March 2, 2018

RyeCity REVIEW THE

March 2, 2018 | Vol. 6, Number 9 | www.ryecityreview.com

Special election set for Maisano’s legislative seat

The Westchester Broadway Theatre opens its season with “A Chorus Line,” on show through April 1. For more, see page 6. Photo/John Vecchiolla

Latimer to end Uber, Lyft, background check program County Executive George Latimer, a Democrat, said he will end a voluntary background check program for Uber and Lyft drivers in Westchester after a tepid response from employees

of those ride-hailing services. “I am doubtful of its value, and unless I can be persuaded in a short period of time that it’s worth the effort, I’ll expect to close it down,” said Latimer in

A voluntary background check will get the axe after a tepid response from ride-hailing employees. Photo courtesy flickr.com

a statement. Fewer than 10 drivers have signed up since the program’s creation by former County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican, in July of last year. The program was conceived as a way to help notify customers whether their potential driver had undergone and passed a more stringent background check by displaying a thumbs up sticker on the car. Under a state law passed in June of last year, ride-hailing contractors are required to pass a criminal background check, but county lawmakers lobbied for more thorough vetting for prospective contractors in West-

chester amid a slew of allegations against the company and its employees, including a class action suit claiming Uber drivers had sexually assaulted customers. Ultimately, the only concession lawmakers and Astorino were able to get from the major ride-hailing companies, Uber and Lyft, was an agreement to participate in the voluntary “Thumbs Up” program. The state law passed last year allows Uber and Lyft to operate statewide and does not allow for counties to impose their own regulations, but does allow for them to opt out of the process entirely. -Reporting by James Pero

The Westchester County Board of Legislators has set a special election to be held on April 24 to replace the longest-serving Republican on its board. After county Legislator Jim Maisano, of New Rochelle, stepped down on Sunday, Feb. 25 to join Democratic County Executive George Latimer’s administration, the county board voted to set a date for the election to replace him. Maisano started his new role as the director of the county Department of Consumer Protection on Feb. 26, the same day his letter of resignation was submitted to County Clerk Tim Idoni. “It’s been one of the biggest honors of my life to serve as a county legislator,” Maisano wrote in his letter. “I will miss working with my fellow legislators on the issues facing our great county.” Maisano served 21 years as a legislator and formerly as the board’s vice chairman from 2014 to 2017. With the Republican’s departure, county Democrats will look to further fortify their control of the Board of Legislators, as they already hold a now hold a 12vote supermajority majority of the 17-member Legislature. According to the county Board of Elections, Democrats exceed registered GOP voters by approximately 8,000 in District 11, Mai-

At a glance Westchester County Board of Legislators has set April 24 as the date for the special election to replace former county Legislator Jim Maisano Maisano served as a county legislator for 21 years The special election will be held the same day as the election to fill County Executive George Latimer’s vacated Senate seat

sano’s former district that covers New Rochelle, Pelham and Pelham Manor. But Maisano was rarely challenged by Democrats during his 11 terms because of his mostly moderate views. The election to replace Maisano will be held on the same day as the special election for Latimer’s vacated Senate seat. State Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer, a Yonkers Democrat, is running against former Rye City Councilwoman Julie Killian, a Republican, for that seat, which covers District 37. With the date set to fill Maisano’s seat, party district leaders must choose their candidates via mini conventions. County legislators serve twoyear terms and get paid an annual salary of $49,200. Westchester Republican Committee Chairman Doug Colety and Majority Leader Catherine Parker, a Rye Democrat, could not be reached for comment. -Reporting by Franco Fino

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Mayer snags Independence Party endorsement Westchester County’s Independence Party has endorsed Democratic Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer in the special election for County Executive George Latimer’s vacated Senate seat. According to the county Board of Elections, the 37th Senate District currently has 8,075 people registered in the Independence Party, giving Mayer an edge over her Republican opponent Julie Killian in a district where Democrats already outnumber Republicans by roughly 27,000 voters. The Independence Party, the county’s third largest political party, endorsed Killian, a former Rye City councilwoman, two years ago when she unsuccessfully challenged Latimer, a Rye Democrat, for his Senate seat. One year later, Latimer successfully won election as county executive forcing him to vacate his seat at the end of 2017. Killian won the Republican nomination earlier this month. She beat out a former inspector general in Yonkers and previous candidate for Westchester district attorney, Dan Schorr. For the special election, Killian has also garnered the backing of the Conservative Party and Reform Party. Mayer and Killian will square off in the crucial special election on April 24, a date recently set by Gov. Andrew Cuomo earlier this year. Both major parties are looking

State Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer, a Yonkers Democrat, has won the Independence Party’s nomination over Republican candidate Julie Killian in the special election for George Latimer’s old Senate seat. File photo

to capitalize in the election since Republicans currently hold only a one-person majority, 31-30, with another Senate seat in the Bronx also up for grabs. The 37th Senate District encompasses the cities of Yonkers, White Plains, New Rochelle and

Rye; the towns of Eastchester, Harrison, Mamaroneck, Rye, Bedford and North Castle; and the villages of Harrison, Bronxville, Tuckahoe, Mamaroneck, Larchmont, Rye Brook and Port Chester. -Reporting by Franco Fino

Elli has a sweet personality and loves playing with other cats. She is very shy and somewhat timid around people, but has the loudest purr ever! Elli will blossom in the right home with a patient owner who will work with her and show her love! Elli’s favorite things are her kitty treats and she will come running from wherever she’s hiding for a little snack. Absolutely a gorgeous little girl. And to repeat, she has an amazing purr. Elli is approximately 9 months old, in excellent health, spayed, up-todate with all vaccinations and microchipped. The adoption donation for Elli is $100. To meet Elli, please email nypetrescue@gmail.com or visit NY-Petrescue.org. (Submitted)

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What’s going on... Rye Free Reading Room

For more information on hours and programs, visit ryelibrary.org.

