (Narcan) trainings for law enforcement and first responders? Local police departments and first responders interested in arranging a training can contact the
Westchester County Department of Health at 864-7298. How do I find out more about Naloxone (Narcan) trainings for residents? The Westchester County Department of Health offers free community opioid overdose trainings. Trainings are comprised of a PowerPoint presentation, as well as a hands-on demonstration to ensure that participants are able to administer Narcan. Those who complete the training will receive a free Narcan kit and will be certified to administer Narcan for two years in New York state. Can I request training for my organization or agency? If your organization or agency is interested in arranging a training for your group, please call the Division of Health Promotion at 995-6584. How do I find out about other Naloxone (Narcan) trainings available in the community? Residents can learn about additional trainings held in the Lower/Mid-Hudson Region by visiting the NYS Department of Health’s community calendar of opioid overdose trainings at health.ny.gov. Will I get in trouble if I report an overdose? Many overdose deaths can be prevented if emergency medical responders are notified. However, people using drugs illegally often fear police involvement and arrest if they call 911. To protect people from arrest and prosecution, New York state provides limited immunity from arrest or prosecution for minor drug and alcohol law violations for people who seek help at the scene of an overdose. For more information on the Good Samaritan Law, also known as the Fatal Overdose Prevention Law, see the 911 Good Samaritan informational brief at drugpolicy.org. What should I do if suspect an overdose? Call 911 if you suspect an overdose, and seek medical attention even if Naloxone (Narcan) has been used. The effects of Nal-
oxone (Narcan) can wear off and the effects of the overdose drug can return in 30 to 90 minutes. How can I safely get rid of prescription drugs that I have at home? Unwanted or expired medications can be disposed of safely, conveniently and confidentially at lockboxes located at many police departments throughout the county. Medications, in both liquid and pill form, can be brought to participating police departments. Westchester residents can also bring medications in their original container or a sealed plastic bag to the county Household Materials Recovery Facility in Valhalla. All prescription and over-the-counter medications are accepted once a month, and residents simply drive and drop them off without having to leave their car. For more information, call 813-5425. Can I get Naloxone (Narcan) at a pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription? Naloxone is now available without a prescription at many pharmacies throughout New York state. In August 2017, New York state launched a new Naloxone Co-Payment Assistance Program, N-CAP. This pharmacy benefit program is available to all New Yorkers who have prescription coverage through their health insurance plans. The N-CAP program covers co-payments for naloxone in an amount up to $40 for each Naloxone prescription dispensed. For a list of pharmacies participating in the N-CAP program, download the New York State Department of Health’s directory of pharmacies dispensing naloxone with standing orders at health.gov.ny. For individuals who would like to purchase Naloxone without using their health insurance, it may be purchased for full price at many pharmacies. If you do not have insurance, free Narcan kits can be obtained through a community training with the Westchester County Department of Health. (Submitted)
‘Carnival of the Animals’ concert at Hoff-Barthelson The Hoff-Barthelson Music School presents a special concert for children featuring a performance of Camille Saint-Saëns’ beloved work “The Carnival of the Animals,” on Sunday, March 25 at 2 p.m., at the school located at 25 School Lane, Scarsdale. The concert, performed by members of the school’s superb faculty under the direction of Chi-Chi Lin Bestmann, will introduce youngsters to many of the instruments of the orchestra. Executive Director Ken Cole will serve as narrator using the humorous verses especially written for this piece by Ogden Nash. Designed to be fun, educational and engaging, the concert will spark the imagination of the whole family through an exploration and sampling of the instruments. Stay afterwards for light refreshments and an instrumental “petting zoo” where children are invited to meet the instruments up close at a table hosted by Ardsley Musical Instruments and Services. Suitable for ages 5 and up, the concert is free of charge. Faculty performers include Chi-Chi Lin Bestmann, conductor; Donna Elaine, piccolo and flute; Daniel Spitzer, clarinet; Lani King Chang and Claire Bright, violins; Naomi Graf, viola; Peter Seidenberg, cello; Sue Fleishaker, double bass; Adrienne
Conductor Chi-Chi Lin Bestmann. Photo/Steven Schnur
Kim and Eileen Buck, pianos; and Glenn Rhian and Larry Spivack, xylophones. “The Carnival of the Animals” is a humorous musical suite of 14 brief movements by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns; he regarded this as a “fun piece.” Fearful that it would destroy his reputation as a serious composer, he banned most of it from public performance until after his death. The music is beautiful, funny, and clever all at once. Each movement represents a different animal or group of animals, with the instruments mimicking their voices or the way they move. Starting with the lion’s roar and slowing to reflect the elephant’s bulk, Saint-Saëns pokes fun at the music of his time. In one move-
Conductor Chi-Chi Lin Bestmann. Photo/Steven Schnur
