Honoring our heroes
Harrison REVIEW THE
May 27, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 22 | www.harrisonreview.com
Town approves zoning amendment amid protest By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer
The third annual Matsuri Japan Cultural Festival opens with the hosts leading the crowd in radio exercises, raijo taiso in Japanese. Meaning festival in Japanese, the matsuri drew hundreds of revelers from Harrison and neighboring communities on Sunday, May 22 at Ma Riis Park. For coverage, see page 6. Photo/Sibylla Chipaziwa
Relations between EMS, town board show signs of life By ANGELA JORDAN Staff Writer After a dispute in late March, when Harrison EMS narrowly avoided ceasing its services due to the town withholding funds for it, the relationship between the two parties seems to have improved. The town released a payment of $45,833 for May 2016 during its last executive session, which took place on April 28. While the EMS normally receives a quarterly stipend of $137,500, Councilman Steve Malfitano, a Republican, says the town will continue to fund the EMS on a monthly basis until further notice. He anticipates that more funding will be released for June 2016 at the end
of this month. Malfitano said that some changes were made to the Harrison EMS operation, and that there has been a mutual effort between town and EMS officials to cooperate with each other since the stipend was withheld in March. “We’re hopeful,” said Malfitano, of ongoing dialogue between the town board and the EMS board. “We’re in a better place, but there’s no real answer to [the grievances] yet and we’ll have to see how it works out.” Al Mignone, the board chairman for the Harrison EMS, said that they’ve done a few things to rectify some of the issues brought to their attention by the town. These changes, according to Mignone, include greater scrutiny toward where EMS
funds are allocated, restructuring of the EMS Board, and making significant efforts to communicate its activities to the town more clearly and more often. Mignone also said that they’re going to energize their fundraising efforts and have more of a public presence throughout Harrison. “Things were tough for a couple a months, but now we’re working on [solutions], and we’re addressing the issues head on,” Mignone said. After Harrison EMS publicly stated on March 31 that they could no longer respond to emergency calls as of April 3 due to a lack of funds from the town, the mayor’s office sent out a press release outlining 17 separate grievances regarding the
operation of emergency services, and described Harrison EMS as “completely mismanaged for an extended period of time.” The list included allegations that the EMS board held “little to no meetings over the years,” had poor communication with the town about the allocation of funds, and did not keep proper records of meetings. There were also numerous complaints from the town board about the EMS chief at the time, Joseph Billotto, alleging that the EMS board allowed Billotto to take advantage of his privileges as chief. Some of these allegations included Billotto being allowed to work almost full time at his business in EMS continued on page 8
The Harrison Town Council unanimously voted through a barrage of boos to pass a contentious zoning text amendment, allowing the town to consider the construction of senior living facilities on four residentially zoned properties, including a Brightview center on Lake Street. Following the vote, several of the 80 audience members in attendance began chanting “You suck” at board members, while threatening to remove them from office. The town approved an updated version of the amendment, which put further restrictions on senior living facilities, including adding a minimum age of residency, eliminating five properties from the Special Exception Uses that were previously listed, and changing the required front yard space from 15 feet to 40 feet. West Harrison resident Sam Hoisington, who lives near the proposed site, the former home of the now defunct Lake Street Quarry, challenged the revisions to the zoning text amendment, which had not undergone public hearing. Jorge Golowasch and Glenn Daher, who both live near the old quarry, also rushed to the podium to address the town board. Mayor Ron Belmont, a Republican, urged the residents to hold their comments. “This is not a public hearing,” he said. “We had public hearings. I extended the public hearings, at everyone’s request, an extra two weeks. We extended the written comments an extra two weeks.
Everything is in. Everything has been reviewed.” Town Attorney Frank Allegretti said the fate of the former quarry and the Brightview senior living facility would be decided through a series of planning and town board meetings after the zoning amendment was approved. “The board is not addressing any specific site plan tonight,” he said. “It’s not approving any specific project.” But some residents are worried that the approval of the zoning text amendment will prevent them from contesting the Brightview site plan or a new zoning amendment if another developer wants to change the town’s zoning in the future. Golowasch told the Review that it is very hard to fight against the construction of a new site plan or zoning amendment. Golowasch added that he feared what would happen if Shelter Development, the company that plans to build the Brightview center, pulls out of the deal. He said this property could become a hospital or a jail. The zoning amendment only allows for the development of a senior living facility, however. The controversy surrounding the amendment has attracted the outcry of residents since it was proposed in March 2015. Residents opposed to the amendment have submitted hundreds of emails and have also filed both a print and an online petition with more than 200 and 555 signatures, respectively. In April, a group of residents also started an online donation ZONING continued on page 9
Follow us on Twitter @harrisonreview Like us on facebook.com/harrisonreview
2 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016
May 27, 2016 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 3
House fire in Purchase causes 2-alarm response
A fire that began Saturday, May 21 in Purchase yielded responses by both the West Harrison and Purchase fire departments with mutual aid from the town of Mamaroneck Fire Department. It took first responders approximately five hours to put out the blaze. Photos courtesy David Raizen
A fire broke out in a Purchase residence on Saturday evening that took roughly five hours for first responders to put out, according to West Harrison Fire Chief Frank Forgione. At approximately 5:30 p.m. on May 21, a fire began at 16 Glen Park Road, which was occupied by a married couple and two dogs, none of whom were injured in the blaze. “The owners said that the house started filling up with smoke,” Forgione said. “Once they smelled it, it filled up very quick and they got out.” According to the fire chief, the all-volunteer West Harrison and Purchase fire departments were called to the scene, and a total of about 50 firefighters showed up, including assistance
from the town of Mamaroneck Fire Department. “The reason we had so many [firefighters] was because it was a strenuous job,” Forgione said. “Just to keep everyone fresh without injury, we swapped out guys kind of quickly.” Forgione said that due to the heavy volume of the fire, it was impossible to get inside when they first arrived on the scene. However, they eventually contained the flames enough to be able to enter the premises and continue to extinguish the fire. At some point during the night, the roof caved in, making it more difficult for firefighters to access certain parts of the home. Two firefighters sustained minor injuries during the blaze. Forgione said the blaze was
contained to the one residence, and nearby homes were far enough away to not be at risk of catching fire. He said that while the exact cause of the fire hasn’t yet been determined, the Westchester County Cause and Origin is fairly certain the fire started in the garage. The fire chief said that the responding firefighters “did a great job,” however, there is not much left of the original residence. “The house looks like a total loss,” Forgione said. “There’s no roof left, it’s pretty much four walls. It’s sad, but obviously our main concern [was] that everyone [got] out safely.” -Reporting by Angela Jordan and Andrew Dapolite
According to West Harrison Fire Chief Frank Forgione, the Glen Park Road house quickly filled with smoke, forcing the homeowners and their two dogs to evacuate immediately.
4 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016
What’s going on... Harrison Public Library
Visit harrisonpl.org for more information on events and programs at the Halperin building and the West Harrison branch. Both locations will be closed on Monday, May 30 for Memorial Day.
