Harrison REVIEW THE
January 5, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 1 | www.harrisonreview.com
County Exec. Latimer bans gun shows on county property
Diner Brew Co., a cidery based in Mount Vernon, was founded by New Rochelle native Chris Sheldon with the intent to offer customers a unique twist on traditional hard ciders. For story, see page 6. Photo/Taylor Brown
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer
New zoning ordinance paves way for AvalonBay project By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer The establishment of a new zoning district is paving the way for the town’s proposed transit-oriented development, known as AvalonBay Harrison, which would be built along the Metro-North train station on Halstead Avenue. On Dec. 21, the Harrison Town Council approved the establishment of a transit-oriented development, TOD, district and the rezoning of the proposed development to the district. The area for the proposed complex was previously zoned as a central business district, which restricts TODs.
As of press time, the proposed AvalonBay development calls for the construction of three, 4-story mixed-use buildings and two pedestrian plazas that will include 142 units of luxury apartments—76 one-bedroom units, 59 two-bedroom units, and eight three-bedroom units—in Harrison’s new TOD district. According to the proposal, the complex will include 136 market-rental apartment units. Seven of those units will be reserved for affordable housing. Additionally, the multi-family residential complex would include 27,000 square feet of commercial space for restaurants and coffee shops, structure parking in
two of three buildings, and infrastructure improvements that will include an underground storm water management system. The proposed AvalonBay development, which would replace a parking lot that currently holds 260 stalls, would contain a total of 751 parking spaces. According to the proposal, 584 of those parking spaces would be located in the commuter-parking garage, of which 475 of those 584 spaces would be reserved for Metro-North customers. The proposal estimates that the development would generate approximately $445,012 in property taxes.
According to Mayor Ron Belmont, a Republican, the approval of the new district will finally set in motion a project that dates back as far as the mid-90’s. In 2012, as part of an exclusionary agreement with the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, MTA, which owns the property surrounding the Harrison train station, AvalonBay was selected to develop the site. With the zoning amendment, the development now only needs a site plan approval and special exemption use permit to begin construction. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
An executive order signed by new County Executive George Latimer, a Democrat, will forbid controversial firearm and knife shows on county-owned property—a move that a new Democratic majority hopes to eventually codify into law. “This venue was created decades ago,” said Latimer at a Jan. 2 press conference, as he gestured around the Westchester County Center. “It is a tremendous showplace for Westchester County; it is a showplace for family entertainment.” The executive order will effectively reinstate a ban that was struck down by former County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican, upon taking office in 2010. A ban had existed prior to Astorino’s election and was initially signed by former County Executive Andrew Spano, a Democrat, in the wake of the Columbine shootings in Colorado. Latimer’s executive order— which will not impact the legality of shows on private property— marks a culmination of controversy over the past year which saw Democrats and Republicans, as well as an invigorated electorate, debate whether or not to continue hosting shows. Earlier this year, a piece of legislation banning the shows was passed by the county Legislature’s Democratic majority but was never signed into law by Astorino who instead vetoed the measure. While county Democrats contend that the shows would increase the likelihood of illegal gun sales as well as work to promote “gun culture” in Westchester, Republicans maintained that
disallowing the shows infringed on residents’ constitutional rights. One gun show last year turned particularly controversial after a Democratic legislative aide snapped pictures of Confederate and Nazi memorabilia and books being sold and displayed inside the show, giving rise to Democratic calls for its removal. Last year’s show marked the first in nearly two decades after several were cancelled due to mass shootings in Columbine High School and Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut. The debate over guns in Westchester has also made its way into local conversations, particularly in the town/village of Harrison, the village of Rye Brook, and the town of Mamaroneck, the latter of which briefly attempted to ban carrying weapons on its public property—an initiative that was quickly dropped after vehement public backlash. Rye Brook, however, successfully passed a local law restricting where gun stores can set up shop last year after a gun store in Harrison began operating in proximity to an elementary school, spurring public outcry. That store continues to operate. According to Latimer, Democratic lawmakers will work to pass legislation that will ban gun shows on county-owned property in a more permanent fashion this year, aided by the help of a new super majority in the Legislature. According to tentative dates on a web page for Northeast Collectors, the trade organization that runs Westchester’s gun shows, there were dates already slated for 2018 for another gun show event, but no contract had been agreed to. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
