January 26, 2018

THE

CityREVIEW NewRochelle January 26, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 2 | www.cityreviewnr.com

Dems look to revive gun, immigration bills

LOGAN’S RUN

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer

New Rochelle’s Jake Logan captured the 182-pound title at the Westchester County Championships on Jan. 20. Logan currently sits atop the Section I rankings in his weight class. For story, see page 16.

Photo/Mike Smith

2 GOP candidates vie for Latimer’s Senate seat

By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Westchester County Republicans are expecting to choose from a pool of two candidates to run in a special election to fill County Executive George Latimer’s recently vacated state Senate seat.

Sarmad Khojasteh, a commercial litigation attorney from the town of Bedford, is bidding for the Republican nomination to face-off against Democratic nominee Shelley Mayer, an incumbent state assemblywoman from Yonkers.

An emigrate who was born in Iran 1981, Khojasteh relocated to the United States in 1982 after the Islamic Revolution and during the Iran-Iraq War.

“Unfortunately, many of our elected officials seem intent on proposing legislation as a form of protest, or to win political points in a game of partisan ping pong, rather than listening to their constituents and coming up with ideas that would help to solve real problems for the people they serve,” Khojasteh said. “I believe that by replacing career politicians with independent-minded, practical problem solvers in Albany we can put the American dream back within reach of all New Yorkers.”

Khojasteh joins Dan Schorr, who has also announced his plans to seek the Senate’s 37th District seat. Schorr unsuccessfully ran for county district attorney nine years ago, losing to then-District Attor-

ney Janet DiFiore, a Democrat.

Schorr is well known around the county, previously serving as a prosecutor in Westchester and New York City and as the Yonkers inspector general.

The Senate’s 37th District covers Rye, White Plains, Harrison, Mamaroneck, Yonkers, North Castle, Bedford, and Eastchester.

As of press time, the Westchester County Republican Party has not announced a date for when it will nominate its candidate, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, has not yet called for a special election.

The governor is not necessarily required to call for a special election. Cuomo has the option to let the seat remain unfilled un-

til the November 2018 election.

Latimer, a Democrat, vacated the seat on Jan. 1 after being sworn in as county executive.

The election may be crucial for Republicans to prevent Democrats from regaining more ground in the Senate, as Republicans currently hold a slim 3130 majority, as of press time.

The 37th District seat is one of two vacated positions in the state Senate this year. The Senate’s 32nd District seat, which covers an area in the Bronx, has also been vacated.

Doug Colety, the chairman of the county Republican Committee, could not be reached for comment.

CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

Under a new Democratic regime, legislators will reincarnate two vetoed bills, including a piece of controversial gun legislation, that were nixed under former County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican.

The legislative agenda on Jan. 22 will feature the reintroduction of a bill to ban gun shows on county owned property that was vetoed by Astorino last year, after being passed by Democrats on the Board of Legislators.

Specifically, the bill seeks to eliminate the possibility of hosting gun shows at the Westchester County Center, which Democrats say promotes a toxic gun culture in the county.

While current County Executive George Latimer, a Democrat, has already signed an executive order banning the gun shows—a reinstatement of a previous ban that lapsed under Astorino—unlike the order, the passage of a more formal piece of legislation would permanently ban the shows in the future.

In tandem with a bill to ban gun shows, Democrats will also reintroduce a county immigration bill that would limit the amount of information that the county shares with the federal government.

This bill was also introduced and passed last year, but was eventually vetoed by Astorino who said it would hamper the efforts of county law enforcement.

Both bills are being revisited by a new Democratic majority with an extra advantage of three seats over last year’s Board of Legislators makeup. Currently, Democrats outnumber Republicans 12-5, giving them a supermajority, in addition to the support of Latimer, who unseated Astorino in November last year.

In addition to both bills, Democrats will also push two bills that expand paid sick leave countywide—companies with five or more employees would be required to provide at least 40 hours of paid sick leave—as well as a bill that would ban employers in the county from asking how much prospective employees made at a previous job.

These bills will mark the start of a reinvigorated progressive agenda from Latimer and the Board of Legislators, who recently elected a new majority leader, Ben Boykin, a White Plains Democrat, to replace the previous chair, Michael Kaplowitz, a Yorktown Democrat, in a divisive nomination process.

CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

With a new Democratic majority, legislators will look to resurrect bills that had been vetoed under a previous Republican administration. File photo

2 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018

January 26, 2018 • THE CITY REVIEW • 3

Democrats nominate Mayer for Senate seat

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer State Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer, a Democrat, was nominated unanimously on Jan. 9 as the successor to former state Sen. George Latimer’s Senate seat.

Latimer, a fellow Democrat, vacated the seat when he was elected as Westchester County executive and subsequently took office on Jan. 1.

Mayer took the nomination over a field of candidates that included Bedford Supervisor Chris Burdick and former Bernie Sanders organizer and White Plains resident, Kat Brezler, as well as Mark Jaffe of West Harrison. Prior to the Democrats convention at the Westchester County Center on Tuesday night, all of the other candidates had dropped out of the race, including Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano who left the running a week before the nomination process.

“You opened up your minds and your hearts; you heard my story,” Mayer said at the County Center.

While Mayer won’t face a primary from fellow Democrats, she will have to square off against a Republican opponent for the seat in a special election yet to be called for by Gov. Andrew Cuo-

In a unanimous vote, Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer was anointed as successor to an empty state Senate seat formerly held by new County Executive George Latimer this week.

Photo courtesy Shelley Mayer

mo, a Democrat.

Cuomo hasn’t indicated when he might call for a special election or when it might take place.

Mayer is expected to face either Sarmad Khojasteh or Dan Schorr, both Republicans who are seeking the party’s nomination. However, county Republicans have yet to announce when they plan to nominate a candidate for the seat.

