Harrison REVIEW THE
January 19, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 3 | www.harrisonreview.com
Democrats nominate Mayer for Senate seat By JAMES PERO Staff Writer
Taking flight Avery LaBarbera scored 28 points in Harrison’s Jan. 11 win over Rye. The Huskies rode a strong fourth quarter to a 52-48 road victory over the Garnets. For story, see page 15. Photo/Mike Smith
2 GOP candidates vie for Latimer’s Senate seat By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Westchester County Republicans are expecting to choose from a pool of two candidates to run in a special election to fill County Executive George Latimer’s recently vacated state Senate seat. Sarmad Khojasteh, a commercial litigation attorney from the town of Bedford, is bidding for the Republican nomination to face-off against Democratic nominee Shelley Mayer, an incumbent state assemblywoman from Yonkers. An emigrate who was born in Iran 1981, Khojasteh relocated to the United States in 1982 after the Islamic Revolution and during the Iran-Iraq War.
“Unfortunately, many of our elected officials seem intent on proposing legislation as a form of protest, or to win political points in a game of partisan ping pong, rather than listening to their constituents and coming up with ideas that would help to solve real problems for the people they serve,” Khojasteh said. “I believe that by replacing career politicians with independent-minded, practical problem solvers in Albany we can put the American dream back within reach of all New Yorkers.” Khojasteh joins Dan Schorr, who has also announced his plans to seek the Senate’s 37th District seat. Schorr unsuccessfully ran for county district attorney nine years ago, losing to then-District Attor-
ney Janet DiFiore, a Democrat. Schorr is well known around the county, previously serving as a prosecutor in Westchester and New York City and as the Yonkers inspector general. The Senate’s 37th District covers Rye, White Plains, Harrison, Mamaroneck, Yonkers, North Castle, Bedford, and Eastchester. As of press time, the Westchester County Republican Party has not announced a date for when it will nominate its candidate, and Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, has not yet called for a special election. The governor is not necessarily required to call for a special election. Cuomo has the option to let the seat remain unfilled un-
til the November 2018 election. Latimer, a Democrat, vacated the seat on Jan. 1 after being sworn in as county executive. The election may be crucial for Republicans to prevent Democrats from regaining more ground in the Senate, as Republicans currently hold a slim 3130 majority, as of press time. The 37th District seat is one of two vacated positions in the state Senate this year. The Senate’s 32nd District seat, which covers an area in the Bronx, has also been vacated. Doug Colety, the chairman of the county Republican Committee, could not be reached for comment. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
State Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer, a Democrat, was nominated unanimously on Jan. 9 as the successor to former state Sen. George Latimer’s Senate seat. Latimer, a fellow Democrat, vacated the seat when he was elected as Westchester County executive and subsequently took office on Jan. 1. Mayer took the nomination over a field of candidates that included Bedford Supervisor Chris Burdick and former Bernie Sanders organizer and White Plains resident, Kat Brezler, as well as Mark Jaffe of West Harrison. Prior to the Democrats convention at the Westchester County Center on Tuesday night, all of the other candidates had dropped out of the race, including Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano who left the running a week before the nomination process. “You opened up your minds and your hearts; you heard my story,” Mayer said at the County Center. While Mayer won’t face a primary from fellow Democrats, she will have to square off against a Republican opponent for the seat in a special election yet to be called for by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat. Cuomo hasn’t indicated when he might call for a special election or when it might take place. Mayer is expected to face either Sarmad Khojasteh or Dan Schorr, both Republicans who are seeking the party’s nomination. However, county Republicans have yet to announce when they plan to nominate a candidate for the seat. With Mayer, Democrats will look to increase their edge in the state Senate where Republicans
currently hold a one-person majority, 31-30, with two open seats. “Shelley Mayer can hit the ground running and give the hundreds of thousands of Westchester residents the representation they deserve,” said Senate Minority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins, a Yonkers Democrat, in a statement this week. Republicans will be hardpressed to win a seat that has been Democrats’ hand for decades. However, throughout the past several election cycles Republicans have unsuccessfully pumped significant financing into campaigns hoping to win control of the seat, including a race between Latimer and GOP candidate Bob Cohen during a 2012 election that broke a record for most money spent—$4.5 million in total— during a New York political race at the time. Democrats will also look to further capitalize on a blue surge of Democratic support that was seen during the 2017 elections that to the election of a new county executive and a string of Democratic victories throughout Westchester. The 37th Senatorial District encompasses the cities of Yonkers, White Plains, New Rochelle and Rye, and the towns of Eastchester, Harrison, Mamaroneck, Rye, Bedford and North Castle. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