The Sport of Fencing On Saturday, March 3 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Join the library for a demonstration and discussion of the sport of fencing with Olympians from the Tim Morehouse Fencing Club of Port Chester. “Fencing is a sport that challenges the brain as strenuously as the body and is great for speed, agility, strength and coordination, as well as self-discipline and self-confidence,” says Morehouse, who won an Olympic silver medal in the men’s saber team event in 2008, was an Olympic team member in 2004, 2008 and 2012, a nine-time world team member, and two-time individual U.S. National Champion. “The sport requires quick strategic thinking and determination while offering a mix of camaraderie and self-reliance since fencers train with teammates yet compete on their own.”

Rye Library Writers On Saturday, March 3 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Ogden Nash Room. Share work and brainstorm with fellow writers and be encouraged in a welcoming and supportive environment. Discuss works in progress, writing topics, the writing process, and individual writing joys and challenges. Open to novice and experienced writers.

Teacher-In-The-Library On Mondays through Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Meeting Room while the library is open. Rye teachers offer after school homework assistance to students attending local public or private elementary schools in the Rye area. This is a free program. This event is sponsored by the Auxiliary Board of the Rye Free Reading Room, Woman’s Club of Rye/Children’s Philanthrophy Section and the PTO of the Rye schools.

Little Garden Club of Rye Presents ‘Shade Revealed’ On Tuesday, March 6 from 10:30 a.m. to noon in the Meeting Room. “Shade Revealed: How to Garden Successfully in Low Light (Really!)” will be presented by Amy Ziffer, master gardener, author and photographer. Ziffer has been experimenting to find the best shade-adapted plants for the Northeast. She will present an abundantly illustrated talk on designing your shade garden for long-term success.

Marilyn’s Musical Maracas - A Bilingual Storytime On Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. in the

Meeting Room. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Join Marilyn Castillo at the library on Tuesday mornings for a blast of culture, music, and language in Spanish. Have fun learning simple words, numbers, and colors en español through simple songs and rhymes, while moving to music fiesta style. Music helps children retain words and expressions much more effectively. The rhythm of the music, as well as the repetitive patterns within the song, helps kids memorize new words, making it an easy way to teach a second language.

Spin-A-Yarn On Tuesdays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Ogden Nash Room. Open to the public. Information needlework, fabric arts get-together. Bring your own project and supplies and work and chat.

Teen Tech Week: 2-D Animation On Tuesday, March 6 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. in the Raho Technology Center. For grades 6–12. Want to make digital cartoons? Of course you do. Animating is addictive and fun and allows the creative process to flow. Learn the basics of a free animation software application and let your imagination guide the way. Austin Olney will show you how using Tupi Flipbook. Registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” the event date, and then “Register.”

Wiggle, Giggle Time On Wednesdays at 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m. or 11 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Please choose one session to attend. Children will wiggle to music, giggle to funny rhymes, and pretend to be wild and wonderful animals in this lively interactive program with “Dawny Dew” Halasz. Music is a natural connection tool. It brings people together and helps them interact with one another. Children are engaged with the use of puppets, felt board activities, nursery rhymes, and songs. This activity encourages active participation by parents and other caregivers. This 20-minute weekly musical program promotes early language skills and socialization. Please note that doors close five minutes after the program begins to prevent interruptions and help focus audience attention on the presenter. Please be prepared to enjoy the Children’s Room while waiting for the next session to begin. For more information, contact the Children’s Reference Desk at 231-3162.

Tunes for Tots On Thursday, March 8 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Children’s Room. Nurture your toddler’s love of books through music, movement and instruments while helping to develop their language, motor and social skills. Join music teacher Miss Deborah as she incorporates music, dancing, rhythm activities, puppets and more at this special music program for toddlers. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate.

Teen Tech Week: LED Wristbands On Thursday, March 8 from 4:15 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the Ogden Nash Room. For grades six and up. Create your own denim and felt LED wristbands

Connect with us on @linkedin.com/company/hometown-media

using wire, metallic thread, LEDs and batteries. The fun will be in learning the basic circuitry and technique of making a wristband using a variety of sewing materials to create your own design, and continue to experiment with other soft circuits. Registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” the event date, and then “Register.”

Teen Tech Week: App Design On Thursday, March 8 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:50 p.m. in the Raho Technology Center. For grades 6–12. Help celebrate Teen Tech Week with Austin Olney and the Rye library. Have you ever wanted to make your own app? Come and learn how to create a unique software program through coding and design. See what goes behind graphical user interfaces and make your ideas happen. Registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” the event date, and then “Register.”

Graham Clarke’s Musical Fridays On Fridays from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Meeting Room. Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers. Families are always welcome. Rock out at the Rye Free Reading Room on Friday mornings when popular children’s musician Graham Clarke performs. Kids love Graham’s silly humor and fun songs and will enjoy moving and grooving to the beat with this energetic performer. Please arrive early to find parking; doors will be closed 10 minutes after show begins or when room is at “fire code” capacity, and no one will be admitted after that. Weather permitting, Graham’s performance will be outside on the Village Green where a larger audience can be accommodated.

VR @ RFRR On Friday, March 9 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Discover the world around you—virtually. Explore different locations with the RyeTV virtual reality headset, and experience the digital world as never before. After your journey, talk with the librarians about resources you can use to continue learning. Seniors, families, and teens welcome. Recommended for ages 8 and up.

in Rye. Winter classes have begun. For more information, call 967-0700 or visit ryeartscenter.org.

Gallery Opening “Figurative Interpretations” will be on display through Saturday, March 10. Jill Parry, figurative painter and RAC instructor, has put together a group show of artists who have been painting together from the model over a 20-year period. The work shows the diversity of styles that have developed through this interaction.

