Mamaroneck REVIEW THE
June 15, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 24 | www.mamaroneckreview.com
Council proposes gun ban for town buildings By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer More than a year after scrapping similar legislation, the Mamaroneck Town Council has once again introduced a proposal to ban firearm possession on town property. Presented during a council meeting on June 6, Mamaroneck lawmakers are seeking to create an article in the town code to include a ban on possessing firearms in both town buildings and town-leased buildings. The town originally proposed the ban in late 2016, following the controversial opening of a gun store near an elementary school in Harrison; however, after ardent disapproval from the public and questions over the proposal’s constitutionality, Mamaroneck lawmakers nixed the idea altogether. “In America, anyone can challenge anything they want, but we feel the new proposal would be a well-grounded law based on previous court decisions,” said Town Supervisor Nancy Seligson, a Democrat. “I think it would be able to stand up against a chal-
Story on page 6
lenge if it was tested.” Under the proposed article, only police officers, employees of banking institutions whose job requires transporting money and “individuals in the service of the United States” would be exempt from the gun ban. The previous proposal banned individuals from possessing firearms on all property owned by the municipality, including sidewalks and parks, in addition to buildings owned by the town. According to Seligson, the new plan only restricts gun owners from possessing their weapons in town buildings, such as the Mamaroneck Town Center or firehouse. Consideration of the gun ban comes around the same time as a slew of recent shootings across the U.S., including one at Texas’s Santa Fe High School on May 18 in which eight people were killed and several others were injured. Prior to that, the shooting at Florida’s Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in February that saw 17 people killed, led several municipalities across the country to begin enacting legislation restricting firearm possession as a way to combat gun violence. In the proposed article, the Town Council explains it “is mindful of the right to bear arms,” as enumerated by the Second Amendment; however, the council continues it is also “aware of the country’s current plague of shootings of, and other types of attacks on, innocent persons in schools, in the workplace” and other public areas, in proposing such legislation. According to the proposal, the Town Council’s goal is to provide “a safe working environment for GUN BAN continued on page 8
STOPand STUDY With a residential building moratorium already underway, the village of Mamaroneck now plans to study the impacts of development after hiring an outside firm. For story, see page 11. Photo/James Pero
Activist to sue village, claims police harassment Parking app OK’d BY FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Luis Quiros, a local activist and longtime resident of Mamaroneck, plans to file a lawsuit against the village for alleged harassment by police, the Review has learned. Known for his political activism for Mamaroneck’s Hispanic and Latino population, Quiros, 72, told the Review that he is being harassed and stalked by members of the Mamaroneck Police Department because of his race, and plans to file a lawsuit against the village in the near future. Quiros has already filed an official charge of discrimination with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, EEOC, claiming that he has been unfairly
disciplined, threatened with termination and is being stalked at his home and work site by village police. He is currently employed by the village of Mamaroneck as a school crossing guard and as a park ranger, in which he patrols various parks across the municipality. Quiros is also an adjunct professor at Fordham University in the Bronx. In the complaint filed with the EEOC, which the Review obtained a copy of, Quiros alleges that “various members” of the Mamaroneck Police Department, including police Chief Chris Leahy, harass him at his job site when he’s working as a school crossing guard.Quiros, who is stationed at the corner of Hoyt and Mamaroneck avenues near the train
station, said he was addressed by Leahy in March at his job site to discuss complaints filed against him by other village residents, which he believes have been made up to get him fired. According to a letter from the police chief, which the Review also obtained a copy of, the Mamaroneck police have received “multiple complaints” from residents about Quiros taking pictures while working as a crossing guard, instead of focusing on crossing pedestrians. Additionally, Quiros believes several moving violations that he’s been issued in the last two months are racially motivated because the tickets were issued by QUIROS continued on page 13
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer The village will deploy the use of a mobile parking app allowing motorists to pay for parking using their smartphones after authorizing a contract this week. A contract with mobile parking providers ParkMobile— which the village Board of Trustees voted in favor of unanimously on June 11—will mark a change of direction after village officials flirted with signing a deal with PARKING continued on page 11
INSIDE LMCTV CEO retires See page 7.
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June 15, 2018 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 3
Town to spend $50K to refurb Gardens Lake pathway By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer After dredging the waterway last winter, town of Mamaroneck lawmakers have now approved a plan to restore the grassy area around Gardens Lake that had been damaged. According to Town Admin-
istrator Steve Altieri, while the Town Council was able to come up with three different options for restorations at the park, the council opted for the proposal to spend roughly $50,000 to repair areas around the lake, which were damaged as a result of excess spillage during the dredging process. “The board decided that it
would just restore the existing grassy area around Gardens Lake, after determining it didn’t want to spend too much money at this time,” Altieri said. Other ideas included creating another entirely new pathway around the lake, as well as constructing a timber bridge that would have connected two path-
ways. The largest plan called for spending approximately $215,000. Last winter, the town dredged Gardens Lake, which connects to the Sheldrake River, a larger body of water that empties into the Long Island Sound. Typically, dredging is used to excavate shallow seas or freshwater areas to rid them of broken down material and debris. The technique is used every couple of years to keep wa-
terways navigable and creates a clear pathway for boats. The town has dredged on several occasions over the last decade, including once before at Gardens Lake in 2010. Considering many areas of both the town and village of Mamaroneck are located in flood zones, including spots near the Sheldrake and Mamaroneck rivers, local and state lawmakers have always pushed for dredging to lessen the impact
The Mamaroneck Town Council has approved a project to restore an existing pathway at Gardens Lake, after dredging efforts last winter damaged grassy areas around the waterway. The municipality will spend roughly $50,000 on the slated work. Photo/Franco Fino
of storms and hurricanes on those vulnerable areas. Just last month, U.S. sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand secured authorization for what’s known as the Sheldrake-Mamaroneck river project, which will be included in the Water Resource Development Act, WRDA, a law enacted by Congress to deal with various aspects of water resources, including environmental, structural, navigational and flood protection. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers administers the bulk of the requirements under the WRDA. The Sheldrake-Mamaroneck river project, considered a high-level $80 million flood mitigation effort, involves deepening and widening river channels to prevent devastation from flooding in both the town and village of Mamaroneck. According to Altieri, the town anticipates completing the construction at Gardens Lake by this upcoming September. He said the bidding process will likely take two to three months, while the minor construction should not last long. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
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What’s going on... Larchmont Public Library
Drop-in Fingers & Thumbs Art Party On Friday, June 22 from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., learn about all the different things you can make with your fingerprints. Make wild animals, funny faces, crazy creatures or create your own design. For all ages.