ment the plodding tortoise is depicted utilizing a slowed down version of Jacques Offenbach’s “Galop infernal” (known by many as the “Can-Can”). In the shortest movement, “Personages with Long Ears,” the listener hears a conversation between two braying donkeys articulated by loud, high notes in the violin. An isolated clarinet creates a scene of a bird calling though a forest in “The Cuckoo in the Depths of the Woods.” Saint-Saëns mimics his own composition, “Danse macabre” in “Fossils,” which makes use of the xylophone to evoke the image of skeletons playing card games; we hear their bones clacking together to the beat. One of the most iconic movements in the piece, “The Swan,” is scored for two pianos and a cello solo. The halcyon melody of the cello calls to mind the swan as it glides effortlessly across a pond. For additional information or to reserve seats, please call 7231169 or e-mail hb@hbms.org. The Hoff-Barthelson Music School, HBMS, has achieved national recognition as a premier community music school for its unsurpassed leadership in education, performance and community service. With a faculty drawn from the region’s most talented teachers and performers, the school has long been one of Westchester County’s most cherished cultural resources. Whatever a student’s age or level of musical interest, HBMS’ diverse offerings provide the highest quality musical education, personally tailored to his or her specific passions and goals in a supportive and vibrant community. Programs of Hoff-Barthelson Music School are made possible, in part, by ArtsWestchester with support from Westchester County government, and the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the New York state Legislature. (Submitted)
6 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
RyeCity REVIEW THE
P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 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, P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 Visit us online www.ryecityreview.com
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March 16, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 7
8 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
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SPORTS
March 16, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 9
A bracketless tourney LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
With the start of March Madness season finally upon us, I’m deciding to do something I haven’t done for about as long as I can remember. For the first time in 20 years or so, I will not be filling out a bracket. I’ve had a love/hate relationship with picking the NCAA Tourney for quite some time now. I can even remember the first time that the brackets—and my inability to choose a winner—broke my heart. When I was a freshman in high school, one of the upperclassmen football players put together a schoolwide competition. I don’t remember how much I paid to enter, but I remember the pot was a sizeable one, especially to 13-year-old me. And despite never having entered a bracket of this size, I did well. So well, in fact, that I came in second place.
But here’s what got my goat; the guy who won the whole thing—our JV quarterback, in fact—didn’t keep the prize money. Instead, citing religious reasons, he donated the entirety of the jackpot to charity. Sure, looking back on it now, I realize it was a noble gesture and a commendable action. But all I could think of at the time was just how many video games I could’ve bought with that cash. To some degree, almost all of my bracket experiences have followed the same pattern as that first one. More often than not, I don’t do all that well, and when I do get lucky with my picks, it’s generally at the expense of the team that I root for, the Villanova Wildcats. I’ve never been able to have my cake and eat it too. So this year, I’m just going to tune in as an unbiased fan— except for cheering on Nova, of course—and I think it might be even more enjoyable because I’ll get to follow the storylines
of the tourney without thinking about how the twists and turns of each game effect my bracket. I’ll be able to watch a 15seed take a No. 2 down to the wire in the opening round without worrying that I’ve picked Purdue to make it to the Elite 8; I’ll be able to appreciate the performances of players making the most of their college basketball experience without wondering if they’re going lead their team to a bracket-busting run. But most importantly, I’ll be able to root wildly against Duke from the beginning without having to compromise my bracket’s integrity by picking them for an unlikely early upset. It doesn’t matter how much money I stand to win from a bracket; there are some things— like watching Grayson Allen lose—that you just can’t put a price tag on.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
This year, for the first time in a while, Sports Editor Mike Smith won’t be filling out a March Madness bracket. He’s hoping the lack of money involved will allow him to truly enjoy a fun tournament. Photo courtesy NCAA.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
10 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
SPORTS
Garnets eye title in 2018 By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor
the Chabots will also be joined by Fordham Prep transfer Billy McLaughlin who has impressed thus far and has the ability to be a game-changer for the club. “I think you’re going to see a lot of teams giving attention to Peter and Billy [Chabot],” Lennon said. “So with them taking the double teams and the top opposing defenders, I think it’s going to open things up for McLaughlin.” On offense, the Garnets will rely on a young, hungry group of attackers including players like Tommy DeCaro and freshman Jack Bartlett who shined during the tryout period. But with so many underclassmen on the offensive end, Lennon said that Rye might not employ the same sort of run-and-gun approach that led them to a league title in 2017.
