Mamaroneck REVIEW THE
November 11, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 46 | www.mamaroneckreview.com
Democrats score sizable victory, retain board majority Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino announced a potential 40-year, public-private partnership with the investment firm Oaktree Management to operate Westchester Airport. The deal is expected tobring in $140 million in additional revenue for the county. For story, see page 6. File photo
Latimer bests Killian to hold onto State Senate seat By SIBYLLA CHIPAZIWA Assistant Editor In a battle of neighbors, New York state Sen. George Latimer held on to his 37th District seat after a contentious campaign against Republican Julie Killian. As polls closed at 9 p.m. on
Nov. 8, some Latimer supporters started to trickle into Rosa’s La Scarbitta Ristorante on Halstead Avenue in the village of Mamaroneck, two doors down from Latimer’s campaign headquarters. According to unofficial results from the Westchester
County Board of Elections as of press time, Latimer, a Rye Democrat, won with 66,751 or 55 percent of votes to Killian’s 53,975 or 45 percent with 99 percent of districts reporting. For Latimer, the win continues a streak of 17 consecutive election victories without tasting de-
feat. But the wins have not always been easy. “We’ve turned politics into a blood sport; we’ve turned it into a demolition derby, and that’s not what politics is,” he said. At his headquarters as the LATIMER continued on page 8
By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Village of Mamaroneck incumbent Trustee Leon Potok and newly elected trustees Keith Waitt and Victor Tafur came out victorious in what turned out to be an indisputable election with political control of the village at stake. The scene at Bar’Lees Wine & Whisky Bar on Mamaroneck Avenue, which served as the headquarters for the Democratic candidates, was animated and festive as the polls closed and the final ballots were cast. Shortly after 9 p.m. on Nov. 8, volunteers and supporters of the Democratic candidates gathered around a television depicting the results, which were presented on a digital spreadsheet. “I’m super nervous right now,” whispered one supporter as Tafur and Waitt huddled around the television screen. Despite the nerve-wracking atmosphere, momentum shifted completely in favor of the Democrats after results poured in from several village districts. By around 9:30 p.m., the Democratic candidates and their supporters had declared victory. According to unofficial results from the Westchester County Board of Elections, as of press time, Tafur, with 3,710 votes, Waitt, with 3,560, and Potok, with 3,550, handily defeated
their Republican counterparts; Joerne Malte Stoeckhert captured 2,758 votes, Maria Derose scored 2,995, and Dennis Cucinella picked up 3,000. “Our campaign was steady and clear, and I think it fits the moment in this difficulty,” Tafur told the Review after his victory speech. “I’m humbled and hope my words and intensions are well-received. We purposefully focused on keeping a positive campaign; it wasn’t a risky move, but you take your chances on doing that and it definitely helped.” The campaign was hardfought, with candidates taking the offensive to call out the divisiveness of the current village board. However, there is no doubt that the results depended heavily on voter turnout, according to Waitt. “We always knew that the village’s majority was Democratic,” Waitt told the Review. “We thought, if we could get the voters out, we should have a good DEMS continued on page 9
2 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • November 11, 2016
November 11, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 3
Village votes to restrict mayor’s powers
Following a failed lawsuit and heated discourse between village board Democrats and Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, second from left, the mayor’s powers have been minimized after two separate propositions saw broad support from village voters on Election Day. Photo/James Pero
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer Two controversial public referendums altering Republican Mayor Norman Rosenblum’s powers of appointment passed overwhelmingly amid a wave of Democratic voter turnout across the village of Mamaroneck on Tuesday night. The referendums—one altering the mayor’s appointment to zoning and planning boards, and the other his sole power to appoint a village attorney—passed by 59 percent and 60 percent, respectively. According to unofficial numbers from the Westchester County Board of Elections, as of press time, Proposition No. 1—changing the appointment of volunteers to land use boards from the mayor to a majority of the village board—garnered 3,428 votes of support to 2,306 opposed, while Proposition No. 2—altering the mayor’s powers to appoint a village attorney— saw 3,374 votes in favor compared to 2,298 against. Incumbent Trustee Leon Potok, a Democrat, who won reelection this week in a sweeping victory for village Democrats, views the decision as a return to a more equitable form of government. “Resoundingly across the vil-
lage, voters in Democratic and Republican districts preferred to have five people making decisions,” he said. “…Voters were in favor of more representation and democracy in choosing the village attorney and the land use and planning board members.” The passage of both referendums comes after a heated battle between Rosenblum and village board Democrats over what they have called a blatant overreach by the mayor. Democrats have criticized the mayor of taking advantage of a loophole known as the “hold over” rule that allows him appoint land use board members sans board approval. The rule, Democrats say, is exploited when a vacancy— through resignation or removal— is created on a land use board and an interim is appointed. Once the remainder of the term is filled by the interim, the board must vote on whether or not keep the appointee for another term. If the vote is not unanimous, then the appointment stays, meaning the mayor is able to keep the interim official in by simply voting no. Additionally, Democrats have criticized the mayor’s appointment power of the village attorney position as inequitable, citing that the attorney would then be beholden to the mayor.
Rosenblum has written off the Democrats’ initiatives as “petty politics.” Despite the mayor’s best efforts to fight off both propositions by filing an unsuccessful lawsuit against the village board Democratic majority claiming violations to state Open Meetings Law during the board’s approval of the ballot initiatives, both changes are now set in stone. “That’s what the people want and that’s what you go with,” said Rosenblum, adding that the amount of votes for the propositions came as a surprise. “I’m still the mayor, just with different parameters, obviously.” With an electoral sweep this week, Democrats will maintain their village board majority, making the passage of the propositions ironclad going forward and new guidelines a coup for a party looking for greater control over village government. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
4 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • November 11, 2016
What’s going on... Mamaroneck Public Library
dren’s Room. No registration required. There will be stories will 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.
Free SAT/ACT math prep and homework help
Visit mamaronecklibrary.org for more information on library hours and programs.
Do You Need Health Insurance? Make an appointment for a one-on-one information session with a Westchester County health department navigator, who will be in the library’s Tech Room on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Representatives will answer questions about health insurance-related topics, including essential plans, Medicaid, Child Health Plus and health coverage for business owners’ employees. Clients should be prepared with their Social Security numbers, documents for legal immigrants, birth dates, employer and income information and insurance policy numbers. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the Westchester County Department of Health at 813-5192. Appointments are available in English and in Spanish.
All ages story and craft hour On Saturdays from 11 a.m. to noon in the Chil-
On Mondays from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. for middle and high school-aged teens. Former high school math teacher Lynne Prior will be on hand to answer any questions in the Mamaroneck Teen Library on the lower level. The schedule follows that of the Mamaroneck school district, so if there is no school, there is no tutor.
shelves and weeding out the materials that are not selling. Books are organized by author and genre. Those who love books and have a knack for organizing should consider volunteering for a few hours per week. Funds raised from the book sales help the library buy extra copies of popular books and materials. For more information on volunteering, call 698-1250.