With Mayer, Democrats will look to increase their edge in the state Senate where Republicans currently hold a one-person majority, 31-30, with two open seats.

“Shelley Mayer can hit the

ground running and give the hundreds of thousands of Westchester residents the representation they deserve,” said Senate Minority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, a Yonkers Democrat, in a statement this week.

Republicans will be hardpressed to win a seat that has been Democrats’ hand for decades.

However, throughout the past several election cycles Republicans have unsuccessfully pumped significant financing into campaigns hoping to win control of the seat, including a race between Latimer and GOP candidate Bob Cohen during a 2012 election that broke a record for most money spent—$4.5 million in total— during a New York political race at the time.

Democrats will also look to further capitalize on a blue surge of Democratic support that was seen during the 2017 elections that to the election of a new county executive and a string of Democratic victories throughout Westchester.

The 37th Senatorial District encompasses the cities of Yonkers, White Plains, New Rochelle and Rye, and the towns of Eastchester, Harrison, Mamaroneck, Rye, Bedford and North Castle.

CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

Boykin announces BOL committee chairmanships

By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Newly elected Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Ben Boykin has assigned committee chairmanship positions to members on board.

On Jan. 17, Boykin, a White Plains Democrat, announced the leadership positions for each committee for the 2018-2019 legislative term.

“In order for a legislative body to be robust and effective, all legislators must be engaged and accountable,” Boykin said in a release. “In determining the membership of each of these committees, my aim was to match the experience and skill sets of individual legislators with the mission and objective of their committee assignments.”

According to the Westchester County Charter, the Board of Legislators, BOL, must maintain two specific committees, the Budget and Appropriations and the Legislation committees. The

Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Ben Boykin has assigned legislators to a number of county committees for the 2018-2019 legislative term.

File photo

BOL’s chairperson determines other additional committees and their chairmanships.

Boykin has assigned legislators Catherine Borgia to the Budget and Appropriations Committee, Virginia Perez to the Legislation Committee, Lyndon Williams to the Law and Major Contracts Committee, and newly elected Legislator Christopher

Johnson to the Appointments Committee.

Other newly elected legislators Damon Maher, Kitley Covill and Nancy Barr have been assigned to chair the Labor and Housing Committee, Social Services Committee and the Environment, Health and Energy Committee, respectively.

Republicans David Tubiolo has been assigned to the Seniors and Constituents Committee, Margaret Cunzio to the Public Safety Committee, and Jim Maisano to Intergovernmental Services Committee.

Lastly, Legislator Mike Kaplowitz has been designated to the Parks, Planning and Economic Development Committee, and Majority Whip MaryJane Shimsky will chair the Public Works Committee.

For the 2018-2019 legislative term, committee meetings will he held at various times on Mondays and Tuesdays.

CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

County DA ends bail for misdemeanor cases

By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Westchester County prosecutors will stop requesting bail for most misdemeanor cases in order to end unnecessary incarceration for those that are financially poor.

On Jan. 22, Westchester County District Attorney Anthony Scarpino Jr. announced that the county would end the practice, which is already in effect, because it’s “outdated” and “discriminatory” to those that don’t have the financial means to post bail.

“No one should languish in jail for a minor offense because of his or her inability to post bail,” Scarpino said in a release. “In most cases, these defendants are not dangerous and have not even been found guilty of a crime. It is unjust and a tremendous waste of

Westchester County District Attorney Anthony Scarpino Jr. announced earlier this week that county prosecutors will stop seeking bail in non-violent misdemeanor cases in order avoid incarcerating those that don’t have the financial means to post bail.

Photo courtesy westchesterda.net

taxpayer dollars.”

According to the DA’s office, the new policy will prevent pros-

ecutors from requesting bail from defendants that have committed non-violent misdemeanors. It will not, however, prevent county prosecutors from seeking bail in cases involving a victim, cases in which the defendant injures a first responder or resists arrest, and cases in which the individual has had prior felony convictions.

Additionally, prosecutors can seek bail in cases where the defendant is on parole or probation, or if the individual has a history of warrants or prior bail jumping charges.

Scarpino’s new guidelines were praised by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, who said the policy change is “another step forward in our efforts to build a fairer and more equal criminal justice system.”

CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

4 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018

What’s going on...

New Rochelle Public Library

For more information on hours and programs, visit nrpl.org.

Live Performance: “650 - Where Writers Read: Immigrant Nation” On Sunday, Jan. 28 from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Ossie Davis Theater of the main library. America was created by countless people born elsewhere and hoping for a better life. The hit reading series “650” tackles the topic of immigration with another riveting literary event on the stage of the Ossie Davis Theater. Limited to five minutes and just 650 words, a dozen regional writers will read aloud their true stories of immigrant struggles and success. Produced by the acclaimed 650 Group, the program is made possible by the New Rochelle Council on the Arts, the Friends of the Library, and suggested minimum donations of $10. Visit read650.com for additional information and upcoming submission topics.

A reception will follow.

One-on-One Assistance On Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Handleman Business Opportunity Center on the second floor of the main library. A trained staff member provides assistance with online applications for jobs, schools, social services, TASC preparation, and more; help finding eviction information and housing referrals, food stamps, services for mental health and substance abuse drug addictions; and support for computer needs such as setting up an email account, creating a PowerPoint presentation, and fine-tuning a resume or other document. Drop-in.

Lunchtime Yoga Express On Mondays from 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. and Wednesdays from 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the main library’s Ossie Davis Theater/Meeting Room. Guided by yoga instructor Nora LeMorin, these mid-day sessions are designed to help relax and strengthen, and involve traditional and adapted poses that are practiced either standing or seated in chairs, no mats required. Free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Steps to Success: Homework Help On Mondays through Thursdays from 3 p.m. until 10 minutes to closing time in the Children’s Room and Teen Room. College students and volunteers are on hand to offer homework help to assist elementary school students and middle school students (up to grade eight) in organizing homework needs, locating appropriate resources, and strengthening reading skills. The free homework help service is offered September through May, except during school vacation weeks. The Steps to Success program is offered in conjunction with the Youth Bureau of the City of New Rochelle, Monroe College, and Westchester Library System.

ular novels, mysteries and nonfiction in hardcover and paperback, to children’s books, CDs, and DVDs. The Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library will conduct its monthly Big Book Sale on Friday, Feb. 2 and Saturday, Feb. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The sale will include a wide range of hardcover and paperback books, CDs, DVDs, and more.

