March 25, 2016 by The City Review New Rochelle

Mamaroneck REVIEW

March 25, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 13 | www.mamaroneckreview.com

Happy Easter March 25 & April 1, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 6 | www.cityreviewnr.com

School district to unveil bond choice March 29 By SARAH VARNEY Education Reporter

And they’re off! Children rush to gather up as many Easter eggs as they can during last Saturday’s Eggstravaganza at The Hugh Doyle Center. For coverage, see page 8. Photo/Bobby Begun

Eggs!

Mayor Bramson: New Rochelle is open for business By SIBYLLA CHIPAZIWA Editorial Assistant New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson spoke with optimism and confidence on the city’s future during his State of the City address earlier this month, with focus on the downtown development plan and pledging to focus on the city as a whole. “The state of our city is strong,” said Bramson, a Demo-

crat, after telling the full house of officials, business owners, community leaders, developers and residents some positive statistics of New Rochelle, including the city having the lowest crime rate in 16 years and its best bond rating “since FDR was in the White House.” Bramson, who gave his speech on March 3 at Beckwith Pointe, a private club on Davenport Avenue, immediately turned

his focus to the city’s downtown development plan that was unanimously approved by the City Council last December, calling it “the most ambitious downtown development plan in the entire Hudson Valley.” The plan has the potential to construct up to 1 million square feet of space that will be of mixed use in an effort to revitalize the city, with the selection of one prime development company, RDRXR, to

oversee the vision. “New Rochelle is open for business,” the mayor said of the message the plan will send out to the world. The framework of the development plan is the newly constructed “most flexible, new zoning code in Westchester” called a form-based code, which allows “just about any use on every bramson continued on page 5

Over the next week, administrators for the City School District of New Rochelle will hunker down with newly enlisted school-level health and safety committee members to pick the best bond option. There are four bond options ranging from about $35 million to approximately $100 million. The money will be used for repairs and renovations to the city’s eight main school buildings. A $49.5 million version of the bond was narrowly voted down on Dec. 17, 2015. Currently, all the district’s school buildings are in unsatisfactory condition, according to standards established by the New York State Education Department. Nearly all of the school buildings have health and safety issues. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian Osborne attributes the degree of dilapidation at the schools largely to the economic collapse starting in 2007. “For a dozen years, the school spent $250,000 per year on maintenance. In the last year and a half, we’ve spent $25 million,” Osborne said. The 10 district schools serve nearly 10,700 students. The superintendent added that the lack of functioning health and safety committees at each school probably didn’t help. Members dropped out as their

children progressed through the school district, and in other cases, meetings were sporadic or weren’t held at all, Osborne explained. “Yes, I do think it was a factor,” Osborne said. “They weren’t reporting back to the district on a regular basis.” Administrators are currently focused on making sure that community members understand how debt financing on the bonds will work. “We need to explain to people that debt service is paid through the operating budget,” the superintendent said. “Right now, we pay about $8.5 million in debt service annually. Of that amount, $3.5 million is [returned to the district via state aid].” According to Board of Education President Lianne Merchant, early anecdotal feedback continues to lean toward the most expensive of the four options, which require $108 million in repairs and renovations. “So far, people are indicating that they want us to really look at going for it,” she said. As for the 2016-2017 budget, it will be released in stages. A line by line listing of costs projected for the upcoming school year was distributed at the March 15 meeting. “When the budget is presented in early May, it will be tax [cap] compliant and will likely include a tax levy increase of approximately bond continued on page 13

2 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

April 2016

Planning ahead... Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Autism Awareness Month

NCAA Final Four

April Fools’ Day

NCAA Championship

Boston Marathon

Board of Education regular meeting 7 p.m., Webster School

City Council COW meeting 3:45 p.m.

City Council regular meeting 7 p.m.

World Health Day

Masters Tournament

Historical and Landmark Review Board 7:30 p.m., City Hall

Civil Service Commission meeting 3 p.m.

NRHS PTSA update meeting 7 p.m., LEK

Tax Day

Earth Day Passover begins

Board of Education special meeting 7 p.m., Barnard School

Spring recess begins, schools closed

Planning Board meeting 7:30 p.m., City Hall

Spring recess ends

Passover ends

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 3

Legislators expected to surpass Playland deadline

An amended agreement between the county and Standard Amusements is expected to exceed a proposed March 31 signing date after extensive criticism by the county Board of Legislators. File photo

By JAMES PERO Staff Writer A deadline for the transfer of Playland Park to the management company Standard Amusements may be turning into a dead end. According to Westchester County Legislator Catherine Parker, a Rye Democrat, there’s virtually no chance of the county Board of Legislators clearing a March hurdle. “I think it’s pretty clear that the March 31 deadline was an artificial deadline,” she said in regard to the date first introduced in October 2015. “We will not be finished by March 31.” The March 31 deadline is significant because it serves as the deadline for Standard if it were to opt out of its management agreement with the county for Playland, according to the county administration officials. Standing in the way of legislators and finalization of the amended agreement, which was announced by the administration on Feb. 22, Parker explained, are both the $58 million in countyfunded capital projects—which marks a nearly threefold increase from the original agreement reached in 2015—as well as numerous concerns regarding the nature of those projects. On Monday, March 14, several legislators, guided by a representative from Standard Amusements, toured the ailing 88-yearold, county-owned amusement park in an effort to gauge the scale of the work needed to refurbish it. However, according to Parker