“I think we’re going to have change our tempo a little bit and rely on the defense, especially early on,” he said. “But I think we can end up being just as good.” The Garnets will officially open the regular season on March 23 with a league game against Fox Lane, and will play a challenging schedule that sees them take on powerhouse teams including Pleasantville, Fordham Prep, Iona and John Jay. According to Lennon, those marquee matchups should do well to prepare Rye for the inevitable playoff push. “It’s a tougher schedule than last year, and that’s important; we’re going to be grinding every day,” he said. “At the end of the day, it’s about learning something and getting better each day.”
In 2017, in his first season at the helm of Rye’s lacrosse program, head coach Steve Lennon oversaw a campaign that saw the Garnets capture a league title and advance to the Class B semifinals. This year, with a strong group of veteran players, Lennon hopes that his squad will take a step forward and vie for a sectional crown. According to Lennon, things have run smoothly in the early stages of preseason, as Rye’s players become more acclimated to the coach’s style. With a strong first week of tryouts, Lennon believes that things are looking up for the club. “We’ve definitely seen a difference in how familiar the players CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com are with the system so far,” Lennon said. “Even if we’re not running things a whole lot differently than the way other teams do, it’s just about becoming more familiar with the terminology, and you see that everyone has just jumped right into everything this year.” The Garnets have six returning starters from last year’s team, primarily in the squad’s defense and midfield positions. Senior defenseman Owen Hull—who is committed to play collegiate lacrosse at Syracuse University next year—has established himself as the anchor of the defensive unit over the past few seasons and Lennon expects him to take another step forward this year. “He’s a great vocal leader and he’s the guy we are going to be relying on to shut down the other team’s best players,” the coach said. “He’s been back there for four years and he’s made a huge impact on the program.” Lennon has also tabbed sophomore Emmett Carroll as the starting netminder after Carroll won the job at the end of last season. Despite his youth, Lennon feels that Carroll has the perfect temperament to be the Garnets’ top goalie. “I’ve been coaching for a while and haven’t seen too many sophomores as composed as Emmett,” he said. “He came in last year and really surprised us.” The Garnet are also deep at the midfield position, with both Peter and Billy Chabot manning spots on Rye’s first line. Billy Chabot was one of the top faceoff men in Section I last season, and along with Peter, provides the Garnets with versatility Owen Hull lays a hit on a John Jay attacker. The Garnets won a league title and advanced on the offensive end. This year, to the Class B semis last year under their first-year head coach. Photos/Mike Smith
Peter Chabot streaks toward the net during a successful 2017 campaign.
Billy Chabot controls the ball during a game last season. Armed with high expectations, Chabot will again handle faceoff duties for the Garnets this year.
