December 22 & 29, 2017 by The Rye City Review

RyeCity REVIEW THE

December 22 & 29, 2017 | Vol. 5, Number 51 | www.ryecityreview.com

Astorino vetoes budget; legislators ready for override cized since last year when the initiative was announced by Astorino. The deal seeks to reclassify the After the inclusion of a tax rate airport under a Federal Aviation increase and restoration of sev- Administration-run program that eral cuts by county lawmakers, allows participants to transition County Executive Rob Astorino, their publicly owned airports into a Republican, officially vetoed a the private sector and then use revised budget. subsequent revenue towards an “Such an action by the legis- operating budget. lature was unnecessary and unIn November, Macquarie Infraacceptable to county taxpayers, structure Corporation agreed to a already burdened with the high- $1 billion deal that would extend est combined property taxes in for 40 years and throughout its the nation,” Astorino said in his a lifespan pay the county $595 milmessage to the county Board of lion on top of $550 million in capLegislators. ital improvements at the airport. How long Astorino’s veto will That deal will be subject to the hold, however, remains to be seen, approval of an incoming adminisas county lawmakers say they tration of County Executive-elect have enough votes for an over- George Latimer, a Democrat, who ride. Originally legislators voted has so far been critical of the priby a margin of 12-5 to pass the vatization. Latimer will be sworn budget—enough votes for a su- into office in January. permajority, which would trigger Without revenue from the airan override. port deal, however, lawmakers In addition to raising the tax worry that the county would be levy by 2 percent, the lawmakers’ required to draw money from its proposed budget restored posi- reserve fund to cover expenses. tions to the county Parks DepartWithout a certain total in its rement, the county’s Planning and serve fund, Westchester County Engineering departments, as well lawmakers risk taking a hit on their as support staff for the county credit rating—particularly a rating executive’s office. by credit agency Moody’s—which If the revised budget were to dictates how easily the county can pass, it would mark the first time borrow money. Currently, Westsince Astorino took office in 2010 chester has the second highest ratthat county residents would see an ing from Moody’s of AA1. increase in their tax levy. Legislators will hold a vote Lawmakers say the tax levy to override the county execuincrease is being included to help tive’s veto on Thursday, Dec. 22, offset $30 million in revenue from after press time. a deal privatizing the county’s airport; a deal Democrats have criti- CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer

Nora’s Ovenworks crowned three winners at its second annual baking competition, where kids in first through seventh grades were given an hour to complete their dishes, which were then presented to three judges from the Harrison community. For story, see page 6. Photo courtesy Nora Brunnett

Spano, Jaffe jump into mix for Latimer’s vacated Senate seat By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and Harrison resident Mark Jaffe are the latest candidates to announce their bid for the senate seat that will be vacated when George Latimer becomes Westchester County executive. The Yonkers mayor, a Dem-

ocrat, stated his interest in the position officially in a video announcement on Dec. 13. Spano is currently serving a second fouryear term that is set to expire in 2019. Jaffe, who is currently the chief executive of a business advocacy nonprofit based in New York City called the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce,

announced his candidacy on Dec. 12. “In these tumultuous times we need to be unified,” Jaffe said in a statement. “I pledge to fight every day to deliver necessary services and maintain core Democratic values. If elected, I will fight for greater transparency in government, more affordable higher education, improved public health

and safety, mass transit improvements and use my skills to help create good paying jobs.” Jaffe has unsuccessfully ran for office five times, losing a race for Harrison Town Council in 2009 and a Democratic primary for a state Assembly seat the following year. SENATE continued on page 9

2 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

December 22 & 29, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 3

Rye police chase ends with 2 arrested By FRANCO FINO Staff Writer Rye police were involved in a late night chase last week that resulted in two suspects being arrested for allegedly attempting to steal a car, and others yet to be captured. Rye Public Safety Commissioner Michael Corcoran said police officers responded to a report of suspicious activity on Johnson Place around 2:45 a.m. on Dec. 13, where they witnessed several suspects attempting to steal a car, which prompted a car chase that reached Trails End near Greenhaven Channel. When police approached one of the suspects in a Lexus SUV, the car that had been stolen from the Johnson Place residence, the suspect smashed into the police car and flipped over. That driver, unnamed, was arrested afterward. Another suspect in a black Infiniti, which had been reported

stolen from a property in New Jersey, then raced east toward Boston Post Road before crashing into a police car. That suspect drove through a lawn on Barlow Lane and continued toward Trails End, where the driver left the stolen car and hopped over a fence toward the Long Island Sound. Police said they caught up with the suspect, unnamed, and arrested him after chasing him on foot. According to Corcoran, police officers found a loaded handgun in the suspect’s fanny pack. At the time, the incident ensued a search for other suspects, and as a result, Rye Neck schools were on lockdown for the day. Students in Rye Neck schools were not able to leave their premises and were told the remain indoors. The Rye City Police Department’s helicopter and canine team were deployed for the incident. Other local police departments including Westchester