and county Legislator MaryJane Shimsky, a Hastings-on-Hudson Democrat who chairs the county’s infrastructure subcommittee, many questions surrounding the agreement’s list of capital projects still linger. Shimsky, who was among the legislators that toured Playland, was struck by both the park’s poor condition and the cost of its improvements. “I found myself growing increasingly concerned by the deteriorating condition of portions of the park,” Shimskey said. “We need to take a thorough look at the details, to ensure that the deal with Standard Amusements— which has changed materially by the near tripling of the county’s capital project budget—will benefit the taxpayers.” So far, more specific information on both the scope of work needed at the park and engineering reports detailing projects have yet to be provided to legislators, according to Parker, who told the Review the information was requested of the county administration two weeks ago. Parker said that even if the agreement were to be completely vetted before the final deadline, it would likely not include the full $58 million in capital projects. “I don’t think any legislator would support the agreement with $58 million on the taxpayers back,” she said. One project in particular that drew scrutiny from legislators on March 14, during a joint meeting between the infrastructure, budget and parks subcommittees, was a $1 million project to

rehabilitate Playland’s shoreline. According to legislators, the project would see the county funding renovations to storefronts along Playland’s south bathhouse; a location which had already been the subject of previous renovations according to county Legislator Ken Jenkins, a Yonkers Democrat. “Building storefronts is clearly for the benefit of the operator and it should be carried out by them,” Jenkins said. Also of concern among legislators looking to whittle down county-funded projects are a $20 million plan to rehabilitate the park’s colonnades as well as a $10 million project to renovate a parking lot. In the interim, both the county and Standard agreed to operate in a co-management period for the amusement park. However, Jenkins said there are no representatives from Standard currently managing the park. And according to Jenkins, none of Standard’s employees will begin to manage the park until the county expends 50 percent of the money agreed to in capital projects— a undetermined date which he also describes as the new optout deadline for the management company to walk away from the deal. “At this point in time, the agreement just is not right for us,” Jenkins said. Nick Singer, co-founder for Standard Amusements, could not be reached for comment as of press time. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com

4 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

What’s going on... New Rochelle Public Library

Visit nrpl.org for more information on these and other events and programs. Both New Rochelle public libraries will be closed on Sunday, March 27 for Easter.

Book sales On Saturday, March 26, Tuesday, March 29 and Thursday, March 31 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the main library’s main lobby. The Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library Mini Book Sales are where you will find bargains from popular novels, mysteries and nonfiction in hardcover and paperback, to children’s books, CDs and DVDs. The Friends Monthly Big Book Sales will take place on Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds from these sales allow the Friends to provide funding for quality children and adult programming, and will assist the library by contributing to various projects and improving service to the community.

AARP free tax help

Free tax assistance through the Tax Counseling for the Elderly program and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance, will be offered every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through April 14 in the library Theater/Meeting Room. Tax filers are advised to arrive early, as they will meet with a tax advisor on a first-come, first-served basis. The TCE tax assistance program is free. Interested persons are advised to bring copies of their 2014 tax returns, identification and whatever other tax related materials are needed to complete their returns; the counselors will have the necessary forms to complete the e-filing. For patrons who just need tax forms, the IRS ships most of the forms to the library. A selection of forms for federal and state returns will be available on the third floor of the library, as soon as the library receives the shipments. In order to maintain the supply through the tax season, patrons are asked to take no more than two copies of any form. Reproducible forms will also be available to be photocopied. For more information, call 632-7878.

Film screening On Tuesday, March 29 at 7 p.m., the last film in the library’s “Extraordinary Women in Film” se-

ries will be “Women in Space.” This is a 2014 PBS documentary from the “Makers” series that traces the history of women pioneers in the U.S. space program. It wasn’t until 1995 that Eileen Collins became the first woman to pilot a spacecraft. The program includes interviews with Collins, as well as Sally Ride’s classmates Shannon Lucid, Rhea Seddon and Kathryn Sullivan, and features Mae Jemison, the first woman of color astronaut, and Peggy Whitson, the first female commander of the International Space Station. The film ends with the next generation of women engineers, mathematicians and astronauts—the new group of pioneers, like Marleen Martinez, who continue to make small but significant steps forward. Narrated by Jodie Foster. The film will be screened in the Ossie Davis Theater. Running time: 30 minutes. This film screening is free and open to the public, and it is made possible by the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library and in partnership with Zonta Club New Rochelle.

Byzantine and Ottoman performance “From the Byzantine ‘Echos’ to the Ottoman ‘Makam’” will be the featured concert in the Ossie Davis Theater of the New Rochelle Public Library on Sunday, April 3 from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Byzantine chants and Ottoman classical music will be performed by Eleftherios Eleftheriadis and Georgios Theodoridis, accompanied by an ensemble of instrumentalists. The free concert is made possible by the Axion Estin Foundation, with funding from the New York State Council on

the Arts with the support of Gov. Andrew Cuomo and the New York state Legislature.

American Red Cross blood drive The library will host an American Red Cross blood drive on Friday, April 8 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the library’s Meeting Room and theater stage. The Red Cross needs donors to keep giving blood during all times of the year if it is to continue meeting patients’ need for blood: transfusions for trauma victims who have experienced accidents or burns; patients undergoing heart surgery or organ transplants; and patients receiving treatment for leukemia, cancer and other diseases. A donation will help ensure that blood is available for those many patients who require this lifesaving gift. Donors need to be at least 17 years of age. Donors may drop in or register by calling 1-800-REDCROSS or by visiting redcrossblood.org/RapidPass, which allows donors to complete their prereading and donation questions online from the comfort and privacy of their home or office, thus reducing the time they spend at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes. All donors should bring a photo I.D. and allow 45 to 60 minutes to complete the donation. Refreshments will be provided. 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.