Visit with the llamas and Memorial Day craft On Saturday, May 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The West Harrison branch will have real live llamas right outside the library doors for all children to visit, pet and learn about these beautiful animals. Free and open to all. After you visit the llamas, come inside to do a Memorial Day pinwheel craft in the Children’s Room, taking place from 11 a.m. to noon.
Drop-in computer help for seniors Accomplished high school students will be offering computer help to senior citizens on Mondays from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Halperin building on a drop-in basis. Participants will be able to learn the basics, including the Internet,
email, Microsoft Word and how to save photos. This program is free and open to the public. Registration is not required. For more information, call 835-0324.
from the market and talks food. Learn new kitchen skills, get your questions answered and share your best tips and recipes. Pick up the recipe at the information desk.
Pretend play and dress up time
Chloe’s Sign & Play
On Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon at the West Harrison branch. For ages 1 to 6. This free dress up playtime allows children to run wild with their imagination to be anywhere and anyone: a cowboy, a princess, a superhero or all three. Come in to the warmth of the library and let the kids play dress up with fun costumes.
On Fridays from 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Halperin building. Give your child the gift of language. This is a fun class where families can learn to communicate with their pre-verbal children using American Sign Language. Based on the awardwinning Baby Signing Time series, this class will give parents a window into the hearts and minds of their little ones. Through fun songs, stories and games, parents and children will learn many useful signs for everyday communication.
Origami On Friday, June 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the West Harrison branch. This will be the last origami class scheduled for the summer. The library will revisit scheduling additional classes for the fall. Learn the basic skills of origami from Japanese instructors. For those who have attended in the past, learn more advanced skills. Materials will be provided. For teens and adults. Seating is limited, so please register online or at the Reference Desk.
Foodie Friday On Friday, June 3 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Halperin building. This is a “Farm to Library” cooking demonstration on making a summer fruit crisp and homemade ice cream. Come to the library once a month as Chef Melanie Underwood helps participants prepare seasonal dishes
Great Decisions discussion: The United Nations post-2015 The library will host a discussion about foreign affairs and current events concerning the United Nations on Tuesday, June 7 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Halperin building. The talk will be moderated by Joan Katen, a leading expert on Middle Eastern politics, a writer and a distinguished adjunct professor at Pace University. The discussion series will continue on June 21 with a talk on climate geopolitics. Participants are welcome to attend one or all of the sessions in the series. The book “Great Decisions 2016” will be available for participants to use before the discussion, with additional reading materials available at fpa.org/great_decisions/?act=gd_topics. This discussion is free and open to the public. Registration is required. For more information or to register for this discussion, call 835-0324.
The Feeley Fund Make the Difference The E. J. Feeley Harrison High School Student Aid Fund awards monies to those graduates who are accepted in accredited colleges. The Feeley Fund is short of its goal to meet the financial needs of their eligible youth. The Feeley Fund, established in 1967, is a continuation of the Harrison High School Scholarship Fund begun in 1947. Since then, more than 1,000 students have received over $550,000 in financial aid. Checks made payable to the Feeley Fund and sent to Feeley Fund, Harrison High School, 255 Union Ave., Harrison, NY 10528 will “Make the Difference.” For more information, call Lola Geiger at 939-7066.
Harrison Democratic Committee Call for councilmembers The Harrison Democratic Committee is now interviewing anyone interested in running for councilmember of the Harrison Town Council. For more information, email huskydems@gmail.com with your name and contact information and someone will get in touch to set up an appointment.
Harrison Recreation For further information, call the Leo Mintzer Center at 949-5265 or the Sollazzo Center at 6703179. You may also call the Harrison Recreation hotline at 670-3039. Most applications are available on harrison-ny.gov, where you can also view
the spring and summer recreation broucher.
Summer swim team For boys and girls ages 5 to 17. The program will run from Tuesday, May 31 through the second week in August. Tryouts are on May 31 at 5 p.m., with practices beginning June 1 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Louis M. Klein Middle School. In late June, practice times and location will move to the Ron Belmont Pool Complex in West Harrison on Mondays Wednesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. and Tuesdays from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Swim team fee is $275. Checks made payable to the Town/Village of Harrison. Questions can be directed to Dot Klein at 949-5265.
Summer baseball camp Come learn the secrets of the pros as trainers from 21st Century Sports, which has coached more than 200 players who have signed professionally during the past 10 years. Served by the outstanding leadership of longtime camp director and NCAA assistant coach Josh Cuozzo, the camp program promises to be a child-centered baseball experience that seeks to maximize the development of players’ skills and knowledge of the game. Camp highlights include 21CS’ “uReview” player performance system, where coaches use video tablets with players on the field to teach the game in a fun and unique way. Also, 21CS will stay in touch with parents leading up to and during camp, post camper photos on Facebook and culminate the week with a Player Awards Ceremony, where prizes are awarded to campers and all parents are welcome to attend. For children who entered grades K-7 in fall 2015. From Monday through Thursday, June 27 to July 1, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the West Harrison Park Turf. To register or for additional camp details, visit 21CSonline.com. All registration occurs online.
Summer day camp registration Campers will now be placed on a waiting list with no guarantee of a spot as the registration deadline has passed. The late registration fee after May 12 will be $50 per child; after Thursday, June 16, the fee will increase to $100 per child. There are four day camps that offer numerous sports, arts and crafts, swimming, music and other weekly special events for your children. Children in grades one through eight as of September 2015 are eligible to apply. Camp starts Tuesday, July 5 and runs through Friday, Aug. 12. Registration fees: $475, $250 for the second child, $175 for the third and subsequent children; check payable to Town/Village of Harrison.
Junior soccer league registration Open to boys and girls in grades two through eight. Registration is ongoing with training starting on Sept. 12 through Nov. 2. Applications will be available online and at the recreation centers. Kindergarten and first grade information to follow. 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.