The Kindness Rocks project
For more information on hours and programs, visit larchmontlibrary.org.
Gaming extravaganza Celebrate the beginning of summer with a gaming marathon on Thursday, June 21 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. XBox, WiiU and board games will be out. At 6 p.m., we’ll have a Super Smash Bros. for the WiiU tournament for anyone interested. Event is for children in grades 6 through 12. Come join the fun.
‘Rotten’ (Film screening) On Thursday, June 21 at 7 p.m. Is the food we consume safe to eat? As more and more of the food industry become globalized, that question becomes more important. Christine Haughney, who now writes for Politico, created the six-part Netflix series “Rotten” which began airing in January 2018. In this special event, she presents one episode from the series called “Garlic Breath.” “Rotten” explores global food safety and gives food the true crime treatment, diving deep into the food production underworld.
Meet in Ryder’s Garden (weather permitting) on Friday, June 22. Drop-in anytime between 3 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. Come sign up for the summer reading game and paint two kindness rocks, one for you and one to leave in the garden. For all ages.
Sheldrake Environmental Center
June mini-camp for young explorers Camp runs weekly from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the Sheldrake Environmental Center’s main building. Your child will spend an amazing week in nature, learning about the plant life and animal life here at the center. They will become nature detectives as they walk the trails, observing birds, animals and insects in their habitats. Other activities include songs, craft projects, story time and many
opportunities to have fun with friends. Camp registration is by week and campers may register for any number of weeks. The weeks will have different themes. For children ages 3 -6. Week 3: June 18-22 Week 4: June 25-29 To register, log onto sheldrakecenter.org/event/ june-mini-camp-weeks-1-4/ and don’t miss your chance to have your child spend an incredible week (or more) in nature!
Mamaroneck Public Library For more information on hours and programs, visit mamaronecklibrary.org.
Children’s materials fine free Beginning June 1, all Mamaroneck Public Library children’s materials will not have any overdue fines. We want to make it easy for the children in our community to have access to all the wonderful books and other materials from the Mamaroneck Public Library Children’s Room. Patrons should remember to be considerate and return their materials as quickly as possible so that they can be shared with other patrons. Books and materials coming from (or owned by) other libraries may still accrue overdue fines.
Bilingual Storytime – Hora del cuento bilingüe On Mondays from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Program Room. A drop-in Spanish/English storytime for children of all ages with caregivers. Join us every Monday for a Spanish-English storytime consisting of stories, songs and a craft. Los lunes de 10:30 a.m. a 11 a.m. en la sala de programas. Una hora de cuentos en español e inglés para niños de todas las edades con cuidadores/ as. Únase a nosotros todos los lunes para contar historias en español e inglés con historias, canciones y una artesanía.
Walk Your Way to Better Health On Tuesdays from 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Community Room. Adults are invited to burn calories and get in shape in this exercise class. Walking is a simple way to get exercise. The class will follow along with Leslie Sansone’s Walking series. These DVDs are low-impact and take approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Registration is limited to 13 participants. In order to register, call the reference desk at 630-5887. All participants must sign waiver before participating, and should wear comfortable clothes and sneakers.
Happy ‘Lappy’ Mommy & Me On Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Program Room. Stop by to bond, play, and sing with your baby with Marie. For caregivers with babies from ages 6 months to 12 months old.
Wiggle and Rhyme Storytime On Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Program Room. Rhymes, fun and more for toddlers and caregivers with Marie. For children 13 months to 24 months old. Registration required by calling 630-5894.
ABC Preschool Storytime: Create, Grow, Learn On Tuesdays from 3 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. in the Program Room. This program consists of stories, songs, and science, art and math concept activities appropriate for children age 3 to 5 years old. Registration is required by calling 630-5894.
Read to Mr. Pickles On Tuesdays from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Children’s Room. For school-aged children. Mr. Pickles is a registered therapy dog. He is a very patient listener and enjoys all kinds of stories. Your child can bring a favorite book or participants can select a title. Each child will have an opportunity to read for 10 to 15 minutes. Registration is required by calling 630-5894.
Jiggles & Giggles On Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the Program Room. Jam at the library with songs and a stomping good time with Marie. For children ages 18 months to 36 months old. Registration is required by calling 630-5894.
Reading Together On Thursday, March 22 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Children’s Room. Children who are just beginning to learn to read, or want to practice reading, are invited to sign up for a reading time. Joan Shaprio, an adult volunteer, is a community parent who has worked in the New York City school system and enjoys working with children. For grades K–3, sessions will be 15 minutes; grades four and five, 25 minutes. Registration is required by calling 630-5894.
Townwide news Leaf blower ban Please be advised that the use of gasoline-powered leaf blowers is banned during the period of June 1 through Sept. 30 in the town of Mamaroneck. Please pass this information along to your landscapers, neighbors and friends.
Town Center summer hours The Mamaroneck Town Center’s summer hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday from May 29 to Aug. 31. The office will be closed on July 4, in observance of Independence Day.