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2 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 19, 2018
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Holocaust center names new chair Harrison resident and attorney Joseph Kaidanow, Esq., has been named as the chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center, a nonprofit organization serving Westchester County and beyond. “I am truly honored to accept the responsibility of carrying out the mission of the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center. The environment we find ourselves in today makes it vitally important to combat prejudice, intolerance and bigotry. We must teach our children to stand up for themselves as well as others, and to be upstanders who defend the right of everyone to live in peace and with dignity,” said Kaidanow. He is a principal of Arkaid LLC, which invests in, manages and provides consulting services
for both commercial and residential property. Kaidanow is also a principal and president of Facilities Management and Relocation, a commercial and residential brokerage company. Kaidanow is the son of two Holocaust survivors, Jerry and Ellen Kaidanow. Along with his wife of 29 years, Ellen, Kaidanow has raised his three children— Danielle, Sarah, and Josh—in Westchester. He serves on the board of the Leighton House Condominium in New York City. Kaidanow is also a member of the Jewish Community Center of Harrison and serves on its Yom HaShoah Committee. In addition, he has served on the board of the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center for 10 years. The mission of the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Cen-
Joseph Kaidanow, Esq., chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Holocaust & Human Rights Education Center. Contributed photo
ter is to enhance the teaching and learning of the lessons of the Holocaust to support the right of all people to be treated with dignity and respect. For more information please contact Millie Jasper, executive director, at 696-0738 or mjasper@hhrecny.org. (Submitted)
Meet Red! This beautiful setter/collie mix is about 7 years young and very handsome. He is looking for a calm, quiet home to hang out with his human family. He will alert you to people at your door and will happily go to his place so that you can welcome your guests. He likes playing with his toys and going for long walks. Red is neutered, vaccinated, dewormed and microchipped. Make him part of your family! To meet Red, call Pet Rescue in Harrison at 834-6955 or visit NY-PetRescue.org. (Submitted)
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What’s going on... Harrison Public Library
For more information on hours and programs, visit harrisonpl.org.
Tweens & Teens: Battery Powered Car On Sunday, Jan. 21 from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. Make a battery-powered car with pulleys and gears to keep in this tech program just for grades 6–8. Instructor Irum Khan is a STEM enthusiast. The session is limited to 20 participants and is first come, first served.
Sing-Along Sundays with Chloe On Sundays from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. Celebrate early childhood through music and movement. Children and parents are sure to love the captivating songs, live accordion music, and activities designed with specific cognitive milestones in mind. This class will feature a variety of childsized instruments and props, and a wealth of both traditional and original songs to add to your singalong repertoire. Get ready for a fun, creative and engaging experience.
Discovery Play On Mondays from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. Play is important work.It requires concentration, problem-solving, cooperation, and creativity. It promotes movement, persistence, and self-expression. The library believes in the positive impact of play and invites you to have fun with your child while building early literacy skills part of its Every Child Ready to Read program.
Great Decisions 2018: The Waning of Pax Americana? On Monday, Jan. 22 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The program involves reading articles, watching videos, and meeting with a group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. The program is facilitated by Joan Katen, adjunct professor of political science and peace and justice, with special guest speakers. Participants contribute to the 2018 FPA National Opinion Ballot which can be submitted online at fpa.org/ballots, or in person. You do not need a briefing book to participate. Videos and articles for discussion can be found online at fpa.org. A reference copy of a briefing booklet is available at the library. The Great Decision series
is free and open to the public. However, due to popularity, each session is on a first come first served basis. On Jan. 22, “The Waning of Pax Americana?” will be discussed, with Gerton van den Akker as the guest speaker. During the first months of Donald Trump’s presidency, the U.S. began a historic shift away from Pax Americana, the liberal international order that was established in the wake of World War II. Since 1945, Pax Americana has promised peaceful international relations and an open economy, buttressed by U.S. military power. In championing “America First” isolationism and protectionism, President Trump has shifted the political mood toward selective U.S. engagement, where foreign commitments are limited to areas of vital U.S. interest and economic nationalism is the order of the day. Geopolitical allies and challengers alike are paying close attention.