May 27, 2016 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 5
Harrison students raise money for cancer research By ANGELA JORDAN Staff Writer Students from Harrison High School painted the town purple on Sunday, May 15 for a great cause: raising awareness about cancer. Purple is the color of the American Cancer Society, and for the second year in a row, students from Harrison High School began a campaign in anticipation of this year’s Relay for Life event, part of a national movement for cancer awareness and research. The organization has raised $5 billion so far. The students painted the double yellow lines on Halstead and Harrison avenues purple to raise awareness for the upcoming fundraiser event. The idea behind the Relay for Life movement is for teams of people all across the country to camp out around a track and take turns walking for 24 consecutive hours. The first Relay for Life took place in 1985 in Tacoma, Washington, when a doctor named Gordy Klatt walked and ran around track for 24 hours
straight and raised $27,000. Last year, eight Harrison students in the International Baccalaureate, an international program that requires significant community service, organized the first local Relay for Life event in town, where they raised more than $84,000 and were named the American Cancer Society’s Rookie of The Year Event for New York and New Jersey at the organization’s annual summit. This year, there are 16 students involved—eight seniors and eight juniors—that are looking to raise upwards of $100,000 for the cause. So far, they’ve already raised $60,000. Harrison High School faculty member Alison Blunt is the coordinator of the event and has been advising the students, but she said that the teenagers were the ones who actually initiated the project. “They are a wonderful group of kids; they are very inspiring,” Blunt said. “Not only have they raised money, but also raising spirits in the community. They provide a lot of support for fam-
ilies and for individuals who are going through a tough time.” This year’s event will take place at Harrison High School on Saturday, June 4, beginning at 7 p.m. and lasting until 7 a.m. the next day. “Basically, I like to describe it as a carnival event because we have a lot of different fundraisers going on, activities, games, and we have a big DJ,” said Gina DiRusso, one the Harrison High School seniors on the team. “We try and encourage everyone to walk the track; one person from every team is walking the track at all times.” DiRusso said that after the opening ceremony, the first lap walked will be the Survivor’s Lap, which welcomes every cancer survivor at the event to take a lap around the track. Next is the Caregiver Lap, celebrating those who have been or are currently caregivers of cancer patients, a lap that DiRusso described as “really moving.” Finally, the Luminaire Ceremony will be held at 10 p.m. The luminaire bags, which line the track, will be lit, and everyone
Jackson Schultz and Erin Nelson collect donations from passersby at a traffic light on Halstead Avenue. Photo/Andrew Dapolite
is invited to walk a lap for those who died of cancer. In between the events are games and music, which creates a lighter atmosphere. DiRusso said that while the event started out as a project for the service component of the In-
ternational Baccalaureate program, it has grown into something more significant for the students. “I have never had any personal connection to cancer, but through this I have learned so much and I have also gained a lot
of experience and I made a lot of friends,” DiRusso said. “I think that one of the most important parts of Relay for Life is making those connections.” -with reporting by Andrew Dapolite
CONTACT: angela@hometwn.com
6 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016
Harrison 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 Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthal ext. 31, irathal@hometwn.com Editor-in-Chief | Christian Falcone ext. 19, chris@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 Education Reporter | Sarah Varney ext. 17, sarah@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, Angela Jordan Staff Photographers Bobby Begun, Andrew Dapolite Columnists Ron Belmont, 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 Harrison Review c/o HomeTown Media Group, 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601
Visit us online www.harrisonreview.com Follow us on Twitter, @harrisonview Like us on Facebook, facebook.com/harrisonreview The Harrison 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.
Japanese residents show off culture at annual
matsuri By SIBYLLA CHIPAZIWA Editorial Assistant
The Japanese community of the town/village of Harrison held its third annual Matsuri Japan Cultural Festival at Ma Riis Park on Sunday, May 22. Hundreds of revelers from across Westchester County and of all backgrounds attended the event to sample Japanese food and drink from local businesses, play unique games, socialize and enjoy hours of entertainment on a perfect spring afternoon. The matsuri, meaning festival in Japanese, was cosponsored by the Matsuri Executive Committee, the Asian Society of the Arts in New York City, the Keio Academy of New York in Purchase, the Harrison Public Library and the Consulate General of Japan in New York. According to the matsuri website, this free spring festival is held to allow Japanese residents to show gratitude to Harrison and the neighboring communities by sharing their culture through food, performances, vendor booths, workshops, games and raffles. Proceeds from the raffles will benefit
Perhaps the most popular performance of the Harrison Matsuri, DDT, based in Japan, put on a show featuring tap-dancing, the taiko and drums in unison. Photos/Sibylla Chipaziwa
Participants in a Japanese tea ceremony demonstration bow before one drinks freshly prepared matcha from a tea bowl.
victims of earthquakes in Japan and local agencies. Starting at around 11:30 a.m., the matsuri kicked off with the hosts leading the audience in radio calisthenic exercises, rajio taiso in Japanese, to warm up. Introduced in the late 1920s, this practice is still popular in Japanese
schools and at some companies, which has been broadcast early in the morning on Japan’s national public broadcasting organization, NHK, since the 1950s. Then followed a slew of performances, showcasing Japan’s past and present-day culture. The IchiFuji-kai Dance As-
sociation performed a traditional dance dating back to the 17th century. Junko Fisher performed traditional Okinawan music, and singer Marina Kondo traveled all the way from Michigan to perform with Kenji Furutate, who accompanied her on the taiko, or Japanese drum, much to the audience’s delight. Furutate later performed with DTT, a trio from Japan that performs rhythms using the taiko, drums and tap-dancing, another crowd-pleaser. Other performances showcased J-pop and J-rock songs performed by Megumi, Rie Tamuro and Shu & Ninja.
Scattered between the entertainment, festivalgoers were encouraged to participate in group dances featuring songs like “Cha-Cha Slide” and Korean pop singer Psy’s hit single “Gangnam Style.” The day also included Japanese martial arts demonstrations from Kyokushin Karate New York and Shidogakuin of Harrison, which practices iaido, the art of responding to a sudden attack with a katana sword, and kendo, the modern discipline of using shinai, or bamboo swords, and protective armor to practice principles of the katana without drawing blood. CONTINUED on next page
Two members of Shidogakuin in Harrison spar in a one-on-one match that drew oohs and aahs from the crowd. Kendo is the modern discipline of using shinai, or bamboo swords, and protective armor to practice principles of the katana. It can be quite noisy, with practitioners shouting and stamping their front feet to show their fighting spirit while striking.
May 27, 2016 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 7
Takoyaki, a ball-shaped Japanese snack filled with bits of octopus, shrimp or potatoes made in a special pan, is being prepared from scratch. Takoyaki that is nearly done are being flipped with long skewers while fresh balls are being made in empty pans.
Koji Abe, the deputy chief of the Mission of the Consulate General of Japan in New York, third from left in the back row, poses for a photo with Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont and festival volunteers at the third annual Matsuri Japan Cultural Festival. Photos/Sibylla Chipaziwa
Halfway through the entertainment, Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont, decked out in a traditional kimono, welcomed revelers and spoke of Harrison’s diversity. “This [event] solidifies the fact that Harrison is a great place to live,” he said. “We welcome everyone, no matter what your national origin is.” Koji Abe, the deputy chief of the Mission of the Consulate General of Japan in New York, spoke after Belmont, saying that he felt underdressed, wearing a
blazer and slacks compared to Belmont’s outfit, yielding laughs from the audience. “In Japan, most matsuris take place in autumn to show thanks for the new yield of rice, but some also take place in the springtime,” Abe said, adding that such festivals bring together community members of all ages and backgrounds, and Harrison has been so warm toward its Japanese residents. “This event is a platform for a better understanding of Japanese culture and heritage.”
Several vendors attended the matsuri, selling Japanese food and trinkets, including bowls, fans and masks featuring Japanese cultural icons like Pokémon and Hello Kitty. Many stations offered games, including a rope ring toss; hanetsuki, a traditional Japanese game similar to badminton; and an activity where participants had to maneuver a tennis ball through an obstacle course on a display board called Fuji and Ninja. The Halperin building of the
Residents peruse the Kiyoko Brown Japanese Collection at the Harrison Public Library. Started in 1997 with just seven books, the collection now boasts more than 3,000 volumes in the Japanese language, from manga to international bestsellers.