Food waste reminder The town of Mamaroneck’s collection crews have noticed food waste containers set out with regular garbage. Those participating in the food waste recycling program are reminded that all separated food waste must be taken to the Larchmont-Mamaroneck Sanitation Commission Recycling Center at 40 Maxwell Ave. for disposal. The commission will not be collecting food waste at the home. Deadline for our What’s Going On section is every Thursday at noon. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to news@hometwn.com.
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Bellows brings awareness to African water crisis A group of fourth-graders in Susan Marks’ Seekers and Solvers class at F.E. Bellows Elementary School—who had studied the water crisis in Africa, and more specifically, the water walk that young
girls take to get water for their villages—recently held a “Be Aware Fair” to share their knowledge with the rest of their peers. Having read numerous articles and books, watched videos
and researched information about the water crisis and its effects on young girls’ education, the students felt compelled to educate others about it and make a difference. They worked collabora-
tively to create posters, videos, slideshows and drawings to bring attention to the global issue. At the fair, the students welcomed other fourth-graders to their tables, where they presented the information they’d gathered and engaged in important discussions on the topic.
“Watching my students become so engaged in this project was amazing,” Marks said. “They were exposed to a global issue that many of them had no idea was even a problem. They showed compassion, were pushed out of their comfort zone and really were impressive in their eagerness to
F.E. Bellows Elementary School fourth-graders held a “Be Aware Fair” to share their knowledge about the water crisis in Africa with the rest of their peers. Photo courtesy Rye Neck school district
learn more.” At one station, students were challenged to carry a large backpack around their school’s gymnasium to simulate what young girls their age experience in Africa every day. “The main thing that the students discovered is that they are so lucky to live in a place where water is so accessible,” Marks added. “When they are thirsty, they can leave the classroom at any time and get water from a water fountain. Not everyone has that ability.” Fourth-grader Brady Sergio said he felt passionate about bringing awareness to the water crisis in Africa and hopes that more people can get involved to solve the problem. “They have to walk for hours and the water isn’t even clean,” he said. “Hundreds of thousands of people die because of this dirty water that they’re drinking. And to think about that they have to work for it, it’s astounding how they do that.” The project was part of the district’s Schoolwide Enrichment Model and F.E. Bellows’ Seekers and Solvers STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics) program, designed to develop students’ ability to think critically and creatively through project-based learning experiences. (Submitted)
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Rafele Rye
Mamaroneck THE
REVIEW P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000
Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com
does regional Italian
right
Editor-in-Chief | Christian Falcone ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Reporter | James Pero ext. 20, james@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Sales Director | Jim Scova ext. 10, jscova@hometwn.com Advertising | Mike Scova ext. 14, mike@hometwn.com Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Nancy Kaplan ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writer Franco Fino
Letters The community’s opinion matters. If you have a view to express, write a letter to the editor by email to chris@hometwn.com. Please include a phone number and name for verification purposes. Community Events If you have an event you would like to share with the community, send it to news@hometwn.com. Delivery For home delivery or to subsribe, call (914) 653-1000 x27. Classifieds & Legals To post your notices or listings, call (914) 653-1000 x27. Postmaster Send address changes to: The Mamaroneck Review c/o HomeTown Media Group, P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 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 weekly by Home Town Media Group for an annual subscription of $45. Application to mail at the periodicals postage rate is approved at White Plains, N.Y., 10601. Periodicals postage paid at White Plains and additional mailing offices.
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer At Rafele Rye, the newly opened regional Italian restaurant on Purchase Street in Rye, authenticity is only paralleled by Raffaele Ronca’s quest for quality ingredients. According to Ronca, at his Rafele Rye, from the tables to the tomatoes—the former of which were all crafted specifically for the restaurant—sourcing equals success. “We’re going to be as organic as we can,” said Ronca, an executive chef who emigrated from Italy to the U.S. at the age of 21. “All the ingredients are imported from Italy, but we make everything in house. We make everything from scratch.” Similar to Rafele’s predecessor and sister restaurant in the West Village of Manhattan, Rafele NYC, the Rye location—barring some slight differences in menu options—will be serving up similar regional Italian dishes like a Zuppa di pesce stuffed with squid and mussels, stemming from Tuscany to Liguria, and, of course, Campania, where Ronca grew up. As for his famous cheesecake, which won “Best Cheesecake in America” from Food and Wine Magazine, it will also be making an appearance in Rye. While a commitment to tradition may dominate the menu, intimate knowledge of Italy’s diverse cuisine is far from the only “bit of Italianess,” as Ronca puts it, that Rafele brings to Rye. His overarching restaurant philosophy regarding food is also one born from his home country, according to Ronca. “I grew up in Italy, and in the summertime we ate tomatoes. We didn’t eat them in the winter time because they don’t grow, and when we get them elsewhere, they’re white and pale because they were forced to grow,” he told the Review. “Whatever we have in the moment that’s what our bodies crave.” For Ronca, that means not just sourcing produce and ingredients seasonally and locally—he’s already begun to explore a multitude of nearby farmers markets in Westchester for fresh produce—but also ensuring that they’re free of antibiotics, steroids and other hormones. “If you’ve been to Italy, you’ll see that these are the flavors you’ll get there,” he said. For most chefs, establishing a presence in a new territory can be an uphill battle as close to 20 percent of full-service restaurants fail within the first year of operation, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But aiding Ronca in his first-ever foray into Westchester will be a few key accolades, not the least notable of which is winning an episode of “Chopped,” a Food Network culinary competition reality show where chefs are tasked with creating dishes using surprise ingredients. “I think [winning] gave me a boost, definitely for the [Manhattan] restaurant, because people from all over the country see the show,” he said, adding that the winnings from that episode were all donated to St Elizabeth’s Pediatric Center in Yonkers. “It really helped the restaurant to grow, because it’s great exposure.” While Ronca may have defeated his opponents by assembling the best dish using ingredients altogether foreign to his style—lemon verbena, a packaged rice bowl and porchetta to name a few—his advice for any future “Chopped” contestants looking to gain an edge against the competition, was not dissimilar from his own personal philosophy. “Once you’ve made a decision on what you’re going to cook,” he said. “Stick with it.” CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