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 5 bramson from page 1

site;” and “an approval process that sweeps away barriers to success” based on efficiency and predictability as ways to developing a healthier, greener city. Bramson then unveiled RDRXR’s first project by showing a rendering of a 28-story tower that would include a public performance space while preserving the façade of the former Loew’s theater on Main Street. “This project is exactly the kind of marriage of private investment and public interest that our downtown plan is purposefully designed to create,” the mayor said. The mayor added that more projects are either on the way, have been approved by the city Planning Board or are being discussed by city officials, saying that not all will go through, but the changes, though dramatic, will be positive. “Finally, for all of us, it is wheels up. New Rochelle is ready to fly,” Bramson said. “When you’ve got momentum… you press it home for all it’s worth.” Bramson said there are three key elements to help New Rochelle seize the opportunity to

At a glance Marketing campaign based on city’s new brand: “Ideally Yours” Focus on needs of all neighborhoods across the city starting this year New commitment to infrastructure investment Work toward goal of making New Rochelle an attractive, diverse community

develop as a whole city. The first was rolling out the city’s new brand, “Ideally Yours,” with New Rochelle’s institutions also joining in the telling of the city’s story to a wider audience in a positive light. The mayor stressed the importance of residents taking their grievances straight to the City Council or a public hearing rather than Facebook. “We’ll respond,” he said. “Keep it in the family.”

The second element is involving the city as a whole, rather than just the downtown area. Bramson mentioned the city’s 20-year-old Comprehensive Plan, which is currently being updated to ensure that smart decisions are made on “what to preserve and what to change.” Two changes that have come citywide include the replacement of almost 7,000 streetlights with LED fixtures and a bike share program, a first for New Rochelle, to help boost public health. The third is making a “serious commitment to our infrastructure,” with Bramson stating that the city’s foundation is more than a century old and that this area of municipal spending is “most severely and chronically underfunded.” The ultimate goal of the downtown plan and future development is to ensure that New Rochelle continues to rebuild over a period of years, while improving the city’s image and enhancing the New York metropolitan area as a whole. “Cities like New Rochelle are a vital part of the equation,” the mayor said. “We can only succeed as a region, and our region can only succeed with us.” CONTACT: sibylla@hometwn.com

Bob Marrone returns to WVOX on live morning show Bob Marrone has returned to WVOX 1460 AM, where he first made a name for himself in morning drive radio. He takes over the “Good Morning Westchester” program, which airs Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. “Mornings with Bob Marrone” is Westchester County’s local morning talk on WVOX 1460 AM with relevant news and interviews driven by listeners and callers. It is live, local and informative radio, so much more than just traffic and weather. The first show on Feb. 29 was a homecoming filled with old friends, new voices and lots of fun. Indeed, New Rochelle has always been Marrone’s home base in Westchester County, where he now resides and serves as the executive director of the Chamber of Commerce. Most recently, he broadcast “Mornings with Bob Marrone” at

WFAS-AM until the station changed its format at the end of January. There, he built upon his reputation as a knowledgeable, warm and at times irreverently funny morning host. The show on WVOX will continue to offer the broad variety of guests and topics that you expect. From Westchester to the White House, from Vietnam to New Rochelle, it will feature those who make the news and those who need their stories told. Of course, Westchester, Putnam and Rockland counties will be Marrone’s primary focus as the show deals with issues important to the communities such as flood mitigation, education and infrastructure. Marrone will continue to provide public service elements, such as traditional efforts to highlight and help organizations dedicated to mental illness and those associated with curing ALS and other diseases. Lastly,

he will continue to welcome allcomers, whether they be callers or local bloggers. Marrone looks forward to bringing together the listeners and callers of WVOX. Marrone’s achievements include two New York State Broadcaster Association awards: one for best news in New York state, the other for best public affairs program. He also was given the Habitat for Humanity’s media coverage award for his work on the 2007 floods which devastated areas of Westchester. The YMCA recognized him with its 2009 Strong Communities award for his efforts to get out from behind his microphone and involve himself in the community. He also received a citation from the United States Army for his annual holiday troop calls events during which he conference-called soldiers deployed in war regions with their loved ones. (Submitted)

6 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016 THE

CityREVIEW NewRochelle 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000

Publisher | Howard Sturman ext. 21, publisher@hometwn.com Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthal ext. 31, irathal@hometwn.com Editor-in-Chief | Christian Falcone ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Sports Editor | Mike Smith ext. 22, sports@hometwn.com Editorial Assistant | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 25, sibylla@hometwn.com Editorial Assistant | Suzy Berkowitz ext. 30, suzy@hometwn.com Education Reporter | Sarah Varney ext. 17, sarah@hometwn.com Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Barbara Riehl ext. 16, barbara@hometwn.com Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lindsay@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writers James Pero, Angela Jordan, Kiley Stevens Staff Photographer Bobby Begun Columnist Lenore Skenazy

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New distillery set to shepherd in locals

The Miatas’ silver German shepherd, Loki, is the distillery’s namesake and the inspiration for its interior décor.

By SUZY BERKOWITZ Editorial Assistant The village of Mamaroneck is about to get a lot more spirited, as Port Chester resident Vincent Miata will soon be turning his hobby into a business with the opening of Good Shepherd Distillery. The business, which will be located at 360 Mount Pleasant Ave., will distill vodka, brandy, and—down the line—whiskey and gin, and will also offer tours, tastings and the retail selling of liquors made in New York state. “I’ve been doing this as a hobby for a long time and I’m excited to share it with other people,” Miata told the Review. “I think coming here is something different for people to do, especially when we start offering private tours or tastings.” Miata, whose wife and family have helped bring his dream to fruition, said Good Shepherd plans to open on Saturday afternoons at first, but will soon expand to Sunday hours. Miata Vincent Miata, his wife, Carly Miata, and their dog, Loki, are excited for said he is excited to also start Good Shepherd Distillery’s grand opening on Saturday, April 2. holding classes on how to cook