INSIDE
March 16, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 11
Lifestyles of Westchester County/MARCH 2018 VOL. 6 NO.2
INSIDE WESTCHESTER COUNTY
ALL ABOUT
campS
Why camp is great for children
Best summer ever at RYE Y camps The case for camps:
Why kids need it now more than ever Top ten things you never knew about camp
12 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
WHY CAMP IS GREAT FOR CHILDREN If you’ve been to summer camp, you’re not surprised to hear about the benefits of it. Experiencing life at camp yourself as a child, you know the profound positive effects that still matter to you as an adult, and you also know that you want something just as great for your own kids. But if you didn’t go to camp as a child, you may not realize just how good the experience is for children. You may not know why so many parents are committed to sending their kids to camp. So while we have talked about most of these before, here is a list of the most important reasons to send your kids to camp. At camp, children: 10. Spend their day being physically active—As children spend so much time these days inside and mostly sitting down, camp provides a wonderful opportunity to move. Running, swimming, jumping, hiking, climbing! Camp is action! 9. Experience success and become more confident—Camp helps children build self-con-
fidence and self-esteem by removing the kind of academic, athletic and social competition that shapes their lives at school. With its non-competitive activities and diverse opportunities to succeed, camp life is a real boost for young people. There’s accomplishment every day. Camp teaches kids that they can. 8. Gain resiliency—The kind of encouragement and nurture kids receive at camp makes it a great environment to endure setbacks, try new (and thereby maybe a little frightening) things, and see that improvement comes when you give something another try. Camp helps conquer fears. 7. Unplug from technology—When kids take a break from TV, cell phones and the Internet, they rediscover their creative powers and engage the real world—real people, real activities and real emotions. They realize that there’s always plenty to do. Camp is real! 6. Develop life-long skills— Camps provide the right instruction, equipment and facilities for kids to enhance their sports abilities, their artistic talents and
their adventure skills. The sheer variety of activities offered at camp makes it easy for kids to discover and develop what they like to do. Camp expands every child’s abilities. 5. Grow more independent— Camp is the perfect place for kids to practice making decisions for themselves without parents and teachers guiding every move. Managing their daily choices in the safe, caring environment of camp, children welcome this as a freedom to blossom in new directions. Camp helps kids develop who they are. 4. Have free time for unstructured play—Free from the overly-structured, overly-scheduled routines of home and school, life at camp gives children much needed free time to just play. Camp is a slice of carefree living where kids can relax, laugh and be silly all day long. At camp we play! 3. Learn social skills—Coming to camp means joining a close-knit community where everyone must agree to cooperate and respect each other. When they live in a cabin with others, kids share chores, resolve
disagreements and see firsthand the importance of sincere communication. Camp builds teamwork. 2. Reconnect with nature— Camp is a wonderful antidote to “nature deficit disorder,” to the narrow experience of modern indoor life. Outdoor
experience enriches kid’s perception of the world and supports healthy child development. Camp gets kids back outside. 1. Make true friends—Camp is the place where kids make their very best friends. Free from the social expectations
pressuring them at school, camp encourages kids to relax and make friends easily. All the fun at camp draws everyone together— singing, laughing, talking, playing, doing almost everything together. Everyday, camp creates friendships. See? Camp is great.
March 16, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 13 Questions to ask yourself and your
child about camp expectations: What/who is driving the camp search? Unparalleled fun and learning? New experiences, skills and friends? Need for child care? Family tradition? Encouragement from friends? What are your leading camp search criteria? Which are “non-negotiable” and which are “preferences”? What type of camp are you looking for? Which of your family’s values should be reflected in the camp philosophy? How religious? How competitive? How diverse? How much camper choice? Camps are intentional communities. What they do and why is reflected in the staff members they hire, the schedules they follow, the activities they offer and their materials. What activities/programs interest you and your child? What level of intensity are you looking for? Are you looking for opportunities to try new activities, to play, to advance current skills, to practice, to compete or to specialize? What kind of facilities will your camper consider? Discuss electricity, bathrooms and dining. What session length, from 8 weeks to a few days, is comfortable for you, for your child and for your family’s summer schedule? The most common session lengths are: full season (7-8 weeks), half season (3-4 weeks), two weeks and one week. Remaining flexible about session length can increase your camp options. What camp clientele do you want to consider? There are camps for boys only, girls only, coed, brother/sister, religious groups, under-served populations and children with special needs. What is your budget for camp tuition? Camp remains an affordable option for nearly everyone. Some camps offer financial assistance. Financial aid procedures vary from camp to camp, so be sure to ask and to read brochures and websites carefully. Questions to ask all camps under consideration: Is your camp accredited by the ACA? What other regulations does your camp follow? What training does the staff receive on safety, supervision, counseling, problem solving and other issues unique to working with children? Is the price all-inclusive or are there extra charges for regis-
Best summer ever at Rye Y camp Rye Y camps, for youth ages 3 to 14, are led by a team of fulltime professional directors and committed summer staff who serve as role models to campers and reinforce the Y core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. The camps are accredited by the American Camp Association with low counselor-to-camper ratios. Campers choose from a variety of camps and can attend from one week to eight weeks. Camps are held at the Rye Y and the Osborn School in Rye. Kinder Camp, for children ages 3 to 6, introduces young ones to the camp experience in a warm, supportive environment. Activities include swim lessons, crafts, music, sports and more. Half or full day options. Discovery Camp, for ages 4 to 11, is a full-day camp packed with swim lessons, STEM, crafts, music, performing arts, sports, field trips and special guests to keep our campers engaged and excited every day. Campers gain new abilities, challenge themselves with the unexplored and
tration? Uniforms? Horseback riding? T-shirts? Waterskiing? Group photos? Field trips? Is transportation available and what are the specifics? Is there an additional cost? How will the camp meet my child’s special dietary or physical needs? In what way may I communicate with my child while he or she is at camp? With the staff? How does bad weather affect the daily schedule?