“Chopped” winner and chef, Raffaele Ronca will serve up a taste of Italy out of his new Rafele Rye restaurant, located on Purchase Street in the city of Rye. Photo courtesy James Beard Foundation
Rafele Rye 26 Purchase St. Rye, NY 914-481-8417 rafele.com Ingredients at Rafele Rye will be mostly imported from Italy and according to owner Raffaele Ronca, will emphasize seasonality and organic. Photo courtesy Rafele
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LMCTV CEO calls it a career Erik Lewis, the CEO of LMCTV, retired from the company on June 15 to pursue other creative projects. Lewis began his tenure at LMCTV on Nov. 8, 1999 as its executive director. In June of 2015, he began working reduced hours under the title Chief Executive Officer, sharing executive responsibility with his colleague Matthew Sullivan who was promoted to Chief Operating Officer. “It’s time to devote myself full time to the ideas and projects I have had on the back burner,” Lewis said. Prior to coming to LMCTV, Lewis had been a documentary and public affairs producer/writer for both independent documentaries and broadcast entities including WNET, Lifetime and the Learning Channel. He began his career in the arts in 1966 as technical director and mask maker in the Free Southern Theater—a traveling civil rights theater group based in New Orleans. During his nearly 19-year tenure as the leader of LMCTV, the non-profit has broadened and deepened its service to the community. “Our mission of building community through media resonated deeply with me and is something
in one way or another I’ve been doing my whole life,” Lewis said. “I’ve loved every minute of being at LMCTV—the people, the challenges, the politics. It’s wonderful to have been given the opportunity to change people’s lives.” Among the programs Lewis is most proud of initiating is the creation of “The Local Live,” an LMCTV-produced local weekly news and public affairs show featuring live call-in segments with local opinion leaders. “I patterned
Erik Lewis, the former CEO of LMCTV, retired from his position on June 15 after nearly 20 years with the local non-profit organization, which services the Larchmont and Mamaroneck communities. Contributed photo
it after ‘Thirteen Live,’ a Channel 13 public affairs show I was a producer for. I added the live call-in component because I thought it was a great way to allow the community direct access to their leaders,” he said.Other accomplishments Lewis cites are: creation of the Summer Teen Filmmaking Workshops, an affordable, immersive summer camp experience where young people can learn filmmaking; the Almost Anything Goes Videofest (2001-09), where local creative artists and students showcase their work (soon to be revived); the Kindergarten through sixth grade afterschool video clubs, a series of workshops offered in all the Kindergarten through sixth grade schools in the Mamaroneck and Rye Neck school districts; the Corporate Underwriting Program, where local businesses have their grant support for LMCTV acknowledged by PBS-style acknowledgments; the Varsity Sports Program, where 80 varsity sports contests, ranging from football, basketball and baseball to girls lacrosse and field
hockey, including state championships, are recorded and broadcast. “We were blessed to have had Erik Lewis for so long,” said Jeff Meighan, LMCTV board president. “His talent for administration kept the organization fiscally sound and his vision of community kept us moving in the right direction. I wish him the best in his future endeavors.” Sullivan credited Lewis with the growth of the company but also with helping Sullivan grow as an executive. “He taught me a lot about leadership,” Sullivan said. “Because of Erik and the foundation he helped build, I am prepared to lead LMCTV in its next phase of development which I foresee being expansion of social media platforms and becoming more visible in the community with the addition of a mobile production van to better serve the community.” What’s next for Lewis, you may be wondering? He’s anxious to rekindle the creative forces that brought him into television and theater. “I’m not into bucket lists,” he said. “I’m into projects. Stay tuned.” (Submitted)
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Lawmakers unsatisfied by Con Ed, NYSEG talks
GUN BAN from page 1
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer Months after a rash of storms and extended power outages plagued residents across Westchester County, lawmakers continue to try and hold energy providers accountable. On Monday, June 5, representatives from New York State Energy and Gas, NYSEG, and Consolidated Edison—the county’s two major energy providers—met with lawmakers for two hours to answer questions left open following a previous meeting in March. According to Board of Legislators Chairman Ben Boykin, a White Plains Democrat, despite receiving some answers to lingering questions, the meeting was “disappointing.” “We certainly didn’t hear from Con Ed and NYSEG today how communications systems will be dramatically improved over the disastrous track record from the March Nor’easters and the May 15 storm,” said Boykin said in a statement. Among legislators criticisms were NYSEG’s refusal to reimburse customers for spoiled food as well as their reliance on mutual aid—which is meant to allow providers to request workers from other regions ahead of a major storm event—a system they say is broken. According to county Legislator Kitley Covill, a Bedford Democrat, though NYSEG requested mutual aid days before a major storm event, none was ever provided as evidenced by records provided by the company to the
Westchester lawmakers continue to call attention to what they say is a lack of accountability for the county’s major energy providers. Two meetings since several Nor’easters have not seemed to resolve the tension between the two sides. Photo courtesy ConEdison
New York State Public Service Commission. “The current system only seems to guarantee the residents of Westchester at least a threeday blackout until line workers begin arriving from far away,” Boykin said. “There is too much reliance on mutual aid and just not enough locally-based experienced utility staff who can jump right into work tackling downed poles and wires.” Both Covill and county Legislator Michael Kaplowitz, a Yorktown Democrat, also reiterated their calls for an independent assessment of NYSEG. Westchester lawmakers say that the state Public Service Commission, which is responsible for regulating NYSEG, failed to institute storm preparedness measures even despite a report commissioned by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, following Hurricane
Sandy detailing failures by utilities statewide. As an alternative, lawmakers are calling for the hiring of a third-party auditor to help assess the efficacy of NYSEG’s storm preparedness measures. In March, two consecutive Nor’ easters left thousands without power, many for more than a week which prompted lawmakers from the state, county and local level to call meetings with leaders of Con Edison and NYSEG. Those calls were compounded by a sudden storm in May that brought dangerous winds and even more outages. County lawmakers say they will forward the results of their most recent meeting with the energy companies to the Public Service Commission, which is currently investigating their response. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
