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Mamaroneck REVIEW THE

July 8, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 28 | www.mamaroneckreview.com

Independence Throughout the Fourth of July weekend, Rye Playland was one of several locations throughout Westchester County to host vivid firework displays in celebration of the national holiday.

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July 8, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 3

Residents rally to shut down Ralph’s

Village of Mamaroneck residents and members of the Board of Trustees are in an uproar following traffic and noise problems created by an ice cream shop that may have skirted village planning procedure. Photo/Andrew Dapolite

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer Everyone screams for ice cream, including Mamaroneck residents who claim that their streets have been inundated with traffic as a result of a new business—Ralph’s Italian Ices and Ice Cream, a popular Staten Island-originated chain—which may have skirted village planning procedures. According to residents of Mamaroneck’s Keeler Avenue, who at a recent village board meeting voiced their concerns to the board, a lack of parking for the recently opened shop on Boston Post Road has caused patrons of the shop to use their street as a quick parking stop. As a result, according to Anthony Franceloa, a resident of Keeler Avenue who spoke at a recent village meeting, noise, unsightly garbage and a lack of parking have followed suit. “For 18 years, I’ve resided on Keeler [Avenue],” Franceloa said. “Most of which has been peaceful and enjoyable. Things have changed because of Ralph’s.” According to the shop’s website, Ralph’s—open for business since May—closes at 1 a.m. Monday through Saturday and closes at midnight on Sunday. Noise and congestion aren’t the only unintended side effects of Ralph’s bustling business; more traffic has also created more dangerous conditions for pedestrians. According to Stephanie Figliomeni, another resident of Keeler Avenue, lengthy lines have led patrons of the shop to pour over into the parking lot and into traffic. “The lot cannot manage the amount of people that are visiting the establishment,” she said.

“We’re very afraid someone is going to get hurt.” According to Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, the village Police Department has already issued several summonses to patrons who have parked illegally in front of driveways and no parking zones. After numerous complaints from residents, as well as a petition circulating door to door that looks to alleviate noise and unsightly garbage issues, the village is now working to rectify the problems created by Ralph’s, and has required the owner of the store, Scott Rosenburg, a Long Island resident, to hire an engineer who will conduct a layout study to alleviate traffic congestion. Rosenburg contends that his business has “followed every procedure possible,” citing his compliance in adding a seating area, as well as hiring an engineer to redesign a new layout. “[The residents] are treating me like a criminal,” he said. “It’s not right.” According to Village Manager Richard Slingerland, there is no current timeline for when the study will be completed; but Slingerland said the village is looking to “fix it as soon as possible.” The impact of Ralph’s on Boston Post Road, however, may only be part of the problem, according to Trustee Ilissa Miller, a Democrat. Miller said that Ralph’s— which is currently classified as a retail establishment—did not follow the proper vetting procedure in place for fast food establishments. “I’m not angry that [Ralph’s] is there,” Miller said. “I’m just perturbed that it bypassed the process.” Although Slingerland said

the establishment is currently classified as a retail store, Miller said the Planning Board should have regulated it as a fast food establishment, which would have called for both a public hearing and proper notice to residents living in the area. Instead, she explained, neither facets were a part of Ralph’s process. According to New York state law, a fast food establishment is characterized by several criteria: requiring customers pay before they eat, having 30 or more chain locations in total, and serving either food or drinks. According to the company’s website, Ralph’s currently has 80 store locations across New York and New Jersey, meeting all three criteria. Rosenblum, however, has contended that the business was classified properly under the village’s zoning and planning parameters, and that any problems have been a product of Ralph’s unforeseen success. Although residents will have to navigate the traffic congestion for the foreseeable future, a zoning appeal process, filed by a group of concerned residents of the area, is underway which could eventually shut down Ralph’s for good. During the process, Miller said residents and village officials will have a chance to state their case in front of the Zoning Board of Appeals and a new decision could be rendered. This process, Miller added, can prove to be lengthy, however, sometimes taking years to come up with a resolution. According to Figliomeni, the Zoning Board of Appeals will hear the residents’ case on July 18. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

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What’s going on... Mamaroneck Public Library

Check out the new mamaronecklibrary.org for more information on these and other events and programs. The repairs to the outdoor patio have been completed; swing by to enjoy the warm weather. The library’s summer hours are now in effect, with the library closed on Sundays.

At this seminar, presented by lawyer Pat Micek, learn how to protect your assets from nursing home costs; what the three most important legal documents you need to protect your estate are; how to qualify for government-paid aides to care for you in your home; which trust is ideal for second marriages and blended families; and what elder law can do for you.

Larchmont Public Library

Collage Crafters On Monday, July 11 from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Children’s Room. For ages 3 to 7. Create collages from different recycled materials. No registration required.

Exercise Your Mind On Tuesday, July 12 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Registration is required and can be done in person or by calling 630-5894. The activity is limited to 25 participants. For school-aged children. Come earn special prizes while participating in activities such as word scramblers, tongue twisters and more.

Duct Tape Club On Wednesday, July 13 from 4 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For ages 5 to 12. Make unique creations out of colorful duct tape. Exercise your ability to craft and create. No registration required.