Proceeds from these sales allow the Friends to provide funding for quality children and adult programming, as well as assisting the library by contributing to various projects and improving service to the community.

Job Search Coach On Tuesdays from 4:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. in the main library second floor Conference Room. A trained job search coach assists individuals looking for a new or improved job by helping with writing resumes and cover letters, identifying suitable jobs, completing online job applications, searching for jobs on the Internet, networking, honing interview skills and completing follow-ups. Drop-in. Free.

Health Care Navigators On Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the main library’s Conference Room on the second floor Receive one-on-one assistance with open enrollment to purchase, change or renew coverage in a qualified health plan; enroll or renew coverage in Medicaid and Child Health plus; and enroll in the new Essential Plan for lower-income New Yorkers from a health navigator from the Westchester County Department of Health. Appointments are recommended. For an appointment, please call 995-6350.

Free AARP Tax Help Starting Tuesdays and Thursdays from Feb. 1 through April 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free tax assistance through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program, TCE, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, VITA, will be offered at the New Rochelle Public Library. Trained AARP volunteer counselors will be available. These sessions will be held in the library’s Meeting Room and on the stage of the Ossie Davis Theater, except during school vacation weeks, when they will be held in the Community Gallery. Tax filers are advised to arrive early, as they will meet with a tax advisor on a drop-in, firstcome, first-served basis. The library opens at 9 a.m. on these days. The TCE tax assistance program is free. Tax preparers have all the necessary forms to complete e-filing.

Participants must bring with them last year’s return and supporting documentation, as well as an official photo identification and a social security card, or other comparable documentation.

When applicable, the following should also be brought to the session: W-2 and W-2P forms from each employer, if a salary was earned; unemployment compensation statements; SSA-1099 form if Social Security benefits were received; all 1099 forms (1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-misc., etc.) showing interest and/or dividends and original purchase price of sold assets; 1099R form from the payer of your pension or annuity; all forms indicating federal income tax paid; childcare provider information (name, employer ID, Social Security number); and Social Security numbers for all dependents.

Friends Book Store

Senior Benefits Information Center

On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Friends Bookstore, located in the main library’s lobby. The Friends of the NRPL Book Store is where you’ll find bargains from pop-

On Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the main library’s Conference Room on the second floor.

Trained counselors help those 60 and older understand and manage Medicare health insurance and

access related services to which they are entitled such as food stamps, weatherization and heating assistance, home repair, and caregiver support. Dropin. Free.

Gospel Concert The award-winning Mount Vernon Interfaith Community Choir will perform a joyous, moving concert of gospel music on Sunday, Feb. 4 from 3 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Ossie Davis Theater of the main library. The program will provide opportunities for reflection and rejoicing, in celebration of Black History Month.

Comprised of superb singers representing various local houses of worship and many socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds, the choir has been enthralling, inspiring, and uniting audiences since it was formed for the Mount Vernon Arts on Third Festival in 2000. Directed by founder Maureen Wilson, the choir has appeared on national television and in prominent programs from Westchester, New York to Miami, Florida.

The program is made possible by the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library. A donation of $2 for audience members 13 years and older is suggested at the door. Seating is on first-come, first-served basis to the capacity of the 138-seat theater.

Free Programs For Infants And Preschoolers The New Rochelle Public Library and the Huguenot Children’s Library, HCL, are offering a great array of free programs for infants, toddlers and preschool children this winter-spring season. Participation is drop-in, on a first-come, first-served basis.

The free programs are made possible by the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library and the Partnership for the Huguenot Children’s Library. Most do not take place on days the New Rochelle public schools are closed for vacations.

Music and Movement with Nora Maher, for children ages 1 to 3 years old, is a fun-filled introduction to songs, finger plays, and movement, led by a professional musician/educator, and takes place on Tuesdays through Feb. 13 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the main library and from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at HCL. Nursery Rhyme Time, for children ages 6 months old to 2 years old, is a joyful blend of stories, songs and finger plays. It is held at the main library on Fridays through May 25 from 9:30 a.m. to 9:50 a.m., and at HCL on Mondays through May 21 from 10:30 a.m. to 10:50 a.m.

Toddler Time, for children aged 2 years old, are lively sessions that engage children and their parent or caregiver in music and games. It is held at the main library on Fridays through May 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m., and at HCL on Wednesdays through May 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

3, 4, 5’s - Stories & Crafts, for ages 3 to 5 years old, are sessions of stories, songs, and a take-home craft inspired by seasons and picture book themes.

A bilingual (English and Spanish) session takes place at the main library on Mondays through May 21 from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Another session in English takes place at the main library on Thursdays through May 24 from 2 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. Sessions at HCL take place on Tuesdays through May

22 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:15 p.m. and on Thursdays through May 24 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.

Preschool Fun & Fitness, a program for children ages 2 to 5 years old and their parent or grandparent, is a fun-filled hour of movement, games and healthy eating and lifestyle tips, conducted by the health and fitness team from Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital’s Women, Infants & Children, WIC, Services.

Registration is required. Please call the WIC office at 365-3677. The sessions will be held in the main library’s Meeting Room and stage on Mondays through June 18.

Baby Steps, for children ages newborn to 3 years old, are half-hour sessions of fun and early socialization through music, movement and finger games with Nora Maher. They will take place on Saturdays, March 3 through March 31 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the main library, and from 11:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at HCL. Yoga Tots, for children ages 2 and 3 years old, is taught by Budding Buddhas kids yoga instructors.