Storytelling with Scratch: Google CS Club Starting Monday, Jan. 22 from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. For children in grades 4–8. Create and share your own digital stories using Scratch, a free and block-based coding tool developed by the MIT Media Lab. No previous computer experience is necessary. Have your friends join, too. The CS (Computer Science) First Storytelling Club is social and fun. Space is limited. Participants are encouraged to attend all eight sessions, through Monday, March 19. All materials and laptops are provided. Registration is required by visiting harrisonpl.org or calling the library at 835-0324.
Tuesday Scrabble Club On Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the West Harrison Branch. Once a week, come join other patrons who enjoy the board game of Scrabble as much as you do. For adults. Board games will be provided. Seating is very limited. Please register online, at the Reference Desk, or by calling the library at 948-2092.
Gentle Yoga: Health & Wellness Series On Tuesdays from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. Ground your mind and body with a gentle yoga. Gentle yoga is a twist on traditional yoga making practicing yoga accessible to those who cannot stand or move easily. This form of yoga is perfect for any age. Chairs and mats are available. Please wear comfortable clothes that allow for movement and bring water. Registration is required online or by calling the library at 835-0324.
Tween Tuesdays On Tuesday, Jan. 23 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. For ages 6 to 12. Enjoy real tea on real china in celebration of Hot Tea Month. Drop in for a different activity each week when school is in session.
ESL Book Club informational meeting On Wednesday, Jan. 24 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library
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Building. Join the library for a book discussion group designed especially for non-native English speakers. Participants will read and discuss one book over several weeks. A group of chapters will be read at home each week and readers will discuss plot, dialogue and culture when they have their meetings at the library. Books will be available at the Circulation Desk.
in Memorial Library Building. Join Maker-In-Residence Nora Brunnett to learn how to form and color edible sugar gum paste flowers in a variety of styles and colors in this three-part sequential pastry art series, just in time to celebrate Valentine’s Day. No registration; limited to 25 participants, first come, first served. Participants are expected to attend all three classes.
Computer Tutors
Conversational Spanish
On Wednesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. Accomplished high school students in grades 10–12 will help senior citizens acquire computer skills. Senior citizens (beginners or intermediates) are invited to sign up for computer instruction. Please register online, at the Reference Desk, or by calling the library at 835-0324.
On Fridays from noon to 1 p.m. at the West Harrison Branch. Improve your Spanish skills by practicing with Mariella. Knowledge of basic Spanish required.
Pajama Party with Chloe On Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the West Harrison Branch. Wear your pajamas and hang out with Chloe during this evening class, which features songs, music and more. For ages up to 4 years old, siblings welcome. No registration required.
SCORE: One-On-One Mentoring On Wednesday, Jan. 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. SCORE Westchester matches you with experienced small business advisors who work with you on your specific business needs. These are just some of the items for which business owners often seek guidance from SCORE advisors: starting a small business in Westchester; writing or updating a business plan; identifying sources of funding and preparing documents for financing; creating a marketing plan; launching an additional location; and adjusting to growth. Registration is recommended. Call SCORE to schedule an appointment at 948-3907.
A Mitten Storytime & Craft On Thursday, Jan. 25 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. For ages 1 to 4. This program encourages pre-reading skills and develops listening skills through stories and songs, followed by a fun and simple craft for the little ones to make and bring home.
Chloe’s Sign and Play On Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. Give your child the gift of language. Chole’s 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.
Conservational English On Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the West Harrison Branch. This is an informal program of conversation and practice of the English language. Practice some English and make new friends.
Sugar Gum Paste Bouquets Starting Friday, Jan. 26 through Friday, Feb. 9 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halper-
Yoga with Angela On Fridays from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. For ages 7 to 12. Relaxing, soothing and fun. Peaceful. Like a day off. This is how tweens describe yoga with local instructor Angela Brandt.
Recreation Please be aware that parents must have a current Recreation ID card to register a child for all programs. Please be prepared to show proof of residency with a current utility bill and a driver’s license. A school report card or progress report is required for a child ID card. The 2018 Recreation ID cards are currently available. Applications for activities can be found at the recreation centers and the Recreation Department website. For the Leo Mintzer Center in West Harrison, call 949-5265; the Sollazzo Center in downtown Harrison, 670-3179. The Recreation Hotline can be reached at 670-3039. For more information, visit harrison-ny.gov/recreation.