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2 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 5, 2018
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SUNY Purchase ranked one of the top 382 colleges
SUNY Purchase College is listed as one of the “Top 382 Colleges” in the nation by “The Princeton Review” in the 2018 edition of their college guide. “The Princeton Review” praises SUNY Purchase for its excellent conservatories and liberal arts and science programs, and recognizes faculty who “actively work in the field they teach” and “bring the material [to] life and take learning outside the classroom.” In the SUNY Purchase profile, students point out a “sense of unity and acceptance” on campus, and an “artsy, unique, passionate, intelligent,” student body. SUNY Purchase was also lauded for the wide range of social and artistic events on campus and for its superlative theater program. “We’re proud that once again Purchase has been nationally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence,” said Thomas
J. Schwarz, president of SUNY Purchase. “We remain dedicated to providing the highest quality education in the liberal arts, sciences, and performing and visual arts. We are honored to offer an affordable and accessible experience, while nurturing the creative process and open-minded engagement that are the hallmarks of a Purchase education.” “There are so many people at our campuses that are dedicated to giving our students the education and resources they need to thrive in college and in their future careers, and The Princeton Review rankings is an affirmation from our students that we are doing it right,” said SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher. “My congratulations to the Purchase College family for their outstanding work, this recognition is well deserved.” “We chose Purchase College for this book because it offers
outstanding academics,” said Robert Franek, The Princeton Review’s editor-in-chief and author of “The Best 382 Colleges.” Only 15 percent of the country’s 2,500 four-year colleges are included in the prestigious guidebook. In addition to “The Princeton Review” recognition, SUNY Purchase has been included in other significant college ranking lists. “U.S. News & World Report” named SUNY Purchase one of the top liberal arts colleges. “Kiplinger’s Personal Finance” named SUNY Purchase to its 2017 list of “Top 100 Best Values in Public Colleges,” while “The Fiske Guide to Colleges” praised SUNY Purchase in its 2018 edition for fostering an “academic environment that provides a strong sense of community and support, yet celebrates individuals for their unique talents and contributions.” (Submitted)
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What’s going on... Harrison Public Library
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.
Tween Tuesdays
For more information on hours and programs, visit harrisonpl.org.
Jeffrey Friedberg On Saturday, Jan. 6 from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. For ages 1 to 5. This program will help to develop child’s memory skills and ability to recognize patterns and sequences through echo, call and response and add-on songs. Children will learn to appreciate diversity and develop an ear for other languages through learning songs from other cultures.
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 child-sized instruments and props, and a wealth of both traditional and original songs to add to your sing-along repertoire. Get ready for a fun, creative and engaging experience.
Read to Casey, the Therapy Dog On Monday, Jan. 8 from 4:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. at the West Harrison Branch. Casey is a real dog and loves to listen to children read to him. Stop by between 4:45 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. and read to Casey today. This program repeats on Monday, Jan. 22. He is a fully trained therapy dog. Best for grades K–4.
On Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. For ages 6 to 12. Choose a fabric, then draw your own design. Join Ying Su of the Fashion Arts Studio of Westchester for an open fashion drawing class. Drop in for a different activity each week when school is in session.
Computer Tutors 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.
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. 10 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.
Bilingual Storytime / Cuento Bilingüe On Thursday, Jan. 11 from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the West Harrison Branch. For children up to age 4. Sing songs and listen to a story in English and Spanish with Miss Bonnie and Miss Mariella. No registration necessary. El jueves 11 de enero de 10:30 a.m. a 11 a.m. en West Harrison Branch. Para niños de hasta 4 años. Cante canciones y escuche una historia en inglés y español con Señorita Bonnie y Señorita Mariella. No es necesario registrarse.
Winter Remedies: Homeopathic Help On Thursday, Jan. 11 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the West Harrison Branch. Homeopathic remedies for the cold and flu season as well as for everyday minor complaints like bug bites, burns and abrasions. Presenter Jennifer Gordon is a licensed registered homeopath who resides in the Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown area. Please register online, at the Reference Desk, or by calling the library at 948-2092.
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.
Harrison Express Free Play On Friday, Jan. 12 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. the Richard E. Halperin Memorial Library Building. For all ages. Hop aboard for a very special winter train time. Spread out in the library’s Community Room with more trains and more tracks.