Toddlers have fun “playing yoga” with puppets, props, songs, and games. The sessions will take place on Tuesdays, Feb. 27 through March 27 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the main library, and from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at HCL. Music Notes, a new program, will be held at the main library on Saturdays through Feb. 17 from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. in the children’s room of the main library. Children ages 3 to 5 years old are invited to join Sandra Munoz for a 45-minute activity-packed exploration of music, singing and movement. This special, free program is made possible by the Ronald McDonald House grant awarded to the Music Conservatory of Westchester.

New Rochelle news Alternate side parking restrictions suspended for winter months Parking regulations are suspended due to street sweeping operations during the winter months from through March 31. A complete listing of streets is located in the City Code Article X Schedule 31284. Reminder: Parking regulations exist throughout the city for other reasons than just street sweeping.

Please carefully review the posted parking restrictions against the list as non-street sweeping related parking regulations will be enforced.

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, 2313481, 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.

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January 26, 2018 • THE CITY REVIEW • 5

6 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018 THE

CityREVIEW NewRochelle P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000

SUNY Purchase student receives

scholarship of a lifetime

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 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 Writers James Pero, Franco Fino Staff Photographer Jen Parente

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Quincy Phillips with his grandmother. Photo courtesy purchase.edu

By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter Quincy Phillips, a freshman at SUNY Purchase College, is pursuing his bachelor’s degree debt-free thanks to a full-tuition four-year scholarship he received from “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and Walmart.

Now in the second semester of his freshman year, Phillips said he loves the environment of SUNY Purchase, and the passion students demonstrate for the arts.

Prior to SUNY Purchase, Phillips attended Summit Academy Charter School in Red Hook, Brooklyn, where he was one of 41 students to receive a fouryear scholarship to any college in New York state through DeGeneres’ show and Walmart.

Natasha Campbell, executive director and founder of Summit Academy, said the scholarships have changed her students’ lives.

Campbell first made DeGeneres aware of the students in Red Hook in November 2016.

“I had sent an email to the show talking about the extraordinary staff and children we had,” Campbell said. “[I talked] about how much we had done despite the challenges the kids face.”

According to the 2014 Existing Conditions and Brownfields Analysis, a document that helps community organizations plan revitalization projects, Red Hook has a poverty rate of more than 40 percent.

In the email, Campbell also mentioned how the students at Summit Academy exemplified what it meant to persevere.

“They were the complete opposite of what [you] think of when you hear about children in urban communities,” she said.

“They were college bound, and that wasn’t the norm for this community.”

In February 2017, DeGeneres invited Cheryl Swift, principal at Summit Academy, and Campbell to come on the show, where DeGeneres and Walmart gifted the school a check for $25,000.

Campbell said the donation went towards supporting Summit Academy’s College & Career Readiness Program, a program that works to better prepare students for the future.

“It helped with all of the preparatory programs that would ensure that our seniors graduated and enrolled into college,” Campbell said.

Campbell said that the Summit Academy Class of 2016 had a 90 percent rate of college enrollment, and the Class of 2017 had

92 percent of students enrolled in college, with another 5 percent attending college in January.

Two weeks after Swift and Campbell’s appearance on DeGeneres’ show, the senior Class of 2017 at Summit Academy’s were flown out to Los Angeles to come on the show.

“I remember going on the show and one of the Ellen producers was like, ‘We really want you to be on stage for Ellen to interview you,’” Phillips said. “I was like, ‘No, this can’t be happening.’”

After being interviewed with a few other of his classmates, the students gathered for a group photo, where DeGeneres announced the scholarships.

“We’ve never done anything this big before, “DeGeneres said.

DeGeneres said she had reached out to Walmart, who agreed to partner with the show to give scholarships to the students.

The gift totaled $1.6 million.

Campbell said this opportunity has made it so the students don’t have to carry the burden of financial debt.

According to studentloanhero.com, a website dedicated to helping students manage and repay their student loans, “the average Class of 2016 graduate has $37,172 in student loan debt.”

Campbell said this gift also showed the students that people believe in their potential and are willing to invest in their futures.

While Phillips is studying for his degree in visual arts, he says that the scholarship has made him more appreciative of the things he has.

“I count my blessing and my opportunities, and I take advantage of them,” he said.

CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com

Quincy Phillips, a freshman at SUNY Purchase College, who is a recipient of a full scholarship through “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and Walmart.

The 41 students from the Class of 2017 at Summit Academy Charter School receive full scholarships to any college in New York state through “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” and Walmart.

Photos courtesy Michael Rozman

January 26, 2018 • THE CITY REVIEW • 7

Law senior partner receives Founder’s award Look at this cool, little fellow! Tom is super snuggly, sometimes playful and mischievous. When he is sitting there gazing at you, he is hoping you will follow him and give him some attention—which he likes very much.

Black and white with super soft short hair, Tom has beautiful, unique markings.

He has been around other cats and dogs, and has gotten along well. You will be a good match for Tom if you are looking for an easy-going, adaptable, snuggly buddy. He will enjoy a house with other cats, kids, dogs where he can go with the flow.

Tom is in excellent health, up-to-date with all vaccinations and microchipped. His adoption donation is $100. To meet Tom, contact Pet Rescue at nypetrescue@gmail.com or visit NY-PetRescue.org.

(Submitted)

From left, John Nolon, professor of Law and Counsel for the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Land Use Law Center, Frank McCullough, senior partner at McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt LLP, and Jessica Bacher, executive director of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Land Use Law Center.

Contributed photo

Frank McCullough, senior partner in the law firm of McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt LLP in White Plains, was recently the guest of honor at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Land Use Law Center Annual Dinner. At the dinner, McCullough received the distinguished Founder’s Award. The dinner was held at the Mansion on Broadway in White Plains on Dec. 6.