Get in the Game Wednesdays On Wednesday, July 13 from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. For teens. Registration is required for this program as space and materials are limited. Call Ellen at 630-5875 to register. Do you want something a little more hands-on and crafty? Check out the “Minute to Win It” competition.

Bedtime Stories On Wednesday, July 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For preschool children. Pajamas, pillows and stuffed animals are welcome. No registration required.

Elder Law Asset Protection On Saturday, July 16 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is required by calling 358-4235.

Smith at momdsmith1@yahoo.com.

Read Around the World Storytime: Africa On Tuesday, July 12 from 3:45 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. For ages 5 to 7. A free ticket is required to attend this event. Tickets are available on a firstcome, first-served basis beginning at 3:15 p.m. on the day of the program. Pack your bags and get ready to travel the world. Every Tuesday, participants will visit a different continent through stories, music, and crafts. Come join in the fun and get your special “Read Around the World Storytime” Passport stamped.

Mystery Fun in Ryder’s Garden

Although the main library is under renovation, the library is open and operating from the Larchmont Village Center, located directly behind the main library building. For information about the library’s renovation, call 834-2281 ext. 3 or visit larchmontlibrary.org. Find more events and programs on the website. The library will be closed on Sundays through Labor Day weekend.

Saturday morning yoga with Damien Germino Adults will be able to welcome their weekend with yoga every Saturday through July 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Michael P. Coords Activity Room. Learn about the history, philosophy and practice of yoga with instructor Damien Germino. Germino will guide participants to understanding the poses and breathing techniques that will bring peace and beauty to relieve stress while they stretch. Participants should bring their own yoga mat or towel to class. This class is free and open to the public, and registration is required. For more information or to register for this class, call 834-2281.

Project Linus Knitting and Crochet Group On Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon in the Village Center. Join this knitting/crochet group and use your talents for a good cause. The group has created and donated several blankets to Montefiore New Rochelle Hospital for the benefit of local children. No registration required. For all questions related to Project Linus, email Doris Patt

Every Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. to 4:15 p.m., there will be a craft or gardening activity in Ryder’s Garden for children ages 3 and up. This activity is free and open to the public, and registration is not required.

Celestial Gazing with the Hudson River Museum Children ages 6 to 11 are welcome to attend a celestial gazing session at the library on Thursday, July 14 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Come check out the moon in the daytime using the library’s new Orion StarBlast telescope. Participants will also learn about stars and constellations, and will view the sun using the museum’s solar telescope. This activity is free and open to the public, and registration is not required.

Cooking workshop with Chef D’Amour Giovanni Green On Thursdays through July 28 from 3:45 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. For ages 6 to 10 with family members. A free ticket is required to attend this event. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 3:15 p.m. on the day of the program. Join Chef Giovanni Green of Break Bread Not Hearts and have a delicious experience at the library as you pick vegetables from the garden and cook with them. You can learn about food, where it comes from and what is good for you while you learn how to whip up a tasty treat. The food used in the program will be from the yield of the vegetable garden planted in Ryder’s Garden this past spring.

At Home on the Sound Volunteers needed At Home on the Sound is seeking additional summer volunteers to drive older neighbors in Mamaroneck and Larchmont to errands, shopping or appointments. The local nonprofit supports adults who want to remain in their own homes as they age. Rides will be provided on weekdays, and volunteers can determine when and how often they drive. For more information or to become a volunteer, call 899-3150 or email athomeinfo@athomeonthesound.org.

Mamaroneck Chamber of Commerce Sunset Cruise The Mamaroneck Chamber of Commerce invites you on Friday, July 29 for the first Sunset Cruise aboard the Klondike IX. Participants will

board at 6:30 p.m. at Harbor Island Park and enjoy five hours on the water listening to Sue & the Fun Ghouls play live. A delicious dinner by Andrea’s 25 North, wine, beer, soda and dessert are also included for $125 per person. The cruise is limited to 135 people. You must pay in advance online at mamaroneck chamberofcommerce.org or you can mail a check to the Mamaroneck Chamber office, 430 Center Ave., Mamaroneck, NY 10543. There is also the opportunity for your business to be a sponsor of this special evening. For only $400, your business name will be on the poster at Harbor Island Park as a generous sponsor and you will receive two tickets for the cruise, a $250 value. If you have any questions, please call 698-4400 or email chamber10543@optonline.net.

Community news Get a U.S. passport As new passport requirements go into effect, Westchester County staff will be visiting Harbor Island Park, located at Mamaroneck Avenue and Boston Post Road, on Thursday, July 21 to process passport applications from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Do not wait until the last minute; apply now. Routine passport applications generally take ap proximately six weeks. You will need a passport to enter the United States by air, by land or by sea, unless you are a child under the age of 16 entering by land or sea with proof of U.S. citizenship or an adult with another travel document approved by the Department of Homeland Security. You will need proof that you are a United States citizen, such as an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a consular report of birth abroad or a naturalization certificate. You will also need proof of your identity such as a current valid driver’s license or a government-issued identification card. For minors under 16, both parents should appear together and sign the application of the child. However, if only one parent appears and signs, that parent must submit the other parent’s notarized Statement of Consent form (DS-3053) and a photocopy of their identification. The Statement of Consent form can be found at WestchesterClerk.com. The fee for an adult passport is $110 and for a child’s passport is $80. Fees can be paid by money order or check only. There is an additional $25 service fee that can be paid by money order, check or credit card. Applications will also be accepted for the U.S. Passport Card for land and sea border travel only. Be sure to bring original documents with raised seals to avoid having to make a second trip. If you have questions about whether you have what you need to apply, do not hesitate to call the Westchester County clerk office at 995-3082 on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. or visit westchesterclerk.com. 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.

