September 9, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 37 | www.eastchesterreview.com
Bronxville to install digital parking kiosks
Infected
By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer
After Westchester County reported its first case of the Zika virus in early February, county health officials are now scrambling to respond to an additional 19 individuals who have also been infected with the virus. Pictured is an Asian tiger mosquito, capable of transmitting the Zika virus. For story, see page 6. Photo courtesy CDC
Cuomo measures on campaign donors draw local criticism By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a measure late last month that aims to toughen election, lobbying and ethics enforcement laws, in an effort to limit the power of independent expenditure campaigns. State Sen. George Latimer, a Rye Democrat who is running for re-election, said, “It doesn’t solve the problem.” The legislation would diminish the influence of a U.S. Supreme Court case known as Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, which has encouraged wealthy donors to increase campaign contributions through independent expenditures to
publicly support or criticize a candidate, according to the governor. In 2010, the Supreme Court ruled that corporations have the same free speech rights as people. An independent expenditure is a political campaign communication that touts or expressively advocates for the defeat of an identified candidate that is not made in cooperation with or at the approval of a candidate, or a candidate’s authorized committee. Cuomo said, “Citizens United is one of the worst Supreme Court decisions in history, and in just six years has already had a profoundly corrosive impact on our democracy.” Under the new agreement,
independent spending groups— political consultants and lobbyists—are required to register with the state and may not be formed by a candidate or run by the candidate’s family members or former staffers. The law will also strengthen anti-coordination between independent spending groups and candidates, as it prohibits independent spenders from contributing directly to candidates and prevents political action committees, PACs, from making contributions to independent expenditure committees operating under common control. However, according to Rye City Councilwoman Julie Killian, a Republican candidate for the state Senate, political
spending is not necessarily the issue. “Corrupt and go-along career legislators are the problem,” she said. “If we really want to change the culture of corruption in Albany, we need to enact term limits for state officeholders.” Killian also criticized Cuomo for previously receiving business-backed aid. “It’s ironic that the governor, who has raised tens of millions [of dollars] from people who have state contracts, wants to now limit campaign donations from legitimate organizations who want to express their constitutionally protected free speech,” she said. In 2011 and 2012, a controversial business-backed group CUOMO continued on page 9
Over the past few years, the village of Bronxville has been working to make parking more “user-friendly” and up-to-date. Near the beginning of October, the village plans to further modernize the parking process by installing digital pay kiosks. Bronxville has purchased several parking kiosks from the company T2 Systems, and will install the first trio of “Luke II” model kiosks in the Garden Avenue parking lot, according to Village Administrator Jim Palmer. Palmer said the village decided to install the initial kiosks in the Garden Avenue lot because it has a range of allowable parking times. Some of the spaces are designated for two-hour parking, while other spaces are allotted for three or four hours. Longer-term parking is allowed for merchants with the required decals. According to Mayor Mary Marvin, a Republican, the kiosks will replace the traditional meters currently in place in that lot. But those who want to pay with coins will still be able to. Palmer said, “By putting the pay stations in, people have the option of using credit cards. They still have the option of using the mobile pay-by-phone if they like; they’ll still be able to use quarters, and they’ll be able to use dollar bills. It’s about offering other alternatives.” The kiosks will not require the “pay and display” method, which requires one to bring a ticket from the kiosk back to their car to display it on the dashboard. Kiosk users will
simply have to enter their parking spot number into the kiosk, and then pay. Bronxville has been modernizing the ways by which residents and visitors can pay for parking since last October, when the village teamed up with the company Pango, which designs a mobile app available to Android, Apple and Google customers that allows users to pay their parking fare by phone. Palmer said Pango usage in the village has continued to grow since the program was launched last year. According to T2 Systems’ website, the Luke II model will also be mobile-friendly, as it allows customers to extend their parking time via mobile phone, and also has the capability to send customers mobile notifications when their parking time is about to expire. In addition to making it easier to pay for parking within the village, Bronxville is also working to optimize the location of parking spaces with different time allotments. In April, Palmer hired Walker Parking Consultants, a firm which analyzes parking trends and makes recommendations on how best to organize parking spaces for efficiency. Palmer added that the Kensington parking structure, a 309-space underground parking garage being built in tandem with a condominium development, will be open for village use in 2017. The garage will be divided into Kensington resident parking— PARKING continued on page 8
Follow us on Twitter @eastchesterview Like us on facebook.com/eastchesterreview
2 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016
September 9, 2016 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 3
Eastchester among top U.S. high schools By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer Six Westchester County public schools are among the top 500 in the country, according to a study commissioned by Newsweek in August. Each year, Newsweek compiles a list of the nation’s top high schools, rating most highly the institutions which best prepare their students for college. Harrison High School was not ranked in 2015, but was placed at No. 135 on this year’s list. Louis Wool, superintendent of Harrison schools, lauded the high school for allowing all of its students to take more difficult Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses which resemble college-level work. “The more we’ve encouraged students to take these risks, the better we’ve done on these lists,” Wool said. He added that Harrison High School does not require an entrance exam to enroll in the IB courses. “The most important part is how we are preparing [students] for college,
especially for [their] freshman year,” he said. “We do not preclude any kids who want to take these courses.” Both Eastchester and Rye high schools returned to the top half of the chart this year. Rye, which was ranked 98th in the 2015 study, ascended to No. 96, while Eastchester dropped from No. 132 to No. 194. Brian Monahan, interim superintendent of Rye schools since August, said he was impressed by the degree to which Rye students challenge themselves by taking college-level courses, and added that the school district was honored to be included on the list. Jeff Capuano, principal at Eastchester Senior High School, said he has also seen a growth in students taking college-level classes, and added that the school implores students to challenge themselves. “Rankings aside, research shows that the higher level courses a student takes, the higher likelihood that they’re going to succeed when they’re in college,”
he said. The study ranked schools based on stats like “college readiness,” graduation rate and percentage of students who are college-bound, enrollment in college-level programs like Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate, and also looked at student retention, counselor-student ratio and average SAT and ACT test scores. However, the Newsweek list is not necessarily a chart of the best schools; only schools that participate in the study are considered for the final list. Matthew Finster, a senior research associate with Westat, research partner for the Newsweek study, said the firm compiles a list of about 16,000 schools using data from the U.S. Department of Education. Westat sends a survey to those schools seeking in-depth information. Only the schools that respond—normally about 25 percent of the initial list—are considered in the study. Westchester County’s top school in 2016 was Briarcliff—
Eastchester High School was ranked 194th among the top 500 schools in the country, according to a Newsweek study. The school’s graduation rate was in the 99th percentile; its college-bound student rate was in the 95th percentile. File photo
33rd overall—which also ranked high in the previous two years. Of the counties in New York state which had ranked schools, Westchester ranked second, behind Nassau County which had 12 schools ranked in the top 500. Eleven Westchester schools were featured in Newsweek’s 2015 poll. Bronxville, which was
ranked 29th last year—the best in the county and fourth overall in the state—was not ranked in the most recent poll. Rye Neck, which was ranked 140th last year, was also absent from the 2016 list. Those schools did not submit data for this year’s Newsweek poll. However, both schools were listed on this year’s
Washington Post index of most challenging high schools, along with Mamaroneck, Rye, Harrison and seven other Westchester County schools. Only public high schools were ranked in the Newsweek and Washington Post studies. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
4 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016
What’s going on... Eastchester Public Library
Adult Coloring Group Adults are welcome to join the library’s coloring group on Mondays from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. Those under stress will benefit from listening to tranquil music while coloring. All coloring sheets and supplies will be provided, and light refreshments will be served. This activity is free and open to the public, and registration is not required.