Latimer meets with general counsel of Mexico Westchester County Executive George Latimer joined with the general counsel of Mexico at Hope Community Services in New Rochelle on Tuesday, June 6 to present “Let’s Talk: A Dialogue with the General Counsel of Mexico.” The event was the first in a series of meetings between local elected officials and Mexican government representatives, to provide important details about the services that are available to the Mexican and Hispanic communities living in Westchester. “It is important for us to reach out to the Mexican community, which continues to grow exponentially in Westchester County,” Latimer said. “We want people to know that there are services
that the consulates can provide to communities in need, and we want to serve as the bridge that makes the connection between the Mexican community and other government entities.” White Plains resident Dora Puerta, who attended the event, said, “It is important to learn about all of the programs and services that are offered to our community.” The county executive was also joined by New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson, Councilman Louis Trangucci and Westchester County Legislator Terry Clements. The event provided information relating to programs and services in areas such as health, childcare, housing and human rights. (Submitted)
On June 6, Westchester County Executive George Latimer met with the general counsel of Mexico to provide information about services available to the Mexican and Hispanic communities in the county. File photo
On June 6, the Mamaroneck Town Council proposed a ban on possessing firearms in town buildings. Similar legislation was discontinued in February 2017, after public backlash and questions surrounding the legality of the proposal. Photo courtesy pixabay.com
town employees and a safe place for visitors of town buildings,” although it recognizes it cannot solve the issue of gun violence. The penalty for violating the potential ban would be a court-imposed fine of no less than $500 and not more than $1000, according to the legislation. Mamaroneck Village Mayor
Tom Murphy, a Democrat and former town councilman, told the Review that while the village is not currently planning to propose a firearm ban, the idea hasn’t been ruled out for the future. Murphy was a member of the Town Council when it first proposed the gun ban in late 2016. The first public hearing to discuss the town’s po-
tential gun ban is scheduled for June 20. Scott Sommavilla, the president of the Westchester Firearms Association who threatened to sue the town for its previous proposal, could not be reached for comment. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
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School board appoints 2 new administrators At Tuesday evening’s Board of Education meeting, the board approved the appointments of two administrators who will join the Mamaroneck school district this summer. Claire Scordo Reinhard will assume the role of director of research, assessment and accountability effective July 1; she will replace Mike Kollmer, who will retire at the end of this school year).
Judy Ravina will join the district as director of dual language and ENL programs beginning Aug. 14. Scordo Reinhard began her career in education 16 years ago working in the classroom as a language arts teacher on Long Island. She quickly took on leadership roles and became an integral part of North Shore Middle School’s professional development/training of teachers in
Claire Scordo Reinhard
to ultimately make decisions that are best for students.” Scordo Reinhard is looking differentiated instructional prac- forward to studying the curricutices. From there, she moved to lum from a Grade K-12 perspecWoodmere Middle School as En- tive and seeing how the curricuglish chairperson, and then went lum spirals from the elementary on to become assistant principal at level up through the high school. Roslyn Middle School, where she “I am very interested in followhas been for the past seven years. ing programs from early childDuring her career, Scordo Re- hood through the entire system inhard has consistently worked in order to determine how we can with both quantitative and quali- create the best trajectory for stutative data to make informed de- dents as they progress through all cisions. She has integrated cur- the grades,” she said. Ravina comes to Mamaroneck rent and relevant research with best practices and analyzed the with 14 years of teaching expedata to make determinations re- rience in the Bilingual Educagarding programming and cur- tion field. For the past two years riculum. When she joins Mama- she has served as the dual lanroneck in July, Scordo Reinhard guage instructional coach for will expand upon her work- the White Plains School District, place-based skillset—which in- where she has been involved in cludes collaborating with teach- data analysis around dual laners around state testing data and guage initiatives, led dual lanacademic intervention services— guage professional development to incorporate some of the knowl- across the district and advised on edge she gained through her best bilingual teaching practices. Ravina says her passion for helpdoctorate work. “Times are changing so much ing emerging bilingual students that it’s critical to stay current,” stems from her own experiences she said. “Just because we did and the challenges she faced as a something a certain way in the student when she came to Westpast doesn’t mean that is what chester County from Colombia at will work best for today’s stu- age eight. “I grew up in the Beddents. It’s important to keep up ford school system, and unforwith the latest research and liter- tunately there were no bilingual ature to inform our own inquiry programs at the time, but I had a
Judy Ravina
fantastic ENL teacher that made my transition much easier,” she said. “I learned English quickly because I had a strong native language foundation, which research has shown is an important component to acquiring a second language. I then became the translator for my parents who spoke very little English.” In addition to overseeing the Dos Caminos Dual Language program housed at Mamaroneck
Avenue School, Ravina will lead the ENL programs throughout the district. Among her responsibilities will be ensuring that the district is in compliance with what is required by law for ENL learners. “I look forward to working collaboratively with all stakeholders, including staff, parents and students, to further advance the academic progress of emergent bilingual students,” she said. (Submitted)
June 15, 2018 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 11
April building moratorium leads to $95K study By JAMES PERO Staff Writer The village of Mamaroneck has signed on to spend nearly $100,000 on a development study as the next step in a sixmonth moratorium on residential development. The study, totaling $95,000 will be conducted by the firm NV5 and will investigate the impact of development on village infrastructure and services, the effects on local school districts, and identify parcels of land that would be ideal for new developments. The moratorium, which was passed by the village board back in April, has stopped all development of three units or larger with the exception of construction that was started before March 12. Trustee Leon Potok, a Democrat, said the moratorium was passed partly as a response to proposals of large scale developments coming before the village land use boards. In particular, Potok referenced a $35 million project slated for a parcel on Waverly Avenue that would build more than 100 units within