July 8, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 5

Astorino pushes to remove Playland pool By JAMES PERO Staff Writer Support for costly renovations to Rye Playland’s historic swimming pool may be running dry after a proposed capital project from Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino’s Republican administration looks to remove the site completely. On Monday, June 20, a proposed $2.7 million bond act to remove and fill the park’s pool was sent to lawmakers by Astorino. The bond act was then referred to the committees on Budget and Appropriations, Labor, Parks, Planning and Housing and Infrastructure, where it will be reviewed by various members of the county Board of Legislators. The murky future of the pool is the latest development at the county-owned amusement park, and comes after years of negotiations between the county and various private entities interested in taking over operations there. In March, the management company Standard Amusements finalized a 30-year agreement with the county.

According to the terms of the agreement—which also committed the county to $32 million in capital projects—the county is required to make a decision on the pool’s fate by July 31 or Standard may contractually exit the agreement. A Standard representative declined to answer whether or not the company would invoke that clause if the bond is stalled. Additionally, if the bond fails to pass and Standard chooses to exit the agreement with the county, the management company would be fully refunded for its $1.5 million initial payment to the county. If passed, the bond act would authorize Standard to repurpose the covered space formerly occupied by the pool however it sees fit. According to Board of Legislators Chairman Michael Kaplowitz, a Yorktown Democrat, while legislators proposed a compromised option that would provide repairs to the pool and keep it running in the interim, Nicholas Singer, co-founder of Standard Amusements, has

shown little interest in that option. A spokesperson for Standard Amusements told the Review if the pool is filled—an outcome preferred by Standard—the new layout would include what the company envisions as an “open veranda” with light refreshments. According to county Legislator Mary Jane Shimsky, a Hastings-on-Hudson Democrat, it’s too early to know exactly how the board will vote on the issue. “At this point, we need more specific information on the exact current condition of the pool and what the repair costs would be before we make a properly considered judgment,” she said. According to a 2003 report by the Westchester County parks A new bond act introduced to the Westchester County Board of Legislators would pay for the removal of the department, the pool was hemor- pool at Playland in favor of what Standard Amusements envisions as an open veranda. File photo rhaging up to 35,000 gallons of water per day at one point, which to Rye City Councilwoman Em- showed what appeared to be a rally other members of the Rye has led to other peripheral struc- ily Hurd, a Democrat, sentiments cafeteria or dining area; a pro- City Council to draft a resolution posal which she and other area that showed support for renovattural damage and the need for on the proposal are clear. “I’ve been in touch with residents are concerned may dis- ing the pool, she said tepid recostly repairs. sponse from her colleagues deFormer cost estimates for re- neighbors over there that are con- turb the peace. “The raucous bar environ- railed the initiative before it had furbishing the pool, according to cerned with what’s going to hapment would be way closer to Rye a chance to come to fruition. projections, total approximately pen,” she said. According to Hurd, prelimi- neighborhoods,” she said. $8 million to $10 million. Although Hurd attempted to CONTACT: james@hometwn.com On the local level, according nary renderings from Standard

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Mamaroneck THE

REVIEW

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Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthal ext. 31, irathal@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Editorial Assistant | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com

Firemen put on carnival at Harbor Island Park

The Bear Affair ride was a popular attraction at the Firemen’s Carnival.

Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writer Corey Stockton Staff Photographers Bobby Begun, Andrew Dapolite Intern Justin Grant Columnist Lenore Skenazy

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Todd and Ava Winchenbach, of Port Chester, ride The Wheel at Mamaroneck’s Firemen’s Carnival on Sunday, July 3.

The village of Mamaroneck Fire Department recently hosted its annual Fourth of July parade, carnival and fireworks display for residents and visitors to enjoy. The parade was held on Wednesday, June 29 and traveled along Mamaroneck Avenue;

the carnival was held from Tuesday, June 23 through Tuesday, July 5 at Harbor Island Park; and the fireworks display lit up the Mamaroneck Harbor sky on Monday, July 4. Children attending the weeklong carnival were eager to

board popular rides, including the Ferris wheel, the Bear Affair, the SCAT and other crowd favorites. The event also offered typical carnival food, including gyros, chicken souvlaki and lemonade. -Reporting by Suzy Berkowitz

Going solo on the SCAT. Photos/Bobby Begun

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There was plenty to eat at various grills throughout the carnival, like this gyros stand.

Many rides were available for the young at heart at last weekend’s Firemen’s Carnival at Harbor Island.

