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December 23, 2016

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December 23 & 30, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 52 | www.ryecityreview.com

December 23 & 30, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 52 | www.mamaroneckreview.com

Village board to begin comprehensive plan update plan, after such a group is selected to serve on a committee by the Board of Trustees. That After five years, the village process is expected to occur in Board of Trustees will gear up the coming months. Among the possible areas to review its comprehensive plan—which guides the future for expansion, Tafur said, could development of the village—in be introducing more sustainan attempt to update and steer ability measures; taking into Mamaroneck toward a brighter account the village’s new and improved LWRP; and making and sustainable future. According to new village sure the village continues to December 23 & 30, 2016Trustee | Vol. 4, Number | www.eastchesterreview.com excel in preserving its natural Victor Tafur, a52 Democrat, the review will serve as a environment. As for whether or not the reckoning for just how successful the plan has been in imple- village has been successful in adhering to the vision outlined menting its vision. “We want to review and add in 2012, Tafur said there is still to the document in a way that room for improvement. “There’s still work to be keeps things alive,” he said. Tafur, who worked on the done,” he said, adding that the latest version of the village review will provide an opportucomprehensive plan adopted nity for more reflection. “It has in 2012, has made updating the been an important document. It document a priority since tak- has helped guide us but it needs ing office earlier this month, some fine-tuning.” Yes, 2016 was a memorable year in more ways than one for the town and village of Mamaroneck and the Among the top priorities and said that so far, getting village of Larchmont. For a recap of the defining issues that helped shape the local community, see page 6. other board members on board listed in the villages last iteration of the plan are retaining has been easy. Mayor Norman Rosenblum, the villages historical characa Republican, who oversaw ter; expanding a retail base; the last revamp in 2012, which developing workforce; and preserving the character of the was slated for Dec. 14, an ad- Ralph’s owner, he will introduce the shop be extended—currently a 1986 version of the 38 December 23 & modified 30, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number | www.cityreviewnr.com By JAMES PERO journment will push any deter- a new lighting proposal for the Ralph’s is allowed to operate un- guiding document, said that village’s neighborhoods in adStaff Writer mination into early January. store after complaints from resi- til 10:30 p.m. on weekdays and keeping the village’s devel- dition to preserving wetlands According to Barry Weprin, dents who claimed the current 11:30 p.m. on weekends—We- opment doctrine fresh is just and water quality of the Long A special permit application Island Sound. prin said that the zoning board “a good idea.” from one of the summer’s most chairman of the zoning board, lighting is disruptive. Tafur said the process of Since a zoning appeal spurred has yet to discuss whether or not “It’s the same concept as the controversial story lines—the among the remaining key isvillage of Mamaroneck’s Ralph’s sues for the board to consider by residents from streets adja- those hours would be extended. [Local Waterfront Revitaliza- reviewing the plan will likely The controversy over Ralph’s tion Program],” said Rosen- begin in the coming months Italian Ices & Ice Cream—inch- will be the shop’s use of outdoor cent to the shop—which was es toward approval after under- seating, which residents have responsible for sending Ralph’s, was sparked in June after residents blum, referring to the village’s after the Planning Department going a special permit process blamed for exacerbating noise in which first opened in May, to complained to the village Board newly revamped waterfront reports back to the village the area; specifically, whether or undergo a special permit appli- of Trustees of increased noise and development doctrine. “A lot board on just what progress and retroactive site plan review. Though a decision on the not the shop will be required to cation retroactively—Rosenberg parking congestion as a result of of things can change in five was made on the 2012 comprehensive plan. has added curbing and striping the business’ booming sales. years.” store, which came under fire seek a variance. From there, Tafur said, Additionally, according to a to the shop’s parking lot in an atThe business, residents According to Rosenblum, from area residents this summer after its introduction to East letter sent to the Planning Board tempt to remedy dangerous traf- claimed, did not go through residents and volunteers of oth- the review will be open to proper planning procedure and er village committees will soon the public. Boston Post Road sparked an and Village Manager Rich- fic conditions. While Rosenberg has also come together and have a say explosion in traffic and noise on ard Slingerland from attorneys RALPH’S continued on page 8 in updating the comprehensive CONTACT: james@hometwn.com surrounding residential streets, representing Scott Rosenberg, asked that hours of operation for

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer

Ralph’s Italian Ices application moves forward

Happy Holidays


2 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • December 23 & 30, 2016

Happy Holidays!

From Home Town Media Group Publishers of

The Mamaroneck Review • The Harrison Review The Rye City Review • The Eastchester Review The City Review New Rochelle Howard P. Sturman, Publisher Christian Falcone, Associate Publisher, Editor-in-Chief Sibylla Chipaziwa, Assistant Editor

Design Team: Editorial Staff: Advertising Staff: Arthur Gedin Jim Grasso Andrew Dapolite

Mike Smith James Pero Corey Stockton Franco Fino

Lindsay Sturman Lynne Starr


December 23 & 30, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 3

Rye Brook sends gun law to Planning Board By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer After proposing a local law to regulate where gun stores would be permitted to open within the village, the Rye Brook Board of Trustees referred the draft legislation to the Planning Board for further input on Tuesday, Dec. 13. In its current form, the law would amend a section of village law to prevent commercial storage and display of firearms, ammunition and explosives within a certain distance from schools and religious buildings. The most recent draft of the law does not specify what that distance will be. According to Village Administrator Chris Bradbury, Rye Brook is seeking input from the Planning Board on whether the distance should be 400 feet or 500 feet. The law would give additional discretion to the village board to approve or deny the location of a gun store. “What we’ve tried to do is to create a law that regulates but doesn’t prohibit,” said Village Attorney Edward Beane, adding that it would be a violation of the Second Amendment to prohibit

the sale of guns villagewide. But village attorneys may still need to revise the language of the law, as state and federal laws which regulate gun licensing and distribution could preempt the local law. The law was proposed as a proactive measure after a gun store in Harrison opened last month on Halstead Avenue less than 1,000 feet away from one of the town’s elementary schools and a local church, which prompted an online petition that has accumulated nearly 3,500 signatures as of press time. Although the federal GunFree School Zones Act prohibits carrying a gun within 1,000 feet of a school unless the weapon is unloaded and stored in a locked case, a provision within the law allows gun shops to operate within the 1,000-foot zone. Harrison officials have said they are also considering legislation to regulate the location of gun retailers, although it is unclear whether that law would apply to the Halstead Avenue store, L&L Sports. However, according to Jonathan Kraut, an attorney for