Nerf/Floor Hockey This is a free four-week indoor program at the Sollazzo and Leo Mintzer centers. At the Sollazzo Center: kindergarten starts Monday, Jan. 29 from 3:20 p.m. to 4 p.m. or 4 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.; first and second grades start Tuesday, Jan. 30 from 3:20 p.m. to 4 p.m. or 4 p.m. to 4:40 p.m.; third, fourth and fifth grades start Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 3:20 p.m. to 4 p.m. At the Leo Mintzer Center: kindergarten and first grade starts Monday, Jan. 29 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.; grades two and three start Tuesday, Jan. 30 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.; grades four and five start Wednesday, Jan. 31 from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m.
County news Golf course closings The six county-owned golf courses closed for the season after play on Sunday, Dec. 31. The courses are Dunwoodie, 231-3490, and Sprain Lake, 231-3481, both in Yonkers; Maple Moor, 995-9200, in White Plains; Mohansic, 862-5283, in Yorktown Heights; Saxon Woods, 231-3461, in Scarsdale; and Hudson Hills, 864-3000, in Ossining. The courses are expected to reopen in March, weather and conditions permitting. The exact date will be announced. Deadline for our What’s Going On section is every Thursday at noon. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to news@hometwn.com.
January 19, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 5
Law senior partner receives Founder’s award Frank McCullough, senior partner in the law firm of McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt
LLP in White Plains, was recently the guest of honor at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace
University’s Land Use Law Center Annual Dinner. At the dinner, McCullough received the distin-
From left, John Nolon, professor of Law and Counsel for the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Land Use Law Center, Frank McCullough, senior partner at McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt LLP, and Jessica Bacher, executive director of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Land Use Law Center. Contributed photo
guished Founder’s Award. The dinner was held at the Mansion on Broadway in White Plains on Dec. 6. The Founder’s Award is bestowed each year in the name of Theodore W. Kheel, the great American attorney and labor mediator, renowned for his ability to build consensus and resolve conflicts. McCullough was a major supporter of the Land Use Law Center. “Frank is an ideal recipient for the Founder’s Award,” said John Nolon, professor of Law and Counsel for the Land Use Law Center. “He has distinguished himself in the regional land use community for navigating and calming troubled waters of local zoning approvals of much needed projects and has also epitomized the image of the practicing lawyer as one who gives back to their community.” Nolon also noted that McCullough has distinguished himself as a land use attorney who is sensitive to and able to unite disparate parties in support of growth and conserva-
tion. Throughout his career, he has counseled his clients to accommodate the interests of local land use officials who represent the full range of interests implicated in land development. McCullough and fellow partner Seth Mandelbaum also spoke during the Land Use Law Center’s 16th Annual Alfred B. DelBello Land Use and Sustainable Development Conference the following day, on Dec. 7. The theme of this year’s event focused on the ways in which local governments are overcoming challenges and finding solutions that target new ways to plan, regulate, and design communities. The sessions included topics such as financing mixed use development, form-based codes, as well as the future of mobility, designing healthy communities and office space redevelopment. “I am truly grateful to have received this recognition from the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University’s Land Use Law Center,” McCullough said. “John Nolan and the Cen-
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ter continue to set a high standard in providing invaluable service and guidance for the greater community, and I am proud to have worked with them over the years. As I continue my practice at McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt, I look forward to the future and the numerous projects we are engaged in and actively pursuing.” Established in 1993, the Land Use Law Center is dedicated to fostering the development of sustainable communities and regions through the promotion of innovative land use strategies and dispute resolution techniques. Through the work of its programs, centers, and institutes, the Land Use Law Center offers conferences, seminars, clinics, academic law school courses, continuing legal education programs, audio podcasts, and frequent publications and resources on contemporary land use, real estate, and environmental issues. For more information about McCullough, Goldberger & Staudt, LLP, visit mcculloughgoldberger.com. (Submitted)
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Interfaith committee
6 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 19, 2018
Harrison REVIEW
THE
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sparks discussion on violence against women
General Assignment | Taylor Brown ext. 30, taylor@hometwn.com
By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter
Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin
The Rye Women’s Interfaith Committee, a community of women from different religious faiths, will tackle the topics of human trafficking and domestic violence against women in their annual conference this month. The presentation, titled “Women Under Threat—Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking,” will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 21, at the Rye Presbyterian Church at 3:30 p.m. Admission for the event is $15 at the door. Attendees will be treated to a discussion led by the Rev. Kym McNair, coordinator of community and education engagement for My Sister’s Place, a nonprofit organization in White Plains that offers emotional and legal support to victims of human trafficking and domestic violence. Caroll Claps, a coordinator for the event, said the presentation was chosen because the committee wanted to feature a nonprofit
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This year’s Rye Women’s Interfaith Committee annual conference is at the Rye Presbyterian Church. File photo