Teen LEGO Makerspace For more information on library hours and programs, visit eastchesterlibrary.org.
Preschool Story Time Preschool students are welcome to join this preschool story time program on Wednesday, Sept. 14 and Thursday Sept. 15 from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. This drop-off program is free and open to the public, and registration is required. Proof of a child’s age and a library card are required during registration. For more information or to register for this program, contact Teresa Chang at 721-8105 or tchang@wlsmail.org.
Reading Buddies Book Club Children ages 2 and 3 are welcome to join the Reading Buddies Book Club program on Wednesday, Sept. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The club will discuss Philip Pullman’s “I Was a Rat!” Participants are asked to read the book in advance. Copies of the book are available at the Circulation Desk, and refreshments will be served during the program. This program is free and open to the public, and registration is required. For more information or to register for this program, contact Jonathan Heifetz at 721-8105 or jheifetz@wlsmail.org.
Eastchester Town Yard Sale On Sunday, Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Eastchester Public Library, located at 11 Oakridge Place. Looking for a special treasure or a fun way to spend the day? Come shop and snack at Eastchester’s Town Yard Sale. There will be yard and tag sale items, new and used collectibles, beautiful mums for the garden, pumpkins, crafts, baked goods, and more. For more information, email townyardsale@yahoo.com. Proceeds will benefit the Eastchester Beautification Foundation.
What Counts in the College Admissions Process On Monday, Sept. 19 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Online registration is required as space is limited. This presentation for high school students and their parents will focus on finding the right match; how colleges admit students; what students have done in the past to get in and get the most out of college; and how to stay calm throughout the entire process. This will be followed by a Q&A and opportunity to talk one-on-one with Keith Berman, Options for College founder and president. Get your questions answered and leave with concrete next steps. For more information, contact Elizabeth Portillo at 721-8109 or eportillo@wlsmail.org.
Bronxville Public Library For more information on library hours and programs, visit bronxvillelibrary.org.
On Wednesday, Sept. 14 from 3:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Come show off your LEGO building skills at the library’s all-new Teen LEGO Makerspace. Participants will be given a theme to follow, a time limit and LEGOs, and will have to try their best to build. For ages 11 and up; no exceptions.
Sending Your Child to College On Thursday, Sept. 15 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. During this complimentary seminar by Andrew White, you will: define a college saving goal that is right for you; learn about today’s cost and various payment options; balance retirement and college savings; and understand what goes into college saving and college spending. To register, call 337-7680 ext. 24 or email bronxvillelibrary@ gmail.com.
Annual Book Swap From Sunday, Sept. 18 through Saturday, Sept. 24. Are you tired of the books you have, but don’t want to spend money buying more? Trade in your used books at the library’s annual book swap. Bring in your gently used adult, children and teen books and exchange them for books other people have brought in. Limit is 30 books per family. Book drop-off dates are Sept. 18 to Sept. 20. The swap dates are Sept. 22 to Sept. 24. Remaining books not traded will be available for purchase on Sunday, Sept. 25. Book sale proceeds benefit the Friends of the Bronxville Library. The Book Swap is held on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, call 337-7680.
Tuckahoe Public Library For more information on library hours and programs, visit tuckahoelibrary.org.
Singalong with Ms. Elaine On Monday, Sept. 12 at 11:30 a.m. For newborns to age 6 years old. Join in the kids’ singalong with Miss Elaine and her guitar. Registration is required by calling 961-2121.
Kids Craft On Wednesday, Sept. 14 at 4 p.m. For ages 5 to 10. Celebrate “The Dot” by Peter Reynolds with a story and a craft. Registration is required by calling 961-2121.
World Series lecture On Wednesday, Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. As the 2016 World Series draws near, explore with David Fruci, adjunct professor at Westchester Community College, just how it earned its name “The Fall Classic.” Beginning with the first battle between the American League and the National League in 1903, participants will discuss the players and teams that created the legends of a baseball fan’s dreams. Registration is required by calling 961-2121.
NewYork-Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital The NewYork-Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital is located at 55 Palmer Road in Bronxville. For more information, visit nyp.org.
Breastfeeding Support Group The hospital’s lactation expert will lead a breastfeeding support group for new mothers on Monday, Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. to noon in the NYP/ Lawrence lobby Conference Room. This support group is free and open to the public and registration is required. For more information or to register for the support group, call 787-2141.
After-Treatment Cancer Survivorship Support Group This after-treatment cancer survivorship support group offers cancer survivors the chance to learn about the late effects of treatment and gives members an opportunity to share and learn from one another. The support group will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 13 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the NYP/Lawrence lobby Conference Room. The support group will include presentations given by experts who regularly discuss cancer treatment and survivorship. This support group is free and open to the public and registration is required. For more information or to register for the support group, call 787-5997.
Joint Replacement and Surgery Patient Education classes Every Wednesday from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. in the NYP/Lawrence lobby Conference Room. This free class will teach patients scheduled for joint replacement surgery what to expect before and after an operation. For more information or to register for the class, call 787-2119.
Eat Right, Live Long Health and Wellness Series Katie Campbell will host a presentation for parents on Wednesday, Sept. 14 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the NYP/Lawrence lobby Conference Room about childhood obesity. The presentation will include information to help parents make sure their children are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain a healthy weight. This presentation is free and open to the public and registration is required. For more information or to register for this presentation, call 787-5000.
Breast Cancer Support Group The hospital’s oncology nurse navigator will lead this support group on Thursday, Sept. 15 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the NYP/Lawrence lobby Conference Room. The group will bring breast cancer patients and their loved ones together to learn and
share with one another. This support group is free and open to the public and registration is required. For more information or to register for the support group, call 787-5997.
Weight Loss Surgery Seminar Clinicians from the ColumbiaDoctors, the faculty practice of Columbia University Medical Center, in collaboration with NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Group/Westchester and NYP/Lawrence will provide information about weight loss surgery during a seminar on Tuesday, Sept. 20 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the NYP/Lawrence Lobby Conference Room. The seminar will include information about surgical options, risks of surgery and expected weight loss. This seminar is free and open to the public and registration is required. For more information or to register for the seminar, call 787-4000.
Bronxville Women’s Club Mardi Gras Jazz and Gospel Fest The Eastchester Community Action Partnership will host the Mardi Gras Jazz and Gospel Fest on Saturday, Sept. 17 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Bronxville Women’s Club. For more information about the event, call 337-3252 or visit bronxvillewomensclub.org.