Harrison, there is currently no law related to gun shops in the works. Kraut referred to a U.S. circuit court ruling in May, which said that in order for a municipality to write a zoning ordinance that would restrict gun store locations, it would first have to demonstrate that a gun store would increase crime or place a burden on residents. Harrison officials have expressed their interest in addressing residents’ concerns, while also making note of how those laws have been challenged at the federal level. Earlier this month, Bradbury and Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont, a Republican, told the Review they planned to collaborate in considering legislation to restrict where gun shops could open. “We have had continuing discussions with Mayor Belmont and we continue to keep them up to date as we move along,” Bradbury told the Review, “and we expect that they will do the same in return.” Belmont could not be reached for comment as of press time. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com

Town of Mamaroneck’s

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4 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • December 23 & 30, 2016

What’s going on... Mamaroneck Public Library

Visit mamaronecklibrary.org for more information on library hours and programs. The library will close at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 24 through Monday, Dec. 26 for Christmas; and from 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 31 to Monday, Jan. 2 for New Year’s.

All ages story and craft hour On Saturdays from 11 a.m. to noon in the Children’s Room. No registration required. There will be stories to appeal to all ages of kids and their caregivers, and a craft simple enough for the little kids and creative enough for the big kids.

New Year’s celebration On Friday, Dec. 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Children’s Room, a New Year’s Eve storytime will be held where participants will also create a silly Party Blower to bring in the new year. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Teen Room, participants in grades 6–12 will ring in the new year with their very own handcrafted noise maker, party hat and confetti popper, while supplies last.

Food for Fines amnesty program From Tuesday, Jan. 3 through Saturday, Jan. 7. The Mamaroneck Public Library is hosting a Food for Fines program. Start 2017 with a clean library card account. The program will allow patrons with

overdue materials to bring nonperishable food items to the library in lieu of paying their overdue fines. The library does not accept home-canned items, cans that are past their expiration date or are dented or damaged, or cans with barcodes that have been lined or scratched through. Even if you do not have fines, you can donate canned or boxed food items at the library to be sent to the local food pantry for our neighbors in need. One food item will pay one fine, regardless of that fine’s amount. Patrons may bring as many food items as they have overdue books, DVDs or CDs. Patrons should bring the items to the Circulation Desk along with their library cards to receive credit on their account. The program does not apply to lost or damaged items, which must be paid for in full.

Teacher in the Library Starting Jan. 4. On Mondays from 3:15 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. and on Wednesdays from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Children’s Room. Free homework help for children in grades K–5 when school is in session. This program follows the Mamaroneck school district schedule.

Larchmont Public Library Visit larchmontlibrary.org for more information on library hours and programs. The library will be closed from Saturday, Dec. 24 to Monday, Dec. 26 for Christmas; and from Saturday, Dec. 31 to Monday, Jan. 2 for New Year’s.

Project Linus Knitting & 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, contact Doris Patt Smith at momdsmith1@yahoo.com.

At Home on the Sound

Jedi Training Camp

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 8993150 or email athomeinfo@athomeonthesound.org.

On Tuesday, Dec. 27 from 3 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. For ages 8 to 11. Calling all young Padawans. Demonstrate your strength and test your knowledge at Jedi training camp. Online registration is required.

Joe the Magic Man Magic Show On Wednesday, Dec. 28 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. For ages 5 to 10. A free ticket is required to attend this event. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 2:30 p.m. on the day of the program. Featured in Parents magazine, Joe the Magician’s shows feature audience participation and comedy magic that will amaze and tickle your funny bone at the same time. Get ready for a great big audience gasp when he makes his animals appear.

Outrage-hisss Pets On Thursday, Dec. 29 from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. For ages 4 to 7. A free ticket is required to attend this event. Tickets are available on a firstcome, first-served basis beginning at 10:30 a.m. on the day of the program. Check out, learn about, and pet amazing live animals in this educational and fun show.

Super Smash Bros. Tournament On Thursday, Dec. 29 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Michael P. Coords Activity Room. For grades six and up. Online registration required. The competition will be fierce as players go headto-head on Super Smash Bros. for WiiU. There will be prizes for first and second place, and snacks for all.

Countdown to Noon Year Celebration On Friday, Dec. 30 from 11:15 a.m. to noon. For ages 5 to 7. A free ticket is required to attend this event. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 10:45 a.m. on the day of the program. 2017 is on its way. Join the library for some New Year’s stories as you wait for the countdown to 12. Be prepared to make some noise as we ring in the “noon” year.

Village of Mamaroneck news Second half of property taxes due The village of Mamaroneck second half of properties tax payments are due in December 2016, on or before Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017. Taxes may be mailed in the envelope received with your bills in June, brought to the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office at 123 Mamaroneck Ave. Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or paid online. To pay online, visit the village’s website, village.mamaroneck.ny.us, and click on “Online Services.” There is a link there for tax payments. If you are mailing your payment, it must be postmarked by a U.S. post office (not Pitney Bowes) on or before Jan. 3, 2017 to be considered on time. Any payments received or postmarked after January 3, 2017 will be assessed a late fee. If you have any questions, please contact the Clerk-Treasurer’s Office at 777-7722.

Volunteers needed

St. John’s Lutheran Church Christmas Eve services St. John’s Lutheran Church has Christmas Eve services on Saturday, Dec. 24. At 5 p.m., there will be a children’s service; at 7 p.m., a family service; and at 10.30 p.m., a candlelight service. St. John’s Lutheran Church is located at 122 Fenimore Road in Mamaroneck. For more information, call 698-4348 or visit stjohnsny.org.

Larchmont-Mamaroneck Human Rights Committee Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. commemoration The Larchmont-Mamaroneck Human Rights Committee will celebrate its 30th annual Commemoration of the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Sunday, Jan. 8 from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Hommocks Middle School Auditorium. Professor Ned Benton will do an historical presentation entitled, “Slavery in Mamaroneck Township: The Forgotten History,” and the Community Honoree Award will be presented to the Mamaroneck-Larchmont Student Aid Fund. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served immediately following the presentations. For more information, call Elizabeth Saenger at 698-7569.