Larchmont Public Library
The Woman’s Club of Larchmont Country music presentation
Homework Help On Mondays from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Teen Library. For grades 6–9. Homework Help follows the Mamaroneck school district schedule. If the schools are closed, there will be no sessions. Call the Mamaroneck Teen Library at 630-5875 for more information.
Book Sale Room volunteers needed The Mamaroneck Public Library has a wonderful Book Sale Room, thanks to the generosity of patrons who donate their slightly used books, DVDs and music CDs. The room is open daily during library hours and all materials can be purchased at very affordable prices. The library is currently looking for volunteers to help organize the Book Sale Room and keep it tidy. Tasks include putting all books in order on the
Senior Gaming Thursdays On Thursday, Nov. 17 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Do you think electronic games are just for kids? Well, think again. Come to the Village Center and find out how much fun electronic games can be. The library will be featuring electronic bowling. And who doesn’t get a thrill from knocking down all 10 pins for a strike? Only in this game, there’s no heavy bowling ball. Come out and see if you can bowl a perfect game.
Visit larchmontlibrary.org for more information on library hours and programs.
LEGO Free Play On Sunday, Nov. 13 and 20 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. No registration required but parent or caregiver must attend. Come to the library and see what you can create from our library LEGO collection. This program will be self-guided and adult supervision is required at all times.
New tax laws seminar On Monday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Village Center. No registration required. Tax filing season is just around the corner. It’s never too soon to learn how the changes in tax laws will impact you. Join tax expert Brenda Stuart-Luke for this free informative seminar and learn how you can keep more of your money in your pocket this tax year.
Alzheimer’s disease workshop On Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 11 a.m. at the Village Center. No registration required. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory loss or behavioral changes, it’s time to learn the facts. Early detection of Alzheimer’s disease gives you a change to begin drug therapy, enroll in clinical studies and plan for the future. This free, interactive workshop presented by the Alzheimer’s Association will feature video clips of people with Alzheimer’s disease and give you an opportunity to get the facts you need.
3-D programming and printing On Wednesdays, Nov. 16 and 30 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. For grades 6–12. Online registration required. Participants must be able to attend all four workshops. This workshop consists of four 90-minute sessions, enabling teens to build an understanding of 3-D programming and printing. Starting with the history of 3-D printing and how these printers work, participants will learn how to use 3-D modeling software. Participants will make simple objects, like name tag key chains, before having the opportunity to model an object of their own design. The culmination of the program will be a reception in The LOFT, the library’s new young adult space, on Wednesday, Dec. 7. This program partially funded by a grant from the Westchester Library System.
The Woman’s Club of Larchmont will present a program on country music on Friday, Nov. 18 at 1:30 p.m. at Larchmont Avenue Church, located at 60 Forest Park Ave. in Larchmont. Singer, musician and storyteller Gayden Wren as Tennessee Walt will explore an often overlooked slice of America’s musical heritage—country music. The classic country of the 1930s through the ‘60s, with the music of such giants as the Carter family, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson will be part of the musical presentation. In addition, Walt will entertain all with the history of country music, including these little known details: Did you know which Country Music Hall of Fame member won a Pulitzer Prize, or who studied physics with Albert Einstein? Come and learn about America’s musical evolution and hear some of the funniest, most moving and most musically engaging songs ever written. The program is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Lorraine Stratis at 834-6012.
Village of Mamaroneck news Annual Turkey Trot 5K The village of Mamaroneck is happy to announce its 50th annual Turkey Trot 5K (3.1 miles) Fun Run on Sunday, Nov. 20. Registration opens at 8 a.m., but is also available and encouraged online at register. chronotrack.com/r/24040. Registration is $30. The race start is at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Boston Post Road right by Library Lane. Parking and registration is will be in Harbor Island Park. There will also be a 1-mile Gobbler Run for younger children and others who would prefer or whose running abilities match a shorter distance. The village is also welcoming runners and interested parties to bring non-perishable food items to the race to benefit the Larchmont/Mamaroneck Food Pantry and provide food assistance to those in need for the upcoming holidays.
Village of Larchmont news Down to Earth Farmers Market On Saturdays from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. through Dec. 17. The farmers market is located at the Metro-North parking deck off Chatsworth Ave. Peruse produce, meat, seafood, baked goods, specialty foods and much more through the summer and fall and support local farmers and businesses. 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.
November 11, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 5
Letters to the Editor
Thank you for your support To the Editor, My deep appreciation to the voters of Westchester County for their strong vote of confidence on my third term as senator. I look forward to working with the community over the next two years to fight for the issues we care about. State Sen. George Latimer, Rye
About Letters to the Editor Publication is not guaranteed. We reserve the right to edit letters for content or space, at our discretion, without notification from the company. We reserve the right to reject submissions at our discretion without notice to the author. Sorry, but we are unable to notify authors in advance if and when a letter will be printed. Deadline for submission is Friday before publication. The maximum length of letters that appear in our pages is 625 words, but letters are usually significantly shorter to accommodate space needs. The letter should be signed and include
the writer’s address and phone number for verification purposes. We will not publish letters that cannot be verified. Publication by frequent letter writers will be limited to one per month. The opinions of letter writers do not reflect those of this newspaper. Please submit via fax to (914) 6535000 or email to chris@hometwn.com or via post to Home Town Media Group, C/O Letters to the Editor, 170 Hamilton Avenue, White Plains, NY 10601. We do not accept unsolicited Op-Ed submissions, film reviews, or food reviews.
6 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • November 11, 2016
Mamaroneck THE
REVIEW
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Astorino looks to repurpose revenue from county airport
Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com
By JAMES PERO Staff Writer
Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com
A potential 40-year agreement announced by Republican Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino looks to privatize management of the county’s airport in exchange for more than $100 million in additional tax revenue. The potential deal, announced by the Astorino administration last week, would put the investment firm, Oaktree Capital Management, in charge of $30 million in improvements at the 70-year-old facility—which sees about 1.75 million passengers per year—and would look to alter a current management agreement with the company AvPorts to allow revenue from the airport to be used for general budgetary purposes for the first time in Westchester’s history.
