Harrison REVIEW THE
April 21, 2017 | Vol. 5, Number 16 | www.harrisonreview.com
Huskies heating up Harrison’s Mike Hendler throws a pitch in a 5-1 win over Pelham on April 17. Hendler and the Huskies have been hot thus far, reeling off a 4-01 start. For story, see page 15. Photo/Mike Smith
Resident pleads guilty to defrauding federal program A Harrison native and grocery store clerk is facing 10 years in prison after allowing customers to redeem their food stamp benefits for cash and other items not covered under the federal program. According to U.S. Attorney Deirdre Daly, who represents the district of Connecticut, Tahir Shahzad, 33, of Harrison, pleaded guilty in Hartford federal court to one count of conspiracy to commit food stamp fraud and another count of unlawful use of food stamp benefits on April 17. Shahzad, who worked at WB Trade Fair Grocery, located at 43 Willow St. in Waterbury, Connecticut, waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty to allowing customers to redeem their food stamp benefits in return for money and other ineligible items, including cigarettes, glass pipes,
bongs and hookahs. He charged customers’ food stamp cards approximately double the value for the illegal transactions from November 2014 to June 2016, according to Daly. The U.S. attorney’s office estimates that food stamp redemptions at the store totaled $3.2 million during the 18-month period. However, with the stock of eligible food items at the store and the number of registers and the customer amenities, it is estimated that the store could only lawfully redeem at most $120,000 to $240,000 each year in food stamp benefits. Two men who worked at WB Trade Fair Grocery previously pleaded guilty to the same charges. Raul Carlos Monarca-Gonzalez pleaded guilty last November and was sentenced to 30 months of imprisonment. Tallat Mahmood
pleaded guilty last month and is currently awaiting a sentence; he’s expected to return to court on July 12. The federal Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program, SNAP, is administered by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and utilizes federal tax dollars to subsidize low-income households. SNAP does not cover alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, paper goods and other items such as soap. It’s also a violation to allow the benefits to be swapped for cash. Shahzad, the nephew of the store owner, is scheduled to return to court on July 13 after being released on a $50,000 bond. He faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine of up to twice the gross loss from the offense; he also owes restitution. -Reporting by Franco Fino
Zoning board upholds gun store COO, permit By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer The Zoning Board of Appeals ruled not to rescind the certificate of occupancy or the permit administered to L&L Sports, a Halstead Avenue gun store at the center of public outcry from residents since last November. In December, Harrison resident Frank Acocella filed an appeal to the certificate of occupancy, COO, and the permit issued by then Building Inspector Robert FitzSimmons, who has since retired. As part of the application for a building permit, Louis Zacchio, who owns L&L Sports, had to file for a change of use from retail service to retail. According to town law, it is at the building inspector’s discretion whether or not to submit a change of use application to the Planning Board for review. The April 13 ruling claims that FitzSimmons made a preliminary determination to waive a Planning Board appearance, but that his determination was not made in writing. A response to a Freedom of Information Law request confirms that no written document indicating FitzSimmons’ determination exists. In its letter upholding FitzSimmons’ issuance of the permit, the zoning board said it would have made the same determination. In his appeal, Acocella argued that the change of use should have been sent to the Planning Board, as it falls under their purview because it could cause an increased demand on at least one municipal service: the Harrison Police Department. On Nov. 2, before the gun store opened, some members of the Harrison Town Council held a public forum at the Harrison VFW building, accompanied by then acting police Chief Michael Olsey, who was appointed permanently to the position a month later. When asked if he anticipated the location of the gun store to put an
additional strain on the police force, Olsey said, “It’s definitely going to be an additional burden on our resources, but it’s not something we can’t handle.” He added that the department would make checks on the gun shop to ensure it was complying with the law, but police also regularly check up on establishments that sell alcohol to ensure that they are following the law. In its ruling, the zoning board said it felt that Olsey’s statement did not indicate an increased demand on municipal service in a way that would fall under the Planning Board’s jurisdiction. But those who have opposed the gun store—and its proximity to Parsons Memorial Elementary School—from the start are now frustrated by the zoning board’s tone, rhetoric and conduct. At least three letters sent from residents to the zoning board before the April 13 ruling request the board to reopen the hearing, criticizing its members for their dismissive tones. Each of the letters, authored by residents Matthew Benson, Erica Gollub and Shauna Rae Long, make note of a comment made by board member Steven Lowenthal. “I’m offended by the soccer moms who put the gun shop, you know, in a negative light but they don’t put anything else in a negative light,” Lowenthal said during a March 9 hearing. “The guy across the street is teaching kids 5 years old to kill other kids,” he added, referring to Bruce Chung’s Tae Kwon Do on Halstead Avenue. “Mr. Lowenthal’s comments are disturbing,” Frank Gordon, a Harrison resident who has frequently spoken out against the gun store, told the Review. “He seems to have pre-judged the matter without bothering to adhere to the facts. The legal issue was whether the gun shop requires more municipal services than the prior use of that location, a
INSIDE The Westchester upgrades its dining Story on page 11.
PERMIT continued on page 8
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Officials tout free tuition despite fiscal uncertainty By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer With the passing of a proposal to provide free tuition for income-eligible residents statewide at SUNY and CUNY colleges and universities, several elected and school administration officials are weighing the forthcoming fiscal impact of the plan. On April 8, state leaders approved the plan known as the Excelsior Scholarship, which will cost more than $160 million a year
once the program is fully phased in. The proposal’s approval is part of the $153.1 billion 2017-2018 state budget that was passed on the same day, a week after its deadline. The plan, proposed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, will be carried out over a three-year period. Families and individuals earning up to $125,000 a year would qualify for the free tuition at public universities and colleges across the state. Despite support from several elected and school administrative
officials in the Hudson Valley region for the plan that’s a first of its kind in the country, it’s currently uncertain just how it will impact the state economically. While the state estimates spending $163 million a year on the program, based on the number of students enrolled in public universities and colleges, the allure of the program could potentially draw interest from more students. “We’re supportive and excited about the governor’s initiative, which will increase access to higher educa-
Even with its uncertain economic impact, several elected and school administrative officials in the Hudson Valley region support Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s recently approved plan to provide free tuition at public universities and colleges. File photo
tion, help with retention and graduation, and will relieve the burden of student debt,” said Thomas Schwarz, the president of Purchase College, one of two New York state schools located in Westchester County. “We believe the Excelsior Scholarship will have an impact on a very large segment of our student population, but the extent of the impact depends on how the program will be implemented.” The plan is expected to be implemented by borrowing capital from a number of tuition assistance programs the state already offers to low-income families, such as TAP, which provides nearly $1 billion in grants to college students statewide, according to Cuomo’s office. In the 2015-2016 fiscal year, more than 355,000 students were awarded more than $956 million in TAP funds with an average annual award of $3,302 per recipient. State Assemblyman David Buchwald, a White Plains Democrat, said the plan will work hand-in-hand with TAP, which saw a $19 million increase in the program. He added that TAP will now have an incentive for private colleges to provide additional aid to students. TAP will provide students with $3,000 in additional assistance with a match from private colleges. It would also require a freeze in student tuition for the duration of the award.