three five-story buildings. “We want to have a sense in the community for where this will actually go,” he said. With other projects like a five-story residential building aiming to add 18 lofts on Prospect Avenue sitting before the Planning Board, residents and village Board members have expressed concerns that projects such as the Waverly Avenue one may be accelerated. “We’re in a very favorable economic environment, and that’s the period when new development takes place,” Potok added. According to the law defining the moratorium, a halt to construction is meant to buy the village time to evaluate zoning regulations, development and future impacts, while it undergoes the process of updating its comprehensive plan—the main document governing how and where future developments in the village will take place. The fear for the village board in passing a moratorium is the potential for overdevelopment to impact the village’s infrastructure—some of which, like its sewer systems, has come un-
der scrutiny in recent years, even spurring a lawsuit from an environmental agency. The development study marks a continuation of planning and rezoning initiatives that the village has undertaken over the last year. Included in those efforts is an ongoing process to revamp the village’s 2012 Comprehensive Plan to make it more environmentally friendly and attuned with development trends—a $70,000 project—as well as a study geared at improving the village Building Department’s practices and procedures. Additionally, the village has continued to study and plan a long-term redevelopment project of a former industrial area dubbed the “Maker Zone.” Through a rezoning and lengthy planning process, Mamaroneck officials hope to make the former industrial hub into a center for restaurants, entertainment, boutique hotels, breweries and more. Public meetings on how to proceed with the rezoning and planning of that area are ongoing. Meanwhile, passing a mor-
PARKING from page 1
alternative company, Passport, in March. According to Assistant Village Manager Dan Sarnoff, the village changed directions because of better rates offered by ParkMobile during the negotiation process. Though there is no traditional contract cost, ParkMobile will make money through charging a transaction fee. Specific contract information was not available as of press time. In spite of the switch, the end-user experience, Sarnoff said, will be mostly the same for motorists. “It’s kind of like, if you can drive a Ford, you can drive a Chevy,” he said.The app will be rolled out sometime in the next three months, according to Sarnoff. Although physical payment options still exists across the village in the form of coin-operated meters and multi-space meters, motorists will be able to use the app to park in any of the Mamaroneck’s metered spaces. Recently, the Board of Trustees voted to change metered parking rates across the village, raising any 25 cent per hour rates to 50 cents per hour. The village board is now also considering increasing that rates to 75 cents per hour.
The village of Mamaroneck will spend $95,000 studying new development and its impact. Funding for the study comes on the heels of the village approving a six-month moratorium on residential development that will expire in October. Photo/James Pero
atorium on development has aligned the village of Mamaroneck with neighboring municipalities that have similarly voted to temporarily pause residential development. In addition to a brief moratorium in 2016 town of Mamaroneck—which didn’t affect any ongoing projects—the village of Larchmont’s hotly contested it-
eration in 2016 spurred multiple lawsuits and lead to a full-blown anti-development cadre of residents dubbed Preserve Larchmont who continue to advocate for historic preservation. Though Larchmont revamped many of its zoning and planning laws in response to residents’ calls for less development, the original proposal to demolish
an historic home—40 Ocean Ave.—which sparked the moratorium, is still under threat of being razed. The village is currently awaiting an environmental impact statement from developers of the property, KOSL Building Group. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
Library Lane property sold for development
The village of Mamaroneck has settled on a parking application provider that will allow motorists to pay for metered parking using their smartphones. File photo
In Westchester County, the use of mobile app-powered parking payments has gained popularity with downtown business districts in White Plains, New Rochelle, Yonkers, Bronxville and Tarrytown employing their use. According to a study of industry professionals by the International Parking Institute, in 2015—the latest year for which data is available—the prevalence of mobile app parking systems grew by 47 percent. Meanwhile, according to Pew Research, 77 percent of adults in the U.S. say they own a smartphone. While the village has finalized a parking app provider, a decision on what to do with outdated
coin-operated parking meters currently stationed on Mamaroneck Avenue has yet to occur. In October 2017, the village board voted to retrofit multi-space meters in parking lots with new and more user-friendly machines. Upgrading the village’s parking meters is an issue that has dragged on for years after backlash against the potential installation of multi-space meters on Mamaroneck Avenue in 2015. An ad hoc parking committee and residential survey recommended single-space meters, but the village board has yet to bring that recommendation to a vote. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
This property, located at 145 Library Lane in the village of Mamaroneck, was recently sold for $800,000. The existing structure will be torn down to pave the way for a 9-unit apartment complex. Photo/trulia.com
Houlihan Lawrence’s commercial group has announced the sale of a 3,100-square-foot, one-story building at 145 Library Lane in Mamaroneck. The sale price was $800,000.The purchaser was Garson Properties of Mamaroneck which has approval to build an apartment complex on the site. Located at 145-149 Library Lane,
the new building will contain nine two-bedroom apartments, a rooftop deck and ground floor parking. In another recent transaction, Houlihan Lawrence was successful in securing a 10-year lease at 100 W. Boston Post Road in Mamaroneck. The property, which overlooks Mamaroneck Harbor Island, is regarded as the
entrance to “restaurant row” on Mamaroneck Avenue. Lum Yen Chinese Cuisine operated at this location for more than 45 years. The new restaurateur who has taken over the space is Antonio Mauro of La Vela Dining and Bar out of New York City. The new restaurant plans on opening this summer. (Submitted)
12 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • June 15, 2018
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Notice of Formation of 218 Ventures LLC. Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 05/07/2018. Office location: Westchester County. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 616 Stiles Ave., Mamaroneck, NY 10543. Purpose: any lawful activity. SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF ORANGE, 700 Civic Center Drive West, Santa Ana, CA 92701 Central Justice Center NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: AMERICA INTERNATIONAL 2001 VENTURE aka GEOTECH OIL VENTURE; CARL VALERI; and DOES 1 through 100, inclusive, YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: RICHARD A. ROSSBACK, CASE NO. 30-2017-00947996 NOTICE: You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney is: Michael Leight, Law Offices of Michael Leight, 6700 E. Pacific Coast Hwy., Suite 237, Long Beach, CA 90803 (562)430-1009.