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Good Shepard Distillery plans on distilling vodka, brandy, whiskey and gin, and offering tours, tastings and the selling of spirits made in New York state. Photos/Lindsay Danielle

and distill liquor once the distillery has settled into its new location. His other business goals include reaching out to bars and liquor stores within a 3-mile radius in the hopes that they will carry his products, as well as selling them at local farmers markets. Mike Hofer, owner of the Smokehouse Tailgate Grill on Mamaroneck Avenue in Mamaroneck, said he tries to buy and carry local products. “We’re excited to feature some of Vinny’s products and be able to tell customers that it was made right here in Mamaroneck,” Hofer said. “Local residents feel a certain sense of pride knowing liquors were made where they live; it’s something they can connect with.” Although Miata’s liquor license only permits him to carry products made within the state, he said he’s happy to open Mamaroneck’s first business that specifically supports locally handmade spirits. His wife Carly shares his sentiment. “We take pride in the fact that our license only allows us to carry statewide liquors,” she said. “We love to shop local and we support small businesses. We were both born and raised in New York and we don’t see ourselves leaving.” Carly Miata designed the interior of Good Shepherd Distillery, which is named and themed after the couple’s silver German shep-

herd, Loki. The business’ logo includes a doghouse, and the distillery’s interior will feature photos of Loki on canvas. Carly Miata said she and her husband wanted to give the business a name that was both catchy and sentimental, and since Loki is such a big part of their lives, they settled on naming the distillery after him. She said they are also Catholic and spiritual, so they like the name’s religious undertones. Vincent Miata said the effort to get his business off the ground has come with few hiccups, save for logistical paperwork and ensuring residents that his location would not cause commotion in the community. He said after attending village board meetings and explaining the distillery’s sophisticated, hyperlocal demeanor and Saturday afternoon hours, people were more comfortable with the business. The owner said residents now regularly stop by the shop to knock on the window and express their excitement for its anticipated opening. “People are naturally afraid of what they don’t understand, but over time, they’re going to be happy with what they see,” Vincent Miata said. Good Shepherd Distillery’s grand opening will take place on Saturday, April 2 from noon to 4 p.m. CONTACT: suzy@hometwn.com

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 7

WVOX holds annual St. Pat’s broadcast

Howard Sturman, publisher of the Review newspapers, stopped by Dudley’s on the waterfront in New Rochelle for the annual WVOX St. Patrick’s Day live broadcast. Sturman also hosts his own radio show, “The Home Town Hour,” on the local radio station.

On Thursday, March 17, Dudley’s in New Rochelle played host to WVOX’s annual live St. Patrick’s Day broadcast. The event marks the festive gathering of some of

the elite in Westchester politics for a day of community celebration and camaraderie. This year, the broadcast honored Herman Geist, the former chairman of the Westchester

County Board of Legislators and director of Westchester Medical Center, and the late Sal Generoso, a New Rochelle elected official and business and civic leader.

Former Mamaroneck Town Supervisor Valerie O’Keeffe with Gregorio Alvarez, host of the WVOX show “Momentos Latino.” Photos courtesy Kevin Elliott

8 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

Hugh Doyle Center hosts Eggstravaganza for Easter

Maria Castillo and son Allen Mendosa, 2, complete their collage necklace. This was one of many stations that the children could demonstrate their artistic talents.

Jared Oliveros finds the Big Bunny on March 19 at The Hugh Doyle Center’s Eggstravaganza in New Rochelle. The event was sponsored by The New Rochelle Parks and Recreation in conjunction with the New Rochelle Youth Bureau Office for The Aging. Shoprite Supermarket provided all the refreshments. Photos/Bobby Begun

Daniel Valdovinos, 7, shows off his Bunny Hat that A bunny smile is apparent on 5-year-old Mason Mabel’s face at Eggstravaganza. he made at last Saturday’s Eggstravaganza.

A child at Eggstravaganza collects Easter eggs with special toys inside during the egg hunt.

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 9

State passes bills to tackle youth heroin problem City of Rye awarded $1.55M over golf club fraud Because of a spike in heroin use among adolescents throughout the entire state, the New York state Senate passed two bills on March 1 that increase penalties for anyone who sells controlled substances to anyone under the age of 14, and increased penalties for anyone who sells a controlled substance in a park or playground. One bill makes selling a controlled substance to anyone under the age of 14 a Class A-II felony, which carries a minimum sentence of three to eight years, and the other bill increases penalties for selling a controlled substance in a park or on a playground. The statewide heroin and opioid epidemic has not escaped attention in Westchester County. Last month, all three candidates for the Westchester County’s district attorney’s office said that the distribution and abuse of heroin were a top priority for the county’s law enforcement, especially among Westchester’s teenagers. For state Sen. George Latim-

The New York state Senate passed two bills last week in an effort to address the growing heroin and opioid problem among the state’s minors. File photo

er, a Rye Democrat who voted for both bills, the drug issue is personal as well. “My next-door neighbor’s child died,” Latimer said. “I knew him when he was younger, and now he’s gone forever. It is a terrible loss.” Latimer also added that the bills were bipartisan “because it’s the right thing to do.” The bills will be sent to the state Assembly next. Assemblyman Steve Otis, a Rye Democrat, said that the “premise of the bills make sense,” and that he would vote to pass them. At least 15 other pieces of legislation have passed within the last two years as specific ef-

forts to curb New York’s growing heroin and opioid problem, in addition to allocations of more than $47 million of funds into the 2014-2015 and the 2015-2016 state budgets toward various initiatives to treat and prevent substance abuse. Assemblyman David Buchwald, a White Plains Democrat, was not available as of press time to comment, but a representative from his office said, “When it comes to opioid and heroin abuse, the assemblyman is working on a host of fronts to see that law enforcement and health officials are empowered to tackle this crisis.” -Reporting by Angela Jordan

The city of Rye will walk away with $1.55 million as a result of a settlement with its insurance carrier, Travelers, regarding money stolen by former Rye Golf Club manager Scott Yandrasevich between 2007 and 2012. Though the city’s original insurance claim against Travelers, which was filed in August 2013, sought a sum of $2.1 million, according to Mayor Joe Sack, a Republican, the city is more than pleased with the results of its efforts. “It took a good amount of fortitude to stick with it over time,” Sack said. “Our hard work was rewarded with a $1.55 million settlement. This is a big win for the city of Rye and the members of the Rye Golf Club.” After Traveler’s repeated failure to respond to the city’s claim for close to two years, in July 2015, the Rye City Council filed a formal suit against the insurance carrier.