July 8, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 7

Proposed prosecutor law marks return to protocol

A new proposal, which would shift the power to nominate Mamaroneck’s prosecutor from the village manager to the Board of Trustees, may mark a return to the order of law. Photo courtesy Flickr user Beth Cortez-Neavel

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer A proposed public law, introduced at a recent village of Mamaroneck Board of Trustees meeting, would shift the power to appoint a village prosecutor from the village manager to the Board of Trustees. According to Democratic Trustee Leon Potok, the appointment of a village prosecutor by the Board of Trustees—a position currently filled by attorney John Cherico—would not only serve as a more democratic method of electing a village prosecutor, but would also align the village with state law. “By allowing Mayor [Norman Rosenblum] to make the appointment of the village prosecutor, we have violated the law,” he said According to state law, Potok explained, the appointment of the village prosecutor—since the village adopted the village manager form of government— has been the responsibility of the village manager, not the mayor, despite the mayor making such appointments since being elected in 2009. The realization that the village had been operating in violation of state law, Potok said, came after asking the Village Attorney Charlie Goldberger to review what the proper procedure was earlier in the year. According to Goldberger, in

a March memo to the Board of Trustees, he came to the conclusion that such power rests with the village manager, not the mayor. This approach, contends Potok, would help democratically represent voters. “It would be more representative of the electorate,” he said. “Far more democratic than to delegate that [power] to the mayor.” According to Democratic Trustee David Finch, the shift would also be another step toward determining exactly what the responsibilities of the mayor are, and a return to the form of government under which the village intended to operate. “The way things have been run so far is typical of a ‘strong mayor’ form of government,” said Finch, referring to a type of governance which grants mayors a greater amount of executive privileges than other members of a governing body. “That is not the form of government we intended for the friendly village.” For Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, however, the proposed law constitutes just another attack on his power as the village’s presiding officer. “It’s petty politics,” he said. “It’s a continued attack on powers of the office of mayor.” In December, the Democratic majority of the village board altered several facets of the mayor’s office, including Rosen-

blum’s use of village facilities and ability to solely set items on the village agenda, after claiming that the mayor has continued to overstep his boundaries as an elected official. According to the new proposed law, the ultimate appointment of a prosecutor would be made by the Board of Trustees, and by a majority vote. The appointed prosecutor would serve a term of one year and would be subject to a vote during the village’s annual organizational meeting. According to Finch, while the board’s majority isn’t dissatisfied with Cherico, Democrats feel the balance of power should be reconfigured. But upcoming village board elections, however, could wrestle majority control in favor of the mayor and the Republicans rendering the prosecutor law, if passed, benign. In November, village Republicans will vie for three open seats on the Board of Trustees; all of them currently occupied by Democrats. Winning just one seat would solidify a majority for board Republicans. The first hearing for the proposed local law will be held at the next village board meeting on Monday, July 11. Goldberger could not be reached for comment as of press time. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

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Police link heroin deaths to prominent Bronx dealer

Party on the Pier to be held at Playland

Rye Playland

Police arrested six suspects beginning on June 24 in connection to two Harrison residents that reportedly overdosed on heroin. Top row, from left, Rachael Brissett, Alexandra Derose and Diamond Samuels. Bottom row, from left, Jeffrey “Flee” McCaskill, Deshaun Hardaway and Justice Sabina. Photos courtesy Harrison Police Department

By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Police made a mark in their ongoing battle against heroin in the town/village of Harrison, as six individuals have been arrested for selling and possessing the drug that contributed to the recent deaths of two unidentified Harrison residents, ages 26 and 29, at the end of June. In the aftermath of the drugrelated fatalities, police began an investigation on June 24 that led to the arrests of Rachael Brissett, 17, of Harrison, and Alexandra Derose, 22, of Mamaroneck. Both Brissett and Derose were charged with third-degree criminal sale of a controlled substance, a felony. Derose was additionally charged with criminal possession of a controlled substance in the seventh degree, a misdemeanor. “We believe at least one of the [local suspects] has been dealing for some time, and we’re going to do whatever we can to bring them to justice,” said Harrison Police Chief Anthony Marraccini. The investigation also developed a case that led to the arrest of a prominent Bronx dealer, Jeffrey “Flee” McCaskill, 27, who had been observed in a grey Dodge Caravan conducting a drug transaction on Halstead Avenue on June 26. He was ar-

rested alongside Diamond Samuels, 32, Deshaun Hardaway, 27, and Justice Sabina, 33, all Bronx residents. Investigators were able to connect drug packaging found in McCaskill’s van with exact markings of the drugs that were obtained from the Harrison residents who overdosed. Police would not disclose any additional details regarding the two deaths. Police also believe that the dealers were selling tainted drugs. “The heroin contributed to two deaths in our community [and] the dealer had a sense that the drug was no good and continued to supply it anyway,” Marraccini said. McCaskill and Hardaway have been charged with felony counts of third-degree sale of a controlled substance as of press time, but police say their investigation will likely result in additional charges. Samuels and Sabina have also been charged with felony counts of third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. With collaboration from other law enforcement agencies, the Harrison Police Department executed a search warrant of McCaskill’s home in the Bronx and was able to find $10,000 in drugs, forged