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.
Conversational Spanish 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.
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.
Junior Mechanical Engineering The Junior Mechanical Engineering classes introduce the youngest engineers to fundamental concepts of energy, materials, and movement. Through open and focused exploration, students explore and construct their own roller coasters, catapults, cars, and more. For grades K–2 on Mondays, Jan. 8, 22 and 29, and Feb. 5, 12 and 26 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Veteran’s Memorial Building. Fee: $130, made payable to Engineering for Kids. For more information, call 246-2606 or email Westchester@ EngineeringForKids.net.
Engineering Explorers This class is designed to introduce topics across all the fields of engineering. How far can we launch an object using a catapult? How fast can we go in our model cars? Come explore the answers to these questions and more with us. For grades 3–5 on Mondays, Jan. 8, 22 and 29, and Feb. 5, 12 and 26 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Veteran’s Memorial Building. Fee: $130, made payable to Engineering for Kids. For more information, call 246-2606 or email Westchester@EngineeringForKids.net.
Wrestling Come learn the fundamentals of wrestling. Participants need to wear sweatpants or shorts, sneakers and a T-shirt. On Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Jan. 9 through Feb. 14 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for grades 1–6 at LMK Middle School Gym B. Fee: $65, made payable to Town/Village of Harrison. For more information, email victorarcara@gmail.com.
Archery Basic beginning instructions in target archery including safety, shooting techniques, scoring, tackle care and maintenance. These are 10 one-hour sessions starting on Wednesday, Jan. 10 from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. for third-graders through adults at the Sollazzo Center. Fee: $85, made payable to Town/Village of Harrison.
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 5, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 5
Westchester Jewish Council gala honors members
The Westchester Jewish Council, WJC, will celebrate its 42nd Anniversary Gala on Feb. 10, at 7:15 p.m. at Congregation Kol Ami, 252 Soundview Ave. in White Plains. The celebration will honor WJC board members Betsy Bernstein of Harrison, Michael Karnes of Ossining and Gary Trachten of New Rochelle, for their dedication and service to the Westchester Jewish community. The evening will feature a cocktail dinner and dessert by Foremost Caterers with entertainment by comedian Avi Liberman. Kosher dietary laws will be observed. Bernstein, a member of the WJC board since 2005, co-chairs the Julian Y. Bernstein Distinguished Service Awards, named for her husband whose passing in 2005 was the impetus for Betsy Bernstein to continue the work he had begun as a council board member. Betsy Bernstein is also a founding member of the WJC committee that created the Leadership Development Institute and serves as an ad-hoc member of other committees where marketing/marketing research is needed. Concurrently, she has served for a
number of terms on the board of trustees of the Jewish Community Center of Harrison. Gary Trachten has been on the board of the WJC for nine years including four years as an officer on its executive committee, and for the past six years as the event chair for the annual Westchester Jewish Music and Arts Festival. Trachten also serves on the boards of Hillels of Westchester, is a past president of Pelham Jewish Center, and serves on the advisory board of Project T.E.N., international Israel & Diaspora “Jewish Peace Corp,” under the auspices the Jewish Agency. Michael Karnes joined the Board of the WJC in 1992. He has served as a board member, secretary and most recently as treasurer. Karnes, a lifelong member of Temple Beth Abraham in Tarrytown, was the youngest president in the 118-year history of the congregation and has served in that role three times. Karnes has served on the executive board and board of governors of the JCC on the Hudson, (now known as the Shames JCC on the Hudson) and continues to serve as a voluntary arbitrator in the New York City Civil Court
Small Claims Division. During his first term as president of Temple Beth Abraham, Karnes met Jane Rubin when she served as a vice-president. Karnes welcomed Rubin and her two sons, Alan and Gary, into his life. With the addition of Marisa to the family, Karnes and Rubin have become the proud grandparents of Ellie, Judah and Sam. Michael is also uncle to William Seggos. “Betsy, Michael and Gary have so generously given of their time and talent and have done so much for the Westchester Jewish community and beyond. It is our privilege to honor them this evening,” said Lisa Roberts, president of WJC. The WJC connects Westchester’s Jewish communities and strengthens relationships among more than 160 Jewish organizations and other ethnic and faithbased groups, elected officials, Israel and the community at-large. This event is open to the entire community. Cost varies by donor level. Details and registration are available on line at Wjcouncil.org. For more information contact the council at 328-7001. (Submitted)
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Harrison REVIEW
THE
P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000
Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com 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, Jen Parente Columnists Ron Belmont, Lenore Skenazy Letters The community’s opinion matters. If you have a view to express, write a letter to the editor by email to chris@hometwn.com. Please include a phone number and name for verification purposes. Community Events If you have an event you would like to share with the community, send it to news@hometwn.com. Delivery For home delivery or to subsribe, call (914) 653-1000 x27.