Reporter | James Pero ext. 20, james@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising | Lynne Starr ext. 29, lynne@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writers Corey Stockton, Franco Fino Staff Photographers Bobby Begun, Andrew Dapolite Columnist Lenore Skenazy
“We are creating a reliable, long-term source of funding that will assist taxpayers, help pay for parks, police, day care and all of our other services, and enhance the passenger experience at our airport,” Astorino said regarding the 700-acre facility located in White Plains. The county hopes that through applying under an FAA airport privatization program rolled out under former President Bill Clinton, revenue from the airport would be authorized for use outside of the airport’s immediate needs.Currently, any revenue generated by the facility is required to be spent by the county at the airport according to the current lease. According to administration officials, the county would see $15 million in revenue from the deal within the first year, $5 mil-
lion annually over the next four years, and $2 million annually for the remainder of the lease agreement. The agreement would also see Oaktree investing its capital in both general amenities as well as the airport’s IT; specifically a renovated passenger lounge, concessions, and a reconfigured ticketing and boarding system. While Astorino has lauded the deal as a potential wellspring of extra revenue for the county, Democratic lawmakers—who would be in charge of vetting and approving a final iteration of the plan—have criticized the administration’s attempt to tie approval for the proposal to the county’s Dec. 27 budget deadline. “To expect the board to vote on a $140 million public-private partnership for one of our county’s assets, and tying it to the
While Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino has lauded a publicprivate partnership with the investment firm Oaktree Management as a means of shoring up extra revenue at the county airport, his Democratic counterparts in the county’s legislative branch have raised flags. Photos courtesy Westchester County
budget, is just unrealistic,” said Legislator Catherine Parker, a Rye Democrat. Other similar agreements, Parker said, like a $60 million public-private management contract for Playland, have required much longer vetting periods. “The due diligence required for these deals is often very complex, and as we saw with the Playland deal, it took six years for there to be a finalized plan,”
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Westchester County Airport is open 24/7 and currently served by six passenger airlines and sees about 1.75 million travelers a year, with nonstop service and connections nationwide and worldwide.
Parker said. Likewise, Legislator Ken Jenkins, a Yonkers Democrat, said that expecting a proper analysis from the county Board of Legislators before the budget adoption deadline is “completely unrealistic.” “There are still significant questions about the lease proposal itself,” said Jenkins, who plans to run for county executive in 2017. Among the reservations regarding the current proposal, Jenkins listed the lack of any request for proposals process—a public proposal process that is used to attract and compare potential managers—as well as reservations on whether or not the county will actually qualify to restructure under the FAA’s guidelines. In a release from the Astorino administration, officials made clear to point out that the airport would still be owned by the county, but managed by Oaktree under a new lease. As a part of the agreement, administration officials said, responsibility for capital projects at the airport would also be transferred to the new management company. Currently, as announced last month in a preliminary capital budget, the county is looking to spend $11 million in infrastructure and improvements at the airport. The county’s budget was released on Nov. 10, after press time.A spokesperson for the county executive could not be reached for comment as of press time. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
November 11, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 7
Officials scramble to salvage restaurant for 2017
The Rye Town Park Commission is now faced with no food and beverage to offer patrons of the park for the 2017 season, after the current owners and operators of Seaside Johnnies, John Ambrose and Sam Chernin, announced that they would not accept a one-year extension for next year. File photo
By FRANO FINO Staff Writer The Rye Town Park Commission is now scrambling to address a looming restaurant vacancy, following the unofficial departure of John Ambrose and Sam Chernin, the current owners and operators of Rye Town Park’s Seaside Johnnies. During a park commission meeting on Oct. 18, the commission unanimously voted to extend Seaside Johnnies’ current deal, which expires at the end of 2016, for a year in fear of the potential of a vacant restaurant next season. But, on Nov. 4, Ambrose told the Review that he plans on rejecting the one-year offer. “I won’t accept a one-year deal,” Ambrose said. “After running the business for 17 years, it just doesn’t make any sense for me at this point.” In September, after receiving a number of alarming emails from residents who felt that they were not thoroughly involved in choosing a new operator, the park commission rejected a 10-year proposal from Ambrose, which came in response to a June request for proposals, RFP, the commission sent out seeking solicitors interested in operating a restaurant at the park.Initially, two restaurant proposals were submitted to the park commission in response to a request for proposals. Ambrose was proposing to
expand on his current restaurant theme while adding a tropical twist. Seaside Johnnies, which overlooks Oakland Beach and the Long Island Sound—it opens seasonally from April until September—was first opened in Rye Town Park in 2000. Angelo Liberatore, an operating partner of the Fort Pond Bay Company—which operates Half Moon in Dobbs Ferry, Harvest on Hudson in HastingOn-Hudson, and East by Northeast and The Stone Lion Inn in Montauk—proposed to operate a full-service, seafood-focused concept restaurant. However, the restaurateur withdrew his plan from consideration sensing he would not have enough time to prepare for the 2017 season. Despite the risk of losing approximately $100,000 as a result Ambrose walking away with no alternative in place for the 2017 season, some members of the commission are still hopeful.“It’s not certain that he’s not going to accept the one-year license extension,” said Rye Town Supervisor Gary Zuckerman, a Democrat and president of the commission. “I hope to be able to discuss the situation face-to-face with Mr. Ambrose.” However, Ambrose told the Review that unless the commission is willing to offer a longer deal, he will step aside and just submit a new proposal when
the commission is forced to send out a new RFP. “I think the door is still open for a longer term, or at least I hope so,” he said. Prior to Ambrose rejecting the one-year extension, last month the commission voted to hire a restaurant consultant and reopen a new request for proposals geared toward 2018 for the restaurant space. In light of that, Liberatore told the Review that he plans on submitting a proposal to operate a restaurant at Rye Town Park beginning in 2018. “I would love to do something with [Rye Town Park],” Liberatore said when reached on Monday by the Review. “I would have to look at the request for proposals, first, but I would most likely resubmit a proposal.” The Rye Town Park Commission—which consists of representatives from the city and town of Rye, the villages of Port Chester and Rye Brook, and the Rye Neck section of the village of Mamaroneck—is responsible for setting policy at the park and governing its operations. The commission conducted a special closed-door meeting on Nov. 9 to discuss the situation with the restaurant space, according to Zuckerman. Rye City Councilwoman Julie Killian, a Republican and a member of the commission, declined to comment when reached by phone. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
8 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • November 11, 2016
Living with food allergies workshop
LATIMER from page 1
State Sen. George Latimer celebrates with supporters in Mamaroneck after hearing that he had clinched his race against Julie Killian. Photo/Andrew Dapolite
first numbers came in, Meg Cameron, chairwoman of the Rye City Democratic Committee, said that she was not surprised at the results. “George’s achievements and long record of service are much greater than Julie’s, even though they’re both well-known and respected in the community,” she said. However, much of the talk among Democrats on election night was of a Killian television ad accusing Latimer of turning a blind eye to sexual assault in Albany. Cameron added that she was “very disappointed” at how the campaign played out. “Given this is a ‘hometown’ race, and Rye is kind of a small town, [Killian] ran such an ugly campaign,” Cameron said. Surrounded by other prominent elected officials representing Westchester, Latimer celebrated another win. “I had a good feeling, but I know that it was going to be a competitive race,” Latimer, 62, told the Review after declaring victory. “I have great respect for my opponent, and whatever we disagreed on, I never did not respect her skill set as an advocate.” In Port Chester, Killian, a Rye City councilwoman, held camp at Saltaire Oyster Bar amid a contingent of supporters that remained hopeful well into the night as the numbers started to climb in her opponent’s favor.