Eastchester Recreation Eastchester 5K Race On Sunday, Sept. 25, the third annual Eastchester 5K race will take place rain or shine, starting at Eastchester Town Hall. Runners and walkers of all levels are welcome. For more information and to register, visit eastchester5K.org. Preregister and receive a free race T-shirt. The fee for participants is $35; those under age 12 pay $10 to enter. All funds raised will go to the Eastchester Community Action Program and Eastchester Music Boosters.
Bronxville events Bronxville Farmers Market On Saturdays through Nov. 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Located at Stone Place at Paxton Avenue, rain or shine. Browse offerings from more than 30 vendors. Visit bronxvillefarmersmarket.com for more information.
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.
September 9, 2016 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 5
BREAKING NEWS Doctor Makes Hearing Aids Affordable for Everyone Digital Hearing Aid Costs
Sreekant Cherukuri Board Certified Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor, and MDHearingAid Founder
Board-certified Ear, Nose, and Throat physician Dr. S. Cherukuri, a graduate of the prestigious University of Michigan School of Medicine, built a very successful practice helping patients with hearing problems. “I was often frustrated by the fact that many of my patients could benefit from the use of a hearing aid, but unfortunately couldn’t afford one. I then made it my mission to change this, making quality digital hearing aids affordable for anyone who needs one.”
It’s Nearly Invisible “I knew when I developed a new line of hearing aids that one of the most important requirements would be for the device to be hard for others to see,” said Dr. Cherukuri. “One of the biggest objections people have to wearing a hearing aid is that they are embarrassed. Our design helps people get past this concern.” Digital Hearing Aid Outperforms Competitors The new medical grade hearing aid is called MDHearingAid® AIR. It is sleek, lightweight, and full of the same advanced digital technology found in higher-priced devices, but at a small fraction of the price. “I couldn’t understand why everything in the digital world kept coming down in price, like computers, TVs, and DVD players, but not digital hearing aids,” Cherukuri said. Once the doctor started to realize his dream and was able to produce a device that costs 90% less, the industry was turned upside down.
Doctors & Buyers Agree, “AIR is the Best Digital Value!” “...This product is just as effective (if not more) than traditional overlypriced hearing aids.” – Dr. Chang “I have been wearing hearing aids for over 25 years and these are the best behind-the-ear aids I have tried.” – Gerald L. “...an excellent quality-to-price ratio.” – J. May, MD “This is truly a miracle... I don’t even know how to begin thanking you for giving me my life back!” – Sherri H.
90% Less
SAME FEATURES AS EXPENSIVE HEARING AID COMPETITORS FOR Nearly Invisible!
90% LESS
Mini behind-the-ear hearing aid with thin tubing for a nearly invisible profile
Wide Dynamic Range Compression makes soft sounds audible and loud sounds comfortable
Advanced Noise Reduction to make speech clearer
Telecoil setting for use with compatible phones, and looped environments like churches
Feedback Cancellation eliminates whistling
3 Programs and Volume Dial accommodate most common types of hearing loss even in challenging listening environments
So How Does He Do It? Since 90% of people with hearing loss have similar needs, MDHearingAids were designed to meet those needs with user-adjustable features, avoiding the need for expensive customized hearing aids. This also makes it so easy for people to try the product, because no prescription is needed, even though it’s an FDA-Registered Medical-Grade digital hearing aid. With their 45 Risk-Free Trial, you can try it at home and if you’re not completely satisfied, just return it. It’s that simple. They even provide Free Shipping and Free Batteries.
For the Lowest Price Plus FREE Shipping Call Today
1-800-680-7512 Mention Offer Code AJ76 to Get FREE Batteries for a Full Year!
6 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016
Eastchester REVIEW THE
170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000
Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthal ext. 31, irathal@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Editorial Assistant | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com Editorial Assistant | Suzy Berkowitz ext. 30, suzy@hometwn.com Reporter | Corey Stockton ext. 16, corey@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writers James Pero, Franco Fino Staff Photographers Bobby Begun, Andrew Dapolite Mary Marvin, Richard Forliano, Lenore Skenazy 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 Eastchester Review c/o HomeTown Media Group, 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601
Visit us online www.eastchesterreview.com
Follow us on Twitter, @eastchesterview Like us on Facebook, facebook.com/eastchesterreview The Eastchester Review (permit #106661) is published by Home Town Media Group weekly for an annual subscription of $32. Application to mail at the peridcals postage rate is approved at Port Chester, N.Y., 10573. Periodicals postage paid at Port Chester and additional mailing offices.
County officials confirm
more cases of Zika in Westchester By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Westchester County residents’ fears of the Zika virus spreading throughout the Hudson Valley area may have been realized, after county health officials have once again confirmed its presence in the region. According to Caren Halbfinger, director of affairs for the Westchester County Department of Health, at least 19 people throughout the county are confirmed to be infected with Zika, as of press time, after contracting the virus while traveling outside the country. Ten individuals in Rockland County are also infected with the virus. While there have been no Zika-related births in the area, county health officials reported that two of those diagnosed with the virus in Westchester were previously pregnant; however, the county has verified that there are no individuals currently pregnant to have been infected. In early August, Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican, said, “The county is working diligently to address Zika through education, surveillance, and mosquito control.” The first Zika virus case in the county was reported in early February, as the health department confirmed that a man had contracted the virus while travelling outside the U.S. According to the Department of Health, the county resident, whose name and address could not be obtained because of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, has since made a full recovery of the virus that has impacted countries throughout the globe, including the Western Hemisphere, Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Nearly 59 countries have been infiltrated by Zika, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDC.
To date, no mosquitos in New York state have been tested positive for carrying Zika virus; however, scientists believe the Asian tiger mosquito, which can be found in the Lower Hudson Valley, is one species of mosquito that can transmit the virus. “Truly there has to be an approach coordinated on a federal level to find a vaccine because this is just the beginning of con-
cerns related to Zika,” said Westchester County Legislator Catherine Parker, a Rye Democrat. “People also need to understand that they need to take some steps to be proactive as well.” Parker said with summer coming to close, while there has not been any case of local contractions of the virus from mosquitos in the Lower Hudson Valley thus far, residents must still be wary of the possibility of the virus travelling north from Florida, whether it is through sexual transmission or mosquito migration.
The Westchester County Department of Health also announced on Aug. 19 the existence of mosquitos carrying the West Nile virus, specifically in the city of Yonkers. “We hope confirmation of mosquitoes with West Nile virus reminds residents to take precautions,” said Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler. “The best ways to avoid West Nile, and other mosquito-borne illnesses, are to remove standing water from your property.” In an effort to combat the spread of the virus, according to Parker, the county health department is giving residents free minnows that can eat mosquito larvae, applying larvacide to catch basins on county and municipal roads, and doubling up on the number of mosquito trap sites where there could be a po-
tential Zika outbreak. Favorite mosquito breeding sites include buckets, plant pot saucers, clogged gutters, pet bowls, old tires, as well as children’s pools and toys. According to the CDC, Zika infection during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects and is associated with other pregnancy problems, including microcephaly, which is a defect where a baby’s head is smaller than expected and the brain is not developed properly. Symptoms of the Zika virus typically include mild fever, rash, joint pain and red eyes, as well as muscle pain and headaches. There have not been any recorded deaths in Westchester County caused by Zika, as of press time. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
The Westchester County Department of Health has confirmed that 19 county residents have been infected with Zika virus while travelling outside the country. Pictured is aedes albopictus, commonly known as the Asian tiger mosquito, a species that is capable of carrying the virus. Photo courtesy Thomas Mistretta
September 9, 2016 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 7
Finding Senior Housing can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be. Call A Place for Mom. Our Advisors are trusted, local experts who can help you understand your options. Since 2000, we’ve helped over one million families find senior living solutions that meet their unique needs.