The idea for the proposal came just after being championed by U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, of Vermont, during his presidential primary for the Democratic nomination last year. State Sen. George Latimer, a Rye Democrat running for county executive, said he also supports the plan but is also unsure of just how it will impact state taxpayers. “My approach is that it’s an effort to deal with the changing reality and is in some ways an experiment,” he said. “If it does provide people the opportunity it’s supposed to, then it’s a good thing. I think it’s an experiment worth trying.” Latimer explained that the program won’t work as a “handout,” as some might expect. Rather, there will be stringent requirements for students to perform at a high level in order to keep the scholarship. “We want to give everyone the opportunity to succeed, but we’re also not going to pay for you if you fail,” he said. The scholarship would also mandate participating students to be enrolled at a SUNY or CUNY, two- or four-year college full time. It will however not cover the cost for room and board. Tuition, which does not include room and board, costs $6,470 at four-year SUNY schools and $6,330 at four-year CUNY schools. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
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What’s going on... Harrison Public Library
Chloe’s Sign & Play
Visit harrisonpl.org for more information on programs and library hours.
Demystifying Medicare On Monday April 24 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Building. This presentation of the library system’s Westchester Seniors Out Speaking is perfect for anyone trying to navigate their way through the complicated health care system for older adults. It will help those who already have Medicare, as well as people soon to be 65, planning their retirement, or assisting relatives and friends with their medical decisions and paperwork. The engaging, interactive program outlines the various parts of Medicare and lays out the costs associated with the medical and drug insurance provided by the government and private companies. Registration is suggested online or by calling the library at 835-0324.
On Fridays from 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Building. Give your child the gift of language. Sign & Play is a fun class where families can learn to communicate with their pre-verbal children using real signs from American Sign Language. Based on the award-winning 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.
Yoga with Angela On Fridays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Building. For grades 2–5. Bring your own mat and water to this lovely, mind and body relaxing yoga experience with Harrison resident Angela Brandt, a registered and certified yoga instructor. This is an opportunity to create self-esteem, physical coordination, breath relaxation and strength.
Harrison Recreation Springtacular On Saturday, April 22 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ron Belmont Pool Complex. Rain date: Sunday, April 23 at 1 p.m. For ages 2 to 8. Come out and enjoy a fun-filled day with rides and a fun hunt. Separate hunts will be conducted for each age group. Youngsters should bring a bag/bucket for the hunt. Hunt
She’s not crazy, her name just rhymes with it. Read Lenore Skenazy’s column every week in the Review.
items will consist of chocolate, candy and mini toys. For further information, call the Leo Mintzer Center at 949-5265, the Sollazzo Center at 670-3179, or the Harrison Recreation Hotline at 670-3039.
Harrison school news Feeley Fund annual appeal The annual appeal for the Eugene J. Feeley Harrison High School Student Aid Fund has been mailed to the community. For 70 years, the Feeley Fund has enabled needy and worthy Harrison High School graduates attend accredited colleges and/or schools. Since 1947, more than 1,000 students have received loans or grants to pursue their posthigh school education and training. The Feeley Fund needs you to share our confidence in the future of our Harrison youth. Please respond to the request by sending your contribution to: The Feeley Fund, 255 Union Ave., Harrison, NY 10528. For questions or more information, call Lola Geiger at 939-7066.
Neuberger Museum The Neuberger Museum of Art is located on the SUNY Purchase College campus, located at 735 Anderson Hill Road in Purchase. For more information, call 251-6100 or visit neuberger.org.
Spring Family Day On Saturday, April 22, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Drop by the Neuberger Museum of Art for its Spring Family Day for an afternoon of sculpture-making inspired by exhibiting artists Leandro Erlich and Fred Wilson. Explore the latest shows on family-friendly tours, led by a team of museum educators. Sponsored by Neuberger Berman. Free for Family Circle Members and above. General admission: $10 per child.
Manhattanville College A past contributor to the Daily News and the New York Sun, Skenazy has also appeared on “The Daily Show,” been profiled in the New Yorker and even had her own reality TV show, “World’s Worst Mom.”
The Quintessentials On Wednesday, April 26 at 8 p.m., Manhattanville’s elite pop vocal group, The Quintessentials, will perform in the Berman Center Theatre on the college’s campus at 2900 Purchase St. in Purchase. Admission is free and open to the public. The Quintessentials have been delighting audiences with their energetic close-harmony renditions of American popular standards since 2001. Directed by Mark Cherry and Beverly Meyer, they are an official ensemble of the Manhattanville College Music Department, representing some of the best of the college’s performing arts programs. Their song list includes “I Got Rhythm,” “Georgia On My Mind,” “Tuxedo Junction,” “Build Me Up Buttercup,” and “Falling In Love With Love.” For more information, call the music office Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 323-5260. Jewish Community Center of Harrison
Jewish Community Center of Harrison “ in head format The Jewish Community Center of Harrison, JCCH, will host “Can We Talk?” a
two-session program designed to help families navigate the difficult challenges and questions surrounding end-of-life issues. For parents of grown children, this is a chance to learn how to communicate goals and wishes especially about the type of care they would like should they become incapacitated. For adult children and their siblings and spouses, this workshop will provide the resources for getting the conversation started with an older parent. This program, which is presented in cooperation with Westchester Jewish Community Services, will take place on Thursday, April 27 starting at 7:30 p.m. This program is free and open to the entire community. RSVPs are requested to ensure enough materials. Attendance at both sessions is recommended. For more information or to RSVP, call the JCCH at 835-2850 or email Executive Director Eric Nussbaum at enussbaum@jcch.org. The JCCH is located at 130 Union Ave. in Harrison.
Westchester County news Register for children’s summer camps Registration is open for Westchester County Parks’ popular summer camps for children and young people. Online registration is available at parks.westchestergov.com/activities/childrens-camps. For more information on any of the programs, visit the aforementioned website or call 231-4673, unless stated otherwise. Perfect Pitch and Swing Baseball Camp, for ages 8 to 12, at V.E. Macy Park in Ardsley. Slam Dunk Basketball Camp, for grades 3–9, at Westchester County Center, White Plains. Girls Volleyball Camp, for grades 6–12, at Westchester County Center, White Plains. Challenger Sports Soccer Camp, for grades 1–9, at V.E. Macy Park, Ardsley. For more information, call 714-8601 or visit challengersports.com. Hole-in-One Junior Golf Camp, for ages 10 to 17, at the county courses: Dunwoodie and Sprain Lake, Yonkers; Hudson Hills, Ossining; Maple Moor, White Plains; Mohansic, Yorktown Heights; and Saxon Woods, Scarsdale. Children’s Summer Ecology Program, for grades 1–9, at Cranberry Lake Preserve, North White Plains; Marshlands Conservancy, Rye; and Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Cross River. Conservationists in Training, for grades 7–9, at Cranberry Lake Preserve, North White Plains, and Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Cross River. Muscoot Wranglers, for ages 4 and 5, and Muscoot Young Farmers, for grades 1–8, at Muscoot Farm, Katonah. For more information, call 864-7282. Summer Music Center, for grades 3–12, at Westchester County Center, White Plains. Deadline for our What’s Going On section is every Thursday at noon. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to news@hometwn.com.