Are there family visiting days? What is unique about your camp? Day camp questions: Is before/after camp care available? If so, who cares for the children, and what activities are offered? What is the additional cost? Are meals provided? At what cost? How and where do I drop off or pick up my child?
learn to work with others as a team! Sports Camp, for ages 5 to 12, has both full- and half-day options and is designed for sports enthusiasts who want to develop both their individual and team skills. A different sport is focused on each week and campers can choose from half- or full-day options. STEAM Camp, for ages 6-11, challenges campers to question, explore, plan, discover, analyze and understand the world through the lenses of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math. Gymnastics Camp, for ages 6 to 14. Beginner and advanced gymnasts are welcome! Drills, games and teamwork are utilized to build gymnastics skills. Fulland half-day options available. Teen Adventure Camp, for teens completing grades 6-9, is designed for campers who like to be on the go! Campers travel to a different great summer destination every day, including water parks, camp-outs, amusement
parks, baseball games and more. Teen Fitness Camp, for ages 11 to 14, is a fun way to get fit over the summer. Participants work indoors and out with Certified Personal Trainers to achieve individual goals. Activities include swimming, sports, games, strength training, spinning, pilates, agility training and more. Campers choose from a 3-day or 5-day option. Leaders in Training is for youth who have completed grades 6 -8. Youth develop as leaders through coaching in activity planning, camper supervision and more, while earning community service hours. Counselors in Training Program, for teens who have completed grades 9 and 10, is designed to challenge participants to grow as leaders both at camp and within the community while earning community service hours. For more information, or to register for any of the above camps, visit ryeycamp.org, call 914-967-6363 or email camp@ ryeymca.org. The Rye Y offers financial assistance for families who qualify.
14 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
six summer camp benefits For generations, children have spent their summers at day and sleepaway camps, trying new activities such as swimming, hiking and various sports. But what many families may not
realize is that camp provides children with different opportunities to develop important life skills that are difficult to achieve in any other environment. Below are just a few of
the many benefits your children will gain from the summer camp experience. 1. Campers obtain the life skills needed to become successful adults.