County, Harrison, and Mamaroneck assisted with the search and foot pursuit. The two suspects arrested are facing five felony charges, including fleeing police, possession of a firearm, grand larceny, assault on a police officer, and receiving stolen property. As of press time, there is no further information on whether there may be others suspects in the case. “We are working with our law enforcement partners in Westchester County, as similar crimes have occurred in other communities,” Corcoran said in a released statement. “I am extremely proud of our Rye Police Department officers for their bravery and professionalism in engaging in these dangerous individuals. I’m also thank our mutual partners for assisting us in this rapidly unfolding chain of events.” CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

4 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

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

For more information on hours and programs, visit ryelibrary.org. The library will be closed on Monday, Dec. 25 for Christmas and on Monday, Jan. 1 for New Year’s Day.

Brown Bag Lunch & Muppet Mania Movies On Tuesday, Dec. 26, Wednesday, Dec. 27, Thursday, Dec. 28, and Saturday, Dec. 29 from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room. Bring your bagged lunch and the library will provide the snacks and drinks while you watch the movie. On Dec. 26, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” will be screened. A retelling of the classic Dickens tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, miser extraordinaire. He is held accountable for his dastardly ways during night-time visitations by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. Rated G; running time: 85 minutes.

On Dec. 27, “Muppet Treasure Island” will be screened. Kermit the Frog and his colleagues go on a warfare against ruthless pirates on the high seas to rescue a treasure. Rated G; running time: 99 minutes. On Dec. 28, “The Muppet Movie” will be screened. Kermit and his newfound friends trek across America to find success in Hollywood, but a frog-legs merchant is after Kermit. Rated G; running time: 95 minutes. On Dec. 29, “The Muppets Take Manhattan” will be screened. Kermit and his friends go to New York to get their musical on Broadway only to find it’s a more difficult task than they anticipated. Rated G; running time: 94 minutes.

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.

Wiggle, Giggle Time On Wednesday, Dec. 27 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.

throughout the tri-state area, and the Challenged Athletes Foundation. The plunge will take place at noon sharp; participants are strongly suggested to get to Rye’s Oakland Beach at 11:15 a.m. for registration and preparation. A group photo will be taken at 11:50 a.m. before a countdown run-in into the water. For more information, visit macangels.org.

County news Golf course closings

On Thursday, Dec. 28 from 10 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. in the Children’s Room. Recommended for infants and toddlers. Nurture your toddler’s love of books through music, movement and instruments while helping to develop their language, motor and social skills. Join Miss Deborah as she incorporates stories, music, dancing, rhythm activities, puppets and more at this special music program for toddlers. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate.

The six county-owned golf courses will close for the season after play on Sunday, Dec. 31. They will remain open until that date, weather and conditions permitting; check with the individual course. The courses are Dunwoodie, 231-3490, and Sprain Lake, 231-3481, both in Yonkers; Maple Moor, 995-9200, in White Plains; Mohansic, 862-5283, in Yorktown Heights; Saxon Woods, 231-3461, in Scarsdale; and Hudson Hills, 864-3000, in Ossining. The courses are expected to reopen in March, weather and conditions permitting. The exact date will be announced.

Cupcakes and Cocoa with Lisa & Alaina

LEGOLAND Westchester

Tunes for Tots

On Friday, Dec. 29 from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the Meeting Room. For children in kindergarten and up. Join the librarians for some post-holiday cupcake decorating fun. Bring your creativity and all the fixings will be provided for some sweet creations, as you sip hot cocoa and take a break from the winter blahs! Space is limited. Registration is required for this event. Visit ryelibrary.org, click on “Programs & Events,” “Kids,” the event date, and then “Register.”

The Rye Arts Center The Rye Arts Center is located at 51 Milton Road in Rye. For more information, call 967-0700 or visit ryeartscenter.org.