U.S. currency and drug paraphernalia. All six suspects were taken to the Westchester County Jail in Valhalla. Brissett has been released on $15,000 bail. McCaskill and Hardaway each are currently being held on a $500,000 bail each; both Sabina and Samuels on a $75,000 bail; and Derose on a $40,000 bail. “We need more people to come forward with information about drug dealers,” Marraccini said. “Although it’s frustrating and disheartening, people [also] need to take any available means to get their loved ones help that suffer from addictions.” According to the Harrison police chief, the Police Department is hopeful to institute a program that will allow individuals to walk into police headquarters to seek addiction help. Harrison Councilwoman Marlene Amelio, a Republican, said, “Certainly any program that works toward eradicating and helping people with addiction is something beneficial.” As of press time, police will continue with the investigation, and anticipate further charges at a later date, as some suspects may be held responsible for the death of the two victims. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

The Westchester Parks Foundation, formerly known as Friends of Westchester County Parks, has announced that it will host an evening “Summer Party on the Pier” fundraising event on Friday, July 15 at 7 p.m. at Rye Playland. This event comes after the 40-year-old organization changed its name earlier last month to better reflect its mission and reach a wider audience. According to Joanne Fernandez, board chairperson for the Westchester Parks Foundation, the summer gathering is a way for the organization

to greet the community and enjoy the summer season. “We are thrilled to host this new summer celebration at one of Westchester’s County’s most iconic parks,” Fernandez said. “We want to bring back amazing memories at Playland and invite everyone to come experience the park while supporting an organization that helps preserve the more than 18,000 acres of parkland throughout the county.” With admission, guests will receive wristbands to enjoy all of

the rides at the amusement park, as well as food and an open bar at Playland’s Tiki Bar with live music, followed by fireworks. The event will be on July 15 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Playland Park, located at 1 Playland Parkway in Rye. Live music will begin at 8 p.m. and fireworks will start at 9 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person and all proceeds will go to the Westchester Parks Foundation. For more information or to purchase tickets to the event, visit theWPF.org or call 231-4600. (Submitted)

July 8, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 9

Looming Playhouse sale of concern to residents By SIBYLLA CHIPAZIWA Editorial Assistant A piece of Larchmont’s history and a source of entertainment in the village’s downtown area might switch hands again this month. Now, a group of residents is trying to make sure the Larchmont Playhouse remains a cinema. Located at 1975 Palmer Ave., the only cinema in the village is up for sale for $1.5 million, causing some to worry its use may change with its ownership. Barry Synnott is the listing agent of the property for Coldwell Banker. In the listing for the 7,000-square-foot space, it states that the building could be repurposed as a retail space. The cinema, which screens movies and has three theaters, has been on the market since the end of April. Synnott told the Review that many people have reached out to him about the sale, but that residents may not need to worry, despite all the misinformation

surrounding the sale, including rumors of the property being transformed into an office space. “There are parties doing their due diligence, and everybody will be happy at the end of the day. [The sale] should be coming to an end soon,” said Synnott, declining to provide any more information about the pending sale of the property. Leading up to the sale of the cinema, a petition was launched on Change.org that has more than 1,000 signatures, as of press time, which will be sent to Synnott to show support for the movie theater, and online monetary pledges are being accepted by the resident group. According to the petition, the group has a few more weeks to raise the $1.5 million in funds to try and save the movie theater, which first opened to the public in 1933. Larchmont resident Ellen Zuckert said that more than 300 donors have pledged more than $260,000 as of July 5, with each pledge ranging from $25 to $25,000. “We need bigger pledges, like

$100,000 pledges which may include some naming rights in the theater,” she said. “Without some really major gifts, we’ll never make it.” There have been at least two bids on the theater. One bid came from a Kickstarter campaign launched by Pelham-based nonprofit organization The Picture House, which withdrew its campaign after realizing it couldn’t match or surpass a private bidder’s $1.4 million offer for the Playhouse. After The Picture House withdrew its campaign around midJune, Zuckert and other residents emailed those in Larchmont asking people to support keeping the cinema as it is. “I think we went Larchmont-viral,” she said. The email called for fundraising assistance by either forming a 501(c)(3) organization—which is exempt from federal income tax if said entity’s activities are charitable or educational, among other purposes—or working with an existing nonprofit, like The Picture House, in order to buy the building to ensure it

Skip is a very happy and energetic dog. He and some other fellow Pet Rescue residents are best buds. Since we are working on his excitable behavior, we recommend no children and someone who will follow through with his training. He especially loves long walks or hikes and would thrive with another dog as a companion. The best person for Skip would be a patient individual who could teach him that humans are all good and caring. Skip is neutered, vaccinated, dewormed, heartwormtested and microchipped. Why not donate $300 to Larchmont Pet Rescue and make Skip part of your home? To learn more, call 834-6955 or visit NYPetRescue.org. (Submitted)