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In prior years, the Rye Women’s Interfaith Committee has discussed topics including religious diversity. Photo courtesy turkishculturalcenter.org
organization and what it has to offer. Along with supporting the local organization, Claps said, they wanted to choose a meaningful topic. “There is quite a lot of information [out there] as far as violence to women and people who come out… will learn that this [presentation] is quite the topic for today’s society,” said Lynn Staley, a coordinator for the event. According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, a hotline service for victims of human trafficking, in 2017, New York state had 180 human trafficking cases reported. The presentation will work to bring awareness to the broader community on the topic of trafficking. David Ryan, a founder of the Westchester County Anti-Trafficking Task Force, a group of organizations who work together to respond to and end cases of human trafficking, said one of the most important things to focus on when it comes to human trafficking is raising awareness. The task force also includes My Sister’s Place and the International Organization for Adolescents, a non-government organization that focuses on cases of children and youth trafficking. “Our goal ultimately is to find these victims, get them out of the environment they’re in, and get them the help and services they need, and ultimately hold the traffickers accountable,” Ryan said. Along with a discussion on human trafficking, McNair will speak on domestic violence. “Domestic abuse often goes unreported,” Claps said. “[There are] women and men who are married and living in Rye, on the outside they look like a perfectly happy family, and on the inside, they’re not.” According to the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, an agency that works to respond and prevent cases of domestic violence, in 2016 “the state’s Domestic & Sexual Violence Hotline received
The Rev. Kym McNair, coordinator of community and education engagement for My Sister’s Place. Photo courtesy bedfordpreschurch.com
8,584 calls. An 18 percent increase from 2015.” Of these calls, 12 percent came from Westchester County, which was the second highest volume of calls from any county in the state. “I can say that once people become more aware [of abuse tactics], they talk about it more, and become aware of what they’ve overlooked,” McNair said. She went on to say that people tend to think of domestic violence as primarily physical and sexual. When you take those two out of the equation, people realize there are a lot more types of violence, including psychological and emotional. Claps encourages people to come out to the event because along with raising awareness, McNair will speak on the things that My Sister’s Place has to offer those who might be in unsafe situations. “I think people will be surprised, and they’ll find out information about the whole [My Sister’s Place] program itself,” Claps said. McNair said that anyone can benefit from attending the presentation. “My hope is that people will have a better understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence and human trafficking, as well as how people can call on My Sister’s Place for help,” McNair said. “We have offices, lawyers, [and] councilors.” CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com
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Winter is here, Great Decisions is back
Opinion-Editorial
in record time, and I would like to commend them for their hard work. They are currently in the final phase and our roads should be completely cleared before long. Back by popular demand, The Harrison Public Library is once again offering Great Decisions, a lecture series that brings community members together to discover and discuss foreign policy issues. Over the course of five sessions at the library, moderator Joan Katen and expert guest speakers will introduce each topic and participants will be granted the opportunity to explore their own views and those of the group. The library will distribute 30 copies of the Great Decisions 2018 book at the first session on Monday, Jan. 22 at 1:30 p.m. at the Halperin Building, located at 2 Bruce Ave. Pick up the suggested reading for the first topic, “The Waning of Pax Americana?” at the Halperin Building Information Desk. This year’s topics include: “Turkey: A Partner in Crisis,” “China and America,” and “Russia’s Foreign Policy.” For additional information, please visit harrisonpl.org. I recently had the pleasure of attending the Westchester County Association’s annual breakfast at the Westchester Marriot, where
Trump’s comments: A perversion of Dr. King’s legacy
HARRISON HAPPENINGS Mayor Ron Belmont
Winter weather is upon us and certain weather-related parking restrictions may be in effect as the season unfolds. A declaration of a snow emergency allows the Department of Public Works and the Harrison Police Department to restore reasonable flow of traffic on our municipal roadways as swiftly as possible. Cars parked along snow emergency routes must be moved without delay. Whenever possible, streets will be plowed curb to curb. During snow emergencies, residents will be advised through the mayor’s robo-call system and Harrison’s website, harrison-ny. gov. The designated emergency snow routes will be listed on the website. Information will also be carried on our local government channels (channel 75 on Cablevision and channel 1960 on FiOs). I would like to thank the Highway Department for doing a wonderful job clearing our streets of leaf piles and brush. The highway crews have cleared the majority of our municipal roadways
County Executive George Latimer discussed his economic vision for 2018 and beyond. He illustrated the need to work together to assist Westchester County residents with health care, education and employment. I look forward to working with other elected officials as we develop a plan to deliver municipal services as efficiently and cost effectively as possible. It was a highly informative event, giving local municipalities an opportunity to hear about and discuss economic trends for business communities in the year to come. In closing, I’m proud to report that the Rye/Town Harrison hockey team won the annual Mayor’s Cup charity hockey game last weekend. The Titans beat the White Plains Tigers 4-1 in a thrilling victory. Congratulations to the teams and their coaches for a great game. The next “Lunch with the Mayor” is on Friday, Jan. 26 and I will be at Goldberg’s Rock’n Bagel Cafe located at 379 Halstead 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.