Overall Killian said she was pleased with the way her campaign was run and learned a lot over the last eight months. Her advocates stressed the need to bring reform issues to the forefront, most notably a push for term limits on elected officials in Albany. “The fight for term limits, tax and mandate relief, fair school funding, drug abuse education, special needs responsiveness and economic growth will continue,” she said. “I hope that Albany will take up the mantle on these challenges.” Although Republican Donald Trump followed through with a historic upset, his successful candidacy did little to help Westchester Republicans further down the ballot. “While President-elect Trump ran strong across the country, including in parts of upstate New York, Secretary Clinton had a strong showing in Democratic Westchester County, winning almost 65 percent of the vote,” Killian said. “I’m proud to have earned the support of many Democrats, Independents and Republicans, performing 12 percent better than the top of the ticket.” Following the defeat, speculation is sure to ensue whether Killian, 56, will consider running for the seat again in two years. Latimer stressed that the Senate seat is not a “blank check”
given to him. “It’s a promissory note that I have given to the voters,” he said. “I now have to produce along the lines that I said in discussions and debates. The burden is on me to prove that I’ve meant everything I’ve said, and I intend to execute.” Standing on a wooden chair in the small but intimate gathering at Rosa’s, Latimer thanked his supporters amid applause and chants of his name. “When you win [a political campaign], the work begins. And we have plenty of work in the state of New York,” he said. The soon-to-be three-term senator talked about the need for reform, getting education policy focused locally, stronger environmental protections and dealing with the high property tax burden as just some of what needs to be done. “The only way you can judge us is how well we fight for those issues,” he said. -With reporting by Christian Falcone
CONTACT: sibylla@hometwn.com
Are you or your family struggling with food allergies? One of the nation’s leading research organizations, FARE, estimates that “15 million Americans have food allergies.... This potentially deadly disease affects one in 13 children in the U.S., that’s roughly two in every classroom.” According to a 2013 study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “food allergies among children increased approximately 50 percent between 1997 and 2011.” This health concern is reaching epidemic proportions. Learning that you or a loved one has a food allergy is often overwhelming. Living with food allergies can negatively impact quality of life. Most people recently diagnosed are unsure where to gather information. They are insecure about managing food in and outside the home, frustrated by the feeling that their lives are restricted and that their kids don’t always feel included. Parents report high levels of stress and fear, as they
must constantly be vigilant to avoid exposure to allergens and prepared to respond to potentially life-threatening reactions. The Food Allergy Resource Group’s workshops are compassionately delivered and infused with mindbody techniques to mediate this stress and fear. There will be a 90-minute workshop, called “Transforming Perspectives on Living with Food Allergies,” to help families identify sensible practices when navigating schools, restaurants, camps, extracurricular activities, celebrations and travel. It will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 15 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Mamaroneck Self Storage, Community Room, 426 Waverly Ave. in Mamaroneck. Presented by Lori Moussapour and Megan Graham, cofounders of the Food Allergy Resource Group LLC. Cost: $10 for first-time customers. Email info@foodallergyresourcegroup.com to receive a discount code prior to registra-
tion. Workshop ticket value: $50. To register or to learn more, visit foodallergyresourcegroup. com or call 802-884-3274. Through support, education and empowerment, the Food Allergy Resource Group aims to promote more sensitive, informed and inclusive communities. Its fall workshops help families identify sensible practices, and are informational and educational only. While they do not provide any medical resources or counsel, they meet a growing need for support for day-to-day life with food allergies. Moussapour and Graham are parents of children with multiple food allergies who understand first hand their clients’ journey. As educators, coaches and consultants, they founded the Food Allergy Resource Group to help others just beginning this journey. Both are Red Cross-certified instructors; they offer clients the Red Cross Anaphylaxis and Epinephrine Auto Injector Course. (Submitted)
VFW, Kemper to hold fundraising event VFW Post 1156 and the Kemper Memorial Park Preservation Fund will co-host a fundraising event on Saturday, Nov. 12 from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at VFW Post 1156, located at 1288 Boston Post Road in Larchmont. Admission is free and refreshments will be served. 100 percent of the donations received will facilitate the final phase of the Kemper Memorial Park Beautification Project and all donations are tax deductible to the extent provided by law. Also on display that evening will be a private collection of Saturday Evening Post magazines with cover illustrations by Norman Rockwell. These magazines contain numerous examples of how Rockwell’s art helped to rally our nation’s war effort. The collection’s owner has generously agreed to offer several of these issues for sale and will donate all proceeds to the Kemper Memorial Park Beautification Project. Further details will be explained during the event. Entertainment will be provided by Two Shoes, No Shoes in honor of the 101st birthday of their World War II veteran friend. Two Shoes, No Shoes
Two Shoes, No Shoes will perform at VFW Post 1156 and the Kemper Memorial Park Preservation Fund’s fundraising event on Nov. 12. Contributed photos
is an acoustic duo consisting of vocalist Rebecca Bitondo and vocalist and mandolinist Tasha Gross. These two talented young ladies have been best friends since childhood and have been singing and playing together for nearly a decade with a repertoire to match their varied experienc-
es. They have requested that 100 percent of gratuities they receive for this performance be donated to the Kemper Memorial Park Beautification Project. Please come on Nov. 12 to enjoy the show and to support a worthwhile cause to honor our veterans. (Submitted)
November 11, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 9