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An insurance agency, Travelers, has awarded the city of Rye $1.55 million in a settlement that sought to recover money stolen by its former golf manager, Scott Yandrasevich. File photo

The settlement comes as a result of Yandrasevich pleading guilty to stealing approximately $271,000 from the city-owned golf club by setting up shell companies in order to bill the city for services. However, city officials, including Sack, always felt the level of financial theft conduct-

ed through Yandrasevich’s shell companies exceeded the amount he was prosecuted for. Yandresevich was convicted of grand larceny and falsifying documents in August 2015 and is serving a one- to three-year sentence in state prison. He is currently serving out his sentence in Altona State Correctional Facility in upstate New York. According to City Attorney Kristen Wilson, the city can actively pursue the additional $271,000 that the Westchester County District Attorney’s office charged Yandrasevich with stealing. Whether the city will be successful in its pursuit of money stolen by Yandrasevich, however, remains unclear. As a part of his plea agreement, Yandresevich was required to pay restitution but was sentenced to extra time after failing to pay the sum. -Reporting by James Pero

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10 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

Business Briefs Sara Frajnd joins Berkshire Hathaway of Larchmont

Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s welcomes new associates

Sara Frajnd has recently joined Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties. The announcement was made by Mark Nadler, director of Westchester sales for the Scarsdale and Larchmont offices. In a released statement, Nadler said, “I am delighted to announce that Sara has joined forces with us. She will be a tremendous addition to our staff.” Prior to joining Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Westchester Properties, Frajnd received her bachelor’s degree from Columbia University and later studied at the New York School of Interior Design. She pursued a career in the fashion and design industry both in New York and Tel Aviv, Israel. “As a result of both my work experiences and my creative nature, I tend to visualize things differently than other people due to,” Frajnd said. “For example, I can imagine what it would take to turn a fixer-upper into your dream home, or I can help you stage the home you are selling to get the best price possible. Sometimes it’s all in the details.” When representing clients, Frajnd’s mission is to connect with you. Contact Frajnd today with buying and selling requests in Westchester County. Call 207-329-9908, email SaraFrajnd@bhhswestchester.com or visit bhhsNEproperties.com.

Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty announced that six real estate agents Joan Capaldi, Alexandra Filipov, Danielle Longhitano, Martha Rubio, Cat Runcie and Heather Stone, have joined the company and will be based in the firm’s Larchmont brokerage. These agents, who are new to the industry, possess a wealth of varied skills and professional backgrounds, and are all recent graduates of the Larchmont Brokerage’s New Agent Academy training program, which aims to hone agent skills when entering the business. The New Agent Academy is a six-month program designed by Carolyn Fugere to fully prepare real estate sales associates who are brand new to the business with necessary skills and training in the field. Topics cover all aspects of the industry, including marketing, prospecting, legal understanding, conducting open houses, ethics, client representation and finance. Capaldi has an extensive background in the financial industry, and has held a variety of positions at an investment firm in Boston. Capaldi later received her MBA in marketing and moved to Westchester County to pursue a career in brand management. Now a Larchmont resident of 17 years, Capaldi is a professional who offers a wealth of community knowledge to potential clients. Runcie, a current resident of the Orienta neighborhood of Mamaroneck, also has a broad professional background to enhance her real estate career, with more than a decade of marketing and advertising experience. She is recognized for her “hands-on” interactions with clients, and works closely with them to deliver the smoothest transactions possible. International expertise is second nature to Filipov, who was born and raised in Normandy, France, and was involved in the travel and tourism industry for more than 12 years, working for both Walt Disney World and United Airlines. After marrying an American in Paris, Filipov relocated to Westchester County, where she purchased a home in Larchmont and became greatly involved in the local community. Rubio, who was born in Mexico, also boasts an abundance of global knowledge ideal for supporting an international clientele. Rubio speaks English, Spanish, French and German, and has past experience in the hospitality industry and diplomacy. She moved from Manhattan to Westchester County in 2007, and has since gained vast familiarity with the area. This asset, along with her strong negotiation skills and diverse background, allows Rubio to connect with both local and international clients. A Larchmont resident of more than 25 years, Longhitano brings a passion for both her work and native Westchester County community to the firm. Longhitano has a degree in school psychology and a master’s in therapeutic interventions, as well as hands-on experience in the housing industry through her family’s commercial and residential real estate firm, where she developed the passion and foundation for her current career. Longhitano now resides in Larchmont with her husband and son, and welcomes clients to the surrounding neighborhoods she knows so well.

Houlihan-Parnes Properties hires two property managers David Lulgjuraj joined Houlihan-Parnes Properties as an asset manager in 2015. He manages a portfolio of retail, office and residential properties, and he also oversees construction projects. Lulgjuraj is a New York state licensed real estate salesperson, graduating from Fordham University with a bachelor’s degree in economics. During his time at Fordham, Lulgjuraj played wide receiver on the football team. He grew up in the Woodlawn section of The Bronx. Tomasz Olfans also joined Houlihan-Parnes Properties as an asset manager in 2015 for a portfolio of retail, office and residential properties. Olfans was on a varsity tennis team at Concordia College in Bronxville, which ranked as high as No. 4 in the nation. He is from Poland, and graduated from Concordia with a bachelor’s in business administration. Houlihan-Parnes Properties is a full-service property management company headquartered in White Plains, New York. Its highly skilled professional staff oversees the operation of multifamily and commercial investment property located in the Northeast. For further information, contact James K. Coleman at 694-6070 or jcoleman@houlihanparnes.com.