“You can trust A Place for Mom to help you.” – Joan Lunden
A Free Service for Families.
Call: (800) 863-0571 A Place for Mom is the nation’s largest senior living referral information service. We do not own, operate, endorse or recommend any senior living community. We are paid by partner communities, so our services are completely free to families.
8 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016
The flood mitigation project and more village work BRONXVILLE TODAY Mayor Mary Marvin
In preparation for the start of school and residents’ return home, village staff and our contractors have been working at a fever pitch on capital improvements in every corner of Bronxville. I thank everyone at Village Hall for stepping up when needed the most. The most expansive and disruptive improvement involving every sector of the village was road milling, resurfacing and curb restoration. In this year’s capital budget, we committed almost $400,000 for road repair translating into new surfaces for 2 lane miles throughout the village. Next in terms of scope and disruption is the FEMA-funded flood mitigation project centered at the Pondfield Road/Midland Avenue intersection and the Bronxville School faculty parking lot. Progress is proceeding as scheduled. As example, wet wells underneath the pump station are currently under construction, and the flow diversion structure to tie into the 70-inch storm water drain will be delivered and installed on Friday, Sept. 9 at a time not to disrupt school. The FEMA project is a closed water system not affecting the sanitary sewer system or groundwater flow. The ending date goal of the entire project is slated for June 2017. We also contracted with a tree preservation service to fertilize, aerate and generally give a nutritional boost to all of our treasured mature trees located near any of these invasive projects. • Adjacent to the FEMA site is the Village Hall front entrance refurbishment project. Near completion, save for the lighting bollards/poles which are on backorder, synthetic pavers were replaced with natural bluestone and brick, and a beautiful village
seal was cast, making it a safe and stately entrance to the 1941 building. • The downtown lighting upgrade is almost complete, save only for lighting and illumination modification where needed. Shields and dimmers are being installed where appropriate to moderate and/or redirect light. • In partnership with the Bronxville Historical Conservancy, replacement ornamental street signs have been crafted and installation began last week on the west side. • The Kensington project is moving forward on schedule, with a projected parking garage opening early 2017 with condominium occupancy expected for fall 2017. The contractor is installing noise absorption tiles and landscaping to mitigate train noise. • In late August, the village contracted to paint many more crosswalks with brighter paint and faux brick cross hatching at many more intersections. In addition, many more miles of village streets were striped and marked. • On some of the banks surrounding the train station, we lost the battle of ivy versus weeds and poison ivy, and you will notice junipers being planted on the bank closest to 1 Pondfield. Our goal is a lush green groundcover year-round. • The agreement with Westchester County, Eastchester and Bronxville for a new ball field and improvements to Scout Field was ratified and funding secured. The county expects to bid the ball field in the next six weeks, with construction to begin in the spring. This should prove a needed safety valve for all local teams desperate for playing space. • Our business district is filling up in style with the Bronxville Diner open and buzzing, and a long-needed purveyor of men’s gifts and clothing is now on Pondfield Road under the auspices of Rothmans, named
Harry’s. • After our program of sewer inspection, cleaning and camera televising, we are now in the process of repairing the cracks found. Unfortunately, most of the deterioration was found in the clay pipes that run the length of Pondfield Road. • More toward an October date, pay station kiosks will be installed in the Garden Avenue parking lot. The kiosks will replace the rows of unsightly meters, but will work in tandem with the PANGO pay program via marked spaces. • In an effort to help out the schools and our Senior Citizen program, the village has moved some of our DPW equipment, resulting in the creation of eight new parking spaces on Palumbo Place. • Our partners in making the village attractive are also improving their properties. NewYork Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital has completed exterior construction, and new plantings and trees and a wide new sidewalk now grace our west side. • With some gentle and notso-gentle prodding, MetroNorth will be replacing the train platform recycling bins, concrete benches, station signage and canopy lighting in the coming weeks. In addition, they are testing old paint for lead with a removal plan to follow if necessary. All of this progress benefits the village in the long term, but we know in the shorter term the disruptions affect the quality of life of residents near the construction sites. I thank everyone, especially those residents living near the Kensington Road site, for their patience and forbearance under some days of trying circumstances. Important notice: On Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 4 p.m. in the Bronxville Public Library’s Yeager Room, there will be a workshop on fair housing open to the public. Call the library at 337-7680 for more information.
Connect with us on @linkedin.com/company/hometown-media
PARKING from page 1
The village of Bronxville plans to install three parking kiosks in the Garden Avenue parking lot, similar to the ones in the White Plains Galleria Mall, pictured. The plan is to eventually install them throughout village parking lots, according to village officials. Photo/Corey Stockton
106 spaces—and village parking—203 spaces. When the structure is open, Palmer said,
it will be prepared for drivers to use the Pango app, and will likely have Luke II kiosks
already installed. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
‘Dads Take Your Child to School Day’ set for 9/20 Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino has called on all dads and Westchester school leaders to save the date for “Dads Take Your Child to School Day” on Tuesday, Sept. 20. “Dads Take Your Child to School Day is a great way for dads and kids to get the school year started off right—and to keep it going strong,” said Astorino, a father of three young children. “Please join us for this fun and important way to show our children we care about their education and will be there all year long.” If you are a school leader, please visit the statewide campaign site to register your school at dadstakeyourchildtoschoolday.com. It only takes a minute
to sign up, and there are some great activity ideas to explore while you’re there. You can also learn more by contacting Joseph D. Kenner of the Westchester County Department of Social Services at jkenner@westchestergov.com or 995-3287. Research shows that students with involved fathers receive more A’s, enjoy school more, and stay in school longer, according to the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse, a resource of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Westchester’s Dads Take Your Child to School Day is part of a statewide campaign that promotes fatherhood by encouraging fathers, stepfathers, foster fathers, grandfathers, uncles,
brothers, godfathers and other significant male caregivers to be involved in their child’s education. Astorino’s #DadBeThere fatherhood initiative is an ongoing effort to support the full spectrum of fathers, from those who are active in the home to those who are absent. Programs range from career counseling and job placement assistance to simply creating more opportunities for dads and families to spend time together. Visit westchestergov. com/dadbethere to learn more. All dads and families are encouraged to share their proud fathering moments using the hashtags #DadBeThere and #DadsTakeYourChildtoSchoolDay on social media. (Submitted)
September 9, 2016 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 9 CUOMO from page 1
called Committee to Save New York spent $17 million to advance Cuomo’s agenda during his first two years as governor. Among others to criticize the new measures is Common Cause New York, a nonprofit political advocacy organization that engages in lobbying that has been openly opposed to the legislation. The group has argued that the legislation places stringent restrictions on nonprofits, and will prevent those opposing the government from expressing
their free speech. Susan Lerner, the executive director of Common Cause New York, said, “Common Cause New York is deeply disappointed that Gov. Andrew Cuomo has chosen to ignore the causes of systematic corruption in Albany, and instead wrongfully punish organizations’ proper and lawful collaboration to more effectively advocate for their causes.” According to Lerner, her organization believes the new law will not stand on appeal. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
The Alan and Maria Benedict story HISTORICALLY SPEAKING Richard Forliano
Following Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s signing of a new measure into law that targets lobbyists and independent expenditure groups regarding campaign money, nonprofit organizations and state and local politicians responded. File photo.