Westchester considers ‘puppy mill’ law By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer Some Westchester lawmakers are considering a bill that would put a tighter leash on pet stores in the county. The so-called puppy mill law, an amendment to the county’s existing animal sales law, would place restrictions on where owners of pet stores in the county are allowed to buy dogs and cats from in an effort to stem the mistreatment of animals, which are commercially bred in an environment that is unsafe or unhealthy. However, the county Legislation Committee has already seen backlash from local pet dealers, who say the current proposal is too ambiguous and unfairly restrictive.“It’s going to minimize where I can buy from,” Gary Nudelman, owner of NY Pet Breeder in White Plains, told the committee on Oct. 31. “I have a successful business model for 33 years. So you guys are now telling me who I can and cannot buy from.” The proposed law restricts pet store owners from buying dogs or cats from breeders who have received any citations from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, USDA, in the previous three years or who have received a cease and desist or a civil penalty in the previous five years. However, in an email to the Legislation Committee, Courtney Hogan, government affairs specialist for the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council, said that the county’s proposal doesn’t take into account the basis for which the USDA issues certain
Westchester County lawmakers are considering a law which would regulate which breeders a pet vendor gets its dogs and cats from, but some merchants say the proposed law would be too restrictive. Photo courtesy ny-petrescue.org
citations. “An indirect violation, by nature of the USDA code, is really a teaching moment,” Hogan said, adding for example that USDA issues citations for food containers not being tightly sealed, or for a breeder not being present for an unscheduled inspection. Legislator Jim Maisano, a New Rochelle Republican who sponsored the bill, said the committee will make amendments to the most recent draft before discussing the legislation further. “We’re going through all the feedback,” he told the Review. “We have lots of notes.” According to the most recent draft of the legislation, the penalty for violating any of the restrictions outlined in the law would include fines of between $100 and $500. The county proposal has been preceded by newly adopted local
laws in six separate Westchester communities. The first municipal puppy mill law in the county was passed in the village of Mamaroneck in February. Since then, similar laws have been passed in Harrison, Rye Brook, Port Chester, Mount Pleasant and Yorktown. A similar law in New Rochelle is also being considered; but city officials are waiting for the results of litigation surrounding New York City’s version of its law before making a decision. The county is taking similar precautions. “The purpose of the law is to pass something that is effective,” said Legislator Virginia Perez, a Yonkers Democrat. “We’re not overreaching; we are protecting both pets and the people that deal with them. We don’t want to leave it open for cases of litigation.” However, the county’s bill, which has been in the works for more than a year, does not include the same restrictions as those of its municipalities. Each of the municipalities’ laws resembled that of Mamaroneck, which stipulates that a pet store owner could only obtain its animals from a humane society or shelter located within Westchester. Violations of those laws can incur a fine of up to $1,000. “We’ve been advised by legal counsel that those laws are questionably legal,” Maisano said. A bill signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, in 2014 delegated laws regulating the sale of pets to municipalities. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
Fox drunk driving case adjourned to Nov. 15 Emma Fox, of Rye, who struck and killed a 21-year-old Manhattanville College student in October, is due to reappear in White Plains City Court on Nov. 15 after her Nov. 1 court date was adjourned. On Oct. 9, Fox, 24, struck and killed Robby Schartner, of Fishkill, while he was walking along Westchester Avenue in White Plains in the early morning hours on his way back to the college after a night out on Mamaroneck Avenue in downtown White Plains. Fox has been charged with an aggravated DWI
and first-degree vehicular manslaughter. Police reported that Fox had been intoxicated at the time of the incident with a blood alcohol content of 0.21; the legal limit in New York state is 0.08. White Plains police reported Fox had been travelling eastbound on Westchester Avenue at about 5 a.m. when she fatally struck Schartner with her car, a 2012 Nissan Sentra. Stephen Lewis, Fox’s attorney, and White Plains police Lt. Eric Fischer could not be reached for comment, as of press time. -Reporting by Franco Fino
Emma Fox was due to appear in White Plains City Court on Nov.1, but the case was adjourned to Nov. 15. Photo courtesy White Plains police
DEMS from page 1
chance to win. We now know that the village came out with [one of] the highest turnouts in many decades, and that played out well for us.” Amid the celebration, it seemed that residents shared the views the Democratic candidates trumpeted throughout the campaign: sensible development, environmental sustainability and community involvement. “We have a lot of hard work ahead of us in implementing those policies and visions that we talked about throughout our campaign,” Potok told the Review. “Voters didn’t get distracted by the issues that have been thrown out there, and now we
Newly elected trustees Keith Waitt, left, and Victor Tafur anxiously await the preliminary election results to appear on the digital spreadsheet at the Democrats’ headquarters. Photos/Mike Smith
will approach the divisions within the community.” Republicans stationed at the Elks Lodge on Boston Post Road took on a different tone. Amidst a dejected crowd, Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican, offered his concession and
Democratic candidate Keith Waitt, accompanied by his son, celebrates his victory at Bar’Lees Wine & Whisky Bar on Mamaroneck Avenue on election night.
words of encouragement. “We certainly accept the decision of the voters in the village of Mamaroneck,” he said. “Regardless of the outcome, I will continue to be the chief cheerleader for the village along with [Trustee] Louis Santoro.” In the end, Republicans never gained the momentum that the party had hoped for as their ticket never seemed to outline an official platform of its own. And as a result, Democrats will once again hold onto the village board majority for another two years, something Republicans have been unable to wrestle control of since 2009. -With reporting by James Pero
CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com
10 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • November 11, 2016
Mamaroneck & Larchmont Home Sales Listings provided by the office of Westchester County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni Photos courtesy Zillow.com, Trulia.com, Hotpads.com, Spotproperty.com & Maps.google.com
2 Heather Lane, Larchmont $860,000 Sale Date: 8/1/16
5 Avon Road, Larchmont $2,050,000 Sale Date: 7/25/16
6 Senate Place, Larchmont $819,500 Sale Date: 7/28/16
6 Spanish Cove, Larchmont $2,500,000 Sale Date: 7/27/16
9 Cliff Way, Larchmont $1,010,000 Sale Date: 8/1/16
11 Crescent Road, Larchmont $1,230,000 Sale Date: 7/28/16
17 Huguenot Drive, Larchmont $1,805,000 Sale Date: 8/2/16
17 Overlook Terrace, Larchmont $1,201,000 Sale Date: 7/28/16
22 Linden Avenue, Larchmont $2,785,000 Sale Date: 7/27/16
23 Dante Street, Larchmont $1,450,000 Sale Date: 7/27/16
44 Elm Avenue, Larchmont $1,715,000 Sale Date: 8/2/16
47 Fernwood Road, Larchmont $1,535,000 Sale Date: 8/1/16
63 Sherwood Drive, Larchmont $634,000 Sale Date: 7/22/16
79 Myrtle Boulevard, Larchmont $695,000 Sale Date: 8/1/16
1660 Mamaroneck Avenue, Mamaroneck $585,000 Sale Date: 7/26/16
1812 Palmer Avenue, Larchmont $1,450,000 Sale Date: 7/29/16