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Letters to the Editor
Town Council’s culture of disrespect To the Editor, By now, most everyone has seen or read about the widely circulated video of a United Airlines passenger being bloodied as he was hauled from his seat on an overbooked flight to make room for four United employees. His attorney attributed his resultant injuries to a “culture of disrespect” at United. The phrase, a “culture of disrespect,” fits perfectly with what Harrison residents have experienced at recent Town Council meetings. In public hearing after public hearing, residents at the podium have been subjected to demeaning and dismissive comments by Mayor Ron Belmont and other council members. Uninvited interruptions of speakers’ comments by council members have become routine. The council has often discouraged residents from speaking on a matter unless they “have something new to say.” At times, Belmont has cut off speakers if they stray into topics that he deems “irrelevant.” This is censorship in various guises. If residents at times reiterate their comments over several public hearings, the underlying and unstated cause is generally that they believe their concerns are not being acted upon. In that case, the council is at fault for its inaction; the speaker is not to blame. Belmont and his fellow council members may sometimes feel the need to respond to what they may perceive as unwarranted criticism. But crass treatment of town residents and berating constituents from a seat on the dais is never an appropriate way to respond. Mayor Belmont has allowed a culture of disrespect to flourish at Town Council meetings. Let’s make sure that in this November’s elections we, as voters, present a clear message: Participation in town government is our right and privilege. Arrogance, censorship and disrespect on the part of our town officials toward anyone, in any forum, will not be tolerated. If existing town officials cannot adhere to these fundamental tenets of democracy, we will replace them with people who will. Frank Gordon, Harrison
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Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com Reporter | Corey Stockton ext. 16, corey@hometwn.com Reporter | Franco Fino ext. 18, franco@hometwn.com General Assignment | Taylor Brown ext. 30, taylor@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writer James Pero Staff Photographers Andrew Dapolite, Aaron Kershaw, Charlie McLaughlin Columnists Ron Belmont, Lenore Skenazy
Young entrepreneur takes over family business
By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter After the loss of her father, Meral Kathwari, a junior in college at the time, made the decision to take over her father’s international business, Kathwari of Kashmir. In November 2014, Kathwari, who has lived in Mamaroneck for 10 years, was studying for her B.A. in mass communication and minor in speech communication at Iona College and was serving on two club executive boards when she found out her father, Tariq, had passed away. He was 61 years old when he was caught in a riptide while swimming in Goa, India. He was the owner and founder of Kathwari of Kashmir, a company based in Kashmir, India, that sells luxury textiles including rugs, carpets and clothing in a variety of colors, materials and styles. Kathwari, 22, is an only child, so at the time of her father’s death, she was the only person who would be able to carry on Kathwari of Kashmir. “I just remember thinking to myself,
Meral Kathwari takes a photo with camels in Dubai. Photo courtesy Brunettesecrets.com
‘What am I supposed to do,’” she told the Review. She made the decision to take over the business as its owner and director. When Kathwari, a Kashmiri-American, was younger, she moved away from her father in India—her asthma and the country’s
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Meral Kathwari poses with one of the many rugs that her business Kathwari of Kashmir sells. Photos courtesy Meral Kathwari
air pollution made it difficult for her to breathe—to Santa Fe, New Mexico, with her mother. From there, she and her mother moved to Rome, Italy, before finally settling in Mamaroneck in 2007. Growing up, although Kathwari didn’t live with her father, he would visit her whenever he had time. Kathwari wasn’t unfamiliar with her father’s business, having spent summers in Kashmir shadowing him throughout his workday, and helping him bring Kathwari of Kashmir into the digital age with social media accounts and a website in 2012. Growing up, she had spent a lot of time with her father in his showroom, saying how one of her favorite memories of him was how he interacted with clients. “That was where he was most passionate,” she said. When Kathwari and her father weren’t working to better the business, they enjoyed traveling together on road trips throughout the U.S. and all over India. In June 2012, she began documenting those trips on her blog Brunettesecrets.com that has since gained more than 1,600 followers. In her posts, she discusses must-see spots, travel tips, and life advice alongside vibrant photos of her destinations. Kathwari says in one blog post that she attributes her “travel bug” to her father. “[My father] says it’s important that I see the world and experience everything it has to offer before I settle down and start a family,” she wrote. “I will do this.” Kathwari turned her blog into a travel series that launched on
Meral Kathwari, owner and director of Kathwari of Kashmir, models one of her company’s embroidered wool coats.
Larchmont-Mamaroneck Community Television, LMCTV, a local community public access television station. “Since I’ve been traveling, I wanted to write [and] blog about my experiences and produce travels shows too,” she told the Review. As of now, one episode of the series has been released, “Brunette Secrets: Seville,” where Kathwari visits Seville, Spain. The series follows her around, while she brings viewers to three different locations in Seville: Plaza de Espana, Casa de Pilatos and the Seville Cathedral. During the first video, which is available on LMCTV.org and YouTube, she discusses local artwork, food, culture and architecture. Kathwari revealed that future episodes include trips to Barcelona, Madrid and Dubai. “My dream job would be [to be] like Anthony Bourdain or Christiane Armanpour, traveling and reporting on things and places people should know about that aren’t usually covered in the mainstream media,” she said. She said she also plans to go to Fordham University’s one-year public media program in the fall. Accomplishing more than your average 20-something, Kathwari has done this while also owning and running a business. But the work hasn’t come without sacrifices throughout her college career. “I wish I could’ve had more time to put towards everything individually,” she said. “[But] if you have people supporting you, and people around you that love you, you’re capable of doing anything you put your mind to.” CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com
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Rosenblum ready to unseat Parker in county race By JAMES PERO Staff Writer Village of Mamaroneck Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, has solidified his decision to run for higher office against two-term incumbent Westchester County
Legislator Catherine Parker, a Rye Democrat. “My decision to seek higher office is based on only one philosophy,” Rosenblum told the Review ahead of his official campaign announcement scheduled for Friday, April 21, after press time.