Stone, who is originally from Harrison, also settled down with her family in Larchmont, and serves as a second-generation Westchester County real estate broker with intimate knowledge of the neighboring historic towns. Stone additionally possesses legal skills as an attorney and active New York State Bar Association member, securing a competitive advantage for her clients during every step of the home buying and selling process. “The incredible skills and versatility that has entered our Larchmont brokerage with this new graduating class of sales associates is remarkable,” Fugere said. “Our brokerage’s new agent training program allows their true potential to shine through, and after witnessing it firsthand, I am certain that they will be a valuable asset to our team. I am thrilled to welcome them, and can’t wait to see their positive contributions to the firm.” Founded in 1949, William Pitt and Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty manages a $3.3-billion-plus portfolio with more than 1,000 sales associates in 29 brokerages spanning Connecticut, Massachusetts and Westchester County, New York. William Pitt and Julia B. Fee Sotheby’s International Realty is the largest Sotheby’s International Realty affiliate globally and the 28th-largest real estate company by sales volume in the United States. Sotheby’s International Realty’s worldwide network includes approximately 18,000 sales associates located in approximately 825 offices throughout 61 countries and territories. For more information, visit williampitt.com.

Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester elects new officers Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester, HPCW, has voted in new officers and three new members for its 2016-2017 board of directors. Susan Yubas, of Rye, will serve as board chair; Kathleen McArdle, of Port Chester, will serve as vice chair; Joanne Ciaramella, of White Plains, will serve as secretary; and Charles Trainor, of Briarcliff Manor, will serve as treasurer. Mary Gibbons Gardiner, Jean LePere and George Whitehead have also been named the newest members of the board. Gibbons Gardiner, a Larchmont resident, is a vice president, financial advisor and senior partner of the Gardiner Epstein Group at Morgan Stanley.

She focuses on wealth management for families, executives and business owners. As a certified divorce financial analyst, Gibbons Gardiner’s team has a specialization in helping women in transition, especially during divorce and widowhood. She is a member of Westchester Community College’s Salon Series and has co-chaired the YWCA’s Women’s Marketplace on several occasions. LePere, a Brewster resident, is the regional corporate and community engagement manager for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City. Dedicated to health, wellness and finding a cure for cancer, she is an involved board member of Visiting Nurse Services in Westchester. LePere is also a member of Putnam County Medical Reserve Corps, New York State Collaborative for Palliative Care and New York State Cancer Consortium. Rounding out her resume, she is a professional advisory board member of Cancer Support Community of Central New Jersey and a grants reviewer for the New York City affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. Whitehead hails from Hopewell Junction, and professionally works a partner at PKF O’Connor Davies LLP, specializing in the commercial audit practice focusing on the manufacturing, retail, distribution, construction and technology industries. He has been an active volunteer with HPCW, serving on the development advisory board since 2014 and is also a certified public accountant. Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester is a private, nonprofit health care agency that provides skilled, compassionate and comprehensive endof-life home care to patients diagnosed with any serious or life-limiting illness and gives support to their families and loved ones. Hospice & Palliative Care of Westchester is located at 1025 Westchester Ave., Suite 200, in White Plains. For additional information, visit hospiceofwestchester.com or call 682-1484. The next Business Briefs section will run in April. Please send any submission for our April 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.

She’s not crazy, her name just rhymes with it. Read Lenore Skenazy’s column every week in the Review. A past contributor to the Daily News and the New York Sun, Skenazy has also appeared on “The Daily Show,” been profiled in the New Yorker and even had her own reality TV show, “World’s Worst Mom.”

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 11

Talking Business:

withMark stevens By IRA ELLENTHAL Where to begin? Perhaps with the fact that my interview the other day with entrepreneur Mark Stevens opened with him telling me that nothing’s off the record, that I can print anything he says, no matter how personal or controversial. No one has ever said that to me before. Within minutes, I realized I was interacting with someone who just might be the most interesting man in the world. No, not the distinguished bearded guy in the Dos Equis beer commercials; the one who made a weeping willow laugh; the one who once ran a marathon because it was on his way; the one who has taught old dogs a variety of new tricks. Unlike the fictional character in the celebrated commercials, this one is flesh-and-blood real. Stevens lives in Bedford and attracts prospective clients to his Rye Brook office so they can try to convince him to handle their marketing. “I’ve never had to ask anyone for an order,” he says matter-offactly and seems to mean it, no matter how unlikely it sounds. Stevens is the wildly successful chief executive officer of MSCO, a firm specializing in strategy and integrated marketing solutions. For the past 22 years, he and his team have been engaged in high-stakes business-building initiatives with both senior corporate executives and smallbusiness owners, advising them how and why their marketing falls short, and how it can be vastly improved to grow their companies. He plays it in person; he plays it in his high-powered, drive time radio commercials on which he spent $2.1 million last year; and he plays it in his runaway bestseller, “Your Marketing Sucks.” When he isn’t talking to the players in the business world about their marketing, he’s either solving their problems or writing

Mark Stevens, CEO of MSCO, a firm that specializes in strategies and integrated marketing solutions. Photo courtesy jobs.lovetoknow.com

Mark Stevens’ bestseller, “Your Marketing Sucks,” is one of his 20 books. This book says that a company’s only marketing goal should be to cause the company to grow—“extreme marketing.” Photo courtesy Amazon.com

books. He’s written 20 so far, including the only biography ever written about financier and selfdescribed shareholder activist Carl Icahn, a multibillionaire. “Carl’s the smartest businessman I’ve ever met,” Stevens says, “but he threatened to sue me for everything I had if I went forward with his biography. I held fast and eventually he dropped his threat and agreed to cooperate with me on the bio, which is available on Amazon and just contracted to be published in China.” Stevens has been close friends with Icahn for more than 50 years, going back to our days in Far Rockaway, and I can count on one hand the number of times he has lost such a stare down.