Paint a Winter Scene On Tuesday, Jan. 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. With workshop instructor: Larry D’Amico. For adults. It’s the middle of winter. Warm up those hands by painting a winter scene at The RAC. Join D’Amico for this one-day workshop, exploring the colors and tones of winter. This workshop open to all levels. Please bring a canvas and paint set (acrylic or oil) to class, as well as any seasonal inspiration you may have. Fee: $105; members receive discount.

Rye Town Park 16th Annual Ray’s Polar Bear Plunge

Bricktacular Tis the season to be jolly at LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester during Bricktacular. Join in on the festive holiday fun every weekend in December as you walk through a Winter Wonderland-themed MINILAND searching for LEGO presents in a bricktastic scavenger hunt. Help the LEGO delivery truck get all of the hidden presents delivered by the holiday for a chance to win a family four pack of annual passes. Snap a photo with our custom holiday themed builds created by Master Model Builder Anthony Maddoloni, and enjoy winter and holiday-themed mosaic builds in the Master Builder Academy. All visitors receive a limited edition Collector Holiday LEGO Brick. Annual pass members can keep warm with a free hot chocolate every weekend. On Christmas Day, the center will be open for Bricktacular’s last day. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester is located at 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers. Tickets start at $15.95; children under 2 are free. Opening hours for Bricktacular in December: Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Monday, Dec. 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 866-243-0770 or visit legolanddiscoverycenter.com/westchester.

On Monday, Jan. 1, 2018, more than 300 participants in Ray’s Polar Bear Plunge will run, jump or dunk their heads under the freezing water at Oakland Beach at Rye Town Park in Rye all for a good cause. All proceeds from the event will go to MAC Angels Foundation, supporting families with ALS

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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December 22 & 29, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 5

Code Creators builds on students’ programming knowledge Students at F.E. Bellows Elementary School—who have been learning basic computer programming—recently participated in a hands-on activity that helped them understand the connection between coding and an algorithm, which is the sequence of commands that instruct a computer.

Through the Code Creators workshop, which is part of the school’s expanded Seekers and Solvers science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics, STEAM, curriculum, the students engaged in collaborative teamwork to solve a problem. Paired in groups, one student

was assigned to be the robot while the other student took on the role of a programmer. Equipped with cups and a variety of instructions, labeled “go up,” “move down,” “turn left,” “turn right,” and other actions, the programmer was assigned to build a precise set of steps for the robot to follow.

The hands-on activity help students learn the connection between coding and algorithms.

“Each group decided which structure they wanted to create out of the cups and it was the robot’s job to create that structure,” said teacher Jessica Finney-Trotta. “However, the students could only do so by following the algorithm created by the coder. If they were unsuccessful in creating the structure, the group had to debug or find the error in their algorithm and try again.”

The activity also encouraged the students to collaborate with their peers and understand the importance of following directions. Code Creators was designed to have student-coders build on their knowledge of programming by viewing themselves as devel-

opers of programs, as well as by collaborating, researching and designing a program that solves a real-life problem for users. Finney-Trotta said the students will present their ideas through a variety of resources throughout the year. (Submitted)

F.E. Bellows Elementary School students work in groups to create a tower out of cups and test their computer programming knowledge. Photos courtesy Rye Neck school district

6 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

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

Nora’s Ovenworks hosts annual children’s baking competition

Assistant Editor | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com

By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter

Reporter | James Pero ext. 20, james@hometwn.com

Nora’s Ovenworks held its second annual kids baking competition, giving children from around Westchester County a chance to show off their skills in a contest amongst their peers. The competition took place on Dec. 9 at Nora’s Ovenworks, a bakery that specializes in customized cakes, located at 64 Halstead Ave. in Harrison. Nora Brunnett, owner of Nora’s Ovenworks, said she was inspired to start the competition after seeing her sister participate in a baking competition, and receiving the suggestion from her students. “I work with a lot of kids, and everyone [was] coming in and saying, ‘You should do a baking competition,’” Brunnett told the Review. The contestants ranged from first-graders to seventh-graders, and included students from the kids baking classes held at Nora’s Ovenworks, as well as students from outside the community.

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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.

Nora Brunnett, owner of Nora’s Ovenworks, encourages her younger students to handle baking ingredients on their own. Photos courtesy Facebook.com/theovenworks

“I thought that it would be nice [for the] kids to kind of showcase what they are able to do all by themselves, because oftentimes we as adults and parents tend to take over,” Brunnett said. The children were instructed to turn in their recipes a week prior to the competition, and on the day of, they were given an hour to create their submissions.