Make a Panda out of Polymer Clay On Saturday, March 3 at the Rye Arts Center; for ages 5 to 8, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.; for ages 9 to 12, from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday is Panda-riffic. Join the fun and create a cute polymer clay panda. Instructor Terry Taylor shows students how to make a cute panda by transforming balls, coils, and cones of polymer clay into a one-of-a-kind sculpture. Then dress your panda for fun, the outfit is up to you. Includes all materials. Fee: $20 per workshop, members receive a discount.

Women in Leadership panel On Thursday, March 8 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Rye Arts Center. Women In Innovation and Rye Professional Moms will celebrate International Women’s Day at The Rye Arts Center with their third annual panel discussion on “Women in Leadership.” The discussion will be appropriate for all ages—a perfect opportunity for an inspiring mother/daughter activity. For more information, visit ryeartscenter.org/women-in-leadership.

Duct Tape Wallet Workshop On Saturday, March 10 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Rye Arts Center. For ages 7 and up. With instructor Richela Morgon. Learn the wonders of duct tape crafting. Using simple techniques, make a bi-fold duct tape wallet with pockets, and then design your own stickers to personalize them. Materials provided. No previous crafting experience necessary. Bring your curiosity and enthusiasm. Fee: $30; members receive a discount.

Ryebrary S.T.E.A.M.ers

Kids & Parents Workshop: Improv

On Friday, March 9 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Meeting Room. All Ryebrary S.T.E.A.M.ers in grades K–2 are invited to join the librarians once a month in the “New S.T.E.A.M. LAB,” where literacy meets science. Each month, participants will read a book together, then taking inspiration from the story, will teach kids how to think with their hands and minds. It’s inquiry-based learning combined with a hands-on activity in the fields of science, technology, engineering, art or mathematics. Space is limited. Registration is required. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” “Kids,” the event date, and then “Register.”

On Saturday, March 10 from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Rye Arts Center. For ages 9 and up and their grown-up (parent, guardian, older sibling, caregiver). With instructor Em Harpp-Meulbroek. Looking for something fun to do together on the weekend? Try improv, a totally fun activity, but instead of getting dropped off, bring your grown-up to class with you. That’s right, try improv with the grown-up of your choice. The two of you will join a group of other adults and kids, and together we’ll explore the exciting, hilarious and fast-paced world of improv, a fantastic opportunity to get seriously silly, express yourself, and learn together. Improvisation is good for your brain: we are at our best when we live in the moment, and improv allows you to do just that. Play games, do exercises, and make scenes together intergenerationally, and see what fun it can be to make things up together, as you go along. No experience is necessary. Just come with an open mind, and a grown-up. Fee: $25; members receive a discount.

Practice ACT exam On Saturday, March 10 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Take a full-length practice ACT exam under real test conditions. Detailed score reports highlighting personal strengths and weaknesses will be available at applerouth.com the Friday after the test. The exam and reports are free. Register at applerouth.com/signup. Call 3718000 for more information. Test-takers should bring water, a snack, pencils and a calculator.

The Rye Arts Center The Rye Arts Center is located at 51 Milton Road

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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More drug take-back program locations New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, DEC, Commissioner Basil Seggos recently announced the second group of participants in the state’s $2 million Pilot Pharmaceutical Take-Back Program. Participants include 172 retail pharmacies, hospitals, and long-term care facilities across the state. Two hundred and forty-six facilities are now enrolled in the program, which began in 2017. The second-round locations enrolled in the Pilot Pharmaceutical Take Back Program will officially begin accepting waste medications in May 2018, when medication collection boxes are delivered to and installed by participating pharmacies. Until then, the public is encouraged to use existing medication collection box locations, which can be found by visiting DEC’s website at dec.ny.gov/chemical/67720.html and clicking on the “NYS Medication Drop Box Locations” link. “Installing medication drop boxes in community pharmacies, hospitals and long-term care facilities increases opportunities for New Yorkers to properly and easily dispose of unwanted medications,” Seggos said. “The

hundreds of pharmacies and facilities participating in New York’s free drug take-back program are protecting their communities and the environment.” Under the drug take-back program, the DEC will purchase medication collection boxes and pay for the disposal of waste pharmaceuticals collected by participating facilities for two years. Implementation of this pilot program will help improve water quality, protect public health by removing medications from home medicine cabinets, and reduce potential adverse impacts to fish and aquatic organisms. The Pharmaceutical Take-Back Program complements Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo’s ongoing efforts to combat opioid addition by removing unused and expired pharmaceuticals from the waste stream. In addition, in his veto of Senate Bill No. 6750, which would have required chain pharmacies to provide drug disposal options paid for by customers, Cuomo directed the DEC to engage with stakeholders and local governments to prepare a report on the feasibility of creating and implementing a comprehensive, statewide pharmaceutical product

stewardship program. The DEC will issue the report later this year. The statewide Pilot Pharmaceutical Take-Back Program is funded with $2 million from the state’s Environmental Protection Fund. These resources will cover the full cost of purchasing U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration-compliant medication drop boxes, as well as the cost of pick up, transport, and destruction of collected waste pharmaceuticals for a two-year period. The governor’s proposed executive budget for 2018-19 includes an additional $1 million to support this pilot program. With technological advances in analytical techniques, it is now possible to detect low levels of drugs in surface water and groundwater. Some drugs pass largely unaltered through wastewater treatment plants and enter rivers and other waterways. Flushed medications have been found in New York lakes, rivers, and streams and can negatively affect the waterways. A national study conducted in 1999 and 2000, by the U.S. Geological Survey, found low levels of drugs such as antibiotics, hormones, contraceptives, and steroids in 80 percent of rivers and streams tested. Medications adversely