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June 15, 2018 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 13
Picture House to advance screen ‘Leave No Trace’ Westchester County mulls treatment court for vets
Westchester County lawmakers met during a joint meeting on May 30 to discuss the possibility of establishing a veterans treatment court to divert veterans from the criminal justice system. Photo courtesy Westchester Democratic caucus
After visiting a veterans treatment court in the Bronx, Westchester lawmakers are aiming to establish one in the county in order to keep veterans out of the criminal justice system. According to Jason Chervokas, the communications director for the county’s Democratic caucus, legislators Catherine Borgia, Nancy Barr, Damon Maher and Catherine Parker toured the Bronx facility on June 4, and are in the process of developing a proposal to establish such a court in Westchester. The Westchester County Board of Legislators’ subcommittees on Social Services, and Budget and Appropriations discussed the idea
previously at a joint meeting on May 30. “Our visit to the Bronx veterans court gave Westchester judges and elected officials a powerful example of how a [county] veterans court can impact the lives of veterans,” said Borgia, an Ossining Democrat. “We owe the brave men and women who served our nation every opportunity to succeed.” Treatment courts were developed as a way to divert veterans with mental health issues from getting tangled up with the criminal justice system. According to county lawmakers, such a court could provide alternatives to incarceration for
veterans living in Westchester. Additionally, treatment courts are known for providing assistance to veterans that suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, brain injuries and substance abuse. Judge Kathie Davidson, an administrative judge for the New York’s 9th judicial district, which covers Westchester County, affirmed to lawmakers during the May 30 subcommittee meeting that she supports the establishment of such a court. As of press time, there is no timetable for when lawmakers will present the idea to the county Legislature. -Reporting by Franco Fino
QUIROS from page 1
The Pelham Picture House will run an advanced screening of “Leave No Trace,” the new movie starring Ben Foster, followed by a Q&A session with the film’s director Debra Granik.
On Wednesday, June 20 at 7:30 p.m., The Picture House Regional Film Center will host an advance screening of “Leave No Trace” followed by a Q&A with the Academy Award-nominated director Debra Granik. The film is set to have its theatrical debut on June 29. “Leave No Trace” tells the story of war veteran Will (Ben Foster) and his teenage daughter, Tom (Thomasin Harcourt McKenzie), who have lived off the grid for years in the forests of Portland, Oregon. When a small mistake tips them off to authorities, they are sent on an increasingly erratic journey in search of a place to call their own. After clashing with their new surroundings, Will and Tom set off on a harrowing journey back to their wild homeland.
After the film, Picture House critic-in-residence Marshall Fine will moderate a discussion and Q&A with Granik. Granik studied politics at Brandeis University and her first forays into operating a camera and collaborating on political documentation were with Boston-based media groups such as the Women’s Video Collective. After clocking considerable time in the world of educational media production, she had the chance to work on several long form documentaries by Boston-based filmmakers. From there, she moved to New York City to attend New York University’s Graduate Film Program. At NYU, Granik made several short films, one of which, “Snake Feed,” garnered an award at the Sundance Film Festival. She
expanded the story from “Snake Feed” into a longer script which formed the basis for the feature “Down to the Bone,” created with her producing partner, Anne Rosellini. “Down to the Bone,” was awarded the Best Director prize at the 2004 Sundance Film Festival. Her next film, “Winter’s Bone,” was nominated for four Oscars, including Best Picture, and won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival. Granik and co-writer Rosellini were Oscar-nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay. Tickets to the advance screening and discussion are $15/general admission, $12/students, seniors and members, and are available at thepicturehouse.org or at the box office, 175 Wolfs Lane, Pelham, NY 10803. (Submitted)
two white police officers. In April, he received two moving violations from a detective; a week later, he was issued a similar violation from a different officer. “Retaliation and hostility against me has to do with me being a part of the Latino community,” he said. “I keep bumping into the same police officers. I’m being stalked and abused.” A resident of Mamaroneck for more than 40 years, Quiros has a history of activism in the village that has led him to become a polarizing figure for some. In 2006, Quiros was involved in a lawsuit against the police department in which a federal judge found officers harassed Hispanic day laborers because of their ethnicity by closing their former hiring site and increasing police patrols in spots where they gathered. The village ultimately settled with the laborers for $500,000. In 2012, he was arrested while sitting in his car outside of his 144 Rockland Ave. home, for report-
Local activist Luis Quiros plans to file a lawsuit against the village of Mamaroneck for harassment by its police department. File photo
edly looking suspicious. He was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest as a result of the encounter. A year later, Quiros orchestrated protests against Bar Harbor Grill, an East Boston Post Road restaurant that allegedly neglected to pay a number of day laborers for renovations that had been done to the property. A class ac-
tion lawsuit was filed against the restaurant for withholding wages from the laborers, who were mostly immigrants. Village Mayor Tom Murphy, a Democrat, declined to comment about the pending lawsuit. Leahy could not be reached for comment, as of press time. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
14 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • June 15, 2018
SPORTS
Stepping out for football LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