Harrison Public Library offered more activities, including a Japanese tea ceremony demonstration, a flower arrangement workshop and a calligraphy workshop, which was supervised by students from Keio Academy, a Japanese private high school in Purchase. The Keio Academy brass band wrapped up the day’s events, with students also performing hip hop routines. The matsuri is just one way that Harrison seeks to celebrate Japanese culture. Available at the library is the Kiyoko Brown Japanese Collection, a section dedicated to more than 3,000 volumes of literature in Japanese for the community, from manga to recent bestsellers translated from English. Started in 1997 with just seven books, Brown, a 40-year Harrison resident, spearheaded the collection’s growth with volunteers and fundraisers. She recalls there being only four or five Japanese families in the town when she moved to Harrison, and says that there are now more than 1,000 residents of Japanese origin. “We have been very happy here,” she said. Brown, who started the collection to help fellow Japanese residents feel less isolated in the community, said she wanted the collection to create an intellectual oasis. “I’ve always loved books,” she said. Brown believes the collection is one reason there are a number of Japanese residents living in Harrison. CONTACT: sibylla@hometwn.com
A vendor puts the finishing touches on yakisoba, fried buckwheat noodles, with pork and some pickled vegetables.
A student from the Keio Academy in Purchase helps a young girl spell out her name, Lauren, in kanji during a calligraphy workshop at the Harrison library.
8 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016
Celebrating Memorial Day; the Japanese community HARRISON HAPPENINGS Mayor Ron Belmont
I would like to take this time to recognize the downtown, West Harrison and Purchase fire departments. All three departments recently held their annual Memorial Day ceremonies in remembrance of their members and fallen heroes. The ceremonies were respectful and did a wonderful job honoring all Americans who have died while in service to our country. I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize our Japanese community and the wonderful Japanese festival that was held in Ma Riis Park last weekend. There was a tremendous turnout and festivalgoers enjoyed participating in many cultural exhibits involving music, dance, art and cuisine. Congratulations to all who contributed to making this event such a great success. Last week, I had the honor of attending this year’s Westchester Government Relations Legislative Breakfast, hosted by the UJA-Federation of New York and Westchester Jewish Council, at the Jewish Community Center
of Harrison. The council fosters communication among Jewish organizations and cultivates relationships with other ethnic groups, elected officials and the community at large. This year’s guest speaker was Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney. He represents New York’s 18th District in the U.S. House of Representatives and currently serves on the House Agriculture Committee and the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. He gave great insight on issues surrounding the health and financial security of America’s retirees, economic opportunity for all New Yorkers, and the importance of improving our infrastructure. The Eugene J. Feely Harrison High School Student Aid Fund, or The Feely Fund, has extended its annual appeal to the Harrison community. This fund provides college aid to eligible Harrison High School graduates. One hundred percent of all donated funds go directly to the students. Each year, several qualified and the deserving students are awarded grants through the generous donation of Harrison residents. If you would like to contribute, please make checks payable to The Feely Fund and send them to The Feely Fund at 255 Union Ave., Harrison, NY 10528. For
additional information, call Lola Geiger at 939-7066. Recognition is in order for our library director, Galina Chernykh. Ms. Chernykh was recently honored by the Westchester Library Association. This year marked the first presentation of the WLS Trustees Award, an award that honors an individual or organization that promotes the Westchester Library System’s mission of making library service inclusive for all members of the diverse Westchester communities. The Harrison Public Library board nominated Ms. Chernykh for her efforts and deep dedication to serving many diverse populations. I’m sure I can speak for our entire community when expressing our congratulations on receiving this very important distinction. The next Lunch with the Mayor is on Friday, June 3 and I will be at Quenas Restaurant, located at 109 Harrison Ave. in downtown Harrison. I will be at this location from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and look forward to meeting with residents and talking about issues facing our community. In closing, I hope you and your family have a very safe and healthy Memorial Day weekend.
Harrison Central School District’s
Official Newspaper
EMS from page 1
Nearly two months after town officials and Harrison EMS engaged in a standoff where the town was withholding funds from EMS due to allegations of poor management, the relationship between the two parties appears to have improved, and the town has continued to fund emergency services. File photo
Mamaroneck—which he allegedly used as an outside vendor for uniform supplies without obtaining any competing bids— to use an EMS-owned fly car to drive back and forth from his home in Mahopac, and use his personal credit card for EMS expenses. However, the town decided to release funds to the Harrison EMS on April 3, narrowly avoiding a discontinuation of services. When the town and EMS were initially at a standstill in March,
Mayor Ron Belmont, a Republican, said at the time that in no way would there be any cessation of emergency services for Harrison, West Harrison and Purchase, the coverage areas for the EMS. Malfitano echoed those reassurances when talking about the current state of EMS funding. “We are always going to be concerned about the quality of service, and we would never cause service disruption,” Malfitano said.
Malfitano said that in the event that they did stop funding Harrison EMS, there could potentially be “a number of different directions to go in” in order to avoid service interruptions, but added that the town board isn’t thinking of discontinuing EMS funding at this time. “We want to see [Harrison EMS] run more like a business financially, operationally, etc.,” the councilman said. CONTACT: angela@hometwn.com
May 27, 2016 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 9
Jandon awards 16 scholarships to county students
The 2016 Jandon Scholarship class received awards from the Jandon Foundation and the Westchester County Board of Legislators on May 19, which grants $12,000 to high school graduates for staying in college and maintaining good grades. Photo courtesy Westchester County
By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer Sixteen high school seniors from Westchester County received Jandon Scholarships this month during a press conference orchestrated by the county Board of Legislators. For the 17th consecutive year, the Jandon Foundation, created in 1965 by Donald and Jane Cecil, of Harrison, awarded $12,000 to each student over a four-year period. Students are given $1,500 during their freshman year, and their annual funding increases by $1,000 each year to reward them for staying in school and maintaining good grades. The scholarship funds go directly to the students so they can retain other financial aid opportunities. During the press conference, county Legislator Michael Kaplowitz, a Yorktown Democrat, said, “Our Jandon Scholarship program this year is certainly tinged with sadness because of the passing of Jane Cecil last July.” This marks the first class of scholars to receive the award since her death. The Cecils moved to Westchester in 1960 and to Harrison in 1980. Donald Cecil was a founding partner at the hedgefund Cumberland Associates LLC in 1970, and has been a philanthropist in the community since creating the Jandon Foundation. “We have concentrated our efforts in the community, both in artistic events and in education,”
Donald Cecil said. The Jandon Foundation has funded the Westchester Philharmonic, Today’s Students Tomorrow’s Teachers, the Writing Through the Arts program at the Neuberger Museum of Arts at SUNY Purchase, and the I Have a Dream program in Mount Vernon, which provided 52 sixth-grade students with aid for college upon graduating high school. “Based on what we learned from that program, we developed the Jandon Scholarship,” Donald Cecil said. The Cecils have committed to providing scholarships for at least 20 years, totaling approximately $2 million. In order for students to be eligible for Jandon Scholarships, their families must meet financial guidelines. Many Jandon scholars come from families receiving financial assistance. The Board of Legislators helps the foundation find students who qualify. This year, there were 158 applicants. Applicants endure a rigorous process that includes the submission of test scores, essays, transcripts and recommendations. The Jandon board sifts out the top 30 applicants before conducting interviews to select the winners. The foundation claims the scholarship recipients’ college graduation rate is more than 90 percent. This number is in contrast to the 59 percent graduation rate nationwide, according to 2013 statistics by the National Center for Education Statistics.