“And that is what position can I best represent my community and look to improve current situations?” Rosenblum’s decision to run for a county legislative seat will act as a leap forward from his helm as village mayor, a post he
After four terms as village of Mamaroneck Mayor, Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, will take a shot at higher office, looking to unseat two-term incumbent Westchester County Legislator Catherine Parker, a Rye Democrat. File photo
has maintained since 2009 on a mostly Democratic Board of Trustees. At 74, this will be Rosenblum’s first-ever bid for higher office, and potentially his toughest race yet. Parker, who served as a Rye City councilwoman between 2008 and 2013, won convincingly in 2015 against her previous opponent— Susan Watson, of Rye—securing 59 percent of the vote. On a Democratic-majority county Board of Legislators, Parker has often been a vocal critic of County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican, many times aligning herself with the board’s staunchest Democratic lawmakers. When asked about facing off against the two-term incumbent Parker, Rosenblum said, “I am not running against anyone, I’m running for a position… If you like what I do, vote for me.” Having served four terms as part of the political minority in Mamaroneck, Rosenblum is also no stranger to heated partisan politics. At times, relations on the village Board of Trustees have taken contentious turns, culminating this past year when Rosenblum unsuccessfully filed a lawsuit against board Democrats that sought to subdue a referendum against his powers of appointment. According to Rosenblum, among the issues compelling him
to seek higher office are flood mitigation—a problem shared by communities across the Sound Shore region—and an ongoing opioid epidemic that has rippled across Westchester County, and throughout New York state. “There are specific policies in the village of Mamaroneck that are just as pertinent to the whole Sound Shore,” said Rosenblum, referencing a committee on drugs he formed this past year to help combat opiate addiction. Westchester County’s 7th District encompasses the city of Rye, the town and village of Mamaroneck, the village of Larchmont, and portions of the city of New Rochelle and the town/village of Harrison. County legislators are elected to serve two-year terms with an annual compensation of $49,200. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
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L&L Sports, a gun shop on Halstead Avenue, will retain its permit and certificate of occupancy after the Zoning Board of Appeals ruled against an appeal filed in December. File photo
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Kumon learning center.” Last month, after speaking with concerned residents like Gordon, a California-based nonprofit organization called the Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence proposed a ninepart ordinance which would put tighter restrictions on gun shops in the town. Following the presentation, town officials said they were considering their options, but have not made any official proposal as of press time. Neither Cliff Davis, an attorney for Acocella, Pat Cleary, the town’s planning consultant, Town Attorney Frank Allegretti nor Olsey could be reached for comment as of press time.
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April 21, 2017 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 9
County inks 99-year lease for Valhalla biotech hub Potholes, yard waste and pavements HARRISON HAPPENINGS Mayor Ron Belmont
The 3-million-square-foot North 60 biotech center in Valhalla would include a hotel, retail space, a biotech research center and several medical offices. It would sit on 60 acres of property leased from Westchester County for nearly a century, beside 20 acres of property already owned by the developer. Contributed photo
By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer Westchester County and a Connecticut-based developer have signed a long-term lease to develop a $1.2 billion, 3-million-squarefoot biotech center in Valhalla. The county Board of Legislators voted unanimously to sign the lease giving the developer, Fareri Associates, leasing rights to a 60acre property adjacent to a 20-acre, Fareri-owned property in Valhalla for just short of a century. Fareri is now one step closer to building the Westchester Bioscience & Technology Center on county property near Westchester Medical Center. The biotech center, also known as the North 60, would include 2.2 million square feet of research space; 400,000 square feet of medical offices; a 100,000-square-foot hotel with 100 rooms; a 34,000-square-foot children’s living science center; and more than 100,000 square feet of retail space. Fareri Associates already owns an adjacent undeveloped 20acre property. About 44 acres of the combined properties will be preserved as green space throughout the length of the agreement. The project would cost an estimated $1.2 billion to complete,
including about $40 million for infrastructure projects on county property which would be funded by Fareri. When finished, the developed portion of the project would be more than double the size of other milestone development projects in Westchester, such as the 1.3-million-square-foot Ridge Hill shopping center in Yonkers and the 1.2-million-square-foot former IBM campus in Somers. County Board of Legislators Chairman Michael Kaplowitz, a Yorktown Democrat, said this was the biggest development project in the county in memory. “It takes an unused asset that’s just wild in size and undeveloped and turns it into a money-producing asset for the county taxpayer and a valuable developed asset for the people of Westchester County and the region, from an economic and biotech perspective,” he said. The project would be done in phases, with the first phase including the entire hotel and about 400,000 square feet of the other projects: portions of the research center, retail and medical space. As those phases are completed they will become usable, allowing the county to ramp up what it collects from Fareri in rent and taxes. According to county estimates,
the construction phases of the project would create 4,000 part-time construction jobs; when completed, the biotech center would create 8,000 full-time medical, research, retail and hospitality jobs. But that can’t happen until the development passes an environmental review in the town of Mount Pleasant, in which Valhalla sits. While the development goes through review—and until the proposed structures are filled with tenants—Fareri will pay the county $125,000 in rent per year. When the proposed structures become fully operational, the county anticipates an annual rent income of about $7 million, plus $9 million in new tax revenues. Kaplowitz recanted a suggestion often made by County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican, saying that the North 60 development—coupled with the Regeneron headquarters in Eastview, the Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, and the NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville—could make the county a “mini Silicon Valley” for biotech, adding that the county could soon become a destination for biotech research. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
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I hope everyone had a healthy and happy Easter and Passover, and enjoyed time spent with family and friends. As I share these thoughts, the sun is shining and we are out of winter temperature readings. I hope that harsh weather is finally behind us, and I expect the town’s spring cleanup efforts to proceed on schedule. Our highway crews continue to repair our municipal roadways, and I ask residents to please report pothole locations to our Department of Public Works office at 670-3128. Targeting areas that are hardest hit will expedite the process and help to restore our community’s infrastructure. It was an honor to attend this year’s Field of Honor Ceremony at Harrison High School. The Field of Honor project gives our community the opportunity to recognize a veteran, or current member of the armed forces, by purchasing a flag which is then placed in a designated area on the high school lawn. It was a moving tribute and I was glad I was able to be there. I would like to take this time to remind you that with springtime comes good weather, budding flowers and door-to-door salespeople. If you have not been one of the 1,100 households to sign up for the DoNot-Knock Registry, you can sign up on the town’s website at harrison-ny.gov, or call the town clerk’s office at 670-3030 to request a form. Town Clerk Jackie Greer will be more than happy to assist you with any questions. Please make note of the follow-
ing reminder from our commissioner of public works regarding organic yard waste. Under a directive from the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, Harrison is no longer permitted to accept and process grass clippings. Town personnel will no longer collect grass clippings, either in piles or bags, placed curbside. It is suggested that mowing equipment be retrofitted, adding blades that will efficiently mulch the grass as it is mowed, leaving the mulch to naturally fertilize the lawn. For more information on this issue, and on mulching, please visit our website at harrison-ny.gov. Municipal agencies in our region have been learning about how they can recycle their existing pavements without having to add an overlay to the process. Hot inplace pavement recycling, HIPR, is a method of applying heat to an asphalt pavement, blending the upper layer of the old pavement with additional materials, and then compacting the blended materials back into place. This technique is less costly and, by using this new HIPR process, municipalities can substantially reduce their carbon footprint as compared to traditional mill and overlay. The town/village of Harrison has incorporated HIPR into its 2017 resurfacing program, which began on Tuesday, April 18. I look forward to the continued use of this revolutionary advancement and am confident that our infrastructure will benefit from its application. The next Lunch with the Mayor is on Friday, April 28 and I will be at Great Wall, located at 25 Taylor Square in West 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.