November 11, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 11
Business Briefs NewYork-Presbyterian launches digital health platform NewYork-Presbyterian has announced the rollout of NYP OnDemand, a new suite of digital health services designed to improve and expand patient care, while also extending access to the clinical expertise of NewYork-Presbyterian’s physicians to their peers throughout the hospital’s vast health care network. NewYork-Presbyterian is one of the largest, most comprehensive medical institutions in the nation and the only one on this scale to implement an enterprisewide, comprehensive digital health portfolio. The project was catalyzed by the visionary support of Rita and Gustave Hauser, NewYork-Presbyterian’s longtime philanthropic partners. This most recent gift builds on the couple’s previous investments in telehealth infrastructure, further elevating the hospital’s ability to connect patients and clinical staff in new and innovative ways. “At NewYork-Presbyterian, we are looking to redefine the intersection of technology and healthcare and our new digital health platform is our way of strengthening traditional telehealth services,” said Dr. Steven J. Corwin, president and CEO of NewYork-Presbyterian. “I would like to extend our deepest thanks to Rita and Gustave Hauser, for providing support for this platform. Together with ColumbiaDoctors and Weill Cornell Medicine, we are using data and technology to provide the very best care and treatment outcomes for our patients—wherever they may be— as well as seamless peer-to-peer access for our physicians across the entire organization.” NYP OnDemand is comprised of telehealth services for both patients and providers, available on the NewYork-Presbyterian website and mobile app, and will ultimately include these key areas of service: • Digital Second Opinion: NewYork-Presbyterian specialists from both ColumbiaDoctors and Weill Cornell Medicine can now offer their world-class clinical expertise for second opinions to patients around the country—and eventually, the globe— through an easy-to-access online portal. Patients are walked through the entire process without having to wait for an in-person appointment. • Inter-hospital Digital Consults: Connecting patients at NewYork-Presbyterian’s regional network hospitals to NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital specialists, inter-hospital digital consults provide greater access to advanced, specialty care for patients across the New York City metro region and facilitate real-time communication between providers. • Digital Emergency and Urgent Care: As part of a new pilot program, visitors to the Lisa Perry Emergency Center at NewYork-Presbyterian/ Weill Cornell now have the option of a virtual visit through real-time video interactions with a clinician after having an initial triage and medical screening exam. This will be done in a private room with a webcam/monitor, significantly reducing time spent in the emergency department. For any non-emergency conditions that require expedited treatment, patients will eventually also be able to access a separate virtual urgent care service from NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell doctors from the comfort of their home via the NYP OnDemand smartphone application.
• Digital Follow-Up Appointments: Launching in fall 2016, digital follow-ups will provide patients a virtual follow-up option, instead of asking patients to come back to the office in person. The service offers a more convenient way to access care without another trip to the doctor. “When patients visit ColumbiaDoctors at NewYork-Presbyterian, they know they will see outstanding physicians who will combine the latest technologies with highly personalized care and caring. This new suite of digital health services will help to maintain and enhance that experience,” said Dr. Lee Goldman, dean of the Faculties of Health Sciences and Medicine and chief executive of Columbia University Medical Center. “NYP OnDemand extends the reach of our worldclass doctors beyond their offices, ensuring that patients receive quality healthcare when and where it’s most convenient for them,” said Dr. Augustine M.K. Choi, interim dean of Weill Cornell Medicine. “We are proud to join NewYork-Presbyterian and Columb i a Doctors in offering these vital telehealth services to our patients.” Among the first services available for patients is NYP OnDemand Second Opinion. Launched earlier this summer in collaboration with ColumbiaDoctors and Weill Cornell Medicine, the service connects patients from anywhere in the country seeking a second opinion on their diagnosis from clinical experts at NewYork-Presbyterian. After a patient initiates the process online, they are assigned a care coordinator matched with the best physician for their condition, resulting in a written second opinion to the patient—all without having to leave the comfort of home. Equipped with the second opinion, the patient can then make a more informed decision about their treatment plan and, if they choose, opt to receive care at NewYork-Presbyterian. To date, NYP OnDemand second opinions are offered by more than 300 physicians in 80 medical specialties. In addition to the patient access services, NYP OnDemand also facilitates real-time peer-to-peer physician consults within the nine hospitals that are part of the NewYork-Presbyterian system. The NewYork-Presbyterian Telestroke Initiative, which has been deployed at NewYork-Presbyterian/The Allen Hospital and NewYork-Presbyterian/Lower Manhattan Hospital, uses video conferencing and data sharing to allow 24/7 coverage for acute stroke care with rapid evaluation by a neurologist with stroke expertise. To date, the telestroke service has resulted in improved doorto-treatment times, which has been shown to improve overall patient outcomes. In the coming months, additional digital consult services such as behavioral health, emergency medicine and pediatrics will also be established. The NYP OnDemand suite of services was developed by NewYork-Presbyterian’s Innovation Center, launched in 2014 to deliver both clinician- and consumer-facing solutions to enhance care delivery. For more information on NYP OnDemand, visit nyp.org/ondemand.
Rosario joins BHHS Westchester’s Scarsdale office Angel Rosario has joined the Scarsdale office of
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties. The announcement was made by Mark Nadler, director of Westchester Sales. In a statement Nadler said, “Angel is a true professional and we are thrilled to have him join our exclusive team. He will be a remarkable addition to our staff.” After being in the banking industry for 35 years, Rosario decided it was time to embark on a new and exciting career. “During my tenure as a business relationship manager, I advised and negotiated with commercial clients on lending, product pricing and account management. As a sales and branch manager, I headed a team that was responsible for sales production and daily operations, which honed my sales and leadership skills,” Rosario said. “I believe that all of these experiences have led me to this new venture.” A resident of Westchester Country for 33 years, Rosario knows the area very well. He and his wife raised two sons who both attended Iona Prep and Iona College. Contact Rosario today for all of your buying and selling needs in Westchester County. Call 917-5973913 or email AngelRosario@bhhswestchester.com.