The foundation attributes much of its scholars’ success to the support system that the scholarship creates. “We are your partners for the next four years to help you succeed,” Alec Cecil, son of Donald and Jane, told the recipients. The foundation has held two annual events for more than 200 recipients who have received the award since 1999, including a pool party in the summer. Imani Williams, a recipient of the scholarship in 2012 who recently graduated from Manhattanville College, spoke to this year’s award winners during the ceremony. She told the honorees that the scholarship is not just monetary. “This is an opportunity to network,” she said, comparing the scholarship to a real-life LinkedIn. The Jandon Scholarship network includes Mount Vernon Mayor Richard Thomas, a Democrat. “There are a number, of course, who have gone on to get their more senior degrees— master’s and Ph.Ds.—but he’s the one public figure, I guess, so far,” Donald Cecil said. He said he hopes more Jandon scholars will go on to serve their communities in the future. “I hope for them all to be good citizens and to be honest, to be moral, to be successful, and, hopefully, to give back,” he said. Donald Cecil stressed that selecting recipients is as much a matter of character as it is of academic success. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
ZONING from page 1
Droves of Harrison residents at a recent Town Council meeting applaud as resident Sam Hoisington accuses the council of spot zoning and demands a public hearing for the revised zoning text amendment, which passed by a 5-0 vote. Photo/Corey Stockton
page on the website YouCaring to raise money to sue the town if the board passed the amendment. As of press time, the group has raised $45,000, more than triple the amount it had raised before the town’s May 19 vote. Their goal is set at $60,000. Hoisington, who has helped organize the donation web page, said the next step is legal action,
although he added, “We really don’t want to take legal action against our own town.” Residents have protested the zoning amendment as an example of spot zoning, which is the allowance of a special exception in zoning laws for the benefit of a single developer or entity. Spot zoning is considered illegal. Anthony Grgas, who lives
above the Lake Street Quarry, said, “This zoning amendment, if you look at the language, it has been tailored to fit this one property.” Councilman Steve Malfitano, a Republican, argued that the town is following a process, and that the board is following the rules. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
10 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016
11 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016
Business Briefs BCW recognizes 2016 Class of Rising Stars The Business Council of Westchester, the leading business membership organization in the county, recently announced its 2016 class of Rising Stars, a richly talented and diverse group representing an impressive array of professions. The BCW’s Rising Stars awards salute Westchester’s “40-under-40,” individuals, who demonstrate exemplary leadership, creativity, innovation, dedication and professionalism. They are among the best and brightest in business in the entire Hudson Valley. “The quantity and quality of this year’s nominees was second to none,” said Marsha Gordon, president and CEO of The Business Council of Westchester. “The 2016 winners are highly skilled, inspiring and diverse, and they represent a tremendous cross section of organizations and industries. We’re thrilled to honor such an elite group of young professionals.” The winners will be honored on June 16 during a reception at 800 Westchester Ave. in Rye Brook. The Rising Stars program is modeled after the national business recognition program “40-under-40.” Rising Stars honorees were chosen based on professional and/or entrepreneurial accomplishments, professional and/or business affiliations, and demonstrated leadership skills. News 12 Westchester anchor and reporter Tara Rosenblum will reprise her role as emcee for the Rising Stars ceremony. Rosenblum, a 2007 Rising Stars honoree, has earned nearly 200 major industry awards—including 16 Emmys—since joining News 12 in 2004. She has 66 Emmy nominations, and she was the most nominated reporter in the state in 2014 and 2016. The competition for this year’s Rising Stars was steep. This year’s winners represent a vast number of industries, including law, finance, public relations and marketing, education, healthcare, and real estate. Maria Bronzi, director at Altium Wealth Management and a 2011 honoree, oversaw the selection process as chair of the Rising Stars program. The county’s largest and most influential business membership organization, The Business Council of Westchester is committed to helping businesses market, learn, advocate and grow. In addition, The Business Council of Westchester is actively involved in reviewing federal, state and county legislation and regulations in order to assess the potential impact on the business community and to influence the outcomes through advocacy when the business community’s interests may be affected. It also acts as an information resource for the business community and government leaders at all levels.
Houlihan Lawrence launches digital lifestyle guide ‘North of NYC’ In an effort to wow New Yorkers contemplating a move out of the city, Houlihan Lawrence, the leading real estate brokerage serving Gotham’s northern suburbs has released a new digital lifestyle guide, called North of NYC. The highly interactive guide celebrates the people and sites that make New York’s Hudson Valley and Western Connecticut such thriving places to live, work and play. “This project demonstrates how Houlihan Law-
rence is embracing the new frontier of real estate marketing by turning the focus on communities and lifestyle possibilities rather than simply selling houses,” said Chris Meyers, managing principal of Houlihan Lawrence. “We chose to produce the guide in a mobile-optimized digital format, making it easy for people to explore our communities as they begin their journey.” According to E.J. Kelley, content strategist at Houlihan Lawrence, the company wanted to establish something that introduced “each of our communities” in an authentic way. Designed by King & Partners, a digital agency specializing in content strategy, design and technology located in NoHo, the visually stunning microsite is organized through the lens of six local personas: the Villager, the Equestrian, the Trailblazer, the Waterfronter, the Locavore, and the Cosmopolitan. Each category profiles a local personality, business owner or influencer who shares their experience and connection to the region. “In addition to creating a visually captivating digital experience, our goal was to build an online destination that will tell the many wonderful stories of the northern suburbs and engage users in meaningful conversations,” said Tony King, CEO of King & Partners. “We wanted North of NYC to be a truly unique platform that offers a customized, interactive map of the region and invites people to uncover its best offerings, from local breweries and farm-totable eateries to organic farms and historic sites.” North of NYC is an ongoing campaign for Houlihan Lawrence that began with Instagram. Engaging local Instagrammers through photo contests and promotions, the feed for the tag today includes more than 4,000 community-generated images from our area, providing a foundation for the full-fledged lifestyle guide. Through high-end technology, seamless design and creative direction, Houlihan Lawrence is proud to engage locals and city dwellers alike in order to initiate a digital narrative explaining why there’s no place like its home. For more information, visit northof.nyc.