Westchester Sandbox Theatre Acting classes registration The Westchester Sandbox Theatre acting classes registration is now open; open to performers in grades K–8. The winter semester of acting classes will run from Feb. 1 to March 29 and will meet on Wednesdays. Fee: $365. Don’t miss your chance to refine your skills and become a better performer. These classes, led by artistic director Jason Summers, are fun and comprehensive, geared toward young performers just starting out or those who want to become stronger and more confident actors. Focus will be on character development, improvisation skills, and script interpretation. Classes are designed with the specific needs of the students in mind. No one will ever feel out of place in class. The Westchester Sandbox Theatre is located at 931 E. Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck. For more information, visit wstshows.com or call 630-0804. 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.


December 23 & 30, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 5


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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

Year in REVIEW

Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthal ext. 31, irathal@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com

MAMARONECK COALESCES TO STOP DRUG SURGE

Reporter | James Pero ext. 20, james@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin

Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com

Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writer Corey Stockton, Franco Fino Staff Photographer Andrew Dapolite Columnist 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.

ARMY CORPS FLOOD PLAN GETS NEW LIFE

After decades of being mired in politics and deficient funding, an estimated $80 million plan to mitigate flooding in the village of Mamaroneck—which originally dates back to the ‘80s—has been revived, and has found footing with local and state lawmakers. In January, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers unveiled its plan to dredge and widen large swaths of the Mamaroneck River in order to mitigate the adverse affects of flooding that have plagued residents in the region. Controversy, however, boiled to the surface this spring when the village’s harbor commission recommended that the project be deemed not compliant with local waterfront doctrine. The plan has since undergone several changes—including the restoration of Ward Avenue Bridge, which will add $8 million to the plan’s price tag—and now has the proper state approvals to move forward. If carried out, the plan would add nearly two miles in concrete retaining walls along the Mamaroneck and Sheldrake rivers, and would also force some residents to cede portions of their land through easements. The future of the project, however, will hinge on shoring up $45 million in federal funding via congressional approval n

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Visit us online www.mamaroneckreview.com Follow us on Twitter, @mamaroneckview Like us on Facebook, facebook.com/mamaroneckreview The Mamaroneck Review (permit #16661) is published by Home Town Media Group weekly for an annual subscription of $32. Application to mail at the peridcals postage rate is approved at Port Chester, N.Y., 10573. Periodicals postage paid at Port Chester and additional mailing offices.

As an opioid epidemic continues to sweep communities nationwide, the village of Mamaroneck swept its own issue out from under the rug and into public discourse. Following five opiate overdoses within less than two months this past summer, Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, formed a coalition that consists of residents, representatives from the schools, courts, police and village government to combat an increasingly deadly trend in opioid and opiate abuse. Mamaroneck’s move to discuss problems of drug abuse and addiction publicly follows similar movements in neighboring municipalities like the city of Rye where the successive deaths of current and former Rye High School students have speckled headlines throughout the past several years. Combining open dialogue, early prevention and proper enforcement, members of Mamaroneck’s anti-drug coalition hopes to help quell the effects of drugs on their community n

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Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso

Advertising | Lynne Starr ext. 29, lynne@hometwn.com

As we close the book on 2016, the Review staff has huddled together to rank the Top 10 storylines surrounding the communities of Larchmont and Mamaroneck over the last 12 months.

LARCHMONT MORATORIUM AND NEW REGULATIONS

Push back against what village of Larchmont residents have characterized as overdevelopment and rampant tear downs of residential homes forced a near yearlong moratorium and an overhaul of village zoning and planning laws. In January, residents poured into village board meetings to protest the demolition of a historical property located on 40 Ocean Ave., citing an unfettered uptick in tear downs and subdivisions villagewide. The action of the village was spawned from a similar moratorium in the town of Mamaroneck and the watchful eye of several other neighboring communities. While the new zoning and planning regulations are in the midst of a round of public hearings, residents have spoken out against some provisions saying that they don’t go far enough. Absent from the new laws, residents say, are any historical protection provisions and oversight on the removal of adult trees. As we enter 2017, the new set of laws—which reconfigure various provisions in land use law—are nearing their final stages, according to Mayor Lorraine Walsh, a Democrat n

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CHANGING THE MAYOR’S POWER

Village of Mamaroneck Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, has criticized the village board’s Democratic majority of undermining his power as mayor after the passage of laws amending his use of village parking spaces and appointments to land use boards. Claims that Democrats are stripping Rosenblum of his mayoral powers came to a head this Election Day when village residents voted convincingly— in two public referendums—to alter the mayor’s power to appoint interim members to land use boards as well as his power to appoint the village attorney. In particular, Democrats criticized the mayor of abusing a piece of village law that allowed Rosenblum to appoint members to zoning and planning boards without proper village board approval. Democrats have insisted that Rosenblum has overstepped his authority, and the referendum is a return to the originally intended form of village government n CONTINUED on next page

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December 23 & 30, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 7

THE FIRST PUPPY MILL LAW IN THE STATE

Scrutiny over one village pet shop, whose owner was convicted on multiple counts of animal cruelty, prompted the village board to pass an unprecedented law blocking the sale of “puppy mill” pets across the village. The law, which was the first of its kind passed in New York state, requires that pet stores obtain pets from humane shelters as opposed to breeders, which critics claim may put the dogs in harm’s way. Fervor over the treatment of animals centered around the village’s Best Breeds pet store, owned by Mahopac resident, Richard Doyle, who was arrested in 2015 on charges of animal abuse. Similar laws have also spread to neighboring municipalities, such as Harrison, and are beginning to gain traction on the county level n

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THE NEW TRUSTEES

In a hard-fought election year, a race for three open trustee seats saw village of Mamaroneck Board of Trustees Democrats maintain a majority by running two new candidates and one incumbent. Newcomers Keith Waitt and Victor Tafur will serve their first-ever terms on the village board, while Leon Potok will begin his third, taking up the mantle as the Democrats’ majority leader. Despite Republicans running three of their own candidates, Election Day voters swung decisively toward the Democratic ticket to give Democrats a convincing victory across the board. The new candidates and the old will work toward forging a less divisive relationship which has, in the past, mired the board in personal politics n

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PARKING METERS ON MAMARONECK AVENUE