Brunnett said that the first baker began at 9 a.m., and that children were coming throughout the entire day. “At one point, we had six kids in the kitchen baking,” she said. “It was kind of a continuous flow.” Some of the entries included chocolate chip cookies, a lemon sour cream cake, shortbread cookies, and chocolate cupcakes.

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Competitors from the first annual baking competition pose with Mrs. New York City.

Some of the students participating in the bake-off come from Nora’s Ovenworks’ baking summer camp classes.

After the participants were finished, their dishes were presented to a panel of three judges: Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont; Alex DeBourcy, Mrs. New York City; and Chef Stella Caruso, who teaches baking classes at Nora’s Ovenworks. “I chose Mr. Belmont because… he’s really great with kids,” Brunnett said. “He’s kind of a feel-good mayor, he’s very community-oriented, so I really liked that piece and wanted to bring it back to the bakery.” Brunnett explained she invited Debourcy back to be a judge for similar reasons. “[Debourcy’s] local, and I know that she works with the community a lot,” Brunnett said. Caruso said when judging the competition, she looked at presentation, execution, texture, and flavor of the baked goods. The grand prize winner of the competition was sixth-grader Revha Menon, a resident of White Plains, who created a lemon blueberry bundt crumb cake. Second place went to Aidan Grant, a fourth-grader who made a chocolate cherry muffin. Grant is one of Brunnett’s regular students. “[Grant’s] pretty proud of himself, and I was pretty impressed too,” Brunnett said. Brunnett said his recipe was

“quite intense,” and that although she didn’t get a chance to try it, it smelled amazing. Another participant who placed high in the competition was Greta Friedman, of Scarsdale. Lana Friedman, Greta Friedman’s mother, had brought her to participate in the competition for the second year. “[Greta’s] favorite part was to be alone in the competition and do everything by herself,” Lana Friedman said. “To be here by herself, and be able to create what she created was great. She really enjoyed every moment of it.” Caruso explained that for her, the most rewarding part of the competition was being able to engage with the community. “It was just a really wonderful community thing, where we saw these kids really light up,” she said. This year’s competition saw 16 contestants, compared to nine from last year, and because of the growing response, Brunnett intends to hold the competition next year. “This event is one of my favorite events, it really gives me a chance to see what the kids have learned and how they put it into action,” Brunnett said. “It was a proud moment for me.” CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com

December 22 & 29, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 7

8 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

State threatens suit over Hudson River dredging By JAMES PERO Staff Writer Ahead of a determination by the Environmental Protection Agency, Westchester County lawmakers and Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, are mak-

ing a stand, threatening to sue the agency if it rules that General Electric’s dredging on the Hudson River is complete. According to a statement from county legislators last week, Cuomo and New York state Attorney General Eric

Schneiderman are ready to sue the federal government if the EPA decides to wrap up its dredging of the upper Hudson River; a section of the waterway long-polluted by the presence of polychlorinated biphenyls, PCBs.

“For nearly forty years, General Electric manufacturing facilities dumped millions of pounds of hazardous PCBs directly into the Hudson,” reads the joint statement by legislators. “This contamination has impacted the health and livelihood of communities along the Hudson River ever since. Gov. Cuomo and

Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, is ready to take legal action fi the EPA deems a dredging project undertaken by General Electric as complete. Photo courtesy Hudson Riverkeeper

New York state have urged the EPA to conduct a complete and thorough review to ensure our communities are protected.” According to environmental advocacy group Hudson Riverkeeper, between 1947 to 1977 General Electric, GE, dumped more than 1.3 million pounds of cancer-causing PCBs into the Hudson River which has contaminated the waterway, wildlife, and has since been found in humans. After decades of debate, GE was required to undergo an extensive dredging project aimed at removing the PCBs from the river which was set to be carried out in two phases and subject to two five-year reviews, the first of which was conducted in 2012. Now, with the second fiveyear review set to be completed in the spring 2018, according to the EPA, calls to continue dredging are heating back up. “The Hudson River is a critical economic engine and environmental treasure and New York will not allow PCB contamination to continue wreaking havoc on this vital resource,” said Cuomo in a statement. “The data is clear: the job is not done and the EPA cannot declare that this

remediation is complete. If they do, New York will take any action necessary to hold them accountable for ensuring our waterways are protected and properly restored.” According to a letter sent by New York state Department of Environmental Conservation commissioner, Basil Seggos, to EPA administrator, Scott Pruitt, in November, despite claims by GE that 70 percent of the PCBs have been removed from the upper Hudson, samples taken by the state show that the contamination could be three times worse than the EPA expected. In September, GE responded to calls to continue dredging, alleging that it’s work has been completed. “New York state played an instrumental role in every major decision related to the dredging project and approved and oversaw the work and does not dispute that GE met all of its commitments,” reads the GE statement. In December of last year, GE filed a request for certificate of completion and the EPA will be required to respond to that request by Saturday, Dec. 23. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