10 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • April 21, 2017
Business Briefs Weichert, Realtors promotes Siracusa to head of residential sales James Weichert Jr., president of Weichert, Realtors and co-president of the Weichert Companies, is pleased to announce that Carlo Siracusa has been named head of residential sales for Weichert, Realtors, one of the largest family-owned-and-operated real estate companies in the nation. In this role, Siracusa will be responsible for leading sales production and sales force growth for Weichert, Realtors, while delivering Weichert’s full-service value proposition to all of its customers. “We are both proud and excited to promote Carlo to head of residential sales,” Weichert said. “His proven track record of developing sales associates and sales managers into market leaders positions Carlo extremely well for growing Weichert’s residential real estate presence.” Siracusa brings 17 years of real estate experience to his new role, most recently serving as regional vice president for Weichert’s Middlesex, Ocean and Monmouth County, New Jersey, sales offices. Siracusa joined Weichert as a sales associate in 2000 and quickly became a top producer in the corporate headquarters sales office. In 2005, Siracusa became the sales manager in Clifton, New Jersey, and was promoted to lead the corporate headquarters sales team in 2007, where he was a repeat recipient of the Regional Manager of the Year award. In 2015, Siracusa was promoted to regional vice president, and in 2016, he led his team of 20 sales managers to their most successful year since 2008. Since 1969, Weichert, Realtors has grown from a single office into one of the nation’s leading providers of homeownership services by putting its customers first. A family of full-service real estate and financial services companies, Weichert helps customers buy and sell both residential and commercial real estate, and streamlines the delivery of mortgages and home and title insurance. Weichert leverages its customer website, www.weichert.com, one of the most visited real estate websites in the nation, to help families and individuals realize the dream of homeownership through quick and easy access to listing information and the services of its real estate professionals nationwide. For more information about Weichert, Realtors or to find your local office, please visit weichert.com.
GDC celebrates debut of The Metro in White Plains Ginsburg Development Companies, GDC, the area’s leading developer of luxury rental apartments, joined with White Plains officials last month to celebrate the debut of GDC’s first residential rental property in downtown White Plains. The 124-unit, 12-story building, formerly known as Halstead White Plains, was recently purchased from DSF Group for $35.25 million and is being rebranded as The Metro by GDC. “These are exciting times for downtown White Plains which is undergoing a dynamic transformation with several major residential and retail projects under way. GDC is delighted to be part of the excitement with the debut of The Metro,” said Martin Ginsburg, principal and founder of GDC. “Transit-oriented developments, such as The Metro, are a driving force in today’s multi-family market, especially with millennials. With its easy access
to Manhattan and vibrant retail and restaurant scene, White Plains has all the ingredients for continued economic growth,” he added. “We are seeing tremendous investment in our city and Ginsburg Development’s investment in 34 South Lexington Avenue is an important part of that. This property is in the heart of the White Plains transit district, an area for which we have recently completed extensive study and which we will soon begin to address short and long term improvements,” said White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach. “Like us, Ginsburg Development clearly recognizes the potential of the transit district as an integral node of our downtown and the importance of White Plains as a regional business, retail, and entertainment hub. I welcome their investment in our city and look forward to working with them,” he added. The Metro becomes GDC’s fourth luxury rental building and its first acquisition that is located with easy access to Metro-North train service. Last year, GDC completed Harbor Square, a 188-unit luxury rental located on the Hudson, next to the Ossining train station. Harbor Square features a public park, waterfront promenade and restaurant. The new restaurant is scheduled to open this month. In Yonkers, GDC is currently completing the construction of River Tides at Greystone, a 330-unit luxury rental in Yonkers overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades. The project features a direct walkway to the nearby Greystone Metro-North train station. GDC is also building 1177@Greystone, a 55-unit luxury rental apartment building located one block north of River Tides with similar easy access to the Greystone train station. Founded in 1964 by principal Martin Ginsburg, Ginsburg Development Companies is a premier residential developer in the northern suburbs of New York City. With 50 years of experience and market leadership, GDC has built many of the region’s most successful and prestigious luxury developments, many with a Hudson River and/or transit-friendly focus, including Harbors at Haverstraw, Livingston Ridge in Dobbs Ferry, Ichabod’s Landing in Sleepy Hollow, Mystic Pointe in Ossining, Marbury Corners in Pelham, and Christie Place in Scarsdale. GDC’s developments have won numerous design and community planning awards. In addition, GDC owns and manages a portfolio of commercial properties, located primarily in Westchester County.
Lazarakis earns certification as health educator, advocate The National Institute of Whole Health, NIWH, established in 1977, is pleased to announce that Danielle Lazarakis has earned the designation of certified patient health educator and advocate after meeting the eligibility criteria and successfully completing a rigorous certification training and examination in whole health education. Lazarakis has been a health care professional for nearly two decades. She graduated cum laude from Mercy College in Dobbs Ferry in 1995. She went on to earn a certificate in 1996 and became a new state licensed diagnostic medical sonographer in 2007. Later, she studied homeopathy for two years. Throughout her career, Lazarakis has honored the philosophy that patients should always come first. Her caring bedside manner has comforted thousands of patients through-
out her 19 years as a registered medical sonographer. After working with a multitude of cancer patients, Lazarakis decided she wanted to be more involved in the prevention and healing of health conditions. This strong desire propelled her to further her education and become a health educator and advocate from the National Institute of Whole Health, in Boston, Massachusetts. She became the founder of Remedyourlife, a health education service based in Westchester County. “The NIWH Patient Health Educator and Advocate certification program has created greater visibility and application skills for the disease prevention, patient and specialty health field. Graduates are qualified to provide patient health education along with behavioral change advocacy”, states Dr. Georgianna Donadio, program director of NIWH. The most recent report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics identifies patient and community health educators as one of the fastest growing careers in the US with a 21 percent growth projection over the next 10 years. Credentialed, trained patient health educators assist primary care physicians and medical specialists in complying with health care reform mandates to focus on disease prevention, patient wellness and health education. There are now more than 5,000 NIWH certified patient health educators and health advocates in the United States. Many hospitals, medical centers, private medical practices and health-related businesses have recognized the importance of this training and certification, and reimburse their licensed health professionals for this professionally accredited continuing education and professional devel-
opment program. NIWH is dedicated to excellence in the field of patient health education and health advocacy. Established in 1977, NIWH has pioneered the fields of Whole Health Education® and Whole Person Health Care ™. For more information, visit niwh.org.