New Rochelle native
brewing up success By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter Diner Brew Co., is putting a unique spin on traditional hard ciders. Chris Sheldon, the founder and head cider maker at Diner brewery, currently sells seven different ciders, including Cidre Des Huguenots, a farmhouse hard cider, Herbalist’s Cider, a lavender coriander hard cider, and Checkmate Sour Cider, a hard cider fermented twice with German and Japanese yeast. “[The ciders] are always going to drink like a dry prosecco or champagne, made from apples, not grapes,” Sheldon told the Review. The ciders fall between 7 and 8 percent alcohol. Sheldon, a native of New Rochelle, said this was important for him because these percentages put his ciders at an alcohol level that falls between that of beer and wine, when a majority of ciders on the market typically fall under that percentage. “It’s nice for the wine drinker, and it’s nice for the beer drinker,” he said. “I wanted to be able to hit both markets.” Sheldon first began trying his hand at brewing in 2008 while he was a junior at Boston College. Sheldon said he and his roommate were feeling unsatisfied with the beer made available to them in stores and at bars, so they sought out a beer-making kit to create their own. While the initial product wasn’t
Chris Sheldon, founder of Diner Brew Co. Photos/Taylor Brown
Pedro Santos, a cider maker for Diner Brew Co., bottles the Cidre Des Huguenots by hand.
satisfactory, Sheldon said, “it kind of like sparked an interest.” He went on to say, “That’s how you start, by fumbling along and trying your best and following your recipe.” After they had run out of ingredients, Sheldon took the kit and made his first batch of cider. “I just listened to someone’s
instructions, used the equipment I had, [and] made sure I was sanitary with my process,” he said. “At the end of the day, the cider that I made that very first time was inspiring.” Fast forward nine years later, and Sheldon has his ciders on tap in 16 different retailers in New York, including Smokehouse in
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Mamaroneck, Growlers in Tuckahoe and DeCicco & Sons in Larchmont. “The passion grew into an obsession, which then started taking over all of the livable spaces I was in,” he said. Sheldon said after realizing that cider making had begun taking over his life, he knew he had to turn it into a profession. Sheldon knew he would need help running his business, so he turned to Pedro Santos. The two met at a meeting of the Dogs of Wort, a homebrewing club in New Rochelle, which Sheldon co-founded. Santos shares a similar background to Sheldon in how they both became home brewers during college. “I just got tired of drinking what was available,” said Santos, who attended college in Puerto Rico. He began working with Sheldon a month ago, and has already witnessed the rapid growth of Diner Brew Co. “I think it’s going to grow really big, to the point that we’re going to get more employees, expand and move somewhere bigger,” Santos said. Part of what has made Sheldon’s product so popular are his unique
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Diner Brew Co., a cidery brewery in Mount Vernon, sells seven different ciders.
Tea is brewed for the Herbalist Cider.