The Chapel School campers use the Force
The Care Bear Program campers learn the ways of a Jedi as part of The Chapel School’s summer camps. Contributed photo
A long time ago and not so very far away... Campers in the Care Bear Program learned the ways of the Jedi, with a special visit from a true master of intergalactic fun and adventure. During the presentation little Jedi Knights, princesses and Darth Vaders were wowed by the exciting physical challenges and magical mayhem. The theme for this year’s Care Bear Camp was “Treasures Across America.” The
students learned about our great nation by traveling cross country. They made stops in all of the 50 states learning about uniqueness and history of each state. In addition to age-appropriate literature and arts and crafts projects, campers had an in-house field trip once a week. They were visited by the Jedi Knights, The Nature of Things, Greenburgh Nature Center, Mad Science, The Maritime Aquarium, Di-
nosaurs Rock and more. The children also had the opportunity to enjoy plenty of outdoor fun with water play and games on the secure school playground. The Care Bear Camp consisted of nine oneweek sessions. The Chapel School is located at 172 White Plains Road in Bronxville. For more information about the school, call 3373202 ext. 1030 or visit thechapelschool.org. (Submitted)
At its annual fundraiser last year, the Eastchester Historical Society started a new tradition. It would honor families who embody the principles behind Eastchester’s most precious document, the Eastchester Covenant. This document, signed by 26 of the town’s founders between 1665 and 1682, dedicated the community that they would call East Chester (two words) to the Puritan principles of compassion, integrity, generosity and cooperation. This year, the recipients of this award are Alan and Maria Benedict. The award will be presented at this year’s annual fundraising dinner on Friday, Sept. 16. It is very fitting that the historical re-enactor at the dinner will be John Adams. In the fall of 1797, John along with his wife Abagail, while serving as president during the small pox epidemic in the nation’s capital in Philadelphia, resided in Eastchester. But who are the Benedicts? A Thomas Benedict is found living on Long Island as early as 1640. Two decades later, Thomas and other inhabitants of Long Island petitioned the general court of Connecticut to annex land owned by the Dutch ruled by Gov. Peter Stuyvesant. By the end of the 17th century, the Benedicts moved across the Long Island Sound and were living in the Puritan communities of Norwalk and New Canaan, Connecticut. As early as 1733, records list the Benedicts as sextons in the local church whose duties include maintaining its graveyards. Maria Benedict also has an interesting heritage. Her father, Paul Phelan, was of Irish descent whose ancestors were Catho-
lic refugees, most likely fleeing the Irish potato famine. Paul was employed in the merchant marine when he met Mary Skladany, the seventh of 13 children. Mary grew up in the anthracite coal region of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Life was not easy there; three of Mary’s siblings passed away before she was born. Mary met Paul in New York City and they came to live in Sunnyside, Queens where they raised three children. Maria is the oldest. By 1832, Alan Benedict’s great-great-grandfather, Samuel Husted Benedict, moved to New York City where he became the sextant of a Presbyterian church. He soon opened a funeral home in Greenwich Village. Little did he know, he was founding one of the oldest family-owned funeral businesses in America, now in its sixth generation. In the fall of 1881, his son, Charles Augustus Benedict, presided at the funeral of President James Garfield. A few years later, Charles Augustus also handled arrangements for the entombment of former President Ulysses Simpson Grant. At the advent of the 20th century, Clarence Augustus Benedict moved to nearby Crestwood while maintaining the funeral home in New York City. Four different funeral homes were opened at different locations in Eastchester. One was on White Plains Road, where Cornell’s hardware is presently located. Finally, in 1938, the present funeral home was opened up at 190 Main St. Fifty years ago, Alan Benedict and Maria Phelan were married and they have been living here ever since. They immediately threw themselves into the civic and spiritual life of the community. Alan was a charter member and past president of the Rotary Club of Eastchester and Tuckahoe, a club that he is still an
From left, Carrie Benedict Foley and Maria and Alan Benedict. Carrie represents the sixth generation of Benedicts who as funeral directors have been involved in providing quality service to families in their time of need. Photo courtesy Westchester Funeral Home
active member of today. He has served as past president of the Eastchester Chamber of Commerce. Maria immediately threw herself into the parish life of the Immaculate Conception Church. She has served as past president of the Catholic Women’s Club and served on the first Parish Council. She has served as a Eucharist minister and has done volunteer activities too numerous to list. Maria also served as an active board member of the Eastchester Historical Society. Both Alan and Maria are incredibly proud of their roles in the founding of the Jansen Memorial Hospice. Alan was both a founding member and chairperson of the advisory committee. For more than 30 years, Jansen has provided compassionate care and unparalleled services to patients who wish to live in the comfortable surroundings of their own homes with family and friends with peace and dignity. Maria gave up her nursing career in the late 1970s and has since been very active in setting up support groups for parents of adult children who have passed away. At the funeral home, she has amassed more than 1,000 books on thanatology, the study of death and dying. But the above accomplishments show only a fraction of what both Alan and Maria Benedict have contributed to this community. They are always there when an individual, family or group needs help. Their compassion, generosity, integrity and community-minded spirit are what the founders had in mind more than 350 years ago when they began to put their marks or signatures on the Eastchester Covenant. Save the date: Friday, Sept. 16. The annual Fundraising Dinner for the Eastchester Historical Society, highlighted by a performance by historical re-enactor John Adams. Alan and Maria Benedict will be the second recipient of the Eastchester Covenant Award. To make a reservation by Monday, Sept. 16, send a check to: Sheila Marcotte, 56 Winterhill Road, Tuckahoe, NY 10707. Cost per participant: $100. Please email historian@ eastchesterhistoricalsociety.org about any comments or questions you might have about this column. Also any questions about sources of information will be addressed.