The Founder’s Award is bestowed each year in the name of Theodore W. Kheel, the great American attorney and labor mediator, renowned for his ability to build consensus and resolve conflicts. McCullough was a major supporter of the Land Use Law Center.

“Frank is an ideal recipient for the Founder’s Award,” said John Nolon, professor of Law and Counsel for the Land Use Law Center. “He has distinguished himself in the regional land use community for navigating and calming troubled waters of local zoning approvals of much needed projects and has also epitomized the image of the practicing lawyer as one who gives back to their community.”

Nolon also noted that McCullough has distinguished himself as a land use attorney who is sensitive to and able to unite disparate parties in support of growth and conservation. Throughout his career, he has counseled his clients to accommodate the interests of local land use officials who represent the full range of interests implicated in land development.

McCullough and fellow partner Seth Mandelbaum also spoke during the Land Use Law Center’s 16th Annual Alfred B. DelBello Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference the following day, on Dec. 7.

The theme of this year’s event focused on the ways in which local governments are overcoming challenges and finding solutions that target new ways to plan, regulate, and design communities. The sessions included topics such as financing mixed use development, form-based codes, as well as the future of mobility, designing healthy communities and office space redevelopment.

“I am truly grateful to have received this recognition from the Elisabeth Haub School of

Law at Pace University’s Land Use Law Center,” McCullough said. “John Nolan and the Center continue to set a high standard in providing invaluable service and guidance for the greater community, and I am proud to have worked with them over the years. As I continue my practice at McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt, I look forward to the future and the numerous projects we are engaged in and actively pursuing.”

Established in 1993, the Land Use Law Center is dedicated to fostering the development of sustainable communities and regions through the promotion of innovative land use strategies and dispute resolution techniques. Through the work of its programs, centers, and institutes, the Land Use Law Center offers conferences, seminars, clinics, academic law school courses, continuing legal education programs, audio podcasts, and frequent publications and resources on contemporary land use, real estate, and environmental issues.

For more information about McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt, LLP, visit mcculloughgoldberger.com. (Submitted)

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8 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018

Giants legend to host big game viewing party Latimer sets collegial tone, stresses bipartisanship

By LINNET TSE Contributor

Phil Simms may have coined the phrase “I’m going to Disney World” following his big game win in 1987, but the legendary quarterback is “going to Empire City Casino” for this year’s big game to host a viewing party, hang out with football fans and watch the biggest game on the planet on Feb. 4.

The free festivities begin in the casino’s entertainment lounge at 6 p.m. on game day, where Simms will mingle with fans, participate in a Q-and-A, and sign autographs before watching the big game and testing out his throwing arm with fans. During the event, Simms will reflect on his career, offer his game day predictions and share what it takes to win the big game.

Empire City Casino will dis-

play the big game on LED jumbo screens to bring football fans as close to the action as possible. Seating will be firstcome, first-served with beer and food specials all game long.

Most fans know Simms as one of the greatest quarterbacks in football history, and who was recently nominated to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Over his 15-year career with the New York Giants, Simms set numerous records and won two world championships in 1987 and 1991. Currently, Simms is a football analyst on TV, radio and online.

“Phil Simms fits the bill as the perfect game day host for our guests,” said Taryn Duffy, director of public affairs for Empire City Casino. “We’re excited to

have that same energy and excitement Phil brought to the football field here at Empire City Casino with fans meeting and hearing from the football icon.”

As an added bonus, the first 5,000 Empire Club Members to check in at the main promotions booth will receive a free football-themed beanie hat. Fans who are not yet Empire Club members can sign up for free in a matter of minutes at any promotions booth.

Empire City is Manhattan’s closest casino, a short drive from the George Washington Bridge and easily accessible via Metro North, bus, shuttle bus and more (exact point-to-point directions provided here). For more information on Empire City Casino and the viewing party, visit empirecitycasino.com. (Submitted)

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Addressing a packed audience at the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit’s Jan. 16 breakfast program, new Westchester County Executive George Latimer spoke of “setting a different tone with a different set of philosophies.”

His early actions fulfilled campaign promises and were symbolic of the collegial tone he wants to achieve. In his first day in office, Latimer, a Democrat, issued an executive order that will keep his and his predecessor’s names off county signs, sending the message that county assets belong to the people of Westchester, and not to the county executive. A second executive order, a “good neighbor” policy, will guarantee that local municipalities are consulted on significant projects involving county land. His third executive order banned gun shows from county-owned property.

Latimer’s six issue-based transition committees—health, social services, criminal justice, economic development, operations services, and administrative services—also demonstrates his commitment to listen and work collaboratively. Committees have solicited input from county residents, giving them the opportunity to help shape public policy and identify the new administration’s priorities. He anticipates that the committees’ recommendations will be released by the end of the month.

Contrasting his philosophy with that of his predecessor, Latimer said he strongly believes that “government has a valid role to play in our everyday lives.”

Latimer acknowledged the county’s high property taxes, but challenged the audience to consider the value of services we receive: “What is the value of public schools in society? What is the value of local services?”

Latimer anticipates that the tax changes that eliminate the deductibility of state and local taxes will put tremendous pressure on county and local governments and school districts, and will re-

Westchester County Executive George Latimer speaks at the latest Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit breakfast program on Jan. 16.

Photo/John Gitlitz

quire a serious dialogue about the level of the services provided by these entities. After seven years of flat tax levies under his predecessor, Latimer also questions the financial health of the county. He has asked New York State Controller Thomas DiNapoli to send a team to conduct a review of the policies and practices employed in Westchester County finances.

Latimer firmly holds the belief that problems can be solved by working together, across the aisle, and looks forward to a collaborative relationship with the county Legislature.