At camp, children gain valuable life skills. In fact, an organization called The Partnership for 21st Century Skills (comprising a group of businesses, education leaders and policymakers) has found there is a large gap between the knowledge students learn in school and the skills they need to be successful in the 21st century. After extensive research, the organization determined that some of the skills necessary to become successful adults are communication, collaboration, creativity, leadership, socialization and problem solving. All of these areas are fostered in the camp environment. Campers are always communicating with each other, either on the field or in the bunk, learning to work together as a team and as part of the camp community. They also get to be leaders at camp, whether through guiding a first-time younger camper or managing their camp Olympics team. Campers learn to navigate on their own and solve problems by themselves. They engage in many creative outlets, too. 2. Camp educates the whole child. There is more to learning than test taking and achieving good grades. Camp offers one of the most powerful learning environments and can be a place where
a child’s social education takes place. It provides children with the opportunity to try new activities. When children succeed at these activities, they build self-esteem. Children also build social skills and problem-solving skills by being part of a supportive community and partaking in activities together. Campers are challenged and encouraged to grow every day. 3. Camp allows kids to unplug from technology. Today’s children spend more than 7.5 hours a day engaged with technology, which often takes the place of vital hands-on activities and socialization opportunities. The majority of summer camps ban most technology, including TV, smartphones, tablets and personal computers. Taking a break from technology over the summer allows children to communicate face to face. 4. At camp, there’s plenty of time for play, which helps children with social and emotional development. Balancing school schedules, homework and extracurricular activities doesn’t leave much room for play. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that free and unstructured play is healthy and essential for helping children to reach important social, emotional and cognitive developmental
milestones. It also helps kids manage stress. Traditional summer camps give children plenty of play time, which leads to healthy emotional and social development. 5. Children can reinvent themselves at camp. Students often attend school year after year with the same peers, which can lead to labeling and being “stuck” with a particular perception. A child may become known as studious, quiet, etc., when, really, he or she can be boisterous in another setting. Children who go to day or sleepaway camps meet a whole other group of people in a different environment. Oftentimes, a child will break out of his supposed categorization if given the chance. Children get to reinvent themselves at camp and be who they truly want to be, which helps them to build confidence. 6. Camp promotes independence. When children go to camp, they are given the opportunity to grow more independent. Whether for a day or an entire summer, separation from one’s parents means a camper has to learn to rely on himself and other trusted adults and peers. Separation from parents gives a child the ability to think independently, which builds self-esteem.
March 16, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 15
The case for camp:
—why kids need it now more than ever
Change is a part of life. It is often directly related to survival and can enrich one’s life in ways unexpected. Childhood is in essence a time of profound change and development. It is exciting and disquieting at the same time. When it comes to our children, we need to be sure that change is made for the better. We’ve been so concentrated on the brain, we forget about the rest of our bodies. This change in focus has led to an obesity rate that is unacceptable. Our kids are not as healthy as the generation before. Families used to live in a community. We’ve lost that, keeping kids inside and losing a sense of neighborhood. Add to that, the fact that our kids stand to inherit all the economic, social and environmental challenges we’ve created, and the legacy we have left our children and youth begins to look bleak. So, how do we prepare our children with the skills and more importantly, the competencies they will need to tackle changes in our world? We could start with a positive camp experience. A quality camp experience provides our children with the opportunity to learn powerful lessons in community, character-building, skill development and healthy living—a meaningful, engaged and participatory environment. Camp promotes community. It creates this great space that shows kids how to live together and care for one another. There are norms and negotiation of boundaries; there are rules. Camp
a close-up look at compassionate leadership through the camp director, counselors, resident nutritionist and other camp personnel. And kids get loads of opportunities to practice being a leader themselves—song leader, lunch table leader, team captain, the list goes on and on. Camp is an equal opportunity life changer. It addresses universal childhood needs not specific to a particular racial, ethnic or socioeconomic group. Nobody is left out. It’s all about childhood development. Camp has a lasting impact.
is a place where kids can “practice” growing up stretching their social, emotional, physical and cognitive muscles outside the context of their immediate family. This is what childhood is supposed to provide. Camp teaches critical thinking. We need to remember how important it is to be actively involved in the learning process, and camp affords that. We’re going to need really strong problem solvers in the next century. We need the science, math and biology, but without the ability to relate, connect, empathize or inspire innovation, how will our kids be able to make a difference in the challenges now facing us? The camp experience em-
braces the natural environment. While children have fewer and fewer opportunities to be outdoors, the camp experience advances the outdoor learning environment. As we become more concerned about saving the planet, we run out and make DVDs and videos about it. But the environment needs to be experienced to be appreciated. Kids need to catch tadpoles in the creek, wander among the trees, and feel the sun on their faces to understand the importance of those things. What happens to a generation that may grow up not seeing stars in the dark of the night? Camp creates future leaders. The camp experience offers kids
One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is a sense of success and achievement. Camp teaches kids how to be active participants, ask questions, ask for help, and try new things. They leave understanding that it’s okay to feel a little uncomfortable sometimes, because that’s generally what happens when you’re getting ready to learn something. The camp experience translates back in real-world experience — in an “I can” attitude. We need to advocate for our young people. We should promote opportunities for kids —
give them camp experiences that serve as an antidote for the world’s challenges. We need to recognize this is not a series of frivolous activities. We often think if it looks like fun it must be unimportant, but “fun” is a young person’s “work”—to learn, to grow, to be productive, creative and happy. If they don’t do that work, they won’t turn into healthy adults. Now more than ever, kids need camp. Visit ACAcamps.org to find out how you can change a life by helping make it possible for every child to have a camp experience.