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has announced more participants in the statewide Pilot Pharmaceutical Take-Back Program. Photo courtesy pixabay.com

Below are the new participating locations in Westchester County: Bedford Pharmacy, 424 Old Post Road Bedford, NY 10506 Marcs Village Pharmacy DBA Marinellis Village Pharmacy, 31 E. Main St., Elmsford, NY 10523 Paul’s Pharmacy, 222 Oakridge Common, South Salem, NY 10590 affect fish and other aquatic wildlife and increase the development of drug-resistant bacteria. In addition, there are concerns about unused pharmaceuticals getting into the wrong hands. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that one U.S. citizen dies every 16 minutes from a drug overdose and has

declared this public health threat an epidemic. The pilot program is open and is accepting applications. Retail pharmacies, hospitals, and longterm care facilities are encouraged to enroll online at the Pilot Pharmaceutical Take-Back Program website by visiting on.ny. gov/rxpilot. (Submitted)

Prescription Plus Pharmacy, 23 Taylor Square, West Harrison, NY 10604 Rye Ridge Pharmacy, 146 S. Ridge St., Rye Brook, NY 10573 Town Center Pharmacy, 575 Main St., Armonk, NY 10504

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RyeCity REVIEW THE

P.O. Box 485 White Plains, N.Y. 10602 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000

Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com Reporter | James Pero ext. 20, james@hometwn.com Reporter | Franco Fino ext. 18, franco@hometwn.com General Assignment | Taylor Brown ext. 30, taylor@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Nancy Kaplan ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Photographer Jen Parente Columnists John Carey, Rye City Council, Joe Murphy

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.

Westchester Broadway Theatre presents

‘A Chorus Line’

Westchester Broadway Theatre, WBT, will open its 2018 theater season with the hit Broadway musical “A Chorus Line,” on through Saturday, April 1. This mega-hit captures the very soul of musical theater, and is one of the longest-running Broadway musicals ever. This beloved and iconic musical by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante, with a brilliant and show-stopping score by Marvin Hamlisch with lyrics by Edward Kleban, is a celebration of those unsung heroes of the musical theater, the chorus dancers, valiant, over-dedicated, underpaid and highly trained troopers who back up the star and often make them look more talented. The characters portrayed in “A Chorus Line” are based upon the real life experiences of Broadway dancers. Everything is on the line for 17 dancers as they audition for a highly sought-after place in the chorus of a Broadway musical. Through this exhausting process, their stories and vulnerabilities are laid on the line as they ultimately come together and become one singular sensation. In a brilliant fusion of song, dance, and compellingly authentic drama, the musical features one powerhouse number after another including “What I Did for Love,” “One,” and “I Can Do That.” Considered groundbreaking when it opened on Broadway in 1975, the musical went on to

win nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical and the 1976 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Today, it remains as touching and powerful as when it debuted and is one of the longest running musicals on Broadway. The cast features: Drew Carr as Mike; Tiffany Chalothorn as Connie; Erika Conaway as Tricia; Joseph Cullinane as Greg; Kevin Curtis as Richie; Emma Degerstedt as Val; Brian Dillon as Larry; David Elder as Zach; Tim Fuchs as Al; Danielle Marie Gonzalez as Vicki; David Grindrod as Roy; Michael John Hughes as Paul; Tyler Jimenez as Don; Emily Kelly as Maggie; Ashley Klinger as Kristine; Joey Lucherini as Frank; Erica Mansfield as Cassie; Alexandra Matteo as Diana; Logan Mortier as Bobby; PJ Palmer as Mark; Lauren Sprague as Sheila; Kelsey Walston as Bebe; and Caitlin Wilayto as Judy. Directed and choreographed by Mark Martino, who was at the helm of WBT’s recent hit, “Mamma Mia.” The musical director is Bob Bray; associate choreographer is Brian Dillon. Costume design by Keith Nielsen; set design by Steve Loftus; lighting design by Andrew Gmoser; sound design by Mark Zuckerman. The production stage manager is Victor Lukas; the assistant stage manager is Duane McDevitt; and properties are by Grumpy Props. Lisa Tiso is the associate producer.

“A Chorus Line” show times, through April 1: Wednesday, Thursday and some Friday matinees: lunch is at 11:30 a.m. and the show is at 1 p.m.; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings: dinner is at 6:30 p.m. and the show is at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinees: lunch is at noon and the show is at 1:30 p.m.; Sunday evenings: dinner is at 5:30 p.m. and the show is at 7 p.m. Ticket prices: dinner and show range between $59 to $89 plus tax depending on the performance chosen. Beverage service and gratuities are not included in the

“A Chorus Line” is a hit Broadway show that captures the soul of musical theater: the chorus dancers.

ticket price. Discounts are available for children, students, and senior citizens at selected performances. Also check the website for ongoing special offers. There are discounts for groups of 20 or more; call 592-2225. Luxury boxes for private parties of 6 to 22 are available by call-

ing 592-8730. Enjoy dining and theatre in an elegant private box. Additional features include an expanded dinner menu, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, private powder room, and luxury box reserved parking. For reservations, call 592-2222 or broadwaytheatre. (Submitted)

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The cast of Westchester Broadway Theatre’s “A Chorus Line” on stage during a scene. Erica Mansfield stars as Cassie in “A Chorus Line,” the first show of the Westchester Broadway Theatre’s season. Photos/John Vecchiolla

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Black NY troops fought to fight in WWI

A military poster promoting the work of stevedores at the St. Nazaire port of debarkation for American Expeditionary Forces in France, 1918.

African-American stevedores in a WWI photo. African-American supply and service units provided labor for arriving American troops in France in 1917 to 1918. They were joined by New York’s 369th Infantry.