Best Feet Reflexology opens in Harrison Best Feet Reflexology is now open in Harrison. Located at 225 Harrison Ave., the new facility offers professional foot massages as well as Asian body work. Foot rubs start with a soak while the upper back and neck area are massaged for 15 minutes. Next, patients are reclined in an oversized cozy chair where a therapist works their magic on the feet and lower legs. Full body massages are also available. Best Feet Reflexology offers clients a relaxing, quiet environment with soft lighting. Whether you choose a 40-, 60- or 90-minute session, you will certainly leave considerably more relaxed than when you arrived. Discounted packages are now available. Hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. For an appointment, call 718-864-8536. The next Business Briefs section will run in May. Please send any submission for our May 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.
April 21, 2017 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 11
Savor Westchester rebrands luxury mall By SIBYLLA CHIPAZIWA Assistant Editor The food court at The Westchester mall has finally been upgraded, with Savor Westchester set to open in late April. The new and improved fourth floor of the luxury mall will feature six trendy eateries, all the first locations of their kinds in Westchester County. Paula Kelliher, director of marketing at The Westchester, owned by the Simon Property Group, said that the new food court was part of a multi-million dollar renovation of the mall. “What we realistically tried to do was make Level 4 more of an experience for our guests,” she said, referring to the old dining options as “a food court of the ‘80s.” The Westchester is a considered a luxury destination, therefore it was fitting to have the food court reflect that, according to Kelliher. “We felt that we owed it to our guests to really enhance and provide a new dining destination,” she said. There will be six new eateries, most of them from Manhattan with one coming from Connecticut. They were chosen through numerous visits to New York City to places that were considered “glamorous dining destinations,” Kelliher said, which were not in Westchester County. Bluestone Lane Coffee hops onto the trend of Australian-style coffee and café fare. Juice Generation will offer shoppers fresh and cold-pressed juices, smoothies and vegan food. Tomato & Co. is located in Milford, Connecticut, and will offer Neapolitan-style pizza. Mighty Quinn’s BBQ prides itself on being familiar yet unique at the same time. Whitman’s offers burgers and seasonal fare that is locally sourced. And, coming this summer, Westchester County will have its first sushi burrito location with the opening of Hai Street Kitchen & Co. Savor Westchester will seat 350
patrons and will also feature an outdoor dining patio with a fireplace, which overlooks Tibbits Park that runs along North Broadway and Westchester Avenue in downtown White Plains. “It’s probably the first time that a consumer would actually see part of [the downtown] in a way they’ve never seen it before,” Kelliher said. Savor Westchester started this process by evaluating the whole property, with renovations beginning in February 2016. “While [the mall’s] structure looked amazing, investing in the property was a winwin for our retailers and our consumers,” Kelliher said. The goal was for The Westchester as a whole to be an experience. The eateries will also share the fourth floor with the new CONNECT lounge, which offers nine flat-screen TVs showing sports, news and entertainment along with complimentary iPads and charging stations; and the 2,300-square-foot, interactive, educational PLAY area that incorporates STEAM principles. Both amenities opened last December. “You always want to be trendiest and the most up-to-the-moment in what you present to the public,” Kelliher said. One shopper, Susan Esposito, mentioned that the old food court didn’t have anything new or current. “It didn’t have many options and became a haunted floor,” she said. “I don’t really go there, but maybe with healthier options, it will draw more people to it.” Another shopper, Kerween Gutman, felt the same way about the “outdated” Level 4. “I’m so happy, I have two kids and sometimes they want to go to the food court and at least they could pick something,” she said about Savor Westchester. “I’m really going to go and check it out.” Kelliher pointed out the residential development taking place in White Plains, especially on
At a glance Beginning this month, Savor Westchester will offer six new dining options Bluestone Lane Coffee offers Australian-style coffee and café fare Juice Generation offers vegan food, juices and smoothies Tomato & Co. is a Neapolitan-style pizzeria Whitman’s offers burgers and locally sourced, seasonal ingredients Mighty Quinn’s BBQ offers fast-casual food Hai Street Kitchen & Co. will open this summer, offering the county’s first sushi burrito location
Bank Street and Maple Avenue, as a catalyst for The Westchester’s recent renovations. “You want to capture all these residents by providing them with a great place to shop,” she said. “White Plains has invested quite a lot into this redevelopment [of the city].” The Westchester already has three restaurants on its premises: Café Nordstrom, Mariposa and P.F. Chang’s, with Auntie Anne’s Pretzels, Godiva and Starbucks stores. For more information on Savor Westchester and the mall, visit simon.com/mall/the-westchester. -With reporting by Courtney Raguso
CONTACT: sibylla@hometwn.com
Savor Westchester, slated to open this month, will offer shoppers at The Westchester mall a much-needed food court upgrade. Rendering courtesy Simon Property Group
Alum gives women’s rights lecture By CHRIS GITNER Contributor SUNY Purchase alumnus Adotei Akwei returned to the college on March 20 to discuss the struggle of women’s rights in Africa. He spoke in front of a crowd of students and professors, some of whom taught him more than 30 years ago. Akwei is the managing director for government relations for Amnesty International USA, a political analyst, a campaigner for civil, political, and social rights, and has testified before Congress on multiple occasions. He graduated from Purchase College with a bachelor’s in political science in 1984 and has spent a lifetime in political advocacy since. Connie Lobur, a political science professor at Purchase, introduced Akwei, having taught him several decades ago. Topics in Akwei’s lecture ranged from women being unable to own property or businesses in many African countries to the effects of female genital mutilation. He also discussed the progress that women have seen in some countries such as increased representation in some governments and having better access to schools. “The struggle to change people’s perceptions of rights engenders personal change,” Akwei said. “I think technology has allowed us to turn more people to human rights monitors.” The rise of the Internet and smartphones has helped information become public and widely available immediately. This allows serious human rights issues such as the terrorist organization, Boko Haram, kidnapping more than 200
Adotei Akwei speaks at SUNY Purchase College on women’s rights in Africa on March 20 as part of the Mary Edwards Memorial Lecture. Photo/Chris Gitner
schoolgirls to become worldwide news when it happens. Suzanne Kessler, dean of liberal arts and sciences, said, “African countries face a lot of problems and their human rights records aren’t great, but there are pockets of optimism and we should be involved. I didn’t know that Rwanda had such a high number of women in government.” According to the Inter-Parliamentary Union, almost 50 percent of Rwanda’s parliament consists of women. This is the highest figure in the world, while the U.S. Congress consists of less than 20 percent women. Akwei said, “Challenges on advancing women’s rights in Africa are huge, but there has been progress in the last 20 years.” The lecture was part of the Mary Edwards Memorial Lecture in honor of the political science professor at Purchase from the 1970s to the 1990s. After Edwards’ death in 1994, friends and family members set up an endowment to fund annual lectures in her honor.