The installation of new meters on Mamaroneck Avenue continues to be a focal point for village residents who have, in the past, rallied against previously purchased multi-space meters, which were never used upon arrival due to concerns over functionality and enforcement. Efforts to modernize Mamaroneck Avenue’s parking system have dragged on throughout the year after backlash from village residents over the use of multi-space meters, which would require the use of automatic license plate reading technology for enforcement. Now, with a pilot program launched by the village Ad Hoc Parking Committee—which tested various single-space meters and one variety of multi-space meter—coming to a close, the recommendation of the installation of single-space meters may be imminent. According to the chairwoman of the parking committee, residents and the committee are overwhelmingly in favor of single-space smart meters which reset parking time after a patron leaves his or her designated space n

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MAMARONECK AND ITS RALPH’S CRAZE

Westchester County’s first-ever Ralph’s Italian Ices & Ice Cream, located on East Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck, turned out to be a hot commodity; too hot to handle for some residents who flocked to village board meetings protesting its impact on living conditions in the area. In August of this year, Ralph’s was forced to seek a special permit from the village’s zoning board after an appeal brought forth by residents determined that the business was previously misclassified as a retail establishment and skirted proper zoning and planning procedure. The permit will be heard by the zoning board in January 2017 and will determine the shop’s future hours of operation, and whether or not it will be allowed to have outdoor seating n

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HAMPSHIRE ON LOSING END OF LAWSUIT

Following an appeal, a looming lawsuit that sought $55 million in damages from the village of Mamaroneck was thrown out this year. A decision to throw out the appeal comes after a long and strained relationship between Mamaroneck and Hampshire Country Club, which sued the village following its denial of a proposed development that would have added more than 100 residential units to its waterfront property. While the village succeeded in avoiding the club’s multi-million dollar lawsuit, it will be forced to compensate Hampshire for $350,000 in reassessed taxes after it grieved its property assessment for the years 2010 and 2012. According to a representative from Hampshire, the club will also grieve 2013 to 2016 n

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UPDATING THE VILLAGE LWRP

An update of the village’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, LWRP, by the village’s harbor commission successfully modernized how the village will oversee waterfront development in years to follow. The revamped LWRP comes after much debate between the village of Mamaroneck’s harbor commission and the Board of Trustees over who would retain the authority to update the document. While the Board of Trustees moved to hire consultants to oversee the documents update, the harbor commission successfully fought and won the battle to oversee the document themselves and [[with?]] a team of volunteers. Harbor commission members hope that the updated LWRP will help fight against the rising tide?] of development and its potential for adverse impact on environmental conditions. A final version of the document was submitted to the New York Department of State earlier this month and awaits approval from the agency n

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-Reporting by James Pero


8 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • December 23 & 30, 2016

Wegmans eyes Westchester County

RALPH’S from page 1

By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer

A special permit application for Ralph’s Italian Ices & Ice Cream—which was spurred by widespread resident backlash this summer—will inch forward with a possible resolution in January. File photo

was allowed to open up shop without a site plan review or proper notice to surrounding residents. After an appeal was launched in July by residents, the zoning board determined that Ralph’s had in fact skirted proper zoning and planning procedure and was mistakenly classified as a retail establishment instead of a fast food establishment. Subsequently, the store was forced to apply

for a special permit in August or shut down, and was allowed to operate on an interim basis with dialed back hours of operation. Though Rosenberg, a Long Island resident, threatened to sue the village if Ralph’s operations were closed, no suit was ever filed. Rosenberg has since expressed interest in opening up additional stores in Westchester County, specifically in North

Castle; about 10 miles away from the county’s first-ever Ralph’s location in Mamaroneck. Weprin said that a decision on Ralph’s special permit application will likely take place during the zoning board’s Jan. 3 meeting, but may not be approved until February after a resolution is drafted by the village attorney.

The town/village of Harrison is seeking to approve a developer’s plan to replace an old office complex at 106-110 Corporate Park Drive with a Wegmans Food Market, which would be the first of its kind in Westchester County. Normandy Real Estate Partners, which owns an abundance of property on the “Platinum Mile” along the Interstate 287 corridor, and Wegmans, are proposing to construct approximately a 125,000-squarefoot, 2-story grocery store, which will also include a café area, at the Corporate Park Drive location. Wegmans is a privately owned regional supermarket chain headquartered in Gates, New York, which is located near the city of Rochester. The company, which owns 92 stores across the mid-Atlantic and New England regions, is known for selling locally sourced food and has operated since its

founding in Rochester in 1916. The proposed facility in Harrison would replace three existing underutilized office buildings on Corporate Park Drive, but not the EastRidge Enrichment Center and White Plains Daycare and Preschool, which is located at 109 Corporate Park Drive, at the rear of the property. The planned supermarket also comes on the heels of the approval of Harrison’s first mixed-use facility at 103105 Corporate Park Drive. In September, the Town Council approved the construction of a 421-unit rental development and indoor parking garages known as the Residences at Corporate Park Drive. “This is all part of a long project that we began four years ago,” said Mayor Ron Belmont, a Republican, referring to one of his initiatives since taking office in 2012. “It’s amazing how much growth we’ve seen on Westchester Avenue since we began repurposing the land.”

Despite the enthusiasm for the planned Wegmans grocery store, the town will have to approve a zoning change on Dec. 15, after press time, to allow the company to set up shop in the special business district of town. “At this point, there is very little to it, but I think it would be a wonderful addition to our community,” said Harrison Councilwoman Marlane Amelio, a Republican. “From what I’ve heard, it’s a wonderful store that offers just a variety of great food products, and we’re looking forward to it.” Wegmans, in partnership with developer Steiner NYC, a Brooklyn-based firm, is planning to open a second location in the New York metropolitan area. The company is anticipating opening a supermarket along Brooklyn Navy Yard’s Admiral’s Row, which is located along the East River, in 2018. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

Obituary

In memory of Joan Dumelow Wanderer Joan Dumelow Wanderer, of Larchmont, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Dec. 16 after a brief illness. She had just turned 92 years old on Nov. 9. She celebrated her birthday with her children, their spouses, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends. Joan had many interests and was active until the end of her life, visiting with family, enjoying bridge games, movies and sharing meals with friends and family. Just this past summer, Joan traveled to her childhood summer home in Michigan to visit with family, especially her sister, Lois Guither. Joan grew up in River Forest, Illinois. She attended the University of Illinois where she met her husband, Kenneth Wan-

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derer, of Oak Park Illinois, who was also later a longtime Larchmont resident, an active member and lay leader of the Larchmont Avenue Church, a several-term trustee of Larchmont, mayor of Larchmont, and founder of the Local Summit. Joan was a warm, generous, vibrant, brave and loving person who made friends easily and took care of everyone. She was formerly active in the Larchmont Women’s Club, the Daughters of the American Revolution, the Newcomer’s Club, and the Larchmont Avenue Church as a deacon. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother and friend. Joan was truly a “Wanderer.” She loved to travel and did so until the end of her life.