16 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 16, 2018
TOP TEN THINGS YOU NEVER KNEW ABOUT CAMP Camp has become a staple of the summer season. Each year, millions of children, youth, and adults head to the hills, lakes, valleys, and parks to participate in the time-honored tradition of camp. And, while most people easily conjure up images of campfires and canoes, there is a lot more to the camp experience. Here are ten things you may not have known about the camp experience. 10. Camp is older than dirt, almost literally. Started in 1861, the camp experience turned an impressive 150 years young in 2011. The secret behind the longevity? “Camps are adapting to meet the needs of today’s campers,” says Tom Rosenberg, president/CEO of the American Camp Association. “At the same time, the impact camp has on campers, the life-changing experience, has remained after all these years.” 9. Camp is worth its weight in gold, and then some! The camp experience is life-changing – developing friendships and memories that last well beyond the final campfire. And, there is a camp for literally every budget. Often camps offer special pricing or financial assistance, and some camp experiences qualify for tax credits or for payment with pre-tax dollars. Visit ACA’s Affording Camp page for more information. 8. Green is “zen.” Research shows that first-hand experience with nature, like those at camp, reduce stress in children and help them better handle stress in the future. In addition to teaching children how to be good stewards of the environment, camps are teaching children how to enjoy the world around them and take a minute to breathe deep and feel the nature, which ultimately teaches
them how to de-stress the natural way.
physical activity was an important or very important issue.
7. Mommies and Daddies do it too. Camp is not just for children and youth. There are family camp experiences, and camps for single adults, senior adults, and any adult that wants to relax and enjoy all camp has to offer. Adults benefit from the same sense of community, authentic relationships, and self-discovery that children do. Camp is an excellent vacation option, allowing adults to try a variety of new activities in a safe and fun environment.
3. If everyone else went to camp, maybe there’s something to it! Camp has played an important role in the lives of some of the most talented people in history. ACA’s family resource site offers a list of notable campers – including business professionals, celebrities, artists, and great thinkers.
6. Try this on for size! Camp is a great place to try new activities and hobbies. Afraid of rock walls? According to ACA research, 74 percent of campers reported that they tried new activities at camp that they were afraid to do at first. And, those activities often leave lasting impressions. In the same survey, 63 percent of parents reported that their child continued new activities from camp after returning home. 5. Manners matter, and often linger. The camp experience teaches more than just archery or lanyard making. The entire experience is made of teachable moments, perhaps one of the biggest is how to live with a group of people. Campers learn to pick up after themselves, respect each other’s property, and to say “Please” and “Thank You.” 4. Veggies taste better with friends. Hollywood and fictional novels may have given camp food a bad reputation, but in truth, camps are constantly exploring healthy food options, and often are at the forefront of things like allergy specific diets, healthy snack options, and vegetarian meals. According to ACA’s 2011 Emerging Issues survey, 90.7 percent of responding camps indicated that healthy eating and
2. Camp gets those neurons pumping! Education reform debate and concern over summer learning loss have pushed academic achievement into the spotlight. Research shows that participation in intentional programs, like camp, during summer months helps stem summer learning loss. In addition, camp provides ample opportunity for developmental growth, which is a precursor to academic achievement. And, because of the “hands-on” nature of camp, often children who struggle in traditional education settings do well at camp. 1. Camp builds leaders for the 21st century and beyond! Independence, resiliency, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and the ability to relate to other people — these are the skills that tomorrow’s leaders will need, and the skills camp has been adept at building for 150 years. For more information on preparing your child for an independent, fun-filled summer, visit ACAcamps.org. Or, follow ACA on Facebook and Twitter for helpful hints and camp information. Contact Public Relations at 765.346.3391 or pr@ACAcamps. org to interview an ACA spokesperson or for more information about preparing for camp. For customizable public service announcements or article reprints, visit our Press Room.