Damashek of Weichert, Realtors Larchmont recognized for regional awards Nicholas Germak, regional vice president of Weichert, Realtors, announced that Ann Marie Damashek of the Larchmont office was recognized for outstanding performance in August. Damashek led the sales region, which is com-
prised of offices throughout Orange, Dutchess, Westchester and Rockland counties in New York and Fairfield County, Connecticut, for resales and resale dollar volume. Invite this talented neighborhood specialist in to learn about the real estate services that Weichert, Realtors has to offer. Damashek can be reached in Weichert’s Larchmont office at 2090 Boston Post Road, or call 833-0800 for more information. Since 1969, Weichert, Realtors has grown from a single office into one of the nation’s leading providers of homeownership services by putting its customers first. A family of full-service real estate and financial services companies, Weichert helps customers buy and sell both residential and commercial real estate, and streamlines the delivery of mortgages and home and title insurance. Weichert leverages its customer website, weichert.com, one of the most visited real estate websites in the nation, to help families and individuals For more information, Weichert’s customer service center can be reached at 1-800-USA-SOLD. The next Business Briefs section will run in December. Please send any submission for our December 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 • November 11, 2016
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November 11, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 13
When squirrels attack RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy
Recently, a squirrel chomped the leg of a senior citizen sitting on the porch of a retirement home in Deltona, Florida. A TV station there, WESH, reports that the victim ran inside, furry felon still attached, whereupon it bit two or three more seniors. This is terrible. (Especially for a squirrel fanatic like me. I’m the gal tossing almonds to my friends as I walk to the subway. One bad squirrel does not a bad species make!) But I bring it up because at the end of this “news” story, the reporter said in all seriousness, “Tonight I spoke with the parent company which runs the senior living center here in Deltona. They described in detail what happened, but did not say what, if anything, they’re doing to prevent another attack.” That’s right. The company did not abjectly, automatically and immediately announce any dramatic new measures it will take to make sure this once-in-alifetime incident does not happen once-in-a-lifetime again. What does the reporter think should happen? Perhaps the parent company could chop down all the trees on its property, or cover the porch in wire mesh? Maybe it could hire some squirrel assassins? Give HAZMAT suits to the golden agers who insist on venturing outside despite the terrible danger? This “Something must be done!” mentality is so pervasive, we think it’s normal, even prudent. But it’s not. It’s nutty. It’s making us dumb, wasteful, mean, ungrateful and scared.
We saw this M.O. in action a few years back when Applebee’s accidentally served a toddler an alcoholic drink. Because this happened to come on the heels of a similar incident or two—out of the millions and millions of meals Applebee’s serves at more than 2,000 locations across America—and because it got insanely intense media attention, the company vowed to give only single-serve juice packs to kids from now on. As if they’d been deliberately serving kids mojitos just for fun, for years. With Halloween season just over, the squirrel story also calls to mind the fact that there were indeed a few reports of nails and pins in trick or treat candy. These stories were forwarded to me, as proof of the dangers of Halloween. Which is, admittedly, a hard thing to parse. On the one hand, billions of pieces of candy didn’t have nails. But a couple did. So I guess it does make sense to feel your candy, and if there’s something hard or sharp in it, resist the urge to chomp. But as a country, we have become so infected with the belief idea that if something bad happens anywhere, ever, even once, that is proof positive that whatever is normally quite safe (ordering apple juice, trick or treating, sitting on the porch) is not safe enough. If you need proof of this conviction, try getting through airport security with an unopened can of Coke. You might as well be toting a crossbow. No TSA apparatchik is allowed to play the odds—even odds of a trillion to one—and let you go through. In a litigious society like ours, we also face an extra, boomer-
ang worry: After first worrying that an extremely unlikely event is extremely likely to happen again (in the exact same way), we now also worry that if it does, we will have to prove we were proactively preparing. Otherwise, how will we look in court? The way we do this is by wasting a lot of time, or money, or by making new rules. The media’s role in this riot of irrationality is obvious. Like the reporter at WESH, our scribes and scolds act as if any person, place or company that doesn’t immediately change their ways in the face of some unpredictable happenstance just doesn’t care enough. Tsk tsk. It’s why your ketchup comes with a safety seal around the bottle, which has another safety seal under the cap. It’s why kids go to Halloween parties instead of trick or treating. It’s why we have to jettison our Coke and take our shoes off before getting to the gate. Normal life is peppered with kabukiesque precautions. But there’s a downside to insisting that the very, very safe— the statistically safe—is not safe enough and must be stopped. Kids (and now maybe seniors) cower inside. Companies waste money on unnecessary safeguards. Airport trashcans overflow with drinks. Precautionary measures get added on, but never taken off. This means that if, some day, a single would-be terrorist hides a feisty, rabid squirrel under her wig (not that most squirrels are rabid!), you can bet that the TSA will start instituting mandatory hair-tugs as we take off our shoes. Not that I want to give them any ideas. CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com
Astorino launches ‘Safe Sleep’ campaign Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino recently introduced a public awareness campaign aimed at preventing infant deaths attributed to unsafe sleep environments by promoting the “ABCs of Safe Sleep” throughout Westchester. The ABCs of Safe Sleep, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and others, are a reminder that the safest way for babies to sleep is Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib. “Any preventable infant death is one too many,” Astorino said. “That’s why it’s critical to remember your baby should sleep alone, on his or her back, and in a crib—every time. Every parent, family member and caregiver needs to know the safe way to put babies to sleep. We’re talking about saving lives.” Joining Astorino were representatives from the county’s departments of Social Services and Health, the district attorney’s office, the medical community, parents and nonprofit partners. The bilingual campaign will include a video, county bus shelter and interior bus ads, posters and flyers that illustrate the ABCs of Safe Sleep in both English and Spanish. Westchester County will promote the campaign through its various programs and offices, in addition to its email newsletter, website and social media platforms. The video will also be available to show in county offices and health clinics. In addition, nonprofit partners will help distribute the information to more than 750 child care providers and more than 3,000 parents through the Child Care Council of Westchester, as well as through the Westchester County Diaper Bank in partnership with the Junior League of Central Westchester. All materials are also available to medical practices and community groups to share more broadly. “The district attorney’s office is always horrified when faced with the death of an infant, but even more so when it is discovered that such a tragedy could have been avoided with proper education and awareness,” said acting District Attorney James A. McCarty. “This information addressing a safe sleeping environment will go a long way toward reducing the number of sleep-related infant deaths that our office encounters.” “Through my work as a member of the county’s Child Fatality
Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, far right, introduces a live demonstration of the “ABCs of Safe Sleep” as given by Dr. Jennifer Canter, second from left, director of Child Abuse Pediatrics Program at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. They are joined by new parents Oscar and Bruny Bravo with their son, Daniel, 8 months old. Photo courtesy Westchester County
Review Team, I have evaluated far too many infant deaths, and the most common thread among them was an unsafe sleep environment that included pillows or stuffed animals, soft bedding or bed-sharing,” said Dr. Jennifer Canter, director of the Child Abuse Pediatrics Program at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, a member of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, who is featured in the video. “I hope this campaign reminds parents to always practice Safe Sleep and to make sure everyone who cares for their baby does so, too.” About 90 infants die each year in New York state from sleeprelated causes, according to the state Department of Health. Locally, the Westchester County Child Fatality Review Team reviewed nearly 80 child fatalities over the past 10 years. Since 2008, 38 percent of the cases had identified an unsafe sleeping environment. This figure climbs to 60 percent for child fatalities under the age of 1. While that doesn’t mean unsafe sleep was necessarily determined to be the cause, it nevertheless was present and of concern to investigators—highlighting the need for a public education campaign. “Losing a child is absolutely devastating,” said DSS Commissioner Kevin McGuire. “But the worst thing is when the death could have been prevented. It’s critically important that all parents know the ABCs of Safe Sleep, and that they share these practices with anyone caring for their child.” In July, New York state passed a law requiring that maternity patients receive safe sleep information that includes recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, by either providing a leaflet or showing a video, both of which are available through the state Department of Health.