The Larchmont Playhouse, located at 1975 Palmer Ave., has been on sale for $1.5 million since late April. A group of village residents is trying to raise funds to ensure it remains a cinema. Photo/Andrew Dapolite

remains a movie theater. Larchmont Village Administrator Justin Datino reiterated the village’s hopes that the Playhouse’s future buyer will not repurpose the space, given that the building’s current owner, UTP Larchmont LLC, maintained the cinema after its sale in 2015. “The outspoken community certainly recognizes the benefit the local movie theater has [in the business district],” he said. “Then again, it’s a private building and a private sale.” According to Datino, the village government can’t dictate what happens with the property through the sale, but rather can only dictate its permitted uses in

the zoning code. The building is located in the RC zone, a retail center commercial district, which allows for theaters, business or professional offices, sit-down restaurants and establishments offering retail goods and/or services, among other uses. Carolyn Fugere, president of the Larchmont Chamber of Commerce, said that members have expressed mixed views about the Playhouse’s sale. She added that the downtown area has seen improvement over the last two years, with new sidewalks and new businesses opening in the shopping district. “The Larchmont Playhouse

has been a significant part of the commercial and cultural fabric of our downtown for decades,” Fugere said. “[The chamber’s] nostalgic hearts would like to keep it open, too.” Zuckert said the cinema has defined Larchmont in a lot of ways. “To have this movie theater turned into an office building, which apparently is one of the possibilities, it’s just sort of sad,” she said. “It’s really a wonderful part of our community.” A representative from Bow Tie Cinemas, the building’s current tenant, could not be reached for comment as of press time. CONTACT: sibylla@hometwn.com

10 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • July 8, 2016

July 8, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 11

The other July holidays RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy

Feeling a little down because the big July holiday is already behind us, with nothing to show for it but leftover red, white and blue frosted cupcakes? (Isn’t blue frosting repulsive? And isn’t that why the cupcakes are left over?) Take heart, die-hard celebrants. It turns out July is chock full of holidays that you just may not be aware of. Here are a few I found by doing arduous summer research (going online, looking up “Weird Holidays, July,” with an ice coffee at my side and endless mocha-chip ice cream in the freezer): July 6 was National Kissing Day. This holiday was first celebrated in the United Kingdom, which seems to have ceased kissing Europe just a few weeks ago to disastrous effect. Better to kiss than not to kiss. July 6 was also National Fried Chicken Day, which seems like a terrible day to coincide with Kissing Day. And this year, July 6 was also Eid al-Fitr. That’s the feast celebrating the end of Ramadan, the month-long holiday when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. If I’d been celebrating Ramadan and was suddenly free to eat all day long, no fried chicken would be safe to cross the road. And I’d kiss the cook. In other good food news, July 9 is National Sugar Cookie Day. You can probably guess how people are encouraged to celebrate, no doubt by the National Sugar Cookie Association. But here’s a fact you might not

know: Sugar cookies were first brought to America by German settlers—the same folks who gave us the Christmas tree. Maybe they got sick of waiting till December for us to give them a shout-out. What’s more, as comedian Gary Gulman has noted: ALL cookies are sugar cookies. “A cookie without sugar is a cracker.” July 11 is Cheer Up the Lonely Day. So go tell them that Gary Gulman joke. July 14 is France’s Fourth of July, as it were. It’s Bastille Day, commemorating the day in 1789 when common folks stormed the Bastille to free the political prisoners. As it turned out, on that particular day, there were actually only seven prisoners being held. Meanwhile, more than 200 people died liberating them. These are the kind of grim ironies you probably don’t see in kids’ coloring books about the holiday. So for a less conflicted fete, maybe you’d be better off celebrating the other July 14 holiday: National Nude Day. Although that day, too, is not without issues. For most of us, this would be an awkward holiday to celebrate at work. But for those with a guitar, a cowboy hat and a high tolerance for Times Square tourists, it’s just another day at the office. Next up? The third Sunday in July is designated National Ice Cream Day—a holiday first officially recognized by President Ronald Regan—and this year, it falls on July 17. Plenty of ice cream stores give out free cones, or free-with-some-caveat cones, like you have to buy one to get one free. Frankly, if you have

a home freezer and any sort of spoon, just get a gallon of cheap ice cream for the cost of a single cone and invite friends over! (Unless somehow the ice cream has sort of... disappeared while you were writing a column about holidays.) Never mind! By July 18, we are at National Caviar Day. Please make sure you have finished your National Ice Cream Day celebrations before commencing this one. You will thank me later. So will anyone sharing your bathroom. According to everyone’s favorite news source, NationalCaviarDay.com, caviar was once so cheap and plentiful in America, it was sometimes served for free at bars, like peanuts. Slimy, fishy peanuts. What could be less savory than National Caviar Day, except Rat-Catcher’s Day on July 22! Celebrate it in the subway. No, really, you’ll love what Wikipedia says about this day, which was inspired by the Pied Piper leading the rats out of Hamelin: “It is a holiday remembering ratcatchers, similar to Secretary’s Day.” Maybe don’t say that to your secretary. July 27 is Take Your Plants for a Walk Day—self-explanatory. And then come three days you don’t want to miss: July 28 is Milk Chocolate Day; the 29th is Lasagna Day; and then the 30th is Cheesecake Day. Cynics may assume that the dairy industry just churns out (ha ha) holiday after holiday, but in truth, sometimes it takes a national celebration for us to pause and reflect upon our history, our country, our freedom, and our rat-catchers. CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com