More than 400,000 New Yorkers served in the military during World War I, more than any other state. When the African-American National Guard Soldiers of New York’s 15th Infantry Regiment arrived in France in December 1917, they expected to conduct combat training and enter the trenches of the Western Front right away. They could not have been

more wrong. The black troops were ordered to unload supply ships at the docks for their first months in France, joining the mass of supply troops known as stevedores, working long hours in the port at St. Nazaire. More than 380,000 African-Americans served in the Army during World War I, according to the national archives. Approximately 200,000 of these

were sent to Europe. But more than half of those who deployed were assigned to labor and stevedore battalions, assigned to tasks that many Army leaders saw as most appropriate. These troops performed essential duties for the American Expeditionary Force, building roads, bridges, and trenches in support of the front-line battles. In St. Nazaire, the New York National Guard Soldiers learned

Soldier-Musicians of the African-American 369th Infantry Regimental Band conduct a performance in France for troops somewhere in France in an undated Army Signal Corps. The regimental band is credited with introducing jazz music to France during the war. Contributed photos

they would work to prepare the docks and rail lines to be a major port of entry for the hundreds of thousands of forces yet to arrive in France. The African-American regiment was a quick and easy source of labor, according to author Stephen Harris in his 2003 book, “Harlem’s Hell Fighters.” “First, Pershing would have a source of cheap labor,” Harris wrote. “Second, he wouldn’t have to worry about what to do with black soldiers, particularly when he might have to mix them in with white troops.” But officers, leaders and the combat soldiers had not signed up for labor. They were committed to fighting the Germans and winning the war. “They had no place to put the regiment,” said infantry Capt. Hamilton Fish, according to the Harris book. “They weren’t going to put us in a white division, not in 1917, anyway; so our troops were sent in to the supply and services as laborers to lay railroad tracks. This naturally upset our men tremendously.” The regiment’s best advocate was their commander, Col. William Hayward. “It was time for us to try to do something towards extricating ourselves from the dirty mess of pick-swinging and wheel barrel trundling that we were in,” Hayward had said to Capt. Arthur Little, commander of the regimental band, according to Jeffrey Sammons in his 2014 book, “Harlem’s Rattlers and the Great War.” “We had come to France as combat troops, and, apparently, we were in danger of becoming labor troops.” Hayward argued his case in a letter to Gen. Pershing, outlining

the regiments’ mobilization and training, and followed up immediately with a personal visit to Pershing’s headquarters. He would bring with him the regiment’s most formidable weapon in swaying opinion: the regimental band, lauded as one of the finest in the entire Expeditionary Force. While the regiment literally laid the tracks for the arrival of the 2 million troops deploying to France, the regimental band toured the region, performing for French and American audiences at rest centers and hospitals. The 369th Band was unlike any other performance audiences had seen or heard before, noted Harris. The regimental band is credited with introducing jazz music to France during the war. The military band would frequently perform a French march, followed by traditional band scores such as John Philip Sousa’s “Stars and Stripes Forever.” “And then came the fireworks,” said Sgt. Noble Sissle, band vocalist and organizer, in the Harris account, as the 369th band would play as if they were in a jazz club back in Harlem. After some three months of labor constructing nearby railways to move supplies forward, the soldiers learned that they had orders to join the French 16th Division for three weeks of combat training. They also learned they had a new regimental number as the now-renamed 369th Infantry Regiment. Not that it mattered much to the soldiers; they still carried their nickname from New York, the Black Rattlers, and carried their regimental flag of the 15th New York Infantry everywhere they went in France. While the 369th Infantry

would become part of the U.S. Army’s 92nd Infantry Division, it would be assigned to fight with French forces. This solved the dilemma for Pershing and the American Expeditionary Forces of what to do with the African-American troops. The black troops would see combat, but alongside French forces, who were already accustomed to the many races and ethnicities already serving in the ranks of their colonial troops. “The French army instructors literally welcomed their African American trainees as comrades in arms,” Sammons wrote. “To the pragmatic French army instructors, the soldiers were Americans, black Americans, to be trained for combat within their ranks. The trainees clearly excelled at their tasks.” After learning valuable lessons in trench warfare from their French partners, the soldiers of the 369th finally had their chance to prove their worth as combat troops when they entered the front lines, holding their line against the last German spring offensive near Chateau-Thierry. Their value was not lost on the French and the regiment continued to fight alongside French forces, participating in the AisneMarne counter offensive in the summer of 1918 alongside the French 162st Infantry Division. The Hellfighters from Harlem had come into their own, in spite of their difficult start. The regiment would go on to prove itself in combat operations throughout the rest of the war, receiving the French highest honor, the Croix de Guerre, for its unit actions alongside some 171 individual decorations for heroism. (Submitted)

March 2, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 9

Sarah Lawrence holds women’s history conference Sarah Lawrence College, home to the nation’s first graduate program in women’s history, will host its 20th annual Women’s History Conference on March 2-3 featuring a Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals, DACA, recipient as its keynote speaker. This year’s conference, “Democracy on the Margins: Gender, Citizenship, and the Global Challenge to Democratic Freedoms,” will expand upon college’s yearlong discussion of the theme “Democracy and Education” by examining the challenges faced by those who live, work, and struggle on the margins of democracy. “During Women’s History Month, it is not enough to reflect on the history of the women’s movement,’’ said Mary Dillard, director of the college’s graduate program in women’s history. “We need to examine the current political, culture and social changes that jeopardize the progress of women around the globe. Sarah Lawrence’s conference will examine history of democracy and the interplay between citizenship, race, gender, sexuality, and inequality.” In addition to keynote speaker, LuzHilda Campos, a DACA recipient and director of United