Friedland Realty Advisors becomes RM Friedland On the heels of a recordbreaking first quarter, Friedland Realty Advisors, a commercial real estate service company headquartered in Harrison, is proud to announce its new name, RM Friedland, in addition to Colleen T. Quinn leadership changes and significant new hires. Effective immediately, the company is debuting the new name, logo and marketing materials as part of its new brand identity. RM Friedland aligns Friedland Realty with Robert Martin William Anson Company, a real estate investment, development and management firm, which has had an ownership stake in the business since November 2015. Recently, the firm announced a majority stake in the company. “Since the investment by Robert Martin Company, our clients have truly benefited from the combined expertise and resources of two of the most seasoned real estate companies in Westches-
ter County,” said Sarah Jones-Maturo, president and CEO of RM Friedland. RM Friedland is also announcing leadership changes and new additions to the team’s Harrison office. William Anson has been named managing director of the company’s industrial division and Colleen T. Quinn has been named managing director of the retail division. The seasoned industry executives will be responsible for spearheading new business activities within their respective divisions, leading internal training sessions and fostering junior talent. In addition, Jones-Maturo, who previously served as president, has been named president and CEO of RM Friedland. Anson has more than 40 years of experience as a commercial broker specializing in industrial property sales and leasing in Westchester and Fairfield counties as well as the Bronx. The majority of his career was spent running his own real estate brokerage company, Anson & Berger Inc., one of the most highly respected boutique firms in the area. The company provided services for both national and international firms as well as many private, familyowned companies. Quinn has more than 25 years of experience as a retail broker, representing clients like The Fresh Market, Michael’s, Fidelity and Mavis Tire. Prior to joining RM Friedland, she successfully ran her own real estate brokerage company, Quinn Commercial Properties LLC, for more than a decade. Quinn previously held positions with Northwest Atlantic Real Estate Services in White Plains, and CBRE in White Plains and Stamford, Connecticut.
The retail division is also welcoming industry veteran Beth White to the team. Bringing more than 30 years of experience as a real estate professional, White joins RM Friedland to build and enhance the RMF Retail Services Landlord Representation Division. As one of the most senior leasing personnel at Simon, the nation’s largest mall owner, White was responsible for varied and diverse assets in terms of EBITDA and geography. Originally hired by Melvin Simon and Associates, her career soared as the company grew to become the most prominent mall owner in the U.S. She is a member of ICSC. In addition, Joshua Ezman recently joined the company as marketing director and played an integral role in the rebranding effort. In this role, Ezman will focus on improving all aspects of RM Friedland’s internal and external marketing. He received his degree in advertising and design from Syracuse University and has spent his decade-long career working for prominent advertising firms such as Match MG and TracyLocke. “This is an exciting time for our company and we’re thrilled that these industry leaders with proven track records have joined our team,” said Jones-Maturo. “These hires will help shape the future of the company and position us for continued success.” The next Business Briefs section will run in June. Please send any submission for our June edition to news@hometwn.com, with “Business” in the subject line of your email. Each submission may include one picture. If you have any questions, email us at news@hometwn.com.
12 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 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
ADOPTION
WANTED TO BUY
LEGAL NOTICES
Professional African American couple truly want to adopt. Great relatives, active lifestyle, huge hearts, adventurous, loving. Confidential, allowed expenses paid. Kecia and Devon. 1-866-932-5603
CASH FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS Up to $35/Box! Sealed & Unexpired. Payment Made SAME DAY. Highest Prices Paid!! Call Juley Today! 800-413-3479 www. CashForYourTestStrips.com
NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Harrison Central School District hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for the following: RFB #16/17-11 Masonry Services Bids shall be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “RFB #16/17-11: Masonry Services” on the outside. Bids will be received until 2:00 p.m., Thursday, June 9, 2016 by the Purchasing Agent (or his duly designated representative), Harrison Central School District, Business Office, 50 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528; (914) 630-3011; Fax: (914) 835-2715, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at www.empirestatebidsystem. com or from the district Business Office beginning Tuesday, May 24, 2016. The Harrison Central School District is not responsible for bids opened prior to the bid opening if bid number and opening date do not appear on the envelope. Bids opened prior to the date and time indicated are invalid. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail, or in the handling of the mail by employees of the Harrison Central School District, as well as improper hand delivery. The Harrison Central School District reserves the right to waive any informalities in the bids, or to reject all bids, or to accept any bid which in the opinion of the Board will be to their best interest. By order of the Board of Education Gene George Purchasing Agent Dated: May 24, 2016
High energy, passionate, African American hope-to-be parent really wants to adopt. Lets meet and work together. Legally allowed expenses paid. Monroe. 1-800-398-9614.
AUCTIONS SULLIVAN COUNTY REAL PROPERTY TAX FORECLOSURE AUCTION. 400+/- Properties June 8-9 @10AM. ìRamada Rock Hillî, Route 17, Exit 109. 800-243-0061 AAR, Inc. & HAR, Inc. Brochure: www.NYSAuctions.com
AUTO DONATIONS Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 914-468-4999 Today! Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. Call 315-400-0797 Today!
FAIRS/ FESTIVALS DELAWARE RIVER BEARS CIRCLE Inter-Tribal Festival PowWow. 36 Bridge Street, Margaretville, NY June 4th & 5th , starting at 10am. Host Drum Nimham Mountain Singers, Aztec Dancers contact Don Gibson 607-746-6833.
HELP WANTED Entry Level Heavy Equipment Operator Career. Get Trained -Get Certified -Get Hired! Bulldozers, Backhoes & Excavators. Immediate Lifetime Job Placement. VA Benefits. National Average $18.00-$22.00. 1-866-362-6497 Licensed professional stylists needed for upscale senior living community salon opening in August. Interviewing on 5/31. 866-446-1836, x127.