flavor twists on hard ciders. “I don’t want my ciders to ever be comparable to an apple-based malt beverage,” he said. With his products Sheldon hopes to be able to expand people’s expectations and understanding of what can be done with a hard cider. He showcases this desire in two of his drinks, the White Shiro Miso hard cider and the Double Perk, a coffee cider. “This is kind of pushing boundaries,” Sheldon admits. He explained that his dream for the company doesn’t stop there. Sheldon currently holds a farm cidery license, which allows him to produce and sell cider in New York State, and is working on acquiring his farm brewery license, which would allow him to brew and sell beer as well as cider in New York State. Sheldon said he sees the company growing in many different directions, but despite his business’ success, he intends to take things slow. For a full list of places with Diner Brew Co. on tap, or to order their merchandise, visit Dinerbrewco.com. CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com
January 5, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 7
8 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 5, 2018
Harrison moving forward in 2018 HARRISON HAPPENINGS Mayor Ron Belmont
I would like to take this time to extend my warmest wishes for a prosperous and healthy new year. I hope you and your family had a happy and festive holiday. I want to thank you for all your support over the last year. The town board has achieved incredible things, so far, and I look forward to seeing what we can accomplish, together, in 2018. As we begin the new year, I am happy to report that Harrison continues to build on the success of the last few years while keeping tax increases in check, sustaining a healthy reserve and maintaining all our basic municipal services. In addition to our improved bond rating from Moody’s, Harrison’s 2018 Budget was adopted and remains under Gov. Cuomo’s mandated tax cap. Advancing this positive trend is a priority and I look forward to the opportunities in the year ahead. It gives me great pleasure to give a special thank you to all those who contributed to this year’s Holiday Project. Many residents, and their families, were treated to a Christmas basket filled with gifts and holiday cheer.
The generosity and hard work of the project committee, and its team of volunteers, deserves acknowledgement and I am happy to recognize their efforts. Within the next several days, Westchester Joint Water Works will start installing a 16-inch water main transmission line in our area. Affected roadways include the following: Macy Road, Sunnyside Avenue, Heineman Place, Calvert Street, Avondale Road to West Street, and Grove Street. There will be road closures and detours will be posted. I am happy to report that four new police officers have joined the Harrison Police Department. The officers were sworn in at a Jan. 3, 2018 ceremony in Town Hall. The new officers will complete their training before receiving their assignments. I am completely confident that these new officers will carry out their duties in a professional manner and will be an asset to the town/ village of Harrison. Please be aware of the following sanitation notice: Christmas trees may be placed curbside, for pick-up, through Jan. 31. Please do not place trees in plastic bags. No holiday wreaths or roping will be collected. As I am sure you are all well aware, flu season is underway. Recently, I have witnessed our
local hospitals coping with the surge of patients exhibiting flulike symptoms. The best protection may be to get the flu shot each year, as the vaccine effectively combats many flu strains. As we get through this season, please use the recommended steps to prevent the spread of germs associated with the flu: wash hands frequently and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Our library staff has been hard at work developing winter activities for all residents. The following January events promise to be informative and I hope residents will be able to take advantage of the following: Wednesday, Jan. 10 at 1 p.m., Wellness Fair. The Harrison Public Library is partnering with the Rye YMCA and St. Vincent’s Hospital for an afternoon devoted to mental and physical health wellness. Additional events include Monday, Jan. 15 at 2 p.m., Talk: New Year Resolutions & How to Do Them Right; Tuesday, January 16, 23 and 30 at 1:30 p.m., Gentle Yoga Series; Thursday, Jan. 18 at 1:30 p.m., Talk: Do You Have the Guts to Be Healthy; Jan. 27 at 2 p.m., Talk: On the Go Self Care; Sunday, Jan. 28 at 2 p.m., Spark Joy! The KonMari Method Workshop.
Empire City Casino announces comedy shows in January
Adrienne Iapalucci, featured standup for Yannis Pappas.
Make a New Year’s resolution to laugh a priority with Empire City Casino, the destination for a pair of Wednesday Night Comedy shows on Jan. 17 and Jan. 31. Comedy Central funnyman and MSG Networks’ ”The Bracket” host, Yannis Pappas, headlines on Jan. 17, while onthe-rise Westchester native standup Paul Virzi tops the bill on Jan. 31 in the casino’s popular Good Time Room. Pappas has appeared on AXS TV, TruTV, VH1 and “Good Morning America,” and was the first comedian to ever do standup on the new “The Tonight Show” with Jimmy Fallon. His album, “Let Me BeYannis,” was awarded Album of the Year for 2016 by SiriusXM Comedy, and his half-hour Comedy Central special is available on Amazon, iTunes and ComedyCentral. com. Pappas will be joined by featured stand-up Adrienne Iapalucci and Tom Cassidy as the host. Bronx-born Iapalucci competed on season seven of the hit NBC television series, “Last Comic Standing,” while Cassidy
Tom Cassidy, host of the Jan. 17 Empire City Casino comedy night.