10 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016
September 9, 2016 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 11
Talking Business: With Stavros Orsaris
By IRA ELLENTHAL Executive Vice President The old saying that youth is wasted on the young doesn’t seem to apply to Stavros Orsaris, who’s making the most of his high energy, innate savvy and tireless desire to succeed in business. The centerpiece of this success-story-in-the-making is Victory Mitsubishi in Larchmont, where Orsaris is turning heads as a high-ranking member of its new management team. Granted, 22 is decidedly young for anyone to become a general sales manager of an automobile dealership, but those who know Orsaris agree that he exudes a maturity well beyond his years. Says a longtime family-friend, “He’s always acted older, carrying himself in a self-assured, confident manner. What’s more, he’s forever asking questions and seeking the advice of elders in an obvious attempt to learn as much as he can, as quickly as he can.” Bob O’Neill, manager of the Victory Mitsubishi account for SPAdvertising in New York City, also declares Orsaris ready and able to light a fire under the operation. Acknowledging that Victory’s previous management encountered more than a few issues, especially on the customer service end, O’Neill says, “Or-
saris knows what he has to do because he grew up in the automotive business and is already doing it. In virtually no time at all, customer service has improved dramatically.” “It’s true,” Orsaris says with obvious pride. “In just a few months, our Sales Satisfaction and Customer Service Indexes have risen from the low 80s to the mid-90s. What’s more, they’re only going to improve further. Our sales and service staffs have gotten the message and they understand clearly that anything less will be unacceptable. Additionally, we updated our service department and hired the best possible technicians.” And he takes the concept of customer friendliness a step further when he adds: “One hundred percent credit approval is our goal. Put another way, those with poor credit will be treated with dignity and respect.” It isn’t going to hurt that the Mitsubishi brand has caught fire; in fact, even the competition has noticed, as evidenced by— among other things—the recent Basic Agreement signed by Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Nissan) and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) to form a far-reaching strategic alliance. Following an MMC share issue, Nissan will take a 34 percent equity stake in MMC. The alliance extends an exist-
ing partnership between Nissan and MMC, under which the companies have jointly collaborated for the past five years. The collaboration includes purchasing, common vehicle platforms, sharing of technology, joint plant utilization and growth markets. “We’re sitting pretty on the product front, too,” Orsaris says. “Our leading sellers, the Outlander and the Lancer, are earning high marks and, importantly, we’ve got the inventory—200 new cars and 100 preowned ones—in order to accommodate the growing demand.” Victory’s bright picture intensifies when Orsaris raises the issue of community involvement. “We want to become an integral part of the community, doing everything possible to further its initiatives,” he says earnestly. “You hear about a lot [of] companies that talk the talk on the importance of supporting local initiatives; we’re actually walking the walk. Whatever is of interest to Larchmont and the surrounding area is of interest to us.” With creative help from its ad agency, Victory Mitsubishi is even sporting a new slogan: Everyone Needs a Victory in Life. “I really like it and, based on the feedback we’re getting, so do our customers,” Orsaris says.
Stavros Orsaris, Victory Mitsubishi’s new general sales manager, is demonstrating strong leadership skills.
Stavros Orsaris has surrounded himself with a team of dedicated professionals. Photos/Andrew Dapolite
The Lancer, top, and the Outlander are among Mitsubishi’s hottest entries. Photos courtesy Mitsubishi
12 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016
The Classifieds • Advertising that gets results OUR RATES:
UP TO 4 LINES $42.50 for 2 weeks minimum. Each Additional Line $2.00
HOW TO REACH US:
(914) 653-1000 x27 Fax: 653-5000 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING: 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203, White Plains N.Y. 10601
AUTO DONATIONS
LEGAL NOTICES
Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 914-468-4999 Today!
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER, GREEN TREE SERVICING LLC, Plaintiff, vs. DANIEL WALSH, BERNADETTE M. WALSH A/K/A BERNADETTE WALSH, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly filed on June 16, 2016, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Westchester County Courthouse, Lobby, 111 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, White Plains, NY on September 23, 2016 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 209 Dante Avenue, Tuckahoe, NY. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Village of Tuckahoe, Town of Eastchester, County of Westchester and State of New York, Section 38, Block 7 and Lot 17. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 70450/14. Anthony S. Colavita, Esq., Referee Berkman, Henoch, Peterson, Peddy & Fenchel, P.C., 100 Garden City Plaza, Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff
Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call315-400-0797 Today!
COLLECTABLES TO P C A S H PA I D I N S TA N T LY F O R COLLECTIBLES! -WE BUY Baseball Cards, Autographs, Records, Silver Coins, Golf Items, Art, Jewelry, Comics Etc., Call Joe Today @ 914-310-5153
FARMING Our Hunters will Pay Top $$$ To hunt your land. Call for a Free Base Camp Leasing info packet & Quote. 1-866-309-1507 www. BaseCampLeasing.com
LAWN AND GARDEN Privacy Hedges, LI M ITE D SU PPLY, 6ft Arborvitae, Fast Growing, Reg $129 Now $69, Beautiful, Bushy, Nursery Grown. FREE Installation/ FR E E delivery, Other Trees Available! 844-592-3327, www.lowcosttreefarm.com
LOTS & ACREAGE LE N DE R OR DE R E D SALE! CATSKI LL MOUNTAINS! 39 acres - $99,900 Valley views, fields, woods, Twn rd, utils! EZ terms 888-905-8847 ABANDONED FARM LAND SALE! 16 acres - $29,900 Gorgeous upstate NY setting! Woods, meadows, nice views, apple trees, country road frontage just west of Cooperstown Lakes! Terms avail! Call 888-701-7509 or NewYorkLandandLakes.com CATSKILL MOUNTAIN LAKE LOT! 2 HOURS NY CITY! 14 acres - $79,900 exclusive access to beautiful mountain lake, wooded privacy, priced WAY BELOW MARKET! Terms avail! 888-479-3394
MISC FOR SALE KILL BED BUGS & THEIR EGGS! Buy Harris Bed Bug Killers/ KIT Complete Treatment System. Available: Hardware Stores, The Home Depot, homedepot.com
MISCELLANEOUS SAWMILLS from only $4397.00- MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE Info/DVD:† www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-578-1363 Ext.300N
VACATION RENTALS OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Resort Services. 1-800-638-2102. Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com
WANTED TO BUY CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Up to $35/Box! Sealed & Unexpired. Payment Made SAME DAY. Highest Prices Paid!! Call JENNI Today! 800-413-3479 www. CashForYourTestStrips.com
EASTCHESTER SUNRISE REALTY, LLC. Articles of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) 10th day of August, 2016. Office in Westchester County at 1767 Central Park Avenue, Suite 366, Yonkers, New York 10710. SSNY design. Agt. upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 1767 Central Park Avenue, Suite 366, Yonkers, New York 10710. Reg. Agt. upon whom process may be served: Spiegel & Utrera, P.A., P.C. 1 Maiden Lane, NYC 10038 1 800 576-1100. Purpose: Any lawful activity. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN: That the Planning Board of the Town of Eastchester will hold a public hearing on Thursday, September 22nd, 2016 at 7:00pm at the Eastchester Town Hall, 40 Mill Road, Eastchester New York on the application of Peter Albano for site plan approval to erect two single family dwellings, affecting the premises known as Section 76, Block 7, Lot(s) 8.10 on the tax map of the Town of Eastchester, New York and known as 183 Beech St Eastchester, NY 10709. TOWN OF EASTCHESTER — PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Board, other boards, commissions, committees, and advisory councils of the Town of Eastchester will be holding the following scheduled meetings during the month of October 2016. Date Time
Place
Free Upcoming Training Class PCA TRAINING CLASS
Are you looking for a rewarding career in the health care industry? Become a CERTIFIED NYS Personal Care Aide (PCA) for FREE! We offer Training in Orange, Sullivan, Putnam, Ulster, Dutchess, and some areas in Westchester County. Hurry - call and reserve your space. Classes filling up fast!