We Dream’s Defense Team, the conference will include breakout sessions led by noted authors and academics from national and international educational institutions including Berkeley, Yale and New York University. The program will be opened by Dillard and Sarah Lawrence College President Cristle Collins Judd. Established in 1972 by Gerda Lerner, Sarah Lawrence College Master of Arts program in women’s history was the country’s first graduate degree program in women’s history. The program will open Friday evening with keynote speaker LuzHilda Campos, a DACA recipient who grew up in New Mexico. She migrated at the age of 3 with her family from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. She grew up in a mixed status family; her younger sister is an American citizen and her older sister is also a DACA recipient. Growing up, LuzHilda’s status was never a secret, although she never understood what it really meant. Her parents spoke about limitations, but she hadn’t experienced any yet. She was in school and was learning just as much as everyone else. She picked up English rather quickly—everything

seemed normal, until her family was separated by a border and a checkpoint. Her older brother, a survivor of police brutality, decided to return to Mexico because he and their family feared for his life. Their goodbye was filled with pain, understanding that because of the family’s different immigration statuses, seeing him again was uncertain. Later came the deportation of her uncle. LuzHilda’s family did not understand or know that anything could be done to stop this deportation. When a group of students at Santa Fe Community College gathered to organize, LuzHilda joined the group and made a decision to speak out on the injustices her family had experienced. The Santa Fe team expanded and became a statewide network. In 2012, they celebrated the announcement of the Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals, DACA, program. For LuzHilda, holding the DACA work permit in her hands is a constant reminder of the power the immigrant community has when they come together. At United We Dream, the Deportation Defense team has grown under LuzHilda’s leadership, includ-

Sarah Lawrence College will hold its 20th annual women’s history conference, focusing on democracy on the margins. Photo courtesy sarahlawrence.edu

ing adding a hotline that aims to prevent and stop deportations at the individual, local, state and national levels. They also train and educate communities and families just like LuzHilda’s to make sure they understand their rights and keep their loved ones together. The conference will also feature: • Breakout sessions on citizenship, social movements, the personal is political, civil rights, democracy and arts, democracy and body politics and suffrage.

• A two-hour creative writing workshop, “Having Your Say,” that combines writing and improvisation and movement exercises. • A performance and discussion of “In Their Footsteps,” a one-act play based on the oral histories of women who served in Vietnam. • A roundtable discussion with activists from the Yonkers Sanctuary Movement. For the full schedule of events, visit sarahlawrence.edu/womens-

history/conference. Founded in 1926, Sarah Lawrence College is a prestigious, coeducational liberal arts college. Consistently ranked among the leading liberal arts colleges in the country, Sarah Lawrence is known for its pioneering approach to education, for its long history of impassioned, intellectual engagement, and for its vibrant, successful alumni. For more information, visit sarahlawrence.edu. (Submitted)

10 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 2, 2018

March 2, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 11

ArtsW requests proposals for street art

ArtsWestchester is seeking proposals for street art in downtown White Plains. The approximately 1,694-squarefoot space available for artwork includes the vacant street space on Martine Avenue, between the pedestrian crosswalk and handicap parking space, highlighted in the diagram in yellow. Rendering courtesy ArtsWestchester

ArtsWestchester recently announced a public art opportunity in White Plains for Hudson Valley artists. ArtsWestchester, in partnership with the city of White Plains, White Plains Business Improvement District, BID, and Kite Realty Group, is seeking an artist/designer or artist team to design and install graphics for a street painting for the “Arts Avenue” drop-off/pick-up lane between ArtsWestchester and the City Center on Mamaroneck Avenue, inclusive of the vacant street space on Martine Avenue, between the crosswalk and handicap parking space. Janet T. Langsam, CEO of ArtsWestchester, said, “This year marks the 20th anniversary of ArtsWestchester’s purchase of the landmark Peoples Bank & Trust Building on Mamaroneck Avenue in White Plains. To celebrate this anniversary and the transformation of the former bank building into a multi-use arts incubator, we are commissioning a public art project that will help identify our historic building as a center of creative activity in the city of White Plains.” White Plains Mayor Thomas Roach said, “Public art enlivens public spaces. We know this street art will bring color and

excitement to downtown White Plains, enhancing our streetscape and the vibrancy of our main downtown thoroughfare. We are pleased to partner with ArtsWestchester on this project.” The request for proposals asks artists to consider the following goals: improve the pedestrian experience, build visibility of ArtsWestchester’s headquarters at 31 Mamaroneck Ave., and help celebrate the 20th anniversary of ArtsWestchester’s residence in its historic building. Artists are encouraged to submit designs for the project that are distinctive, that consider the character and historic significance of the building, as well as the city’s street life, and that will comply with traffic and safety regulations. Eligible applicants must be at least 18 years old, and must live or maintain a studio address in the lower Hudson Valley region of New York, including New York City (all five boroughs), Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster, and Sullivan counties. Selected artists must be registered to do business in New York state. Honorarium: $15,000 to $20,000. Interested artists can access the full request for proposals by

visiting artswestchester.org/artist-opportunities/mamaroneckave-street-art-request-for-proposals. The deadline for proposals is Friday, March 9, 2018, at 11:59 p.m. EST. For more than 50 years, ArtsWestchester has been the community’s connection to the arts. Founded in 1965, it is the largest private nonprofit arts council in New York state. Its mission is to provide leadership vision and support to ensure the availability accessibility and diversity of the arts. ArtsWestchester provides programs and services that enrich the lives of everyone in Westchester County. It helps fund concerts exhibitions and plays through grants; brings artists into schools and community centers; advocates for the arts; and builds audiences through diverse marketing initiatives. In 1998, ArtsWestchester purchased the 9-story neo-classical bank building at 31 Mamaroneck Ave. which has since been transformed into a multi-use resource for artists, cultural organizations and the community. A 2-story gallery is located on the first floor of ArtsWestchester’s historic building on Mamaroneck Avenue. For more information, visit artswestchester.org.