Yannis Pappas, headliner for the Jan. 17 comedy show. Photos courtesy Empire City Casino
launched his career in Philadelphia at The Laff House Comedy Club. Virzi’s 2015 debut comedy album “Night at the Stand” reached No. 1 on iTunes and No. 4 on Billboard’s Top 100. Virzi has made appearances on a gamut of television programs including TruTV’s “Comedy Knockout,” AXS TV’s “Gotham Comedy Live,” the NFL Network’s “Good Morning Football,” FOX’s “Redeye,” and has also written for the ESPN ESPY Awards. He was first attracted to stand-up comedy at age nine when he watched Eddie Murphy’s “Raw.” Joining Virzi is featured comedian Randy Syphax, who has performed in the New York Comedy Festival, and the evening’s host, Bronston Jones, who stands at 6
feet 7 inches tall with giant-sized jokes called “certifiably unique” by LA Weekly. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 8 p.m. Tickets are sold at the door the night of the show. Admission is $5 for Empire Club members and $25 for non-members. Non-members can stop by any promotions booth prior to the show and join the Empire Club for free. Elite Club and President’s Club members gain free admission. All attendees receive a complimentary drink ticket. While visiting Empire City, patrons can try their luck on the IGT Wheel of Fortune Triple Stars slot machine, where the record jackpot, only available at Empire City, is fast-approaching the $2.7 million mark. (Submitted)
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January 5, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 9
BCW announces new board members The Business Council of Westchester has announced the election of a slate of new board members that bring a diverse range of experience and talents to the county’s largest and most influential business organization. “We are truly honored to have such a distinguished group of business leaders joining our board of directors. They bring many years of experience in the fields of healthcare, biotech, sports marketing, education and real estate. We are fortunate to have these proven leaders join our board as we move forward with major initiatives in 2018,” said Marsha Gordon, BCW president and CEO. Elected to three-year terms were five new board members.
Kristin Bernert, senior vice president of Business Operations for the New York Knicks and Westchester Knicks. Photo courtesy liberty.wnba.com
David Campbell, vice president of LeChase Construction Services in Armonk. Photo courtesy linkedin.com
Erin Loosen serves as associate director of Government Affairs & Public Policy for Regeneron. Photo courtesy linkedin.com
Dr. Joseph Ricca serves as superintendent of schools for the White Plains City School District. Photo courtesy whiteplainspublicschools.org
Lynn Richmond is the executive vice president and chief strategy officer for Montefiore Medicine. Photo courtesy modernhealthcare.com
Kristin Bernert
David Campbell
Erin Loosen
Dr. Joseph Ricca
Lynn Richmond
is senior vice president of Business Operations for the New York Knicks and Westchester Knicks. After overseeing the WNBA New York Liberty’s business development for five seasons and basketball operations for two seasons, she was promoted to her current position in October 2016. In her current role, Bernert oversees all aspects of business operations, including marketing, ticket sales, sponsorships and player relations, as well as the Knicks entry into the new e-sports league with the NBA and NBA 2k. Bernert has nearly two decades of sports business experience, previously serving as president of the Los Angeles Sparks. She also worked as vice president of Team Business Development for the NBA and WNBA.
serves as vice president of LeChase Construction Services in Armonk. As a builder, Campbell has added value to projects nationwide for top construction firms since 1987. He has held various leadership positions in project planning, project management and executive management. He received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Warren National University and served as adjunct professor at New York University in the construction program from 1997-1999. Campbell received certification as a cost consultant from the American Association of Cost Engineers International and both CM-Lean and CM-BIM certifications from the Associated General Contractors of America.
who joined Regeneron in 2012, serves as associate director of Government Affairs & Public Policy. She is a seasoned corporate affairs professional focused on growing Regeneron’s local, regional and state presence. During her tenure at Regeneron, Loosen has held numerous positions. Currently, she has primary responsibility for Regeneron’s New York State government affairs and also supports Regeneron’s Washington, D.C. based federal Public Policy team. With a strong background in legislative affairs and deep understanding of economic development, Loosen is poised to help support and grow Regeneron’s leadership position in the life-sciences industry.
serves as superintendent of schools for the White Plains City School District. Previously, he served as superintendent of the Elmsford school district and the East Hanover Township School District in East Hanover, New Jersey. Ricca is an expert in the fields of academic achievement, character education, social and emotional learning, instructional technologies, professional evaluation, equity in education, community relations and curriculum development. As superintendent of schools, he has worked to create and support the highest quality educational organization while maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency. Ricca, who began his career as a history teacher, has served as an assistant principal and principal as well as a superintendent of schools/chief educational officer.