12 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • April 21, 2017
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LEGAL NOTICES Notice of Formation of MSA Unlimited, LLC. Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 1/25/17. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 8 Nob Hill Drive, Elmsford, NY 10523. Purpose: any lawful activity. Notice of Formation of The Holiday Electric, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 2/8/17. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, New York 11228. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. Notice of Formation of remedyourlife, LLC. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 1/2017. Office location: 600 Mamaroneck Avenue in Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 68 Park Ridge Ave., New Rochelle. NY 10805. Purpose: any lawful activity.
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April 21, 2017 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 13
A whole lot of girls RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy
If you’re thinking of writing a bestseller, I’ve got one word of advice for you: Girl. Put “Girl” in the title and you almost don’t have to do anything else, except figure out a plot, some twists and an ending. And don’t forget to put a girl character in there, of course. She can be doing anything: Kicking a hornet’s nest or sporting a dragon tattoo, like Stieg Larsson’s epic sellers. Or she can be on a train, like Paula Hawkins’ bestseller (turned into a leaden movie described by one Rotten Tomatoes reviewer as “Less like hopping on board a train and more climbing onto the bandwagon of dozens of Lifetime movies”). (Note, that didn’t stop it from making $170 million.) Or the girl can be gone, like Gillian Flynn’s chilling thriller. Or she can have pearl earring, or marry a lion, or fall from the sky, chase the moon, play with fire, or be interrupted. She can also love Tom Gordon. And recently I really enjoyed “The Girl You Left Behind,” by Jojo Moyes. All those girls made it big on the bookshelves.
To make it big on TV, apparently all a girl has to do is hang out with a bunch of her tormented friends who are trying to grow up, like “2 Broke Girls,” “New Girl,” or Lena Dunham’s squad. Or she can have grown up so long ago that now the “girl” part is ironic. (See “Golden Girls,” which, come to think of it, may have started something.) Just a few years before all this girlishness, the book trend was “wife,” as in “The Paris Wife,” “The Time Traveler’s Wife” (best book ever), “The Kitchen God’s Wife” (also the best book ever, weirdly enough). Not to mention, on TV, “The Good Wife.” But clearly the wives have been ditched for someone younger. Last year, an author named Emily St. John Mandel looked at 810 non-children’s books with the word “Girl” in the title. She crunched some numbers and found that 79 percent of those were written by women, and yet 65 percent of the time the “girl” in the title is actually a woman. So why call the woman a girl? One theory holds that when we see the word “girl” we automatically feel protective and worried— more than we’d feel about a grown woman. But another theory is that mega bestsellers tend to inspire
publishers to copy them slavishly and often. So once you have “Gone Girl” PLUS “Girl on a Train,” nobody’s going to bother with a “The Comedienne With the Lower Back Tattoo,” or, “Young Female in Hyacinth Blue.” St. John Mandel noticed one other trend: When women write “Girl” books, the girl ends up alive 90 percent of the time. When men put “Girl” in the title, only 68 percent make it out alive. Gee thanks, guys. Anyway, if you’re looking for a title for that bestseller of yours, I’ve got some suggestions: • The Girl Last Seen Running Away from a Bunch of Angry Hornets • The Girl with the Misspelled “Pougkeepsie” Tattoo • The Little Dumber Girl • The Girl You Left in the Dairy Section
• The Girl Eating Cheese-Its on the Bolt Bus • The Girl Who “Forgot” to Call Her Mother’s Friend’s Super-Nice Son • The Girl Whose “Be Mindful” Lulu Lemon Tote Took Up a Whole Seat • The Girl with the Greenish Incisor • The Girl Who Mistook Her Hat for My Hat • A Girl Named Sue • Gone Girl Comes Back • Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Girl • The Girl from Iwo Jima • The Hardy Girls • I Am the Coppertone Girl • The Girl with the Squirrel Earring • The Squirrel with the Girl Earring • The Girl with the Wagon Tattoo: A Laura Ingalls Wilder Update • The Other Other Boleyn Girl • The Little Mulch Girl • Even Cowgirls Get Sick of Beans
• The Girl Who Chased Viggo Mortensen (And Who Can Blame Her?) • I Am Melania: The Story of a Girl Who Stood Up for Trump • Too Many Girls, Not Enough Kombucha (from the Wild in Williamsburg series) • The Girl on the D Train • The Girl STILL on the D Train, Because of a “Sick Passenger” on the Train Ahead of Her • Girl Meets Girl • Girl, Interrupting • The Girl Who Knew Too Much about the Kennedy Assassination • The Girl Who Slugged the Beehive • The Girl Who Stuck her Head into a Wasp’s Nest • The Girl Who Sat on a Mound of Scorpions Because She Was Livestreaming Her Desert Vacation • The Girl Who Couldn’t Sit Down CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com
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Westchester top performer in health statewide Health dept. to combat mosquito growth, disease Westchester again ranked among the state’s top performers for health outcomes and health factors, including a first place ranking for healthy behaviors, according to the County Health Rankings released recently by the eighth annual national County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation program. “We always talk about the great quality of life we enjoy in Westchester,” said Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino. “It’s gratifying to know that our residents are taking the steps to enhance and extend their lives, which is a testament to the messaging coming out of our Department of Health.” The Westchester County Department of Health, headed by Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler, is committed to disseminating advice and strategies for healthy living. “Westchester County continues to rank near the top of the state in health factors and outcomes, which is very positive news,” Amler said. “The results underscore the ability of our health care providers to supply our residents with the medical, educational and outreach resources they need to maintain and improve the quality of their lives.” The county ranked fourth for health outcomes, which is based on health behaviors and clinical care, and fourth for health factors, which measure the ways our social and economic factors and environment affect our future health. Westchester was in the top five last year, too. “This report also demonstrates that many
of our residents are eating healthier, exercising more and avoiding tobacco,” Amler said. “Residents who need support to make these healthy lifestyle changes can reach out to the health department for encouragement and help.” The rankings were developed by the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute and funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The report shows how counties compare within the state in terms of how healthy people feel, how long they live and how their health is affected by factors such as tobacco use, obesity and access to health care. The report demonstrated that Westchester residents have better than average access to primary care physicians, dentists and mental health providers, lower unemployment, fewer children living in poverty and a better educated population than the state as a whole. Westchester also had a lower rate of adult smokers, adult obesity and physically inactive residents than the state. For more information, contact the Westchester County Department of Health at 8135000 or visit westchestergov.com/health. You can also follow the department on Twitter @wchealthdept or like its Facebook page at Facebook.com/wchealthdept. (Submitted)