But back to Stevens and corporate marketing. His passion for it is palpable. “The problem with their marketing,” he says, “is that it’s often poorly designed and terribly executed—to the point that it just plain sucks. It fails to achieve the only legitimate goal… to drive a company’s growth.” Clearly, Stevens is a pleasure to interview, answering all of my questions; many before I even asked them. During the 10th anniversary sequel to “Your Marketing Sucks,” Stevens underscores that most marketing programs are the equivalent of throwing $1,000 bills out the window. “I call it spending camouflaged as marketing,” he says. “You’ve got to demand that money spent

on marketing brings in more money than you’ve spent on it.” Stevens calls this branding concept “extreme marketing,” a term he coined and—you guessed it—marketed successfully. “In essence, extreme marketing means that you have to do everything possible to guarantee that every marketing dollar you spend is set in a strategic context and is based on a plan construct-

ed to make certain that every tactic and tool reinforces every other you are using,” Stevens says. “And, of course, it means that you must bring back a return that’s more than the dollars you invested.” When he first sat down to write “Your Marketing Sucks,” he says he did so “with a strategic and philosophical goal in mind: to posit that market-

ing was increasingly a show of aesthetic grandstanding to win awards for creativity. Its real aim should be to deliver marketing’s only legitimate prize, the sale of more products and services.” While that perspective, and roadmap for accomplishing it, remains the bedrock of the Stevens’ recent book, he notes that much has changed in the world since it was first published and immediately became a bestseller. “There was no social media to speak of,” he said. “E-commerce was alive but in its infancy. Mark Zuckerberg was an obscure Harvard student. Steve Jobs was diagnosed with a pancreatic tumor. And Instagram was seven years away from launch.” When I asked him to give me an example of great marketing, he smiled, opened the 10th anniversary edition to its dedication and politely asked me to read it: “To the creators of all the cheesy commercials I watched as a kid, which made me bug my mother to buy cereals I detested so that I could win a horse (which would have had to be housed in a onebedroom apartment in Queens). That’s great marketing.” Happily married and the father of two fully grown, financially successful sons, Stevens says that he considers himself blessed. He also says that he loves his life and loves being interested in so many passions. And all of it shows in every possible way. Ira Ellenthal is the executive vice president of Home Town Media Group.

Advertise with us!

Coming in April, Inside WC will feature health industry professionals. If you’re interested in advertising in the “Health Professionals” issue, please contact sales representative Ira Ellenthal at 653-1000 ext.31 or irathal@hometwn.com.

12 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

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March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 13

TV reports toy turns toddler into sex slave Refacing finally gets accepted in remodeling industry RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy

A mom just bought a toy for her 2-year-old daughter that signals to pedophiles that the girl is ready to be traded for sex. WHAT? I’d repeat it, but it still wouldn’t make any sense. And yet, this modern day myth has gone viral. It’s everywhere from headline news to AOL to local media, and of course, Facebook. One mom there lamented, “I did not know that pedophiles have their own insidious silent language that is infiltrating society through pretty pink images... which signal to other pedophiles the child can be traded.” Do we really live in that kind of hell for kids? The real story involves a Florida mom who bought a pink plush truck for her daughter at a monster truck rally down there. Somehow (the original WFLA-TV reporter never tells us how), the mom came to believe the heartwithin-a-heart logo on the toy is a code pedophiles use. I should mention that that the heart-within-a-heart logo is also the logo you see on Good Humor bars or when your barista has mastered the art of making a heart in your cappuccino foam. And yet, using a garbled mishmash of horror and hysteria, the TV reporter told viewers that because of that heart logo, the toy

“held a sick secret; a disgusting calling card for creeps.” And now, “When a pedophile sees children with the heart symbol, it’s a code meaning that child is ready to be traded for sex.” While presenting zero evidence that the world works like this, the reporter then interviewed the mom, who seemed as distraught, as if her child had just narrowly escaped the clutches of Cropsy. “I’m absolutely sick!” she cried. “This is pink! This is for little girls, especially at a predominantly male event.” So... does the mom think the “male event” deliberately stocked up on pink toys so that unwitting parents would buy them? And that predators would see the symbol, and go, “Look! A heart on a toy. This mom must be willing to sell her child into sex slavery!” And then what? Would she feel obligated to trade her kid for cash because that’s how the system works? I can’t stop marveling at this “news” story, because it shows that we are so obsessed with the fear of predators—or at least news editors are so obsessed with feeding us these stories—that we never even stop to say, “Wait...what?” For a dose of actual facts, I dropped a line to David Finkelhor, head of the Crimes Against Children Research Center at the University of New Hampshire. “I can’t reassure you that there isn’t some lonely pedophile club somewhere that has decided to make a logo,” he wrote back. And it’s true. In trying to find

whether there was anything that could suggest even a scintilla of justification for the story, I learned there was one lone government file, written about 10 years ago— and played up in an episode of “Law & Order: SVU,” of course— that suggested pedophiles might wear logos that indicated their leanings. “But what is certainly true is that pedophiles would not simply decide to pick a victim based on carrying an item with a logo. No one should worry about the logo being dangerous for their kids,” Finkelhor said. But that’s the problem. We are worried all the time about this least likely of crimes: stranger danger. Christie Barnes, author of “The Paranoid Parents Guide,” found that the very top worry of parents is kidnappings. (And No. 4 is “dangerous strangers.”) This fear haunts us even though our crime rate is the lowest it’s been in decades. It haunts us even though we know that when it comes to crimes against children, the vast majority are committed not by strangers, but by trusted adults. When stories like this fan the flames of predator panic, we get a population ever more obsessed with sex offenders, ever more demanding of police protection, and ever more convinced that their kids are in constant danger, even from a plush toy. Here’s the real news: they’re not.