counties have been the victims of colonialism and exploitation of its people and resources by the Western world for the last 500 years that allowed these Western countries to become rich at their expense.” As Abraham Lincoln also said in his second inaugural address, “the wealth of this country is based upon the unrequited sweat and toil of 246 years of free slave labor by the bondsman.” Trump is America, many of his supporters are from the sewer and have an “Archie Bunker” searing ignorance and racism that allows this type of garbage
By CLIFFORD JACKSON Donald Trump’s racist and vulgar comments on immigration from Africa, Haiti and El Salvador—that these were “---hole countries” that we should be limiting immigration and allowing for more immigration from countries like Norway—are rather ironic. I have been saying this and writing about this for years. I saw Michael Che bring this out on a recent “Weekend Update” skit on “Saturday Night Live.” He in his comedic genius made the point that “these so-called ----hole
to be expressed by a Donald Trump. These same people do not realize and do not care that Haiti has been exploited and raped of its resources by the U.S. for the past 200 years. Papa Doc and Baby Doc Duvalier are glaring examples. Trump’s proclamation to Martin Luther King Jr. was an insult to his legacy and to decent justice-seeking people around the world. Clifford Jackson is a resident of Larchmont. The views expressed are his own.
Berkshire Hathaway release Westchester market report
The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties Fourth Quarter 2017 Westchester Market Report shows the number of sales are down by 1.34 percent. Cotributed photo
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties has released the Fourth Quarter 2017 Westchester Market Report, a valuable resource for anyone looking to buy or sell a home. The report examines the single family and condominium markets throughout Westchester County and is an in-depth analysis of sales and emerging trends in the market. Westchester County sales were down by 1.34 percent in the fourth quarter, however, average price increased by 5.76 percent to $619,206. Median sales price
for single family homes and condominiums were up by 6 percent and cooperative pricing remained flat year over year. Luxury home sales- those prices over $2 million- increased by 9.21 percent to 76 total sales when compared to 2016’s fourth quarter. The most significant issue sellers and buyers need to be aware of is the new tax bill. It is too early to tell how it is going to impact the state of New York but it will be a variable for the housing market in 2018. Regardless of the implications, move-in ready homes and those
within walking distance to shops and restaurants will remain front runners in the 2018 market. At Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties, our mission is to provide an unparalleled customer service experience throughout all aspects of the home transaction process. If you have any questions regarding this report, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties Realtors are here to help you navigate the current market with expert knowledge and exceptional service. (Submitted)
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January 19, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 9
Giants legend to host big game viewing party
Phil Simms may have coined the phrase “I’m going to Disney World” following his big game win in 1987, but the legendary quarterback is “going to Empire City Casino” for this year’s big game to host a viewing party, hang out with football fans and watch the biggest game on the planet on Feb. 4. The free festivities begin in the casino’s entertainment lounge at 6 p.m. on game day, where Simms will mingle with fans, participate in a Q-and-A, and sign autographs before watching the big game and testing out his throwing arm with fans. During the event, Simms will reflect on his career, offer his game day predictions and share what it takes to win the big game. Empire City Casino will dis-
play the big game on LED jumbo screens to bring football fans as close to the action as possible. Seating will be firstcome, first-served with beer and food specials all game long. Most fans know Simms as one of the greatest quarterbacks in football history, and who was recently nominated to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Over his 15-year career with the New York Giants, Simms set numerous records and won two world championships in 1987 and 1991. Currently, Simms is a football analyst on TV, radio and online. “Phil Simms fits the bill as the perfect game day host for our guests,” said Taryn Duffy, director of public affairs for Empire City Casino. “We’re excited to
have that same energy and excitement Phil brought to the football field here at Empire City Casino with fans meeting and hearing from the football icon.” As an added bonus, the first 5,000 Empire Club Members to check in at the main promotions booth will receive a free football-themed beanie hat. Fans who are not yet Empire Club members can sign up for free in a matter of minutes at any promotions booth. Empire City is Manhattan’s closest casino, a short drive from the George Washington Bridge and easily accessible via Metro North, bus, shuttle bus and more (exact point-to-point directions provided here). For more information on Empire City Casino and the viewing party, visit empirecitycasino.com. (Submitted)