To eliminate mosquito breeding sites and prevent the spread of mosquito-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus, the Westchester County Department of Health will offer free minnows, mosquito dunks and educational materials to residents on four upcoming Mosquito Control Days at the Westchester County Airport, 2 Loop Road in West Harrison. Health department staff will be available to answer questions and give out “Keep Healthy and Bug Off” brochures, which offer advice on how residents can prevent mosquito bites and eliminate standing water around their homes to keep mosquitoes from breeding—and biting—nearby. Mosquito Control Days are scheduled for: • Friday, April 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Saturday, April 22, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. • Friday, May 3, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. • Saturday, May 4, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents with ornamental ponds should add fathead minnows to the water to keep it from becoming a mosquito breeding site. The dunks serve the same purpose in birdbaths, rain barrels and unused pools. Residents who plan to pick up minnows should bring a bucket or pail; minnows will be distributed in watertight plastic bags, and residents should plan to bring them straight home and release them immediately into ponds with at least 8 inches of water. To eliminate breeding sites, the health department will begin to apply larvicide to catch basins that hold standing water but are
clear of debris starting May 8. Larvaciding teams will evaluate all catch basins on county and municipal roads over the next few months and treat as needed. To help prevent mosquitoes from breeding and biting, residents should eliminate standing water from around their properties, especially after it rains. Large areas of standing water on public property that cannot easily be removed should be reported to the health department at 813-5000. To learn more about mosquito prevention, visit the health department’s website at westchestergov.com/health, like it on Facebook at facebook.com/wchealthdept or follow it on Twitter @wchealthdept. (Submitted)
14 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • April 21, 2017
Buyer, beware LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
It may suggest a major character flaw on my part, but I’m the kind of guy who doesn’t have a whole lot of sympathy for people who allow themselves to get duped. Now, I’m not a monster; I’m not talking about old people who get bilked out of their Social Security checks by insidious phone scams and the like. But when it comes to easily avoidable situations? You’re kind of on your own. Last week, there were probably many sports fans who were taken aback when it was reported that two-time Super Bowl MVP quarterback Eli Manning was caught requisitioning “2 helmets that can pass as game used” from Giants’ equipment manager Joe Skiba. The information, which came out due to an ongoing legal battle between three collectors, Manning, and New Rochelle-based sports memorabilia company Steiner Sports, may have been shocking to
the type of person who reserves a special place in their living room to proudly display a wad of Red Man chewed by David Wells during his 1998 perfect game. For the rest of us, however? Sometimes you get what you pay for—and sometimes you don’t. Now I’m not casting blame here. Steiner Sports is claiming that the lawsuit is a frivolous attempt to discredit their business and that Manning’s communiqué was taken out of context. They stand by their authenticity verification process, which, if you are in the business of sports memorabilia, is obviously the key component to their whole operation. But even if everything is on the up and up, I still don’t get the allure of shelling out mega bucks for what is, lets face it, an inanimate hunk of plastic that’s worth about 60 bucks on the street. It used to be that a true piece of sports memorabilia had some sort of inherent value. The bat that Hank Aaron used to belt his 715th homer; the stick Bobby Orr used in the 1970 Stanley Cup Finals win; these are priceless sports artifacts that belong in museums and
SPORTS
Brandon Steiner, right, speaks with ESPN Radio Personality Brandon Tierney during a 2009 event in New Rochelle. Steiner’s company, Steiner Sports, is currently embroiled in a legal battle over the authenticity of the sports memorabilia it sells. Photo/Mike Smith
Halls of Fame. They do not belong as a conversation piece in Joe Blow’s sports den. But increasingly, the only true value of game-used gear is whatever price tag that the memorabilia companies decide to slap on it. You want to pay $600 for a small piece of LeBron James’ shorts from a mid-January game against the
Clippers? It’s all yours, as long as you also spring for shipping and handling. As an Eli Manning fan, I hope these accusations aren’t true. During his tenure under center for Big Blue, Manning has been a class act and a terrific postseason performer, and I would hate to see something like this tarnish his rep-
utation. But for all those collectors out there, let this be a lesson. You never know exactly what you’re buying. And in most cases, whatever you think you’re buying isn’t worth it anyway.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
SPORTS
April 21, 2017 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 15
Huskies bury Pelham BASEBALL
league
HARRISON 5 PELHAM 1 HARRISON HS
4/17/17
Game Notes: • Mike Hendler allowed just one unearned run in a complete game performance • Alex Cipriano went 3-for-4 with two RBIs • The Huskies are 4-0-1 on the year By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor With four wins in their first five games this year, the Harrison Huskies know a thing or two about fast starts. On April 17, the Huskies struck first against visiting Pelham, putting the Pelicans in an early hole, and riding that lead to a comfortable 5-1 victory. But with big games against rival schools on the horizon, Harrison is hoping that it doesn’t cool off any time soon. The Huskies collected two runs in the bottom of the first inning on Monday, setting the tone for an af-
Chris Gaeta connects with a pitch. Photos/Mike Smith
ternoon that saw the Huskies earn their second victory of the year over their league foes. The win put Harrison at 4-0-1 on the season. “It was huge; our goal is always
Alex Cipriano waits for the pitch on April 17. Cipriano went 3-for-4 with two RBIs.
to get ahead early, because that will put our pitchers at ease and help them to settle in,” Huskies’ head coach Marco DiRuocco said. “And it helps the fielders too; we want the pitchers and the fielders to be relaxed, but focused.” Harrison starter Mike Hendler seemed to be buoyed by the early support, and turned in a complete game, two-strikeout performance, only allowing one unearned run on the afternoon. Hendler also shined at the plate, going 3-for3 and scoring three of Harrison’s five runs. According to DiRuocco, Hendler—along with his twin brother Matt—have both been revelations for the Huskies this year, especially with their composure on the mound. In five games this season, the Hendler-led Harrison staff has held opponents to just two runs. “I’m not really surprised, I could see both brothers, Mike and Matt, kind of taking form last year,” DiRuocco said. “They had plenty of varsity experience coming into the year, and I could tell that they were both going to be extremely effective.” That presence on the mound has been especially important, he added, because the Huskies still have room to improve offensively. “We’ve been struggling a bit with our situational hitting,” the head coach said. “But our pitching and defense have really been solid.” The Huskies will look to stay hot against rival Rye, which they will see in a two-game set starting on April 20, after press time. On Saturday, the Huskies will host
Mike Hendler throws a pitch against Pelham. Hendler struck out two batters and surrendered one unearned run in a complete game win.
Luke McCarthy rounds third base against Pelham.
the Garnets for the annual Andrew Gurgitano Memorial Game, which is played in memory of the Harrison pitcher who died in 2014. This year, the game will be held at 4 p.m. at Silver Lake Park. “It’s just something we can do
to celebrate this great young man’s life,” DiRuocco said. “So having that game is important to the program, the school and the community.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
16 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • April 21, 2017