Class of 2016 first to graduate with CPR skills

A soon-to-be graduate of Arlington High School in Dutchess County, New York, practices hands-only CPR. New York state classes of 2016 are the first to graduate with CPR skills due to the CPR in Schools Law, which went into effect this year. Photo courtesy American Heart Association

High school seniors all across New York state donned their caps and gowns, adjusted their tassels to the fore, and snapped smiling selfies with family and friends. After marching down the aisle to receive their diplomas, they’ll march off into the world well prepared, a new generation of college students, workers, leaders—and lifesavers. This year’s Class of 2016 is the first high school student class in New York state to have received hands-only CPR training as a result of the CPR in Schools Law, which went into effect this school year. The American Heart Association’s, AHA, You’re the Cure grassroots volunteers helped make New York the 26th out of 34 states in the U.S. to pass this lifesaving legislation. On June 19, Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon signed Senate Bill 711, making Missouri the 34th state to add CPR training to its high school curriculum. Now, including Missouri, more than 2 million students will be trained every year, including more than 190,000 high school graduates here in New York state. “Think about next year and every year after, how many more students will learn this lifesaving skill, which is imperative to save a life from sudden cardiac arrest—when the heart rhythm suddenly stops or becomes irregular, causing death within minutes. Over the years, the impact on survival from this leading cause of death in our community will be dramatic,” said

Brendan Lyons, Hudson Valley AHA board member and superintendent of Arlington Central School District. “When you think about all the things a student can learn throughout their education, CPR skills are certainly one of the most important—and one of the easiest to learn. It’s a skill that will stay with them wherever they go. If an emergency arises, they’ll have the knowledge and skills to help save a life,” he added. “Thanks to all the volunteer advocates who, for over 15 years, committed time and effort, making phone calls, sending emails, and visiting Albany for Lobby Day events to help pass this law. Thanks to the legislators for their leadership. Thanks to all the school leaders who provided resources to make this education possible. And thanks to the teachers who taught and to the students who learned hands-only CPR,” said Bob Elling, chair of the AHA’s New York state advocacy committee. “They started with ABC’s and finished with CPR. Three little letters can make all the difference. Congratulations, Class of 2016.” Why learn CPR? Cardiac arrest—an electrical malfunction in the heart that causes an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and disrupts the flow of blood to the brain, lungs and other organs— is a leading cause of death. Each year, more than 350,000 out-ofhospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States.

When a person goes into cardiac arrest, survival depends on immediately getting CPR from someone nearby. Almost 90 percent of people who suffer outof-hospital cardiac arrests die. CPR, especially if performed in the first few minutes of cardiac arrest, can double or triple a person’s chance of survival. There are two simple steps to hands-only CPR: If you see a teen or adult suddenly collapse, call 911 and push hard and fast in the center of the chest to the beat of the classic disco song “Stayin’ Alive.” CPR can more than double a person’s chances of survival, and “Stayin’ Alive” has the right beat for hands-only CPR, 100 beats per minute. Learn more about hands-only CPR at handsonlycpr.org. To join the AHA’s You’re the Cure volunteer grassroots network, register online at yourethecure. org. The American Heart Association is devoted to saving people from heart disease and stroke— America’s No. 1 and No. 5 killers. AHA teams up with millions of volunteers to fund innovative research, fight for stronger public health policies, and provide lifesaving tools and information to prevent and treat these diseases. The Dallas-based association is the nation’s oldest and largest voluntary organization dedicated to fighting heart disease and stroke. To learn more or to get involved, call 1-800-AHAUSA1, visit heart.org or call any of its offices around the country. (Submitted)

12 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • July 8, 2016

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Building a villain LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

On July 4, the sporting world woke to some blockbuster news; Kevin Durant, one of the five best basketball players on the planet, was leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder and joining forces with the Golden State Warriors to help bring about the downfall of the NBA and spit on the legacy of Bill Russell. Or so the “hot takes” would have you believe. Look, I understand why this move is freaking people out. You’re taking the most highly sought-after free agent and putting him on a team that is coming off a season in which they set the NBA’s all-time mark for regular season victories. More than that, Durant’s old team, the Thunder, has been the Warriors’ chief competition in the West for the last few years. This move, people would ar-

gue, is threatening to upset the competitive balance of the NBA landscape. And I love it. Sports are always more fun with a villain. Whether it’s the Dallas Cowboys or the New York Yankees (back when the Yankees were relevant and good), having that one team that is willing to embrace the dark side—either by overpaying free agents, carrying itself an entitled, arrogant air, or both—just makes for a great spectacle. Did Golden State really do anything wrong here? All they’ve done is create a fun, player-positive environment that is enticing stars like Durant (and retired sharpshooter Ray Allen, if rumors are to be believed) to put their egos aside to become a piece of a winning puzzle. That just sounds like great management to me! And as for Durant, who is being lambasted in the press and on social media for “taking the easy way out,” instead of sticking