Board
Oct. 4 11:00 AM
Community Room
ARB Sign Review
Oct. 4 8:00 PM
Town Hall Auditorium
Town Board
Oct. 5 6:00 PM
Library Auditorium
Library Board of Trustees
Oct. 5
7:00 PM
DEADLINE:
Placement, correction or cancellation of an ad may be phoned in any time before noon on Monday for publication
Lake Isle
Lake Isle Advisory Board
Oct. 6 7:00 PM
Town Hall Auditorium
Architectural Review Board
Oct. 6 7:30 PM
Community Room
Environmental Committee
Oct. 13 7:00 PM
Town Hall Auditorium
Zoning Board of Appeals
Oct. 18 8:00 PM
Town Hall Auditorium
Town Board
Oct. 25 7:00 PM
Community Room
Traffic & Parking Advisory Committee
Oct. 27 7:00 PM
Town Hall Auditorium
Planning Board
TBA 7:30 PM
2nd Floor Conference Room
Recreation Advisory Board
We have IMMEDIATE placement options, in several locations and neighborhoods. W E O F F E R : • Flexible hours • Supportive environment • Hourly and live-in cases • Employee rewards program • Great incentives and benefits • Competitive pay
CALL TODAY — 914-488-0008
Donate A Boat or Car Today!
Dated: Sept. 6, 2016 — LINDA D. LAIRD, TOWN CLERK
“2-Night Free Vacation!”
1- 800 - CAR - ANGE L
w w w.boatangel.com
sponsored by boat angel outreach centers
STOP CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN
September 9, 2016 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 13
The pest years of our lives RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy
To everything there is a season, especially if you’re a household pest: A time for mice, a time for ants. A time to eat wood, a time to suck blood. And a time for all those roaches under ovens. No one knows this better than the experienced exterminator. “There’s a different insect or problem every month,” says Sam Ramos, proprietor of Above and Beyond Pest Management in Rockaway Park, doing business citywide, but mostly in Brooklyn. If this is April, it must be termite season. May? Carpenter bees. And which pest pops inside in November? Hint: It is a creature that was much beloved by Walt Disney. Hint No. 2: It is not a duck. How do I know all this? I had a long, meandering conversation with Ramos, my savior. Six months ago, when I could no longer convince myself it was my imagination that little brown things were running for cover every time I turned on the kitchen light, I sat down at my computer and did what any full-blooded New Yorker does at such a time. I vowed never to leave a single dish a single second longer in the sink ever again, if only someone would come and make my home un-depressing again. Then I called a couple of exterminators I found online, and one of them—Ramos—sounded positively jubilant. “Roaches? Piece of cake!” he said. He told me they’re easy to get rid of, and guaranteed his work for six months. Since it is now six months later and I can still turn on the
kitchen light without screaming, I wondered if he’d spill the beans (and then carefully clean them up) about the rest of New York and its infestations. That’s when I learned about the Seasons of the Pest. Right now, says Ramos, we are in the midst of stinging season, which began in July. But because this summer has been so outrageously hot and humid, he has also been getting out-ofseason calls about roaches. And not just ordinary roaches. “In 22 years, I’ve only seen them fly once. That was maybe 15 years ago. And now they’re flying again,” he said. Great. This summer may also be remembered, at least by Ramos, for its millipede and centipede explosion. These leggy pests tend to be more of an issue in homes made of brick, he said, because bricks are porous, “and with humidity, they actually sweat.” Out come their inhabitants. For folks who live in brick houses, Ramos recommends a dehumidifier. “It’s a small investment and it’ll save your home. Water is the enemy,” he said. Once fall arrives, the stinging insects drop off and in many places, the ants do, too. “But what if you have a heat-radiant floor?” asks Ramos. It’s nice and warm for ants, too. For an easy mnemonic think: Radi-ANT heat. In October and November, rodents come in from the cold. Waterbugs show up, too, because that’s when the heat goes on. “Once the pipes get hot, they can’t nest in the walls, so they tend to come out around the radiators,” says Ramos. And then everything that needs to stay toasty inside does, for the rest of the winter. (Unless Ramos gets there.)
White Plains Jazz Fest returns to county
Come April, he says, “When one day it’s 40 and then one day it’s 70, and everybody puts their shorts on and heads to the park? That’s termite day.” They swarm. This can be outside the house or, OMG, inside. In May, the carpenter bees bore into the underside of decks, mating as they go. And pretty soon it’s summer with the stinging things again. The good news is that New Yorkers’ two biggest enemies— roaches and bedbugs—are no longer the intractable problems they were. A new poison embedded in delicious (to roaches) gel is doubly effective: It kills the roaches and then kills (put down your fork) the roaches that eat them. And after 15 or 20 years of trying to kill bedbugs, exterminators have finally come up with a poison that does the job without accidentally sending the bloodsuckers scattering. Since bedbugs are generally happy right there in the bed, targeted killing means that’s where they die, and people don’t have to throw out all their belongings anymore, because the bugs never scrambled away. I asked Ramos how it feels to rid the city of pests. He answered with a story: He was once called in to treat a six-story building overrun by bedbugs because of an earlier mistreatment (mistreat and they scatter), even in the walls. He did the job, and then he moved into an apartment there. “The neighbors love me,” he said. “It’s like having a doctor in the house.” Seasons come, seasons go. But a good exterminator passeth all understanding. CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com
P U B LI S H ES
REVIEW Eastchester REVIEW THE
THE
Harrison REVIEW
THE
CityREVIEW NewRochelle
INSIDE
Mamaroneck THE
INSIDE WESTCHESTER COUNTY
Clockwise from top left, Awa Sangho, SOURCE International African Jazz Band, Gary Smulyan and Baby Soda are just some of the acts performing at the White Plains Jazz Fest this year. Photo courtesy artswestchester.org
ArtsWestchester is pleased to announce the return of White Plains Jazz Fest, celebrating its fifth season. The festival, which kicks off on Sept. 20, is a collaboration between ArtsWestchester, the city of White Plains and the White Plains BID to spotlight top jazz musicians in Westchester County. “This festival is growing bigger and better than ever,” said Mayor Thomas Roach. “It has become a White Plains tradition.” Taking place Tuesday, Sept. 20 through Sunday, Sept. 25, the festival lineup includes established jazz and blues musicians, emerging artists and a tasty array of dining opportunities that promise a great cultural experience for everyone from jazz enthusiasts to families and casual listeners. “You won’t find a greater mix of jazz and blues musicians and bands in Westchester County than those featured in the fifth annual Jazz Fest program coming to White Plains this Septem-
ber,” says Janet Langsam, CEO of ArtsWestchester. “This year, our six-day festival continues its tradition of featuring a range of international styles by spotlighting African jazz among others in our lineup. With more than 15 live music events, there’s something for everyone in Jazz Fest 2016.” This year’s featured groups include the Gary Smulyan Organ Quartet, SOURCE International African Jazz Band, Baby Soda, Bob Baldwin, Myra Casales, and Joe Boykin & Friends with headliner Awa Sangho. The concerts are either free or affordably priced, and the venues are conveniently located throughout White Plains and accessible by public transportation. “The White Plains BID is proud to partner with ArtsWestchester and the city of White Plains to present a week of exceptional jazz music in our downtown,” said Kevin Nunn, executive director of the BID. “We expect to draw jazz enthusiasts from all over the tri-state region to this six-day festival. No