In response to questions from the audience, Latimer noted that he will be making some staffing changes over the next few months in the county boards and commissions, including the Human Rights Commission.

Latimer reported that the Board of Legislators will be revisiting plans for the privatization of Westchester County Airport, which he believes merits a public policy discussion. Latimer openly questions whether the county should be giving up the decision-making authority for the airport in exchange for financial compensation.

Latimer also noted that the Board of Legislators will be re-

visiting the immigration protection law they enacted last year.

Latimer anticipates that they will come up with a plan that “passes muster with the advocacy community as well as with the law enforcement community.”

Asked about county support of the Army Corp of Engineers’ flood mitigation plan for the village of Mamaroneck, Latimer expressed his view that the county should commit to its piece of the cost in the budget; county commitment is necessary for the state to budget their share.

Latimer pledged “110 percent” effort on behalf of the residents of Westchester County, citing a sense of urgency to use the opportunity he’s been given and to use it well.

This breakfast forum was hosted by the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Local Summit, an informal community council that seeks to make life better for all in the tri-municipal area. Its monthly meetings are held at the Nautilus Diner in Mamaroneck at 7:45 a.m, on the third Tuesday of the month. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, Feb. 13, when the latest plans for Hampshire Country Club will be presented.

City of New Rochelle’s

Official Newspaper

January 26, 2018 • THE CITY REVIEW • 9

Westchester food bank receives grant from Wells Fargo Berkshire Hathaway release Westchester market report

The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties Fourth Quarter 2017 Westchester Market Report shows the number of sales are down by 1.34 percent. Cotributed photo

From left, Yonathan Whitehouse, Wells Fargo Greater NY regional commercial banker officer; Jean Julien, Yonkers Community Bank branch manager; John Mulvey, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Peg Nolan, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional cmmercial banker officer; Annette Herber, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Leslie Gordon, president and CEO of Food Bank for Westchester; Catherine Strother, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Charlene Carlino, Wells Fargo Greater New York regional commercial banker officer; Deborah Smith, Head of Wells Fargo Foundation for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut; and Melinda White, Greater New York regional commercial banking officer. Contributed photo

Food Bank for Westchester recently received a first-time grant of $10,000 from the Wells Fargo Foundation. These funds will support the Food Bank’s Food Assistance Distribution programs, and will provide more than 23,800 meals to Westchester children and families in need. Additionally, Wells Fargo recently donated 1,296 pounds of food collected through the Wells Fargo nationwide Holiday Food Bank drive.

“It is because of our great supporters like the Wells Fargo Foundation that we can continue to address the issue of hunger in our county and help our neighbors who need it the most,” said Leslie Gordon, president & CEO

of Food Bank for Westchester.

“We are so thankful to the Wells Fargo Foundation for this firsttime grant and we look forward to continuing a great partnership with them in the future.”

Food Bank for Westchester collaborates with a network of member agencies to provide food directly to the men, women and children facing hunger.

Food donations are sourced, sorted, inspected, and stored at The Food Bank, and prepared for distribution to its frontline food pantries, soup kitchens and shelters. The Food Bank also provides food directly to the people we serve through a farmers market style distribution called

Mobile Food Pantry.

“The reality is that there are many hungry residents who depend on meal programs and food pantries,” said Deborah Smith, head of the Wells Fargo Foundation for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. “Thanks to the dedication of Food Bank of Westchester and its volunteer network, more than 200,000 County residents are receiving the help and nourishment they deserve. We are thrilled to partner with the team in addressing ongoing local needs in Westchester County area.”

For more information about the Food Bank for Westchester, visit foodbankforwestchester. org. (Submitted)

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties has released the Fourth Quarter 2017 Westchester Market Report, a valuable resource for anyone looking to buy or sell a home.

The report examines the single family and condominium markets throughout Westchester County and is an in-depth analysis of sales and emerging trends in the market.

Westchester County sales were down by 1.34 percent in the fourth quarter, however, average price increased by 5.76 percent to $619,206. Median sales price

for single family homes and condominiums were up by 6 percent and cooperative pricing remained flat year over year. Luxury home sales- those prices over $2 million- increased by 9.21 percent to 76 total sales when compared to 2016’s fourth quarter.

The most significant issue sellers and buyers need to be aware of is the new tax bill. It is too early to tell how it is going to impact the state of New York but it will be a variable for the housing market in 2018. Regardless of the implications, move-in ready homes and those

within walking distance to shops and restaurants will remain front runners in the 2018 market.

At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties, our mission is to provide an unparalleled customer service experience throughout all aspects of the home transaction process.

If you have any questions regarding this report, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties Realtors are here to help you navigate the current market with expert knowledge and exceptional service. (Submitted)

Interfaith committee

10 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018

sparks discussion on violence against women

By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter

This year’s Rye Women’s Interfaith Committee annual conference is at the Rye Presbyterian Church. File photo

In prior years, the Rye Women’s Interfaith Committee has discussed topics including religious diversity.

Photo courtesy turkishculturalcenter.org

The Rye Women’s Interfaith Committee, a community of women from different religious faiths, will tackle the topics of human trafficking and domestic violence against women in their annual conference this month.

The presentation, titled “Women Under Threat—Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking,” will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 21, at the Rye Presbyterian Church at 3:30 p.m.

Admission for the event is $15 at the door.

Attendees will be treated to a discussion led by the Rev. Kym McNair, coordinator of community and education engagement for My Sister’s Place, a nonprofit organization in White Plains that offers emotional and legal support to victims of human trafficking and domestic violence.

Caroll Claps, a coordinator for the event, said the presentation was chosen because the committee wanted to feature a nonprofit organization and what it has to offer.

Along with supporting the local organization, Claps said, they wanted to choose a meaningful topic.

“There is quite a lot of information [out there] as far as violence to women and people who come out… will learn that this [presentation] is quite the topic for today’s society,” said Lynn Staley, a coordinator for the event.