December 22 & 29, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 9

Rye Neck students receive colorful lessons in chemistry Seventh-graders—who have been studying about acids and bases and the pH levels of different common solutions in Lauren Zeoli’s science classes—recently completed a lab experiment to further test their knowledge. Equipped with pH paper, which is used as an indicator to test the acidity of water-based liquids, the students worked in groups to determine the specific pH levels of different solutions. After comparing their findings to a colored chart, they determined whether their solutions were acids or bases. “By observing the changing

pH paper and comparing it to a colored chart, they were able to develop clear results and conclusions,” Zeoli said. “It is important for them to use evidence to support their claims. This lab was also important in helping them make connections between concepts learned in class and substances that they see on a regular basis.” After identifying the different solutions, the students were challenged to mix some of the solutions and observe the pH of a neutralization reaction. The hands-on learning experience allowed them to take control of their own learn-

ing, collaborate with their peers and make discoveries on their own. As a result, the students made conclusions based on evidence and reasoning, which are skills they will utilize throughout the rest of their science studies. “The lab helped students make connections amongst the concepts of pH, acids and bases, ions and neutralization,” Zeoli said. “They were also able to have a little fun with this and keep engaged while still reinforcing important concepts.” Throughout the next unit, the students will study atoms and ions in depth. (Submitted)

Seventh-graders Sophia Belvedere and Brie Murphy complete a lab experiment to determine the specific pH levels of different solutions. Photo courtesy Rye Neck school district

SENATE from page 1

In 2011, Jaffe ran for county legislator, but lost that Democratic primary as well. In 2013, he was nominated by the party for the same seat, but ultimately lost in the general election to incumbent Legislator David Gelfarb, a Republican. Jaffe ran another unsuccessful campaign for Harrison Town Council in 2015, when Republicans won every seat on the board. The candidates’ announcements come after state Assemblywoman Shelley Mayer, of Yonkers; Bedford Town Super-

visor Chris Burdick; and White Plains’ Kat Brezler, a teacher and former campaign organizer for Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders during his presidential bid, have already said that they are interested in the Senate seat. The Senate’s 37th District covers Rye, White Plains, Harrison, Mamaroneck, Yonkers, North Castle, Bedford, and Eastchester. Since a primary will not be held for the vacated seat, county Democratic leaders will be tasked with choosing a candidate to run in a special election. Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Dem-

ocrat, has not yet announced whether there will be a special election to fill the final year of Latimer’s vacated seat. The governor is not required to call for a special election, and has the option to let the seat remain unfilled until the November 2018 election. The election may be important for Democrats to regain more ground on Republicans that will hold a 31-30 majority in January. The 37th District seat is one of two vacated positions in the New York state Senate. CONTACT: franco@hometwn.com

10 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

December 22 & 29, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 11

Business Briefs Orthopedics at NYP Lawrence is transforming NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital Orthopedics is undergoing an exciting transformation, ushered in by nationally renowned sports medicine and orthopedic physicians from Columbia University Medical Center. Doctors will be seeing patients in Bronxville and Tarrytown, with surgical procedures performed at NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Dr. Jeffrey A. Geller Hospital. The collaboration with Columbia will result in a significant expansion of services offered, including the addition of fellowship trained experts in the following orthopedic specialties: hip and knee reconstruction, sports medicine, foot and ankle, hand, elbow, shoulder, spine, and trauma. These services are complemented by the hospital’s Joint Replacement Program and extensive outpatient physical therapy services. The new team will be led by Dr. Jeffrey A. Geller, chief of orthopedic surgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital. He serves as chief and director of Research, Division of Hip & Knee Reconstruction at Columbia University Medical Center’s Department of Orthopedic Surgery, and as the Nas S. Eftekhar professor of orthopedic surgery at Columbia University Medical Center. Geller is a nationally recognized leader in the non-operative and operative treatment of arthritic disorders of the hip and knee. “We are delighted to bring these new specialized services to NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital and provide access to world-class Columbia physicians,” said Michael J. Fosina, president of NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital. “Our patients will have access to a wider array of orthopedic services using the most advanced surgical and non-operative techniques.” “Columbia Orthopedics is thrilled to expand our services to patients in Westchester County and local communities throughout the region,” said Dr. William Levine, orthopedic surgeon-in-chief of NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, and Frank E. Stinchfield, professor and chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Columbia University Medical Center. “Through our collaboration with NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital, patients will benefit from an academic medical practice that leverages the latest research and technology to deliver advanced orthopedic specialty care close to where they want and need it most—home.” The Joint Commission awarded NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital’s Joint Replacement Program its Gold Seal of Approval again in 2016, which demonstrates the hospital’s continuous compliance with national standards for health care quality and safety in disease-specific care. The certification award recognizes the hospital’s dedication with these state-of-the-art standards. New patients are welcome. Appointments can be made by calling 750-4650. For more information, visit nyp.org/lawrence-ortho. Founded in 1909, NewYork-Presbyterian Lawrence Hospital has a long and well-established history of providing superior healthcare to the residents of southern Westchester County and its sur-