Joan will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She is survived by her sister, Lois; four children, Kathryn Chapman, Thomas Wanderer, Diane Williams and Elaine Wanderer; nine grandchildren and five-great grandchildren (with the sixth due in June). Joan was predeceased by her devoted husband, her sister Marion Clark, her granddaughter Cindy Chapman and her parents. The service celebrating Joan’s life will be held on Saturday, Jan. 7 at 11 a.m. in the Larchmont Avenue Church, 60 Forest Park Avenue in Larchmont. All are welcome. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Heart Association by visiting heart.org and clicking on “Giving.” (Submitted)

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Normandy Real Estate Partners and Wegmans Food Market are proposing to construct its first supermarket in Westchester County along the Platinum Mile in Harrison. Photo courtesy Wegmans.com


December 23 & 30, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 9

Rye Neck student wins peace art award Rye Neck Middle School seventh-grader Marc Seemer has won the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Lions Club’s Peace Poster Contest for expressing his vision with this year’s theme of “A Celebration of Peace.” Seemer was recognized during a ceremony at the Larchmont Library on Nov. 18. “Marc’s artwork stood out due to the airy feeling of his poster’s background,” said his art teacher, Jennifer Dallow, who teamed up with fellow art teacher Trisha Appel to encourage students to enter the competition. “He intentionally did not clutter the background, thus including a peaceful sky to cradle his earth image. He was very focused while working on the poster and I was inspired by his dedication.” More than 50 seventh-graders from the middle school submitted their artwork in the schoolwide competition, where judges selected Georgia Meyer, Seemer and Moises Tejeida as the three finalists. Their posters were submitted to judges at the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Lions Club, who selected Seemer as the winner of the local

Rye Neck Middle School seventh-grader Marc Seemer has won the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Lions Club’s Peace Poster Contest. Photo courtesy Rye Neck school district

branch contest. His poster was submitted to the district-level competition for further judging. “It was nice that the students were able to discuss how peace can be celebrated throughout the world while working on their projects,” said Appel, who added that many of them drew the earth as a way to express their message that the entire

world should celebrate peace. The Lions International Peace Poster Contest, for students ages 11 to 13, has been in existence for more than 25 years. As part of the contest, students’ posters advance through several rounds of competition before an international winner is declared on or before Feb. 1, 2017. (Submitted)

Astorino issues luring safety tips Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino advanced his Safer Communities initiative last Friday morning when he issued safety tips for parents and their children about what to do in the event they encounter a predator. Sparked by recent incidents of child luring, Astorino, who was joined by Commissioner of Public Safety George Longworth and county police officers, coined the “3 Gs”: Get Loud, Get Away and Get Help. These 3 common sense steps to safety can prevent tragedies. “This week’s incidents, thankfully, did not result in any abductions,” Astorino said. “However, they serve as a reminder that we must be vigilant and never take our children’s safety for granted. For all the parents out there, as well as teachers and all caretakers, the most important thing you can do is to have this conversation with your kids.” Included among the suggested discussion points: • If anyone ever grabs you, yell and fight. • Yell “stranger” or “he’s not

Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, left, alongside Commissioner of Public Safety George Longworth, holds a press conference on Dec. 9 to issue safety tips for parents and their children about what to do in the event they encounter a predator. Photo courtesy Westchester County

my dad.” Get the attention of other people near you. • Be suspicious if an adult you don’t know asks for your help. Common luring techniques are when a stranger asks a child for help in finding a lost dog or help with finding someone or something in another location. • If you feel a car is following alongside you, walk in the opposite direction if it is safe to do so.

• If you have a cell phone and feel unsafe, call 9-1-1 right away. • Always remember, the police are there to help you. Don’t hesitate to call them. The above tips and more suggestions for family discussions are available as part of the Safer Communities initiative on the county website, westchestergov.com/safer-communities. (Submitted)


10 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • December 23 & 30, 2016

Opinion-Editorial

Paying homage to Mr. Neil Millman By CLIFFORD JACKSON Today I am taking the opportunity to pay homage to a man that not only “talks the talk,” but more importantly “walks the walk.” Neil Millman is the epitome of someone who is the perfect example of one who is in touch with his faith and is the real meaning of Mother Theresa and Jesus of Nazareth. Neil is of the Mormon faith, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and has lived a majority of his adult life in Provo, Utah. Now, those reading this need to understand that the author of this piece is a staunch atheist, so this testimonial to Neil should not be taken “lightly.” Neil Millman grew up in Carson City, Nevada, raised by the late Henry Millman and his wife Eleanor. They set a foundation of giving to others that has inspired Neil to do more than 20,000 hours of humanitarian work around the world; most human beings regardless of their faith do not have that track record. Neil has been in touch with humanity, the ecosystem and everything that embodies life since he was very young. He has been running with this conduit to life ever since. His desire to help his fellow man is something that he has been doing for many years. He recently was involved in the Tijuana project in Mexico in November 2015, where students at Utah State University and Brigham Young University brought hundreds of blankets and quilts to people living in poverty who were in need. He has been involved in projects like this invariably throughout