is the executive vice president and chief strategy officer for Montefiore Medicine with responsibility for Strategic Planning, Public Affairs, Government and Community Relations, Health Policy and Community Health. Richmond guides the organization’s strategic direction and its relationships with external constituents, including elected and governmental officials, community and the public, as well as leading the development and implementation of an integrated, enterprisewide strategy across Montefiore and Einstein. She is responsible for Montefiore’s participation in the New York State/Federal Waiver program known as DSRIP and oversees DSRIP initiatives.
In addition to the new board members, Anthony Justic, partner of Maier Markey & Justic, was re-elected chairman. Michael Fosina, president of NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital, is joining the executive committee. (Submitted)
10 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 5, 2018
January 5, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 11
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January 5, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 13
14 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 5, 2018
Jeets’ dilemma LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
If I had ever had the good fortune of being a beloved professional sports star, there’s one thing—for sure—that I wouldn’t be so quick to do; namely, risk my athletic legacy by jumping headfirst into a front-office role. Now don’t get me wrong; I understand the allure that these decision-making jobs hold for former pros. With few exceptions, successful professional athletes who attempt to make that leap are driven, single-minded repositories of knowledge in their fields and confident that their unique vision can turn even the most hapless franchise into a winner. But you have to wonder: does the risk match the reward? Over the last few months, retired Yankee great Derek Jeter has made another splash in the sports world, putting together an ownership group to take over the failing Miami Marlins. Since assuming control of the organiza-
tion, Jeter has followed up with a reportedly disastrous meeting with season-ticket holders by jettisoning the team’s biggest draws in Giancarlo Stanton (to the Yankees, no less), Marcell Ozuna and Dee Gordon and announcing plans to actually raise ticket prices in 2018, earning him exactly zero good-will from the Marlin “faithful.” But while it remains to be seen if Jeter’s plan eventually leads the fish back to prominence, one thing is certain: the beginning has been rocky to say the least. If he does fail in his new role with the Marlins, however, Jeter will have plenty of company. New York fans are well acquainted with former stars stepping into new positions after their retirements and otherwise damaging the legacy they built in their playing days. Knicks fans remember all too well the tenure of Isiah Thomas, who followed up a Hall of Fame professional playing career with disastrous stints as the general manager and team president of the New York Knicks. Even Michael
SPORTS
Jordan, who assumed controlling ownership of the Charlotte Hornets/Bobcats in 2010, has guided the team to a less-than-impressive 188-288 record. Of course, MJ is considered by many to be the greatest basketball player of all time, so I’d imagine the Hornets could lose 70 games a year without it counting too heavily against his reputation, but how many people—at least in New York—now view Thomas as a failed GM, rather than an alltime great player? But in the end, I would guess that it is precisely that daunting challenge that makes this a great opportunity for Jeter. If he can somehow make the Marlins a viable contender, he will have accomplished something that very few retired athletes can lay claim to. At the very least, however, if the Yankees win a title with Stanton anchoring the lineup, he can be assured of his own ticker tape parade down New York’s Canyon of Heroes. So that’s something.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
Derek Jeter has had a rocky start to his tenure as the co-owner of the Miami Marlins. And there isn’t a long history of athletes having success behind the scenes. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.org
Rye stays perfect against Harrison BOYS BASKETBALL
league
RYE 64 HARRISON 52 COUNTY CENTER
12/23/17
Game Notes: • Rye had 4 players score in double figures • The Garnets are off to an 8-0 start • Rye and Harrison will play again on Jan. 6 By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On Dec. 23, the Rye boys’ basketball team shined on the brightest stage that Section I has to offer, as the Garnets topped league rival Harrison 64-52 at the Westchester County Center. The win—Rye’s seventh of the year—helped the Garnets head into the new year with an unblemished record. After an uncharacteristically inconsistent first quarter, the Garnets began to heat up in the second, amassing a 26-17 lead over the Huskies before the half.