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Health dept.: Keep close at bath time

Photo courtesy pixabay.com

To mark National Bath Safety Month, Dr. Sherlita Amler, Westchester County health commissioner, reminds parents and caregivers of the importance of constantly supervising baths for children age 5 and under. “Tub time is together time,” Amler said. “When a young child is bathing, an adult should always be within arm’s reach. Avoid distractions. Turn off your phone and never leave the child’s side, even for a mo-

ment, because young children can drown in a small amount of water.” Follow these simple ABCS for a safe bath every time: A - Always stay within arm’s reach and avoid distractions. B - Before placing a young child in the bath, gather everything needed, from soap and washcloths to toys and towels. C - Children should never be placed in charge of a younger child’s bath.

S - Seats, rings and floats should only be used while an adult is watching. To avoid burns, test the temperature of the bath water on the inside of your wrist before helping a child into the tub. Prevent falls by placing a non-slip bathtub mat inside the tub and a rubber-backed bathmat beside the tub. For more health and safety tips, visit westchestergov.com/ health. (Submitted)

12 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 2, 2018

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SPORTS

March 2, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 13

The perks of the job LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

Most people who do any job for long enough unfortunately find out that the passion they have for their work—no matter the occupation—tends to diminish over time. Whether it has to do with complacency, office politics, or a myriad of other factors, it seems to be human nature that even the most enthusiastic workers may, on some days, come to think of their chosen profession as a slog. Luckily, I went into sports writing. On Saturday, Rye and Harrison will square off for the Class A girls basketball title at Pace University, and, truth be told, I can’t remember the last time I was this excited for a single contest that I had the opportunity to cover. From a purely basketball standpoint alone, this one has all the makings of an instant classic. Sure, Harrison owns two wins over the Garnets this year—last topping Rye 49-46 on Jan. 29— but are they the better team? That certainly remains to be seen. Harrison may have the best allaround player on the floor on Saturday in Canisius-bound senior Avery LaBarbera, but Rye is per-

Victoria Lendino goes up for a shot against Rye on Jan. 11.

haps the deeper, more balanced offensive squad, with sophomore Teaghan Flaherty and freshman Amanda Latkany leading the way for a team that, when it’s clicking, moves the ball better than just about any other group I’ve seen. Both the Huskies and Garnets play great team defense, a credit to their respective coaching staffs, and feature girls who are more than willing to give up their bodies if it

Avery LaBarbera pushes the ball up the floor in Harrison’s Jan. 11 showdown with Rye. LaBarbera scored 44 points in the Huskies’ two wins over the Garnets this year.

means making a stop. For a hardnosed, old-school basketball fan, this game looks like a can’t-miss showdown between two teams who, at the moment, are playing as well as they have all season. But when it comes to a game between Harrison and Rye, all the on-court juice can sometimes take a backseat to the longstanding rivalry between the two communities. Throughout the last century, the Huskies and Garnets have been cast as bitter rivals, Westchester’s equivalent to the Red Sox and Yankees. But while much of the rivalry’s shine comes from the wars the two towns have waged on the gridiron, you would be remiss to overlook the fierce battles that Rye and Harrison have also had on the hardwood for the last few years. There have been few leagues— in any sport—that have been as competitive and compelling as the one that the Garnets and Huskies have played in over the last several seasons. The successes of Rye, Harrison, Eastchester and Pelham have all been instrumental in raising the profile of local girls’ hoops squads, and any time two of the teams square off, area fans know that they’re going to be in for a well-played, back-andforth—and sometimes chippy— affair. But beneath that rivalry is a deep-seated sense of respect between the squads, one that was never more apparent than last year when Harrison’s girls showed up to cheer on the Garnets in a

Ellie Dailey grabs a rebound against the Huskies. Photos/Mike Smith

first-round playoff contest against—guess who—Pelham. It’s the kind of thing that warms the heart of a sportswriter; young players who can look past the history of a rivalry to support a their competitors out of their love for the sport. Of course, that’s not to say I ex-

pect too many pleasantries to be exchanged on Saturday. Harrison comes into the game with a chance to win the program’s first-ever Section I crown, while the Garnets, who won in 2016, have gotten to this point by refusing to back down from any challenge. It’s going to be a knockdown,

drag-out fight; one that both student bodies are bound to remember for years to come, and I’m going to have a front row seat. Sometimes, my job is pretty darn cool.

Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports

Teaghan Flaherty looks for an open teammate on Jan. 11. Flaherty and the Garnets will play Harrison in the Class A finals on March 3.

14 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 2, 2018

SPORTS

Huskies earn title berth GIRLS BASKETBALL

class a

SEMIFINALS

HARRISON 49 JOHN JAY 41 COUNTY CENTER

2/27/18

Game Notes: • Avery LaBarbera led Harrison with 20 points • The victory was Harrison’s first-ever semifinal win • Harrison will play league rival Rye for the Class A title on March 3 at Pace

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor Avery LaBarbera and the Harrison Huskies have waited an awfully long time for the chance to play a semifinal game at the Westchester County Center. But on Feb. 27, the No. 4 seed Huskies made the most of their opportunity, knocking off top-seeded John Jay at Westchester’s most famous arena, and earning the chance to take on league rival Rye for the Class A title on Saturday. The game was Harrison’s first-ever postseason contest at the County Center, and for the senior LaBarbera, the 49-41 victory was as sweet as it was well deserved. “I have no words, this is what I’ve dreamt of since I was a little girl,” LaBarbera said. “To be able to play on this court, compete on this court and win on this court means so much to me.” LaBarbera was stellar in her semifinal debut, racking up 20 points to lead the No. 4 Huskies on a night in which John Jay (19-5) gave Harrison all it could handle. The Huskies led 21-14 at halftime and saw that lead grow to as much as 10 points in the second half, but the Indians, led by junior Ana Dorta (20 points) refused to give in, cutting the deficit to just four points with under a minute to play. Timely defensive stops and some good Huskies’ foul shooting helped put an end to John Jay’s comeback hopes, however. “We’ve been through it, we’ve been tested and they answer the bell every single time,” head coach Louis Kail said. “We talk about effort and enthusiasm before every game and those girls showed it today.” Harrison got an offensive