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, a hotline service for victims of human trafficking, in 2017, New York state had 180 human trafficking cases reported.

The presentation will work to

The Rev. Kym McNair, coordinator of community and education engagement for My Sister’s Place.

Photo courtesy bedfordpreschurch.com

they’re not.”

According to the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, an agency that works to respond and prevent cases of domestic violence, in 2016 “the state’s Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline received 8,584 calls. An 18 percent increase from 2015.”

Of these calls, 12 percent came from Westchester County, which was the second highest volume of calls from any county in the state.

“I can say that once people become more aware [of abuse tactics], they talk about it more, and become aware of what they’ve overlooked,” McNair said.

She went on to say that people tend to think of domestic violence as primarily physical and sexual. When you take those two out of the equation, people realize there are a lot more types of violence, including psychological and emotional.

Claps encourages people to come out to the event because along with raising awareness, McNair will speak on the things that My Sister’s Place has to offer those who might be in unsafe situations.

“I think people will be surprised, and they’ll find out information about the whole [My Sister’s Place] program itself,” Claps said.

McNair said that anyone can benefit from attending the presentation.

“My hope is that people will have a better understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence and human trafficking, as well as how people can call on My Sister’s Place for help,” McNair said.

“We have offices, lawyers, [and] councilors.”

bring awareness to the broader community on the topic of trafficking.

David Ryan, a founder of the Westchester County Anti-Trafficking Task Force, a group of organizations who work together to respond to and end cases of human trafficking, said one of the most important things to focus on when it comes to human trafficking is raising awareness.

The task force also includes My Sister’s Place and the International Organization for Adolescents, a non-government organization that focuses on cases of children and youth trafficking.

“Our goal ultimately is to find these victims, get them out of the environment they’re in, and get them the help and services they need, and ultimately hold the traffickers accountable,” Ryan said.

Along with a discussion on human trafficking, McNair will speak on domestic violence.

“Domestic abuse often goes unreported,” Claps said. “[There are] women and men who are married and living in Rye, on the outside they look like a perfectly happy family, and on the inside, CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com

January 26, 2018 • THE CITY REVIEW • 11

New Rochelle Home Sales Listings provided by the office of Westchester County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni Photos courtesy Zillow.com, Trulia.com, Hotpads.com, Spotproperty.com & Maps.google.com

1 Irving Place 12/14/17 $580,000

2 Hillside Crescent 11/27/17 $475,000

12 Morrison Drive 12/1/17 $525,000

12 Whitestone Place 12/15/17 $550,000

15 Brookwood Road 11/17/17 $590,000

15 Leffingwell Place 12/4/17 $410,000

22 Verdun 11/28/17 $1,165,000

100 Dorchester Road 12/19/17 $1,935,000

105 Broadview Ave. 11/22/17 $870,000

114 Perth Ave. 12/8/17 $706,000

37 Morris St. 12/12/17 $360,000

131 Franklin Ave. 12/18/17 $559,000

170 Clove Road 12/12/17 $495,000

175 Hughenot Ave. 12/12/17 $485,000

175 Hughenot Ave. 12/12/17 $485,000

180 Wellington 12/1/17 $1,030,000

12 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018

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SPORTS

14 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018

The pre-playoff picture LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

Most area fans might tell you that the most exciting time of any sports season comes between the time that playoff seeds are announced and the day when a Section I champion is finally crowned. To be honest, it’s not hard to understand why; simply earning a postseason berth is a big deal for a lot of programs, and every team—even those with lower seeds—comes into the playoffs confident that they can put together an inspired stretch that will see them emerge as champions.

But as someone who covers the day-to-day happenings on the local sports scene, I’d have to disagree.

For me, there’s no time quite as exciting—or as important—as the last couple of weeks before the playoffs in the winter season; specifically, right now.

Regardless of the sport in question, these few weeks set the

stage for the postseason, both in terms of driving narrative and seeding implications.

With a few months under their belt, teams are finally beginning to define themselves establish their programs as contenders or also-rans in the upcoming tournaments. And what better way to find out who you are as a squad than to test yourself against the rest of your league opponents.

On Tuesday, there was certainly no shortage of thrilling league contests: Rye’s boys needed a three-point play with 0.4 seconds left on the clock to top rival Pelham; New Rochelle needed a late surge to put White Plains away; and the Huguenots’ next two league opponents, Mount Vernon and Scarsdale, were locked in an epic struggle that saw the perennial Class AA favorite Knights escape with a 72-68 victory.

And it’s not just games on the boys’ end, or basketball at all for that matter. On Jan. 19, girls’ hoopsters from Eastchester and Harrison added another chapter to their recent rivalry, with the Eagles edging the visiting Hus-

kies in a nail biter. Harrison won’t have to wait too long for a shot at redemption, however, as the two clubs will lock horns again on Feb. 6 in a potential playoff preview.

And that’s what I love about this stretch of the regular season; how a team fares over the final few weeks of the schedule can be telling. Does a particular squad have a knack for late game heroics? Is a program’s young nucleus starting to gel just in time for a deep tournament run? Does a coach need to look to the bench to find some sort of spark?

Those are the questions we start to ask right now, and even though it might be a few weeks before we get a definitive answer, this is the time when the puzzle pieces are starting to fit together and the bigger picture is starting to come into focus.

So don’t wait until the first round of the playoffs to start cheering on your teams; this is where the magic starts.

Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports

New Rochelle’s Jaylen Mention beats Pat Wynne to the hoop on Jan. 23. New Rochelle topped White Plains 77-59 in an important league contest. Photo/Mike Smith

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

SPORTS

January 26, 2018 • THE CITY REVIEW • 15

Huguenots hold off Tigers boys basketball league

NEW ROCHELLE 77 WHITE PLAINS 59 NEW ROCHELLE HS

1/23/18

Game Notes: • Jaylin McGhee led New Rochelle with 24 points • The Huguenots ended the game on a 16-4 run • New Rochelle will play Mount Vernon at home on Jan. 27

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor New Rochelle may have started slow against White Plains on Tuesday night, but what mattered more was how they finished. Taking on a tough Tiger team on Jan. 23, the Huguenots continued their streak of stellar fourth-quarter play, going on a 16-4 run in the last four minutes to play to come away with a 77-59 victory.

The win came just three days after New Rochelle (9-4) pulled off a similarly dramatic run against Fox Lane, outscoring the

Khairi Manns pulls down a rebound against the Tigers.

Jayson Rodopolous drives along the baseline against the Tigers. Rodopolous had 10 points off the bench.

Jaylin McGhee goes up for a layup against White Plains on Jan. 23. McGhee had 24 points in the Huguenots’ 77-59 win. Photos/Mike Smith

Foxes 17-4 in the final quarter to pick up a come-from-behind victory.

Against the Tigers, New Rochelle trailed 13-11 after one quarter of play, but soon took control of the game and led the visitors the rest of the way. Although White Plains cut into the Huguenot lead late in the second half, Jaylin McGhee—who led the Huguenots with 24 points— said that it was New Rochelle’s commitment to defense that ultimately made the difference.

“Our intensity started picking up on the defensive end and we started playing well as a team,” McGhee said. “ And once we did that, we started moving the ball around more.”

New Rochelle also got a huge boost from the bench, as some early foul trouble sent starters, including guard Ben Long (13 points) to the bench for much of the first half. Omari Walker (12 points) and Jayson Rodopolous (12) picked up the slack and helped the Huguenots continue to roll.

“Our depth is good, anyone can step in at any moment and help the team out,” McGhee said.

“It’s all about different situations and certain guys are better in certain situations which helps.”

Jalen Stewart guards White Plains’ Miles Hardy on Jan. 23.

As winners of three straight, the Huguenots will now gear up for more tough tests, as they prepare for showdowns with league rivals Scarsdale and Mount Vernon later in the week.

New Rochelle fell to Mount Vernon on Jan. 9, losing 59-48 despite leading through much of the game. On Jan. 22, the Raiders took the Knights to their limit in a rematch of last year’s Class AA Section I finals thriller, but were edged 72-68 as Mount Vernon

coach Bob Cimmino picked up his 500th career win.

McGhee said his Huguenots are eager for the challenge.

“Our confidence level is always the same; we’re always confident in ourselves, but we are always looking to get better,” he said. “We want to work to get ready for the next game and we’re always focused on the game at hand.”

CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

SPORTS

16 • THE CITY REVIEW • January 26, 2018

New Ro takes 2nd at Counties

New Rochelle’s Jake Logan tangles with a wrestler from John Jay at the Westchester County Championships on Jan. 20. Logan won the 182-pound title.

A Mamaroneck wrestler sizes up a White Plains opponent on Jan. 20.

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor The area’s top high school wrestlers descended on Yonkers Middle High School on Jan. 20 to compete in the annual Westchester County Championships, and while Fox Lane may have taken top team honors, a number of local teams—and athletes—also shined on the county’s biggest

stage. As teams look ahead to the upcoming postseason schedule, last weekend’s event should serve as a good measuring stick for the road ahead.

With three champions and five finalists, the Foxes amassed 196 points on the day, creating some separation between themselves and second-place finisher New Rochelle, which tallied 140 points.

But despite falling short of a coun-

ty title, Huguenot head coach Eddie Ortiz was enthusiastic about his charges’ performances.

“I was very pleased with the way we wrestled, this may have been our best tournament of the year,” he said. “Especially because we ran into a few losses early on and guys had to battle through wrestle-backs and they did a great job.”

The Huguenots’ lone champi-

Harrison’s Zach Finn competes at the Westchester County Championships. Finn placed third in the 182-pound bracket. Photos/Mike Smith

on on the day was junior Jake Logan, the top-ranked 182-pounder in Section I. For the second time in two weeks, Logan earned a victory over second-ranked Jacob Ferreira from Horace Greeley, topping him 3-1 in the finals. At the Eastern States meet on Jan. 13, Logan edged Ferreira with a 5-4 victory. “[Jake] has been winning so many matches with pinfalls this year, that match at the Eastern States was really the first time he had to go a full six minutes,” Ortiz said. “But he looked more dominant [on Saturday]; you could tell that his stamina had increased and he was wrestling with a lot more confidence.”

Logan was the only Huguenot wrestler to reach the finals, although Kobe Simpson (126 pounds) and Aidan Lilly (220) both advanced to the semis.

Other area schools in attendance included Mamaroneck, led by 145-pound runner-up Crew Fullerton, which finished in eighth place; 14th place Eastchester, who saw Steven Bilali claim the 170-pound championship; and Harrison, led by 113-pound champ Tyler Joseph, which placed 17th.

Rye finished 22nd and was led

by Chase Bekkerus, who fell to Bilali in the 170-pound semis.

But New Rochelle’s second place finish might be even more impressive given the tumultuous

An Eastchester wrestler locks up with a Yorktown grappler on Jan. 20.

week in the school district leading up to the county meet.

On Jan. 10, a New Rochelle High School student was stabbed to death at the North Avenue Dunkin Donuts, and an escalation after another off-campus assault on Jan. 17 led to an in-school stabbing the following day.

Ortiz said that he is happy that athletics can provide New Rochelle students with some level of routine in a trying time and was proud of the mental toughness displayed by his athletes

over the last few days.

“It has been a tough week for everyone, and I think the kids just tried to go to practice, work hard, because for those two hours a day, they can forget about the other stuff that’s happening, be it problems in school or problems at home,” he said. “I know the New Rochelle community is going to come together, and for the athletes, this is the best thing they can be doing in a challenging time.”

CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com