Europe, South America and Mexico. Neil constantly says that his work is “a message and a work of love.” He and his wife Margarita have demonstrated that time and time again. In the city of Medellin, Colombia, they have worked with countless homeless people and people living in poverty to find food and clothing. What they also found was the fact that in that city, as well as others, the poor support each other even with the plethora of circumstances that makes their survival many times dubious at best. They saw drug addicts selling whatever clothing they had to get that next fix; living in squalor and conditions that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Che Guevara would describe, and who also witnessed this poverty with his many travels in Latin America in the 1950s, as outrageous. Neil and Margarita and their circle of volunteers helped bring light and hope to the people in Medellin and helped support the very poor, where some of the people living in poverty were, in their own moral and humanitarian way, trying to mentor others even though they had very little themselves. In the community of La Questa in Mexico, Neil and Margarita saw firsthand the poverty and the level of hunger, domestic violence and degradation that they suffered. They treated these people like they were members of their own family, which certainly made a difference in the lives of the people in that community, as many there said so personally to Neil and Margarita. They brought dresses that a woman from Provo, Utah, had

made for the young girls living in poverty in La Questa. That gift will be something that these youth 8 and 10 years old living in abject poverty will never forget. More often than not, in this society we degrade, vilify and demonize those that are poor, indigent and suffering. Neil and Margarita Millman show compassion and love on a level that millions of others should emulate. Neil has been in Lisbon, Portugal, and saw the poverty and hopelessness that many experience there every day. Showing through his acts of kindness, whether it was feeding the hungry or helping local social service groups administer help to the poor there, that their “lives matter.” He continues to do this where ever he goes. I feel fortunate enough to have met Neil Millman, and this testimonial to him should not be paid once he is no longer with us. Hopefully he has many, many years left on this planet doing “God’s work.” But this “piece” is a way of paying homage to a man who should receive these accolades now, and hopefully this letter will be an inspiration for others to follow in his footsteps. Henry and Eleanor Millman did a great job in raising someone who, unlike most people, truly embodies the meaning of “humanitarian work.” As the late, great James Baldwin said, “It is very expensive to be poor.” Neil Millman helps pick up the tab for that every day of his life! Clifford Jackson is a resident of Larchmont. The views expressed are his own.

Town of Mamaroneck

Official Newspaper Mamaroneck Schools


December 23 & 30, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 11

Business Briefs Simone hosts Westchester urban development meeting

Simone Development Companies, developer of the Boyce Thompson Center, recently hosted a breakfast meeting of Westchester/Fairfield Chapter of the Urban Land Institute, ULI, at the new mixed-use center in Yonkers. One hundred people attended the Sept. 23 program, which included tours of the 85,000-square-foot center which is nearing completion. The program included presentations by Guy Leibler, president of Simone Healthcare Development; Chip Marrano, president of MCG Construction Company; Ron Hoina, partner of Design Development; Wilson Kimball, commissioner of planning and development for the city of Yonkers; and Cynthia Williams, project director for Simone Development Companies. Simone recently announced that WESTMED Medical Group will occupy two floors at the Boyce Thompson Center in a new 20,000-squarefoot building, constructed on the south side of the original building. With the new lease, the Boyce Thompson Center is now over 70 percent preleased to 10 tenants. About 25,000 square feet of medical office, set for retail and restaurant space, remains available for lease. In addition to WESTMED, health care tenants at the new Boyce Thompson Center include Gastroenterology of Westchester LLC; Juvanni Med Spa; Fresenius Medical Care; and St. John’s Riverside Hospital. Retail and restaurant tenants include Fortina Restaurant; The Taco Project; Family Wellness Pharmacy; Tompkins Mahopac Bank; PLUSHBLOW Blow-dry Bar; and Ultimate Spectacle. Located off Executive Boulevard in northwest Yonkers, the Boyce Thompson Center is an innovative mixed-use development featuring new office space for businesses and medical practices, retail stores, banking and restaurants. The historic Boyce Thompson building, which was built in the 1920s, is being restored to its original character. The center will also include outdoor site amenities such as areas for seating, eating and learning.

Fordham names new dean of professional studies Fordham University has announced the appointment of Anthony R. Davidson, Ph.D., as the new dean of the School of Professional and Continuing Studies, the university’s college for adult and nontraditional students with a campus in West Harrison. Davidson, who previously served as dean of the School of Business at Manhattanville College in Purchase, was chosen following a national search. He is an award-winning educator who has more than 30 years of experience as a dean, professor, consultant, and entrepreneur. Among his initiatives at Manhattanville, Davidson created and launched the Women’s Leadership In-

stitute; launched a certificate program in nonprofit management in conjunction with industry leaders; forged exchange agreements with other area colleges; and collaborated with the schools of education and arts and sciences to develop joint- and dual-degree programs. Davidson earned both his bachelor’s degree in marketing, magna cum laude, and his MBA in business policy and finance from Bernard M. Baruch College of the City of New York, and earned a doctorate in management and systems science from Cass Business School of the City University of London. From 1990 to 2000, Davidson served as a professor at a number of New York-area universities, teaching management at Hofstra University and at Polytechnic University in Brooklyn, management and business strategy at Adelphi University, and management and information systems at Yeshiva University. Davidson is author or co-author of many invited presentations and papers on business and higher education issues. He is an advisory board member for the World Conference on E-Learning in Corporate, Government, Healthcare & Higher Education, for the Institute for Risk Management, and for various nonprofits. He also consults for senior management in numerous sectors including technology, health care, and education.

Lawrence Hospital recognized by state health department NewYork-Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital in Bronxville is pleased to announce it is one of only 25 hospitals to be recognized by the New York State Department of Health Bureau of Immunization Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention Program. The hospital has been placed on the Immunization Action Coalition Birth Dose Honor Roll by achieving a 90 percent or higher coverage rate in 2015 for the birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine and also passed their most recent lot quality assurance visit. “We are pleased to be a leader in the fight against hepatitis B and I am proud of the physicians, nurses, and staff members of NewYorkPresbyterian/Lawrence Hospital who are dedicated to the health of our communities,” said Michael J. Fosina, president of New York-Presbyterian/ Lawrence Hospital. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists all endorse the hepatitis B birth dose. According to its letter of endorsement, “It is recommended that the first dose of hepatitis B vaccine be administered prior to hospital discharge for every newborn in the United States. In addition, the birth dose coverage rate has been adopted as a measure of hospital quality by the National Quality Forum. This birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine is the first step in creating a vaccine safety net that will protect infants from hepatitis B infection and from the development of chronic hepatitis B infection if acquired through contact with an infected mother, household member, or caregiver. Data from the July 2011 to June 2012 National Immunization Survey, NIS, found that 70 percent of U.S. newborns received a dose of hepatitis B vaccine by 3 days of age. The NIS data show a marked amount of variability by state in the use of the birth dose,