doubt, many who do come will find exceptional dining options in our downtown restaurants and at our free outdoor music and food festival on Sept. 25. There are four major hotel brands in the downtown, so we can easily accommodate those who would like to stay for the entire event. We hope to see everyone there.” Commissioner of White Plains Recreation and Parks Wayne Bass said that the festival is developing a reputation among jazz connoisseurs. “White Plains Jazz Fest is becoming recognized as one of the best jazz festivals in the tristate area,” he said. “Great venues, amazing performances and creative, diverse programming are our trademark. This year we feature African, Latin, swing, straight ahead and smooth jazz performances. This is a festival that has something for everyone.” For more information or to purchase tickets, visit artsw e s t c h e s t e r. o rg / j a z z - f e s t . (Submitted)
14 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016
SPORTS
A ‘game’ of great importance LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
For as many times as Harrison and Rye have met on the gridiron, “The Game” has rarely—if ever—felt inconsequential. Even in seasons where one side’s playoff hopes have already been dashed, the mere thought of potentially playing spoiler to their rivals has been enough to spur the underdogs to victories—and set off wild celebrations in the victorious community. As one former Rye player told me years ago, “You could win the section, you could win states, but when people come back, the first thing they want to know is, ‘Did you beat Harrison?’” But even in a rivalry that has never lacked for drama, few games in the last 50 years have felt as important as the one being played on Sept. 10. Since its 7-0 win over the Garnets 40 years ago, Harrison
has held the all-time advantage in this long-running series. With sustained stretches of dominance, including a 9-1 tear in the 1990s, the Huskies were able to, at least for a time, claim bragging rights in New York state’s best football rivalry. But that could all change this year. Over the last decade or so, Rye’s success against the Huskies—including two wins in 2015—has whittled Harrison’s all-time lead to where it stands now; 42-41-3. One more victory for the Garnets, and this series will be tied up for the first time since 1975. And if you think the history of the series is lost on today’s current players, you’d be grossly mistaken. After Rye’s Week 1 win over Beacon, Garnet quarterback TJ Lavelle admitted that it’s not easy to ignore the implications of Saturday’s matchup with the Huskies. “Ever since we were little
kids, we’ve been watching the Rye-Harrison game and keeping track of the records,” Lavelle said. “We’ve always wanted to come back, tie that and take the lead.” But if the quest to tie things up with the Huskies is chief among Rye’s goals this week, it’s safe to assume that the Huskies’ concerns would be of the more immediate nature. In the season opener on Sept. 2, the Huskies were dealt a stunning loss by underdog Eastchester, putting Harrison at 0-1 on the season. For them, a win at Rye on Saturday would not only help preserve their overall lead on the Garnets; it would also help them keep pace with their rivals in the Class A playoff picture. Coming into Saturday, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered: Was the Garnets’ showing at Beacon simply a walkover against a weaker team? Can the Huskies bounce back from a heartbreaking loss? How will Rye’s line stand up against a
Rye’s Mat Bruno tackles Harrison’s Zach Evans on Oct. 10, 2015. With a win on Saturday, Rye has a chance to tie the overall record between the two rivals. Photo/Bobby Begun
deeper, more experienced group than they saw a week ago? And perhaps most importantly, will this be the year that Rye gets back on equal footing with their chief foes?
There may be a lot of uncertainty surrounding this year’s game, but one thing is for sure; both teams will be up for the challenge. “It’s going to be an intense week of practice,” Lavelle said.
“Harrison’s a great opponent and we’re going to have to work very hard to prepare for Saturday.”
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
TO COVER LOCAL SPORTS, YOU NEED A
LIVE MIKE! Follow Mike Smith @LiveMike_Sports stats • recaps • commentary Follow @eastchesterview for Mike’s live, in-game action updates
SPORTS
September 9, 2016 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • 15
Broncos win opener By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor The Bronxville boys’ soccer team kicked off its 2016 campaign on a high note on Sept. 2, downing crosstown rival Tuckahoe 6-1 in the season opener. As the Broncos get set to tackle with a difficult schedule this fall, they hope that their strong showing last Friday portends another strong season for the program.
Bronxville took control early en route to its one-sided victory, led by two-goal days from Will Vranka and Zach Zucker. Broncos’ head coach Donny Lucas was impressed with his team’s spacing and offensive effort, especially early in the game. “I thought we did well considering it was our first game and all of the nerves that come along with that,” he said. “Tuckahoe has one of their better teams this year, but
Zach Zucker chases down a ball in Bronxville’s season opener on Sept. 2. Zucker scored two goals in the Broncos’ 6-1 win.
Jack Kiefer battles for position on Sept. 2. Photos/Mike Smith
our schedule is only going to get tougher from here.” The Broncos come into the season having lost seven seniors from last year’s squad, including keeper Joe Pepe and standout forward Sam Aherne, but Lucas believes that his team has enough talent on the roster to contend in Class B this year. The Broncos have two potential replacements for Pepe, as junior Eddie Connors and senior James Swartz have competed throughout the preseason to earn the starting keeper job. Although Lucas has yet to announce his starting goalie for the year, he believes that the positional battle will only serve to make both players better. “It’s a win-win because it’s really nice to have both kids as a part of the team,” Lucas said. “It’s really hard to pick a starting keeper right now, but I know that neither player wants to be the reason we don’t advance or we don’t do well.” Lucas said that Vranka, who was named to the All-Section team last year, could be a focal
Alston Tarry makes a move against Tuckahoe on Sept. 2. Bronxville topped the Tigers 6-1 in the season opener.
point of the offense with the departure of Aherne, and that Zucker and junior Jeb Burnell, who also scored a goal in the Broncos’ opening win, should help provide the squad with plenty of firepower on the offensive end. Vranka, along with fellow captain Matt Toal, will also be charged with helping the club’s younger players adjust to the varsity level. “Our captains are definitely one
of our strengths this year,” Lucas said. “Their leadership on the field is going to be key to this team.” With the first game under their belts, the Broncos now look to the remainder of their schedule, in which they will be forced to contend with some of the top teams in the area. Bronxville will take on Rye Neck and standout midfielder Luis Galeano on Sept. 6, after press time, in the first of two meetings between the league
Jack Haims gets ready to fire on net against Tuckahoe.
rivals, and are also getting set for crossover showdowns with top teams including Briarcliff, Valhalla and Spackenkill, which is the reigning Section IX Class B champion. “We’re going to have to be mentally tough if we want to be successful,” Lucas said. “The schedule is not easy, and the kids are going to be tested all year.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
16 • THE EASTCHESTER REVIEW • September 9, 2016