Westchester’s campaign aims to reinforce the importance of the ABCs of Safe Sleep after parents leave the hospital, so that the message is always top of mind and gets shared with any other family members or caregivers who also may care for the child. “New parents will learn the ABCs of Safe Sleep at local hospitals, but this message is so important that we want to share these safe sleep practices with all potential caregivers,” said Dr. Sherlita Almer, county health commissioner. The ABCs of Safe Sleep Talk to all caregivers about the ABCs of Safe Sleep to keep your baby safe and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, SIDS, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Use #SafeSleep to share on social media. Alone: • Babies should always sleep alone in a crib • Never with adults, no siblings or pets in the crib • No blankets, pillows, bumpers or toys • Dress baby in one more layer of clothing than you Back: • Always place baby on his or her back • No sleeping on tummy or sides • Tummy time is for supervised play time • No pillows or wedges in crib Crib: • Baby should sleep in a safe and separate crib or bassinet • Use tightly fitted sheets with no blankets • Never allow baby to sleep on a couch • No futons, chairs or waterbeds For more information, please visit westchestergov.com, or contact DSS Deputy Commissioner John Befus at jab6@westchestergov.com to learn more about becoming a partner. (Submitted)
14 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • November 11, 2016
A rigged system Ortiz, in his final season at age 40, was a revelation. He hit LIVE MIKE .315 with 38 homers and led the Mike Smith league in both RBIs (127) and doubles (48). But somehow, I woke up on Tuesday, Nov. baseball writers just didn’t feel 8 to the sinking feeling that, de- he did enough to warrant considspite our best intentions, we are eration for the MVP. operating under an inherently Sure, Ortiz’s teammate Mookflawed system. ie Betts—an ascendant center We live in a world where poli- fielder who is a difference-maktics often supersedes worthiness, er both offensively and defenwhere old biases manifest them- sively—will probably win the selves in the actions of decision- award, and as a Red Sox fan, I makers, and some people simply can’t complain. But the other can’t get a fair shake. two finalists, Mike Trout and I mean, seriously; how is Da- Jose Altuve, put up great numvid Ortiz not even a finalist for bers for teams that didn’t even American League MVP? reach the postseason. On Monday, the Baseball The only explanation is that Writers Association of America, designated hitters just don’t get BWAA, announced its finalists the love they deserve. for all of the major 2016 awards, While the designated hitter including MVP, Cy Young, and position has only been around Rookie and Manager of the Year. since 1973, only one player who And once again, the writers’ considered DH to be his primary anti-designated hitter sentiment position—Frank Thomas—has reared its head as Big Papi failed ever been selected to the Baseto make it into the final three of ball Hall of Fame. No DH has the MVP race. ever won the MVP (Thomas
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won two as a first baseman early in his career), and if this year is any indication, it doesn’t look like that is going to change any time soon. Baseball writers—the majority of which are “traditionalists”—routinely devalue the designated hitter position. If Ortiz played 130 games at first base and made 45 errors, I have no doubt that he’d be in the mix. But because he plays DH, which the writers consider a “lesser” position, his achievements simply don’t mean as much. And it’s not just the DH. Zach Britton, the Orioles’ superb closer who gave up just four earned runs this year, was thought by many to be a possibility for the Cy Young. But did he make the final cut? Nope! Instead, three starting pitchers, not one of whom had as much of an impact on their teams as Britton had this year, beat him out. Ultimately, it’s not a huge deal. True fans appreciate the
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On Nov. 7, the Baseball Writers Association of America announced its 2016 awards finalists. Once again, designated hitters like David Ortiz, pictured, and closers got hosed. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.org
contributions of both Ortiz and Britton, and Big Papi’s final season will go down in history as one of the best ever for a player on his way to retirement.
But somehow, we have to wake up these baseball writers and let them know that a great DH can and should be a viable candidate for the MVP.
Let’s make baseball awards great again.
Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports
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November 11, 2016 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • 15
Looking ahead to winter By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor For most of our autumn teams, sadly, the fall season has come to an end. While there are some programs in our area still toiling away on the practice fields, with hopes of hoisting a state title in the near future, most of our athletes’ seasons winded down weeks ago. But as we look ahead to the upcoming winter campaigns— the ice hockey preseason started on Nov. 7 and all other sports begin on Nov. 14—there appears to be more than enough to look forward in the near future. On the ice, two of our local squads enter into the 201617 season coming off fantastic showings last year. Rye Town/ Harrison, a program that has improved by leaps and bounds over the last few seasons, made their way to the Division II title game last season, while Mamaroneck, which has long been the standard
Katie Popp looks for an open teammate against Harrison in a game last February. Popp and the Garnets will look to repeat as Section I champs this year.
bearer of Section I, skated all the way to a state title. But no matter how these teams
fare in the postseason this year, one thing is for certain; the regular season should be filled with
Harrison’s Avery LaBarbera drives down the court against Rye. LaBarbera is hoping her Huskies can knock the Garnets off. Photos/Mike Smith
Mamaroneck hockey coach Mike Chiapparelli congratulates his team after a playoff win against Scarsdale last year.
close, hard-fought games as Section I has moved away from geographically based leagues and will once again feature conferences based on power rankings. As such, Mamaroneck will be competing against teams like Suffern, Scarsdale, Pelham and Rye, creating a true power conference that will likely be fun to watch for hockey fans. Other leagues, however, don’t need artificial refiguring to make for instant classics. In the girls’ basketball world, we were treated to a number of great games last season featuring any combination of Harrison, Rye and Eastchester. Although it was Rye who would go the furthest, winning a Section I title and making a deep push to the Class A state semifinals, each team will bring back some bona fide stars, most notably Harrison’s Avery LaBarbera and Rye’s Katie Popp, which should set the stage for some epic matchups this winter. Add to that the myriad wrestling tournaments that dot the schedule in December and January—well before the action truly heats up in the divisional and sectional meets, not to mention the cheerleading competitions that predate the second-ever New York State Cheerleading Championships in March, there is no shortage of storylines to keep sports fans interested over
Harrison’s Zach Evans goes up for a layup against Tappan Zee last March. Evans is one of several Huskies who graduated last spring.
the next few months, no matter which sports they follow. So although we might be saying farewell to the fall season, there will be plenty to keep us
interested in the winter. As far as I’m concerned, the season can’t start soon enough. CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
16 • THE MAMARONECK REVIEW • November 11, 2016