rounding communities. The 288-bed hospital joined TAVR, procedure. The cardiac teams also perform the NewYork-Presbyterian Regional Hospital Net- hybrid catheter ablations, laser lead extractions, and work in 2014 and offers a cardiac catheterization transcatheter mitral valve and tricuspid valve repair laboratory, a maternity department and an emer- using the MitraClip device, patent foramen ovale, gency department providing emergency care to ap- PFO, closures, and alcohol septal ablations (for hyproximately 46,000 people annually. A new, state- pertrophic cardiomyopathy). of-the-art comprehensive Cancer Center, accredited To learn more about Westchester Medical Center by the American College of Surgeons with Multiple and the vital services it provides to residents of the Commendations, offers infusion, radiation therapy, Hudson Valley and beyond, visit WestchesterMedsurgical and support services. NewYork-Presbyteri- icalCenter.org. For more information about WMan Lawrence Hospital provides additional support CHealth, visit WMCHealth.org. and care to area residents through NewYork-PresbyBusiness Council of Westchester terian Medical Group Westchester, a multispecialty launches data exchange physician practice, as well as ColumbiaDoctors, the faculty practice of Columbia University Medical The Business Council of Westchester recentCenter. For more information, visit nyp.org/lawly announced the creation of the BCW Data Exrence or call 787-1000. change, a comprehensive online data center providing current and prospective Westchester businesses, New treatment alternative nonprofit organizations and governments with a available to prevent stroke multi-platform, user-friendly source for up-to-date demographic information, statistical analysis and trend data about Westchester County. The research will be conducted by Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, a nonprofit policy, planning, advocacy and research organization. It will go live Patients who have an increased risk of stroke due on the BCW website in the first quarter of 2018. The BCW Data Exchange will have the most to an irregular heart beat called atrial fibrillation and who cannot use blood thinners can now take advan- up-to-date information on a wide variety of topics tage of a lifesaving alternative offered at Westches- and issues impacting business in the county. Strater Medical Center, the flagship of the Westchester tegic areas will focus upon: demographics, snapshots of workforce data, housing, education, local Medical Center Health Network, WMCHealth. As a regional leader in cardiac care, Westchester government, transportation, infrastructure, real esMedical Center has begun offering a new technolo- tate trends, municipal services, and other vital data gy called the WATCHMAN, which offers a cathe- relevant to the attraction and retention of businesses ter-based alternative to blood thinners for prevent- in Westchester. Customized reports will be available ing stroke in patients suffering from atrial fibrilla- for those looking for a deeper dive into the data. “As the largest business organization in Westchestion, a condition characterized by a fast, irregular ter, we already serve as a resource for businesses heartbeat. “Because of our expertise in performing deli- and government officials seeking to understand the cate cardiac procedures, Westchester Medical Cen- opportunities available in the county and how Westter is among a select group of hospitals nationwide chester compares to other counties. We’re pleased to offer this treatment to atrial fibrillation patients to be adding this valuable tool that will also offer who previously had no other alternative,’’ said Dr. an unparalleled resource for our urban centers and Sei Iwai, director of Cardiac Electrophysiology at communities across the county that are undergoing a Westchester Medical Center. “We are excited to of- major revitalization,” said Marsha Gordon, president fer a life-saving alternative for our patients whose and CEO of the Business Council of Westchester. “We are fortunate to be working with Hudson risk for stroke makes them ineligible for traditional Valley Pattern for Progress on this important initiatreatments.” The Westchester Medical Center cardiology tive. They are uniquely positioned to step beyond team, including Iwai, Dr. Ryan Kaple, and Mala the limits of analyzing data from a single perspecSharma, MBBS, has already performed the first tive and take a 360-degree examination of the chalWATCHMAN procedures with excellent outcomes. lenges and issues that impact and shape the commuBecause the upper chambers (atria) of the heart nities of Westchester,” Gordon added. “The mission of this initiative is to provide the don’t squeeze normally in atrial fibrillation, an outframework and foundation to build and, in some pouching, called the left atrial appendage, can collect blood that can then clot and travel in the blood- cases, rebuild a prosperous economy and sustainstream to the brain, causing a stroke. The standard able communities within Westchester County by treatment is using blood thinners to eliminate the risk of clotting and stroke, but some patients are prohibited from using these treatments long-term. The WATCHMAN technology enables interventional cardiologists to cap off the appendage using a procedure that involves threading a catheter through the groin area and into the left atrium where the WATCHMAN device is inserted to seal the opening. The technology is approved by the FDA. WMCHealth’s Heart and Vascular Institute remains at the forefront of advanced cardiac technology in the Hudson Valley and beyond. For example, the WMCHealth Heart and Vascular Institute’s cardiac electrophysiologists have performed approximately 500 atrial fibrillation ablation procedures. In April, cardiac interventionists performed their 300th transcatheter aortic valve replacement,