LOTS & ACREAGE FOR ECLOSE D LAN D DEALS! 8 to 39 acre Tracts from $12,900 Catskill Mtns/ Cooperstown Lakes Region Beautiful land, fully Gíteed! EZ terms! Call 888-905-8847. NewYorkLandandLakes.com AD I R O N DAC K LAK E F R O NT LAN D & CAMPS! 111 acres; Lake Access -$159,900 30 acres; Lakefront Cabin -$249,900 Just 3 hours from NY City! Terms avail! Call 888-479-3394 WoodworthLakePreserve.com
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
LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation of AGN Advisory, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 4/1/2016. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 611 Webster Avenue, New Rochelle N.Y. 10801. Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice of Formation of Stonewall Consulting LLC. Articles of Organization filed 03/08/16 with Secy of State (SSNY). Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o LLC, 104 Stonewall Circle, West Harrison, NY 10604. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. NOTICE TO BIDDERS The Harrison Central School District hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for the following: RFB #16/17-10 Provide and Install Interior Doors at Harrison High School Library Bids shall be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “RFB #16/17-10: Provide and Install Interior Doors at Harrison High School Library” on the outside. Bids will be received until 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 3, 2016 by the Purchasing Agent (or his duly designated representative), Harrison Central School District, Business Office, 50 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528; (914) 630-3011; Fax: (914) 835-2715, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained at www.empirestatebidsystem. com or from the district Business Office beginning Tuesday, May 24, 2016. The Harrison Central School District is not responsible for bids opened prior to the bid opening if bid number and opening date do not appear on the envelope. Bids opened prior to the date and time indicated are invalid. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail, or in the handling of the mail by employees of the Harrison Central School District, as well as improper hand delivery. The Harrison Central School District reserves the right to waive any informalities in the bids, or to reject all bids, or to accept any bid which in the opinion of the Board will be to their best interest. By order of the Board of Education Gene George Purchasing Agent Dated: May 24, 2016
Request for Proposals RFP #2017ii: Environmental Monitoring and Air Testing Services The Harrison Central School District is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the selection of a professional consultant for Environmental Monitoring and Air Testing Services. You are invited to submit proposals in accordance with this RFP. Proposals should be marked “RFP #2017ii: Environmental Monitoring and Air Testing Services” on the outer envelope and addressed to the Purchasing Agent, Harrison Central School District, 50 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528; (914) 630-3011; Fax: (914) 8352715. Proposals will be received until 2:30 P.M. on Thursday, June 9, 2016. Proposal forms may be obtained at www.empirestatebidsystem.com or from the district Business Office. The Board of Education reserves the right to reject any proposal or to accept any part of any proposal. By order of the Board of Education Gene George Purchasing Agent Dated: June 9, 2016
DEADLINE:
Placement, correction or cancellation of an ad may be phoned in any time before noon on Monday for publication
May 27, 2016 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 13
ing up across Europe and Japan. In the 1970s, there were even RHYMES three adventure playgrounds in WITH CRAZY New York—parks deliberately Lenore Skenazy full of junk and supervised by New York kids are about to “playworkers”—adults trained get dirty, frustrated, bruised, to support play, not direct it. But gradually, those playgrounds tired, and so happy. On Saturday, May 28, a brand disappeared, some in part for new, but already cluttered and budget reasons and others, in chaotic “adventure playground” part, one suspects, for liability is opening on Governor’s Island. reasons. Adventure play was reIt’s called play:groundNYC. Ad- placed by its opposite: the kind mission is free on the weekends of playgrounds we see today, and children are most welcome, where parents are expected to stay and watch. but parents are not. What’s missing most is risky That’s the whole idea behind adventure playgrounds, explains play, which is not the same as Yoni Kellai, one of the eight hazardous play, says Kellai, who volunteers who co-founded the teaches circus arts in Brooklyn. place: Kids play differently Risk is something a child can aswhen there’s a parent around. sess and decide to take or not: You’ve seen it yourself. They Shall I climb a little higher up pester and whine. They get bored the ladder today? A hazard is just and demand adult attention (and an unseen danger; for instance, if a ladder had a broken leg the Goldfish crackers). But when kids play on their child couldn’t see. Too often, parents, princiown, especially when they’ve got hammers and saws and pals and insurance companies wood and nails, as they will at assume risk and hazard are the play:groundNYC, they play a same. But eliminating risk elimlittle bigger. They make and inates a key element of play: facbreak things. And that’s just ing something scary and overcoming it. Remove that element what kids really crave. The whole idea of adventure and play becomes boring. The playgrounds began in Denmark adventure playground brings it in the 1930s. A landscape archi- back. Governors Island has gentect named C.T. Sorenson noted with unusual humility that kids erously allowed the adventure did not seem to be flocking to playground to look as it must: the kind of well-ordered parks awful, with wood, plastic, fabric his type designed. Instead, they and other junk strewn around. “I were having the time of their actually stumbled across what lives playing in junky lots. As he I think you call a dial phone?” started to imagine what the most says Kellai, 32. “I don’t know engaging playground would if the kids will know what it is.” That doesn’t mean it isn’t look like, he wrote in his journal: “There could be... old cardboard valuable. It could become part boxes, planks and boards, ‘dead’ of a fort—or the target of hamcars, old tires and lots of other mer practice. “There’s very little opportuthings.... Of course it would look nity for a lot of kids living in terrible.” It sure does. The lots look like New York to not just build but rubble. But from then on, adven- destroy their environments withture playgrounds started spring- out being chastised,” says Reilly
Bergin Wilson, a CUNY student and another play:groundNYC founder. “You know what I mean? You could go to your local playground, but if you ever took even a permanent marker, let alone a saw, to anything there, you would get yelled at in seconds, and quite possibly someone would call the police on you.” Destroying and building are both just fine at an adventure playground. And they’re clearly something the kids love almost more than anything else. When play:groundNYC opened a few short-term pop-up playgrounds in Brooklyn, parents who would normally schedule a day’s worth of amusements were amazed to find that their kids could occupy themselves for two, three or four hours without anything more than a gaggle of kids and a pile of planks. The parents changed as much as the kids. To get to the play:ground, there are ferries from Manhattan and Brooklyn. Thanks to Kickstarter and a few grants, there are three playworkers on the scene every weekend until the end of September. Since each playworker can oversee about 10 kids, well, you can do the math. If the founders get some more grants, they can hire some more workers and allow in more kids. During the week, the play:ground is home to a camp that costs $550 a week, but scholarships are available. And outside the play:ground, there’s another area for younger kids under 6 where parents are allowed and even encouraged to stay. But once those kids get a little older, bye mom! For more information, visit play-ground.nyc, and let your kids take it from there.
County comes together to fight and prevent Zika County Executive Rob Astorino recently presented Westchester’s plan to protect residents from the potential threat of the Zika virus and other mosquitoborne diseases. “Westchester County has a comprehensive plan in place to protect residents from Zika,” Astorino said. “There have been no locally acquired cases of Zika in Westchester. Nevertheless, I want to assure you that Westchester County is working diligently to address Zika. The county’s action plan includes education, surveillance and mosquito control.” Joined by Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler and Assistant Commissioner for Environmental Health Peter DeLucia at the Kensico Dam playground in Valhalla, Astorino described the county’s strategies and encouraged residents to be proactive at home and on the go to reduce their risks of mosquito bites. The county’s plan includes: • Giving residents free minnows that can eat mosquito larvae in their backyard ponds and water features. • Applying larvacide to catch basins on county and municipal roads, already covering half the county. • Doubling the number of mosquito trap sites and adding a new type of trap to attract the mosquitoes that could transmit the Zika virus. • Targeting limited areas for ground spraying, should a locally acquired case be confirmed or nearby mosquitoes test positive for Zika. Amler discussed the ways Zika can be transmitted and em-
phasized that the best way for pregnant women to avoid exposure and the danger to their developing fetus is to avoid travel to areas where the virus is present. She also shared advice all residents can use. “Use EPA-registered insect repellents when outdoors, and always follow the label instructions,” Amler said. “Cover exposed skin by wearing longsleeve shirts, long pants and socks. Don’t sleep with your windows open, unless the windows have screens in good condition. Prevent mosquito breeding sites around your home and visit the health department’s website for up to date health information, including our ‘Keep Healthy and Bug Off’ brochure.”