SPORTS

with the Thunder and doing his best to battle against this basketball juggernaut, I fail to see what he did wrong. He was a free agent, and made a professional decision to leave the team that drafted him. The horror! I’d feel bad for Oklahoma City’s management if they didn’t, you know, pull up stakes and leave Seattle in 2008. But yeah, I guess it’s Durant who needs a lesson in loyalty. I, for one, can’t wait to see what this Warriors’ team looks like next year. They were already an historically explosive offensive team. In Durant, they’ve added a near-7foot scoring savant who is known as much for his ability to put the ball in the hoop as his ability to put the ball in the hands of his teammates. This could be an absolutely wild ride. Does that mean I’m going to root for the Dubs, however? Not a chance. I’m going to be pulling for the “little guys” to blow up the Death Star every single game.

July 8, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 13

The Golden State Warriors recently added 2014 MVP Kevin Durant to a team coming off of a 73-win regular season and an appearance in the NBA Finals. While others are clutching their pearls about the move, Sports Editor Mike Smith think’s is a great day for the NBA. Photo courtesy Warriors.com

I don’t begrudge the Warriors, I don’t begrudge Durant’s decision; but like it or not, the

Warriors are now the villains. And I’m ready for the rest of the league to take aim.

Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports

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LIVE MIKE! Follow Mike Smith @LiveMike_Sports stats • recaps • commentary Follow @mamaroneckview for Mike’s live, in-game action updates

14 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • July 8, 2016

SPORTS

Titles in air for Tigers By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor As the calendar turns to July and the dog days of summer approach, it has given me a little bit of time to look back and reflect on the 2015-2016 athletic year. And my, what a year it was. I’ve been doing this job a long time now, and you sort of lose the ability to be surprised after a while. I’ve seen massive turnarounds, state and section titles, great individual achievements, and they all sort of mesh together. But this year, something felt different; more than anything, following our local teams was plain old fun. Part of it is that, over the last two years, Mamaroneck has just been so dominant. The sport itself doesn’t seem to matter. Since the fall of 2014, the Tigers have captured a whopping nine state titles; from baseball and hockey (field and ice), to tennis and track, it seems like the Tigers can do no wrong. Being in the midst of a stretch like that, it’s hard not to buy in.

Emerson Genovese catches a pass against New Rochelle in the Class AA playoffs last fall. The Tigers took the eventual Section I champs down to the wire in the second round.

Mark Adamo makes a play at second base. The Tigers claimed yet another league title this spring.

Every game, every season, every team seems important, and the sort of energy surrounding the athletic programs at Mamaroneck this year has been truly special to behold. But it wasn’t just the winning squads that made for great entertainment. Last fall, the Tigers’ football team lost every single one of its regular season football games, only to earn a berth in the Class AA playoffs due to a strong preseason ranking and a tough schedule. They made the most of their second life, shocking higher-seeded Carmel on the road with a 4228 win. It may have been the Tigers’ only win to that point in the year, but it was a magical moment nonetheless. And if high school sports are about “teachable moments,” what’s better than the victory at Carmel? In that game, Mamaroneck was able to put an entire season of frustration behind them and come together to accomplish a goal. Simply put, that’s the essence of athletic competition and a win I’m sure those players will remember for the rest Mamaroneck’s lacrosse team celebrates a goal during a late-season contest against Rye. The Tigers fell short in the Section I title game this year.

CONTINUED on next page

Will Kirk scores a goal against Pelham at the Hommock’s Ice Arena. File photos

SPORTS

July 8, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 15

Mamaroneck’s field hockey team compete in an early-season game last fall. The Tigers would go on to capture a state title.

of their lives. But, if there’s one game I wish I had been at this year, it is the Mamaroneck field hockey team’s 1-0, double-overtime win over Ward Melville in the state finals on Nov. 15. The field hockey squad may not be strangers to winning big games under head coach John Savage, but few games in the longtimecoach’s tenure have likely been as fraught with drama as the win over the Patriots. Winning a state title has to be a sweet experience any way you slice

it, but to win it like that, on a late Brigid Knowles shot, that’s positively out of this world. Like their field hockey counterparts, the ice hockey team left little wiggle room in their state championship victory. After dominating the competition in Section I and beyond all winter long, it took a 1-0 nailbiter to give Mamaroneck, and Westchester County, its first-ever state hockey title. And this spring was just more of the same. The Tigers’ softball team won two straight

dramatic one-run games to advance to the Class A semifinals. The baseball team—which made it back to the section championship game—won yet another league title, this time on a walk-off hit by Emerson Genovese. There seems to be something in the water in Mamaroneck and, as a result, it seems like titles are now the norm. But the most exciting part will be seeing what comes next.

Cassie Budill controls the ball during a late-season girls lacrosse game. File photos

CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

Mamaroneck hockey players celebrate on the bus after claiming the program’s first-ever state title in February.

Mamaroneck’s softball team celebrates a thrilling upset win over Yorktown in the second round of the sectional playoffs.

16 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • July 8, 2016