making informed decisions through data research and analysis,” said Jonathan Drapkin, president and CEO of the Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress. “As we like to say, ‘Data tells a story,’ and we are particularly pleased to be working with the Business Council in developing that story that will provide a baseline source of information to assist in the promotion, attraction and marketing of Westchester County for new economic development opportunities and to expand existing businesses,” Drapkin added. The idea of a comprehensive online data resource to help promote economic development in Westchester is the result of several years of strategic planning by the BCW board of directors. Board member Heidi Davidson, who chairs the BCW’s data committee, said that the new service would fill a real need in the business community. “We live in a world where having and understanding data is everything,’’ Davidson said. “The availability of current data has long been a challenge for Westchester as there has never been a single repository of data for Westchester County. The comprehensive data available through the BCW Data Exchange will fuel the BCW and Westchester’s economic development efforts.” Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress is a nonprofit policy and planning organization that promotes regional, balanced and sustainable solutions to enhance the growth and vitality of the Hudson Valley. Founded in 1965 by business, academic and civic leaders, and based in Newburgh, N.Y., Pattern works within the nine-county area that includes Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester. For more information, visit pattern-for-progress.org. The county’s largest and most influential business membership organization, The Business Council of Westchester is committed to helping businesses market, learn, advocate and grow. In addition, The Business Council of Westchester is actively involved in reviewing federal, state and county legislation and regulations in order to assess the potential impact on the business community and to influence the outcomes through advocacy when the business community’s interests may be affected. It also acts as an information resource for the business community and government leaders at all levels. For more information, visit thebcw.org. The next Business Briefs section will run in January. Please send any submission for our January edition to news@hometwn.com, with “Business” in the subject line of your email. Each submission may include one picture. If you have any questions, email us at news@hometwn.com.

12 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

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December 22 & 29, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 13

14 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

Hall of Lame LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

It’s that time of year again, the time of year when good deeds are weighed against bad ones, and the arbiter of who has been nice—and who has been naughty—rewards a select few for their actions. But I’m not waxing poetic about the jolly fat man up at the North Pole; I’m talking about the selection process for the 2018 inductees to the Baseball Hall of Fame. Although voting members of the Baseball Writers Association of America have until Jan. 24 to officially send in their ballots, over the last few years, several intrepid writers have made their voting results public in order to give baseball fans some sense of the early returns. And while I certainly enjoy the growing transparency in the process, as well as the opportunity to drag out conversations about who, in fact, is worth of enshrinement out for over a month, a quick look at the results

so far leave me as perplexed as ever about what exactly the writers are thinking. On Dec. 18, Hall of Fame voting tracker and Twitter personality Ryan Thibodaux released a first glance at this year’s vote, and while there are some no-brainers on there—Jim Thome, Vladimir Guerrero and Chipper Jones all look like locks—the steroid question seems to once again be a divisive issue among voters. Most curiously, perhaps, are the questions surrounding two of the game’s all-time greats who may have irrevocably tarnished their reputation with their ties to performance enhancing drugs: Roger Clemens and Barry Bonds. With 17.5 percent of voters having responded, both Clemens and Bonds seem to be on the cusp of the 75 percent mark for enshrinement enshrinement, with Clemens taking in 72.6 percent of the votes and Bonds taking in 71.2 percent. But as we found out in the 2016 presidential election, sometimes early numbers can be misleading. Most experts expect those