Gina Nuvoloni drives to the hole on Feb. 27. Photos/Mike Smith

boost from junior forward Emily Hassett, who finished with 10 points, and also relied on the toughness of Victoria Lendino and Gina Nuvoloni, whom Kail credits with helping to keep the team’s defensive intensity up even when the shots weren’t falling. “When you talk about Victoria and Gina, and the effort they put in, it was absolutely fantastic,” Kail said. “They do the dirty work that may not always show up in the stat sheet, but I couldn’t be more proud of them.” With the win, the Huskies earn a shot at the Class A title, which will be decided when Harrison squares off with longtime foe Rye on March 3 at Pace University. The No. 3 Garnets needed a buzzer-beater from Amanda Latkany to lift them past reigning champ Somers in the semifinal round, and should be geared up for a Harrison team that beat them twice during the regular season. “I watched a lot of their [semifinal] game and that’s who they are; they’re fighters,” Kail said. “Dennis [Hurlie] is an unbelievable coach and I couldn’t be happier to see someone that I’ve looked up to since I came into the league on the other side, so we’re going to have some fun on Saturday.”

Avery LaBarbera goes up for a layup against John Jay at the Westchester County Center on Feb. 27. LaBarbera had 20 points in Harrison’s 49-41 win.

Victoria Lendino tries to get around a John Jay defender at the County Center.

LaBarbera added, “It could be special on paper because of the Harrison, Rye rivalry. But for us, it’s just next play, next game.” CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

Emily Hassett grabs a rebound against John Jay. Hassett had 10 points for the Huskies.

SPORTS

March 2, 2018 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 15

Garnets beat buzzer, Somers Dennis Hurlie said. “But I didn’t think she was going to get that SEMIFINALS rebound and bank it in; that was ridiculous.” Latkany and fellow underclassman Teaghan Flaherty (24 points) both shined in their 2/27/18 County Center debuts, as the duo COUNTY CENTER helped Rye jump out to an earGame Notes: ly 23-12 lead over the defending champs on Tuesday. • Amanda Latkany hit a “The first 14 minutes of the buzzer-beating gamewinner to lift the Garnets game was probably the best basketball that we’ve played all year, • Latkany finished with it was off the charts,” Hurlie said. 15 points, sophomore But Somers—aided by some Teaghan Flaherty had 25 Garnet miscues—climbed back • The Garnets will play rival into the game before the interHarrison for the Class A misson and took a 36-33 lead title on March 3 heading into the final quarter, which set the stage for By MIKE SMITH Rye’s late-game heroics. Sports Editor Down 48-42 with one minute Amanda Latkany may only left, Flaherty converted a 4-point be a freshman, but that doesn’t play—sinking a 3-pointer while mean she shies away from the big being fouled—to put the Garnets moment. On Feb. 27, the Garnet within two which Hurlie feels youngster hit the most dramat- could have been the sequence of ic shot of Rye’s season, nailing the game; if not for what transa game-winning buzzer-beat- pired in the final seconds. “When Teaghan hit that 3, er to down defending champion Somers 50-49 in the Class I thought that that was the play A semifinals at the Westchester that was going to help us win the game,” he said. “That put County Center. Trailing 49-48 with 4.3 sec- us within striking distance and onds left in the game, Rye in- then the freshman steps up to tie bounded the ball to center Ellie it, so a sophomore and a freshDailey underneath the Tuskers’ man led us, but defensively, it basket. The senior found Nia- was everybody.” With the win, the Garnets will mh Carty open on the wing for a 3-point attempt which missed head to the Class A championoff the front rim. Luckily for the ship game, which will be held on Garnets however, Latkany was in March 3 at Pace University. Their position to collect the rebound finals opponent will be a familand in one fluid motion, launched iar one, as they get set to take on a jumper that kissed high off the league rival Harrison with the backboard and dropped through Gold Ball on the line. The Husthe net as time expired, send- kies and Garnets have played ing Rye to its first Class A title twice this season, with Harrison winning both games. But Latgame since 2016. “I had no idea how much kany and the Garnets are contime was left, I just chucked it fident that their regular season up and hoped for the best,” Lat- battles have prepared them for kany said after the game. “It’s the task ahead. “We have a tremendous league been my dream to play [at the County Center], it’s been a lot that is full of so many tremendous of my teammates’ dream, and players,” Latkany said. “It’s been to finish a play like that, it’s just tough and we have had a lot of competition all year and I think unbelievable.” Latkany’s last-second shot that’s why we’ve had to work so was hardly her only signature hard to get where we are.” moment of the game, as the freshman finished with 15 points CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com off the bench and went 7-for8 from the foul line, including converting on two free throws Amanda Latkany goes up for a that tied the game at 48-48 with layup with 23.6 seconds left in under a minute to play. the game on Feb. 27. “[Latkany] is a tremendous athlete and we’ve run that play a bunch in the past and it’s never worked,” Garnet head coach

GIRLS BASKETBALL

class a

RYE 50 SOMERS 49

Niamh Carty looks for an open teammate on Feb. 27 at the Westchester County Center. Photos/Mike Smith

Freshman Amanda Latkany drives to the hole against Somers on Feb. 27. Latkany hit a last-second shot to give the Garnets a 50-49 win over the Tuskers.

Teaghan Flaherty muscles her way into the paint against the Tuskers. Flaherty had 24 points to lead Rye.

16 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • March 2, 2018

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