ranging from 88 percent all the way down to only 29 percent. This variability indicates that it is feasible for most states to do substantially better on their birth dose coverage, and that all states need to improve the use of the birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine to enhance protection of newborn infants. An estimated 800 U.S. newborns are still becoming chronically infected with hepatitis B each year from exposure at birth or during the first months of life. We are encouraging all hospitals to have policies in place to protect newborns from this important cause of liver failure and liver cancer.” Founded in 1909, NewYork-Presbyterian/ Lawrence Hospital has a long and well-established history of providing superior health care to the residents of southern Westchester County and its surrounding communities. The 288-bed hospital joined the NewYork-Presbyterian Regional Hospital Network in 2014 and offers a Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory, a renovated Maternity Department and an Emergency Department providing emergency care to approximately 42,000 people annually. A new, state-ofthe-art comprehensive Cancer Center, accredited by the American College of Surgeons with Commendation, will offer infusion, radiation therapy and support services. NYP/Lawrence provides additional support and care to area residents through NewYork-Presbyterian Medical Group/ Westchester, a multispecialty physician practice, as well as ColumbiaDoctors. For more information, visit nyp.org/lawrence or call 787-1000.

Leason Ellis ranks high in lawyer rankings Intellectual property law firm Leason Ellis LLP, located in White Plains, tops the charts in the Super Lawyers listings for Westchester County in 2016. Attorneys Paul Fields, Melvin Garner, Adda Gogoris, Yuval Marcus and Peter Sloane were all named to the list. Mel Garner has also just celebrated his 10th consecutive year as a “Super Lawyer.” He was first named in 2006. Super Lawyers further recognized two of the firm associates this year. Cameron Reuber and Lauren Sabol were both received the distinction of “Rising Stars.” Super Lawyers is a rating service of outstanding lawyers from more than 70 practice areas who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement. The selection process includes independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations. The next Business Briefs section will run in January. Please send any submission for our January edition to news@hometwn. com, with “Business” in the subject line of your email. Each submission may include one picture. If you have any questions, email us at news@hometwn.com.


12 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • December 23 & 30, 2016

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December 23 & 30, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 13

To live or die trying RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy

A few years ago, a firefighter in Sacramento, California, Mike DeBartoli, noticed his hands cramping up. He figured it was a symptom of the job. But when the cramps got worse, he went to his doctor and heard the three letters no one wants to hear: ALS. DeBartoli has Lou Gehrig’s disease, a disease that robs the body of its ability to function and is always fatal. Unless... DeBartoli heard that there were some new drugs in the pipeline that could possibly slow his disease. He volunteered—begged—to be one of the guinea pigs in a clinical trial, but was turned down, in one case because he was taking other medicines for blood pressure and depression, and in another case because he was, ironically, too sick. When drug companies are testing their new treatments, their candidate profiles are so specific that most people who have the disease don’t actually qualify. In fact, only 3 percent of people desperate to get into clinical trials ever do. Which brings us to our topic today: The Right to Try. The Right to Try is a law that allows people who are terminally ill to try a drug that is promising but has not yet been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. “Patients who face imminent death ought to have the option to be able to try these new drugs, even if we don’t know they’re going to work, or what the side effects will be, [or]

the exact dosage,” says Christina Sandefur, executive vice president of the Goldwater Institute, which supports the initiative. This sounds like it would be a popular law, and in many states it is: In the last three years, 32 states have passed the Right to Try, usually with enthusiastic bipartisan support. California passed it last year, unanimously. But in New York, a Right to Try bill, proposed by Assemblywoman Linda Rosenthal and Sen. Kemp Hannon, did not get out of committee. Let’s see what that means for the people of New York state. When a person is terminally ill, the clock is ticking. Yes, they can apply to the FDA for a compassionate exemption, but this is so complicated and so few make it through, it’s like applying to be an astronaut. For starters, there’s a daunting amount of paperwork that must be filed by the patient’s doctor. It takes about 100 hours to gather all the information and fill out all the forms—in other words, more than two weeks of a doctor’s time devoted just to one patient. Then the request has to go through a lengthy approval process, when ever hour is critical. “There have been examples of patients that are trying to get these exceptions and sometimes they’re finally granted, but too late,” says Sandefur. The patient is underground. The reason the FDA makes access to these unproven drugs so difficult can probably be traced to the agency’s founding. It began in 1902 after a Diphtheria drug proved ineffective. Well, actually, it proved worse than that. It was fatal. Clearly America needed someone to certify the safety of our drug supply, and

thus the FDA was born. Then, in the 1960s, a drug widely prescribed to pregnant women in Europe was blocked by an FDA doctor here, Frances Oldham Kelsey, who’d heard of its side effects. The drug was Thalidomide, which caused serious birth defects, and thanks to Kelsey many American children were spared its devastation. It’s wonderful that the FDA was on the ball. But that episode of well-warranted precaution seems to have led to an agency so ultra-cautious that today it is preventing people from taking experimental drugs that may kill them—even though they’re going to die anyway. The potentially dangerous drugs are also the only potential lifesavers. The way the Right to Try is written, the only people who’d be allowed to take as-yet-unapproved drugs are those with no other hope. The drug would have to have passed at least the first stage of testing at the FDA. But then, instead of a patient starting the bureaucratic nightmare of applying to the FDA for a rare compassionate exemption (the FDA grants about 1,000 a year—even as more than 500,000 people die of cancer), all it would take is the doctor, patient and drug company agreeing to start the regimen. The FDA would not have veto power. DeBartoli, the fireman with ALS, put it this way in an interview with the Goldwater Institute: “I don’t know who the FDA thinks they are protecting.” The drugs in the pipeline might not save DeBartoli, but he deserves the right to try. Not just the right to die. CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com

Meet Bear, a handsome Great Pyrenees mix, about 3 years old and 86 pounds. This gentle giant is very sweet, laid back and completely housebroken. He prefers the company of female dogs, and due to his size, would be best in a home without small children. He will make a great companion to a very lucky family! Bear is neutered, vaccinated, dewormed and microchipped. Make him part of your family for an adoption donation of $300 to Pet Rescue. To meet Bear, call 834-6955 or visit NY-PetRescue.org. (Submitted)