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January 19, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 11
12 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 19, 2018
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January 19, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 13
14 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 19, 2018
Game-saving catch LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
Conventional wisdom might posit that, these days, the NBA regular season isn’t worth a hill of beans. But increasingly, the same might hold true for the NFL. For the last 10 years or so, pundits have maintained that the long, grueling, 82-game NBA schedule is little more than a glorified pre-season. With rest days for star players and the emergence of super teams like we’ve seen in Boston, Miami, Cleveland and Golden State, the true competition in basketball doesn’t really ramp up until the conference finals at the very earliest, rendering much of what happens between October and May largely irrelevant from a spectator’s standpoint. As a result, the NBA’s popularity largely hinges on its most marketable stars and teams engaging in one or two largely pre-destined series at the end of the year to keep fans engaged. Which brings us the growing
problem facing today’s NFL. It wasn’t too long ago that gridiron Sundays (and Mondays) were appointment-viewing. And it’s not hard to understand why; with only 16 weeks of regular-season football, each game carried with it more weight and significance than any one contest of its competitors in America’s four major sports leagues. But over the last few years, something has changed, and Americans don’t seem to be as dialed into football as we once were. Oversaturation—games played three days a week—had a lot to do with it, but so too does the shifting public attitude toward the sport. There is a definite contingent of fans turned off by the risk of head trauma that the players assume and the league’s seemingly toothless efforts to combat the danger. Other, more vocal groups have tuned out due to their anger with the league for not sternly disciplining players who choose to protest injustice in society. Heck, even the fans who are still watching often bemoan the lack of quality play around the
SPORTS
league, which has turned—much like the NBA—into an organization of haves and have-nots. The results, unsurprisingly, mean that ratings have been in a slow, yet steady decline. But once we get to the playoffs, whatever issues facing the league during its regular season seem to disappear. Last Sunday alone, the Blake Bortles-led Jaguars and the Pittsburgh Steelers faced off in a wild shootout that saw the Jags escape with an improbable 45-42 win. That game was followed by one of the wildest playoff games in history, as the Minnesota Vikings topped the New Orleans Saints thanks to a wacky 61-yard touchdown by receiver Stefon Diggs. For once, fans came into work on Monday talking about the play on the field rather than some peripheral issue concerning protests, suspensions, headshots or referees. But if I were an NFL executive, I wouldn’t bank on the goodwill lasting. There’s an unmistakable trend of football’s declining popularity, and it’s going to take
On Jan. 14, two exciting NFL playoff games may have given the league a temporary reprieve from sinking ratings. But the NFL has some questions to answer if it hopes to keep its foothold as the nation’s most popular sport. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.org
more than an once-in-a-lifetime connection between Case Keenum and Diggs to reverse it.
After all, as the name suggests, those plays don’t come around all that often.
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SPORTS
January 19, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 15
Huskies edge Garnets late girls basketball league
HARRISON 52 RYE 48 1/11/17
RYE HS
Game Notes: • Avery LaBarbera scored a game-high 28 points for Harrison • Teaghan Flaherty had 22 points for the Garnets • Harrison improved to 6-4 with the win By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor Any time Harrison and Rye lock horns, regardless of the sport, area fans are generally primed for an exciting showdown. On Jan. 11, a tilt between the two girls’ basketball teams did not disappoint, as the visiting Huskies won a back-and-forth game, edging a solid Garnets’ team 52-48. Despite controlling the game throughout the first half, Harrison fell prey to a Garnets’ rally in the third quarter and headed into the final stanza of play trailing 38-35. But a strong fourth quarter led by a stellar performance from Huskies’ standout Avery LaBarbera, who finished with a game-high 28 points and 14 rebounds, was enough
Avery LaBarbera drives to the hoop against Rye on Jan. 11. LaBarbera had 28 points for the Huskies.