As I’m quickly finding out, recovering from surgery is never fun. On May 21, I went under the knife to have a broken shoulder repaired, and the last few weeks have been trying to say the least. I’m dealing with constant pain throughout the day, falling asleep is a chore, and even the tasks that I once took for granted—say, putting on a t-shirt—have become frustrating endeavors that have me ready to throw up my hands in despair, if only I had that sort of range of motion. But by and large, the toughest part of my recovery process hasn’t been the pain, it’s been the isolation. Without the ability to drive, I’ve been stuck at home, unable to head into the office or to cover the high school sporting events of the last month. With Netflix as my only constant companion, I’ve gotten a bit stir-crazy, as periodic walks to the corner store
seem to be my only connection to the outside world. But on Saturday, I’d finally had enough. Disobeying my doctor’s orders, I grabbed my camera, hopped in an Uber and headed up to Briarcliff High School to cover the Big Apple 7 on 7 Shootout for a few hours. And boy, am I glad I did. One of the things you take for granted in life is simply the energy of being around people on a day-to-day basis. And there are few events I cover each year that have as much energy as the Big Apple Shootout. For most teams, the Big Apple Shootout represents the true start to football season. Sure, the preseason doesn’t open up for another two months, but tournaments like this one are a prelude to the summer sessions that get our athletes ready. It’s the first chance teams have to run their offense against other programs, and even if there isn’t any hitting—or pads for that matter— the intensity is there as players psych themselves up for the long road ahead. And it’s not just the athletes
who are buzzing. Coaches come into the tournament eager to see what the new crop of athletes will bring to the table; fans nervously chat about which underclassmen made the biggest strides in the offseason; and Rye football staple Luke Walsh, as always, patrols the sidelines, exhorting the Garnets on with unbridled enthusiasm. If the weather didn’t give it away, I could have sworn it was October. Of course, I ended up paying for my little jaunt up north. My shoulder is in no way ready for me to come back and take photos on an every day basis. In fact, I spent the next two days in excruciating pain, icing my broken wing around the clock just to be able to type this story. But you know what? It was worth it. Just to be able to spend a few hours among 20 or so teams all working toward a common goal reminded me of what I’m working toward with my own physical therapy; not only getting out of the house, but getting back on the sidelines where
On June 9, a Rye defender makes a play against Panas at the Big Apple 7 on 7 Shootout at Briarcliff High School. Sports Editor Mike Smith was happy to be back on the sidelines this past weekend. Photo/Mike Smith
I belong. Besides, I’ve watched just about everything Netflix has to
offer at this point. I’m ready to watch some real drama unfold this fall.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
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Locals compete at
SPORTS
Big Apple showdown By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On June 9, a number of area football programs got their first taste of summer competition as they took the field at Briarcliff High School for the annual Big Apple 7 on 7 Classic. The event, which serves as the unofficial start to summer workouts, was attended by schools from Section I and beyond, and gave coaches an idea of what they will be working with once the 2018 season kicks off in earnest on Aug 12. Bronx-based CHSAA squad Cardinal Hayes emerged as the overall champion at the passing tournament, besting a 21-team field that included Section I powers like 2017 Class A runner-up
Rye, Class B hopefuls Rye Neck, host Briarcliff and others. For reigning Class D champion Tuckahoe High School, the smallest school in the mix, the chance to mix it up against larger schools including Class B Bronxville and the eventual champs from Hayes, helped set the tone for upcoming summer workouts. The setup of the Big Apple Classic, which focuses on the passing game without the inclusion of linemen, allowed quarterbacks, receivers and running backs to work on their routes against different defensive coverages in a controlled scenario. “It was our first time competing at the 7 on 7 and it was a great experience for our guys,” Tuckahoe head coach Tom Itri said. “At
A player makes a catch against Rye Neck at Briarcliff High School. Photos/Mike Smith
this point, it’s about gaining more familiarity with our offense and working on replacing the core group that just graduated.” While some schools, like Rye, came into Saturday’s tournament with some key returners including quarterback Declan Lavelle, the Tigers are incorporating a number of new players into starting roles, like junior signal-caller Justin Lee as he takes over for three-year starter Matt Annunziata who will be playing for Curry College in the fall. “It’s been a very easy transition for us because even though Justin didn’t get a lot of reps behind Matt last year, he got the chance to learn under a three-year starter,” Itri said. “And we just used Saturday as a chance to get him more comfortable with the offense without the running
game involved.” Using the Big Apple tournament as a starting point, local programs will now look ahead toward the summer months, where voluntary workouts will help prepare the players for the fall campaign. For smaller programs like Tuckahoe, which will need to replenish its numbers before two-a-days begin, Saturday’s showing will hopefully build enthusiasm among potential players who might be inclined to come out for the football team. “We were lucky enough to finish last season with 39 guys on the roster, but being a smaller school, we’re hoping to use the summer workouts as a chance to get guys on the roster and use our returning players to build participation,” Itri said. “We know that our current players are the best recruiting tool we have so we want to have as many people come to our workouts as possible and see if football is for them.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
June 15, 2018 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 15
Tuckahoe quarterback Justin Lee runs with an interception on June 9. Lee will take over the Tigers’ offense this year after the graduation of longtime starter Matt Annunziata.
Mekhi Clark, member of the Tuckahoe Tigers, battles Bronxville defenders for a ball at Briarcliff High School. Several area programs turned out for this year’s Big Apple classic.
16 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • June 15, 2018