14 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • December 23 & 30, 2016

SPORTS

Protecting the shield LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

If I’ve had one problem with the NFL this year, it’s been all the inconsistency. But I’m not talking about the New York Giants’ hide-and-seek offense, or inconsistency in the quality of play—after all, the Thursday night games have been consistently terrible. I’m talking about the decisions made by officials—both on the field and in the league office. The games this past weekend really shined a light on some of the inexplicable decisions made by the NFL, both in terms of flags thrown and fines levied. The story, perhaps, that got the most airtime was probably the penalization—and subsequent lack of a fine—for Zeke Elliot’s “Salvation Army” celebration. In case you missed it, Elliot, Dallas’ phenomenal rookie running back, scored a touchdown

against Tampa Bay and, in a particularly inspired post-score bit, ran over to a large Salvation Army kettle on the sidelines and hopped inside it. As with all celebrations involving a prop, the stunt was immediately flagged and most viewers assumed that Elliot would be fined by the league for his antics. But the NFL, after some deliberation, decreed that the running back’s antics would not affect his wallet, deeming that it simply brought more exposure to the Salvation Army charity that has some affiliation with the league—and with Elliot’s Cowboys. Now, I don’t care that Elliot wasn’t fined. I have no problem with NFL players showing a little creativity when it comes to touchdown celebrations, and I think the league would be better off if they allowed players to show off their personality some more. But this is the same league that fined Giants wideout Odell Beckham Jr. for gesturing as if he were taking a picture of team-

mate Victor Cruz after a touchdown, something Beckham pointed out on Twitter. “That’s funny that there’s no fine for that,” Beckham tweeted. “I could only imagine if I was the one to do it.” And he’s not the only player who thinks that the league is selective in enforcing some of its rules. On Monday night, Cam Newton, who probably takes more of a beating than any other quarterback in the NFL not named Ben Roethlisberger, was hit in the head by a Redskins defender as he slid, feet first on the field, a play distinctly verboten under today’s NFL rules. There was no flag on the hit, however, but Newton—who has repeatedly complained about officials allowing him to be targeted illegally—was penalized for tossing the ball at the player who took the cheap shot. I can only imagine Newton’s frustration a quarter later, as a completely legal hit on his Redskins’ counterpart drew a flag and

Over the last few seasons, the NFL has come under fire for its perceived selectivity in enforcing its own rules. Sports Editor Mike Smith believes that maybe the league’s lack of transparency is hurting its bottom line. Photo courtesy NFL.com

extended a drive for Washington. These are just the latest in a long line of inexplicable decisions made by the league.

Many—mostly Pats fans—believe that the Giants, who were just found guilty of illegal walkietalkie use during their game two

weeks ago against Dallas, got off lightly with a small fine and a downgraded fourth-round pick for their transgressions. Some players, like the Jets’ Sheldon Richardson, are able to lead police on a high speed chase, fail drug tests and face only a fourgame suspension, while others, like the Bills’ Seantrel Henderson, has to miss 10 games for a second failed drug test—even though it has been well documented that Henderson uses marijuana to treat his Crohn’s disease. Viewing numbers for football have been down this season, and the league is scrambling to find out why. In my mind, it’s not the oversaturation of games during the week, a lack of compelling prime time match-ups, or a dearth of star power that is hurting the league. I think that fans are starting to realize that the NFL is less concerned with adjudicating fair punishments and more concerned with “protecting the shield.” Now if they could only figure out what that meant.

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


SPORTS

December 23 & 30, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 15

THE ROUNDUP eight games out of their next

Solomon Schechter 36 nine that have in-conference Neck 28 implications. John Jay 73 Rye AT RYE NECK 12/20/16 Mamaroneck 68 Despite holding a lead over Valhalla 56 AT JOHN JAY 12/15/16 the Lions heading into the secRye Neck 23 Mamaroneck lost in a road ond half on Tuesday, an offenBOYS BASKETBALL

sive draught in the third quarter spelled disaster for Rye Neck as they fell at home to a game Schechter team. Rye Neck managed only two points in the third quarter, as the Lions found success from behind the arc to bury their hosts. With just one win on the year, the Panthers will look to get back on track before the new year, as they close out their 2016 AT MAMARONECK 12/19/16 schedule with a game at Yonkers The Tigers continued their High School on Dec. 22, after strong play on Monday when they press time. easily handled an overmatched Horsemen team, beating Sleepy Hollow by 27 points. Jared Bader GIRLS BASKETBALL led the way for Mamaroneck offensively, scoring a game-high 16 points, but the true differencemaker was the Tigers’ swarming AT MAMARONECK 12/15/16 defense. The Tigers held Sleepy’s top The Tigers trounced the Trotwo scorers to a combined three jans last week led by an offenpoints in the contest en route to a sive outburst from Ali James, blowout win. who accounted for 27 points in The Tigers will look to close the win. out 2016 on a high note, as they Mamaroneck will return from get set to compete in the Slam winter break on Jan. 4 with an Dunk Challenge at the Westches- important league game against ter County Center. The tourna- White Plains that kicks off a ment kicks off on Dec. 29. stretch that sees the Tigers play

AT RYE NECK

12/19/16

shootout against a tough John Jay team last week, as the two squads combined for 141 points in four quarters of basketball. Will Tuck had 21 points in the loss, while teammate Isiah Thomas tallied 19.

The Panthers had no answers for a solid Vikings team on Monday, falling by 33 points to Valhalla. The visitors were led by a terrific effort from Shelby Sekinski who led all scorers with 19 points.

Mamaroneck 56 Sleepy Hollow 29

Rye Neck 46 Solomon Schechter 31

Mamaroneck 64 47 Blind Brook

AT SOLOMON SCHECHTER

Kol Lewis brings the ball up the floor against Solomon Schechter on Dec. 20. The Panthers fell to the Lions by eight points.

12/20/16

One day after a tough home loss, the Panthers were able to bounce back on the road, downing the Lions to win their final game before winter break. Jess Gottlieb posted a double-double in the win, scoring 19 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, and teammate Alexa Garcia nearly followed suit with 10 points and nine boards. Rye Neck will be back in action on Jan. 4 when they host North Salem. -Reporting by Mike Smith To report game scores, you can email Sports Editor Mike Smith at sports@hometwn.com.

A Panther player pulls up for a jump shot on Dec. 20. Photos/Mike Smith

A Solomon Schechter player protects the rim in a Dec. 20 game against Rye Neck. The Panthers scored just two points in the third quarter of their 36-28 loss.

A Rye Neck player attempts to shoot after grabbing a rebound in the paint.


16 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • December 23 & 30, 2016


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