Rye was led by a balanced offensive effort that saw four players, including Max Samberg (15 points), AJ Thompson (10) Matt Tepedino (11) and Collin Kelly (18) reach double-digits. That depth of scoring has been Rye’s calling card this year and a major reason for the Garnets’ scorching start. Tepedino admitted that Rye’s second-quarter explosion was simply a question of settling into the game. The Huskies, paced by Tyler Menniti’s 13 points, hung tough but were unable climb back into contention once the Garnets got it going offensively. “We only scored eight points in that first quarter, so we started a bit slow,” Tepedino said. “We knew we needed to pick up the pace of the game, and when we did, our shots started falling.” With the win over the Huskies—and a Dec. 29 victory over Pearl River in which Quinn Kelly notched 23 points—the Garnets head into 2018 as the owners of an 8-0 record, although they will get set for several upcoming league games which should prove to be tests for the team. Both Rye
and Harrison will be in action on Jan. 5, as the Huskies take on Pelham and Rye hosts Eastchester, before the two rivals are slated to meet again the following day. According to Tepedino, however, it may be tough for the upcoming game against Harrison to approach the thrill of playing them at the County Center. The game may have been even more significant because of the uncertain future of the White Plains venue playing host to a slate of postseason basketball games. In December, Section I announced that in breaking with the longstanding tradition of holding both boys and girls semifinal and championship rounds at the County Center, the sectional title games will be played at Pace University. “It’s always a great atmosphere anytime we play Harrison, especially at the County Center,” he said. “And it was definitely bittersweet because every year, we always talk about how the goal is to get to the County Center, and now we just don’t know.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
Rye’s Matt Tepedino drives past a Harrison defender at the Westchester County Center on Dec. 23. The Garnets topped the Huskies 64-52. Photo/Mike Smith
SPORTS
January 5, 2018 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • 15
Titans roll against New Ro ICE HOCKEY
non-league
RTH 5 NEW ROCHELLE 2 ICE HUTCH ARENA
12/20/17
Game Notes: • Matt Milone had two goals in the Titans’ win • Nico Barry made 20 saves for Rye Town/Harrison • The Titans are currently 6-0
By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On Dec. 20, the Rye Town/ Harrison Titans fought through a slow start and a rash of penalties to top New Rochelle 5-2 and keep their perfect season intact. But even at 6-0 on the year, the surging Titans know they will have to continue to improve as they hope to make a deep playoff push. Heading into the third period with a slight 3-2 lead, senior Matt Milone gave the Titans some a much-needed cushion, beating Huguenot netminder Nathan
Alex Vasapolli celebrates a goal against the Titans.
Kirschenbaum with a top-shelf wrister from the point. A few minutes later, Joey Harrison put the game away with the Titans’ second goal of the period, ending any chance of a New Rochelle comeback.
“At that point, it was a onegoal game, and anything can happen,” Milone said. “I think that goal helped us gain a little more confidence.” Toward the end of the second period, the Huguenots seemed
Jack Shapiro makes a move on Marc Alexander at the Ice Hutch. Photos/Mike Smith
Matt Milone celebrates a third-period goal against New Rochelle on Dec. 20. Milone had two goals in the Titans’ 5-2 win.
to be gaining momentum, taking advantage of some inopportune Titans penalties to storm back into contention. According to Milone, staying out of the box has been something of a problem for the Titans this year, despite the team’s undefeated record. “It’s the same thing that happened to us against Harvey on Monday night,” Milone said. “And it’s something we know we have to work on.” With a renewed commitment to clean hockey in the third, however, the Titans’ skills were on full display. “At intermission, I just told them to forget the first 30 minutes and concentrate on the last 15,” said head coach Rich Myers. “And you saw that from them at the end, winning what was essentially a 15-minute game at that point.” The win was Rye Town/Harrison’s second over New Rochelle this year, having previously beaten the Huguenots 4-3 on Nov. 25. “The first time we played, it
Nico Barry makes a pad save on a shot by New Rochelle’s David Benko. Barry had 20 saves.
was only our second game together,” Milone said. “We were still learning how to play as a unit, but we have definitely improved since then.” The Titans stayed perfect on Dec. 22, topping previously unbeaten North Rockland on the
road before rounding out 2017 with their first loss of the year, a 4-0 defeat at the hands of a surging Rivertowns team. The club will be back in action on Jan. 8 when they host Scarsdale. CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
16 • THE HARRISON REVIEW • January 5, 2018