Astorino and DeLucia pointed out objects around your yard or driveway that could provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes, such as old tires, a watering can and a trash can lid. “Dump them out, scrub them off to remove any mosquito eggs and put them away,” DeLucia said. “It’s also a good idea to clear the leaves out of your gutters. Check your screens and repair any tears to avoid becoming a mosquito’s next meal.” Residents can report standing water in abandoned pools and elsewhere to the health department at 813-5000. For more information about the Zika virus and other mosquito-borne diseases, visit health.westchestergov.com. (Submitted)
P U B LI S H ES
CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com
Harrison REVIEW REVIEW Mamaroneck THE
THE
Eastchester CityREVIEW NewRochelle REVIEW THE
THE
INSIDE
Putting the ground back into play
INSIDE WESTCHESTER COUNTY
www.hometwn.com | 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203, White Plains N.Y. 10601 | (914) 653-1000
SPORTS
14 • THE THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016
Sunny days for Section I LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
It’s no secret that the weather for the majority of this spring season was disappointing, to say the least. While plenty of rain and temperatures that made it feel like early March continued for two months too long, it certainly hasn’t been a dream for sportswriters like me—or our area athletes, I’d imagine. But over the last week or so, things have really started to heat up, both in terms of the average temperature and stellar in-game action. Of course, it seems natural that the majority of the year’s best games take place once the postseason rolls around; the best teams are squaring off against each other, with Section I’s ultimate prize hanging in the balance. It makes sense that these evenly matched teams would produce entertaining results,
but this year, perhaps more than most, instant classics seem to be more the rule than the exception. Whether it’s upsets like John Jay’s baseball team knocking off defending state champion Byram Hills on Monday, or—closer to home—Haldane knocking off reigning Class C softball champion Tuckahoe, there has been no shortage of fireworks so far. Perhaps nobody had a better first week of the playoffs, at least dramawise, than Mamaroneck’s softball team, which rallied from a sizeable deficit to top league rival Scarsdale 5-4 in extra innings in the opening round of the Class AA playoffs last Friday, and then followed that win up with an impressive upset of No. 3 seed Yorktown just a few days later. Tigers coach Allison Bedosky was quick to deny that any momentum from her team’s win over the Raiders carried over into their quarterfinal showdown with the Huskers, but, with all due respect to the skipper, I’m not so sure.
Watching the Tigers celebrate their 6-5 win on Yorktown’s field on Monday, I couldn’t help but think that there was something special going on, and that each of the players knew it, too. Does that mean the Tigers are guaranteed to keep those good times going against John Jay in the semis after press time? Of course not. One good turn doesn’t always predict a historic run. Just look at Eastchester’s baseball team, which followed up a dramatic walk-off victory against Lakeland with a secondround loss to Brewster. Early-round magic doesn’t always stick around, but it is definitely fun while it lasts. As of press time, we’ve got quite a few teams in the Review’s coverage area still alive: Harrison’s baseball team, Mamaroneck’s boys’ lacrosse, baseball and softball squads, both lacrosse teams from Bronxville and a Tuckahoe baseball team eager to come away with a state title.
TO COVER LOCAL SPORTS, YOU NEED A
LIVE MIKE! Follow Mike Smith @LiveMike_Sports stats • recaps • commentary Follow Mike Smith @harrisonreview for Mike’s live, in-game action updates
Eastchester celebrates Anthony Belmonte’s walk-off hit against Lakeland on May 21. Eastchester won its first-round playoff game before falling to Brewster on May 23. Photo/Bobby Begun
Maybe each one of these teams will go all the way; maybe they’ll all lose in their next contest. Regardless, one thing is certain: no matter how cold it was all season
long, no matter how wet it was, no matter how many games got rained out, right now, the sun is shining on high school sports. Let’s just hope those pesky
clouds stay away for the next few weeks.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
SPORTS
May 27, 2016 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 15
Huskies hold off Indians BASEBALL
CLASS A
QUARTERFINALS
HARRISON NYACK HARRISON HS
5 4 5/23/16
Game Notes: •S teven Pesce tossed a complete game with eight strikeouts to pick up the win •W ith the victory, Harrison avenged an early-season loss to the Indians • Harrison will play John Jay in the Class A semifinals on Wednesday, May 25, after press time By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On April 23, Harrison suffered what may have been its worst regular season loss of the season, a 6-1 defeat at the hands of non-league foe Nyack. On Monday, May 23, the Huskies exacted a bit of revenge, topping the Indians 5-4 in the Class A quarterfinals. Steven Pesce was solid in the No. 3 Huskies’ win on Mon-
Michael Nannariello connects with a pitch at Harrison High School. The Huskies topped Nyack 5-4 to advance to the Class A semifinals.
day, earning a complete game win while the Harrison bats answered the call and cobbled together enough runs to secure the victory. “It was a complete team effort, everybody contributed and there wasn’t one dominant per-
Harrison’s shortstop makes a play against Nyack. Harrison played errorfree defense in a 5-4 win. Photos/Bobby Begun
formance,” Harrison coach Marco DiRuocco said. “We picked up a few hits here and there and we played error-free defense.” Of course it helped that the Huskies could rely on the arm of Pesce, who has been steady for the Huskies all season long. Pesce scattered seven hits and struck out eight batters, turning in another strong performance on the mound after Dean McCarthy’s shutout of Yonkers on May 20. “It’s huge having two pitchers that you know are solid enough to be a No. 1 on any other team,” DiRuocco said. “Coming into sectionals, it just makes you feel confident that you’re going to have the pitching to compete and the defense behind it.” Monday’s win was especially big for the Huskies, whose previous loss to the Indians came at a particularly rough spot in the regular season. But that loss, which was Harrison’s fourth in five games, also served as the impetus for Harrison’s turnaround, the head coach said. Following that game, the Huskies won eight out of 10 games. “As much as you can look at [the loss] as a bad thing, and it’s not something you strive for, it was a learning experience,” DiRuocco said. “The Nyack loss made us realize that we needed to focus, that we needed to play
Steven Pesce throws a pitch against Nyack in the Class A quarterfinals on Monday, May 23. Pesce scattered seven hits and struck out eight batters to pick up the win.
better baseball, so we went out, had three good practices, regrouped and got back to fundamentals.” With the win, the Huskies move on to the Class A semis, where they will take on No. 2 seed John Jay, who won their own quarterfinal nailbiter against defending state champion Byram Hills and ace Frankie Vesuvio. The Indians topped the Bobcats 4-3, thanks in part to the efforts of Justin Drpich, who went 2-for-3 at the plate with two doubles and an RBI and also picked up a three-inning save. The game will be played on Wednesday, May 25, after press time. “John Jay is a very good team and they play in a strong league like we do,” DiRuocco said. “I expect it’s going to be a sound baseball game, so our mentality is to get on top early and let our pitching and defense do the rest.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
Dean McCarthy throws a pitch against Yonkers on Friday, May 20. McCarthy and Steven Pesce have helped power the Huskies to the semifinals with their mound performances thus far in the playoffs. Photo/Mike Smith
16 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • May 27, 2016