SPORTS

numbers to drop precipitously, as the writers who are most likely to release their ballots to the public ahead of time skew to a younger demographic and are thus less likely to penalize a player for PED allegations. But beyond the “will they get in” question, these early numbers piqued a different question in my mind: how can someone have possibly voted for Clemens and not Bonds, and vice versa? As of right now, two writers who made a case for Clemens left Bonds off the ballot, while Jon Heyman chose the slugger, but not the hurler. And that’s pretty tough to reconcile, at least in my mind. Clemens and Bonds are so intertwined at this point it seems ludicrous that a writer could make a case for one but not the other. Both players were inarguably Hall of Famers early on before late-career surges—inexorably linked to some shady pharmaceutical dabbling—turned them, numbers-wise, into absolutely otherworldly talents. If you want to keep them both out of the Hall, I would understand it, but how

Early vote results for the 2018 Baseball Hall of Fame class were released this week, and Sports Editor Mike Smith has a few questions. Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.org

could you vote for one and not the other? The Hall of Fame voting process is a flawed one, for sure. Because it’s essentially a human process, and because writers come into each balloting sea-

son with their own biases about a player’s contribution to the game—and the way he treated writers during his career—you’re never going to have a perfect Hall of Fame where every player in it deserves it or every deserving

player gets his plaque on the wall. But let’s at least have a little consistency, fellas. That’s all I’m asking for.

Follow Mike on Twiter @LiveMike_Sports

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

SPORTS

December 22 & 29, 2017 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • 15

Rye wins Rotary Classic GIRLS BASKETBALL non-league

RYE 57 GREENWICH 30 RYE HS

12/18/17

Game Notes: • Teaghan Flaherty scored 19 points in the finals and was named tournament MVP • The Garnets won both tournament games by a combined 51 points • Rye will take on Fox Lane on Dec. 22

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor Although Rye’s recent history in it’s own Rotary Classic Tournament hasn’t been stellar, the Garnets came to play last weekend, topping both East Ramapo and Greenwich to take top honors at the annual event. For a Garnets team still searching for an identity this year, head coach Dennis Hurlie believes that Rye’s strong showing on it’s home court could be a sign of things to come. After a snow storm pushed the opening round back to Dec. 16, Rye came out swinging, taking an early lead against East Ramapo before going on to top the Titans 58-34. The one-sided victory also allowed Hurlie

to insert bench players into the proceedings before the end of the first quarter, something the head coach believes afforded his players some much-needed in-game experience. “It’s really important, especially being so early in the season, we’re still in the process of figuring out the rotations and that’s a fluid thing,” Hurley said. “And when you can get them in the game as early as we were able to, it definitely helps us get a better look as opposed to preseason scrimmages.” In the Dec. 18 championship game against Greenwich, the Garnets continued their balanced play, using a strong defensive effort in the second half—and a 19-point performance by tourney MVP Teaghan Flaherty—to beat the Cardinals 57-30. Although Flaherty has been the primary scorer for the Garnets thus far, Hurlie has been pleased with the other players, including Amanda Latkany, who scored 20 points in the two games, have stepped up to shoulder some of the offensive load. “It was definitely nice to see players like Ellie Dailey, Niamh Carty and [Latkany] starting to put the ball in the basket,” Hurlie said. “The ball movement has been great, I think that makes us a more complete team as the girls are beginning to play with more confidence.” The Garnets will look to keep that confidence as they prepare for a tough end to 2017. Rye will travel to Nyack to take on the Indians on Dec. 20, after press time, and close out the year with tough matchups against Fox Lane and Red Hook. When the team returns from the holiday break, they will get their first taste of league competition when they take on Eastchester on Jan. 5. “When we come back the league games get started with some very important games,” Hurlie said. “So we’re hoping to finish strong and hopefully use that as we get ready for teams like Eastchester.”

Ellie Dailey goes up for a basket against the Titans.

Niamh Carty brings the ball up the floor against East Ramapo. The Garnets topped the Titans 58-34.

CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com

Teaghan Flaherty takes a jump shot against East Ramapo on Dec. 16. Flaherty was named MVP of the Rye Rotary Classic.

Maddie Freilich looks to create space on Dec. 16. Photos/Mike Smith

16 • THE RYE CITY REVIEW • December 22 & 29, 2017

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