for Harrison to improve to 6-4 on the year. LaBarbera missed four games with a knee injury she sustained in early December, but has come on strong since her return, netting 48 points in two contests this week as the Huskies have won
Rye’s Ellie Dailey backs her way down in the low post against Harrison.
six of their last seven games. Harrison coach Louis Kail said that the team’s early season struggles may even be the catalyst for the Huskies’ recent success. “We’ve been in this situation before,” he said. “We’ve battled through adversity, through sickness, through injuries all season long, and tonight they just kind of settled in and won a basketball game.” The Garnets, who came into the game riding an eight-game winning streak, dropped to 8-2. Sophomore Teaghan Flaherty, who has emerged as the top offensive threat this year, led the team with 22 points, but was sidelined for stretches in the second half with four fouls. In her absence, freshman Amanda Latkany spurred a solid Garnet effort with 12 points. “Anytime you take a player like Teaghan, who’s a prolific scorer, out of the game, it changes the complexion, because it’s tough to play with foul trouble,” Kail said. “But you have to hand it to the rest of the Rye team, they handled it really well.” Rye followed its loss to Harrison with a hard-fought defeat at the hands of Class AA power Ursuline on Saturday, Jan. 13, while the Huskies will have a few days off before hosting Ardsley on Wednesday, Jan. 17, after press
Niamh Carty drives past Ashley Stagg at Rye High School. Photos/Mike Smith
Ashley Stagg tries to beat two Rye defenders on Jan. 11.
time. According to Kail, they will hope to build on the momentum of the rivalry win as they look to improve their playoff
standing during the second half of the season. “It’s definitely huge,” he said. “Any time you have Rye versus
Harrison, it’s a good game, so it’s nice to get a win against them.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
16 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 19, 2018
SPORTS
Wildcats edge Titans ICE HOCKEY
non-league
RCDS 2 RTH 1 RYE PLAYLAND
1/15/17
Game Notes: • Eddie Abrams made 26 saves for the Wildcats • Joey Harrison had the Titans’ lone goal • Rye Town/Harrison is 11-3 on the year By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor A slow start doomed the Rye Town/Harrison hockey team on Jan. 15, as the Titans fell 2-1 in a showdown with the Rye Country Day School at the Playland Ice Casino. But although the loss highlighted some problems that have plagued the 11-3 Titans all year, head coach Rich Myers is confident that his squad will be able to bounce back in time for the playoffs, with a slate of tough contests remaining on the regular season schedule. Will Dodge got Rye Coun-
Joey Harrison beats an RCDS defender en route to a third-period goal. Photos/Mike Smith
try Day School, RCDS, on the board just five minutes into the game, and teammate Jack Kissell made it 2-0 before the end of the first period. Although the
Christian Pizzutello is knocked off the puck by an RCDS player on Jan. 15.
Titans would clamp down from that point on—and pick up a goal from Joey Harrison with just 6:58 left to play—they couldn’t quite overcome a sluggish open-
Sam Kaplan tries to sneak a puck past Wildcats’ netminder Eddie Abrams. Abrams had 26 saves in the win.
ing period. According to Myers, the Titans have often struggled early in games this season, despite their gaudy record, and coming out of the gates quickly is something the team will continue to work on. “We’ve probably come from behind in most of our games and slow starts are definitely something that we’re addressing,” he said. “We may have the kids get to the rink a little earlier, change up our pregame routine with some more skating to get the legs going and the blood rate pumping.” The Titans outshot their opponents 27-18, but a 26-save per-
formance from RCDS netminder Eddie Abrams kept the Wildcats in control. “[Abrams] was good, he was big,” Myers said. “But not only did we outshoot them, we possessed the puck most of the game; but even winning the puck possession, I don’t think we put enough good shots on net.” The Titans, who opened the season with eight straight wins, have now dropped three of their last six games. With a slate of tough contests to round out the year—including tilts with league foes John Jay, Brewtown and Mahopac, as well as non-
league games against Scarsdale and Mamaroneck—Myers is hoping to see a bounce-back before the postseason arrives. “We’ve got some good games coming up and we can’t afford to look outside our league,” he said. “Division I, Division II, there’s a lot of parity this year, so everything is really wide open. “We have to shoot more and put more pucks on the net instead of banging them off the boards,” Myers added. “We’re working hard out there, we’re just not getting the results.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
Max Chalfin looks for a scoring opportunity on Jan. 15. The Titans are 11-3 on the year.