It took more than 25 years, but refacing is finally being accepted by the kitchen and bath industry as a legitimate remodeling solution for the consumer. In a recent issue of Professional Remodeler magazine, for the first time in history, refacing is not only mentioned, but included as the fourth item in their list of “Kitchen and Bath Design Trends.” So what made the powers that be finally recognize this creative remodeling technique? Apparently, so many people are choosing to reface, rather than replace their cabinets, they didn’t have much choice. Especially since the results are not only beautiful, but with additional accessories, they rival the functionality of an all-new kitchen, and at the same time save the consumer money. The process couldn’t just be ignored anymore, no matter how much they tried. Granted, in the past, refacing (or resurfacing as it is also called), used to conjure up a less-than-beautiful kitchen, where the material covering the cabinets and doors didn’t look real and would peel off in a few years. While this may have been true 20 years ago, the materials and adhesives used for refacing have improved dramatically. Most contractors who offer this service now replace the door and

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By PAUL BOOKBINDER Contributor

0.5 percent,” Osborne said. “We don’t expect to make cuts to programs, we’ll probably just focus on efficiencies.” The budget for the current 2015-2016 school year was also produced in stages, Osborne added. “This [staged] way is very new for the school and different for the public, but we think it provides increased transparency,” he said. Oborne also said that increasing transparency is important for its own sake, but that it’s also necessary for building trust between the school district and

drawer fronts and cover the cabinet with the same material the new fronts are made of. Today, a custom refacing job, if done properly, looks just like a new kitchen and lasts just as long. The selection of replacement fronts has expanded exponentially over the past few years. You can now get real wood, and select from maple, cherry, alder, birch, pine and exotic woods. If you want to go with laminate fronts, there are close to a hundred colors to choose from, and now the laminates can be handcrafted with a glazed finish or Italian high gloss lacquer, just like real wood. Add to this the modern internal conveniences that you find in new kitchen cabinets and refacing becomes a viable alternative. Over the past 25 years, I’ve found that the three most popular reasons for refacing cabinets, rather than replacing them, are the three Cs: convenience, conservation and cost. With our hectic schedules, most of us don’t want to have our lifestyles disrupted any longer than necessary. It’s hard enough getting everything done that we’re supposed to each day without having construction going on for several weeks. Refacing takes much less time than replacing a kitchen and is much less stressful than a total renovation, and in most cases, it’s usually much more economical and environ-

mentally friendly than installing a new kitchen. I say usually much more economical because there are factors that can increase the costs of refacing. When you select thermofoil replacement fronts, the cost is about 50 percent less than buying and installing new, all-wood cabinets. However, if you choose special shapes or wood fronts, the savings begins to diminish. Another factor that can add to the expense of refacing is changing the layout of your kitchen. You realize the greatest saving when no alterations are made to the floor plan. If you intend on changing more than 10 percent of the cabinets in the kitchen, it makes more sense to think about replacing all of them. If you are considering renovating your kitchen, bath or wall unit, it certainly would be worthwhile to investigate all the possibilities, especially now that the taboo associated with refacing has been lifted. It’s a good idea to visit showrooms that offer both new cabinets and refacing. And, with the wide range of replacement fronts available, you may be pleasantly surprised. Paul Bookbinder, is president of DreamWork Kitchens, Inc. located in Mamaroneck. He can be reached for questions at 777-0437 or dreamworkkitchens.com.

Cost of bond debt options over 15 years Option No. 1

Principal plus interest=$42.7 million

Option No. 2

Principal plus interest=$54.8 million

Option No. 3

Principal plus interest=$94.3 million

Option No. 4

Principal plus interest=$124.3 million

These estimated debt service costs reflect fixed rate bonds based on a 0.75 percent estimated interest rate. The 15-year fixed-rate bonds would be purchased in 2020 and paid off in 2036. Bond Anticipation Notes would finance the first five years of the project.

the community. “There really were insufficient levels of transparency in

the past,” he said. CONTACT: sarah@hometwn.com

14 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

March sadness LIVE MIKE Mike Smith

After the first weekend of the NCAA basketball tournament, I have to say, I don’t hate my bracket. Sure, it’s pretty much busted to pieces, but despite all the schools I’ve already had to cross out, there is some method to my March madness. Let’s get it out in the open before we start: my picks were not, by any stretch of the imagination, good. In the “Review Championship,” a bracket I joined with several of my coworkers and some elected officials from the communities we cover, I’m currently in eighth place, and there are enough red marks in my Midwest region to make me think I’m taking algebra all over again. But all is not lost, at least, not yet. Given the large number of massive upsets that occurred, al-

most everyone lost a Final Four team or two. I, unfortunately, had Michigan State going to the championship game, only to see them toppled in the first round by that perennial juggernaut of a No. 15 seed Middle Tennessee. But as bad as my Midwest region was—I picked only three of 12 games correctly—I have to look at the positives. My bracket in the West region, on the other hand, was perfect: a whopping 12-out-of-12 picks right. Small victories like that are enough to keep me going, and make me somewhat confident in my sports knowledge, even if winning the Review pool is all but impossible. I was smart, though. I hedged my bets. One might look at my second-round loss for No. 2 seed Villanova as a big mistake. After all, Villanova is coming off a generally terrific regular season that even saw the Wildcats nab the top spot in the nation for a couple of weeks. Villanova has

SPORTS

played to form in the tournament thus far, dominating UNC Asheville in the opener and crushing No. 7 seed Iowa in the second round. But Villanova is the team I’ve rooted for since my elementary school days, so I played it safe. If I had them making a run to the Final Four, and then watched the Wildcats flounder in the earlygoings of the tourney—as they have done quite often in recent years—that’s a lose-lose scenario. My bracket would have been in shambles and the one rooting interest I had would have been eliminated. This way, even though I may not be headed for a win in the office pool, I’ll still get to tune in with something on the line, at least for one more game, as Nova sets to take on Miami in the Sweet 16. So yeah, my bracket’s a mess. I’m not going to win any money, I’m not going to have any office bragging rights, and honestly, with a showing this bad, I

Sports Editor Mike Smith’s bracket might not look so good this week, but he still has hope for this year’s NCAA Tournament. Photo courtesy sports.yahoo.com

should be forced to vacate my position as sports editor at the Review. But, regardless of my picks, I still have a vested inter-

est in the outcome of this tournament. Well, at least until the Hurricanes win on Thursday.

Then it’s on to baseball season.

Follow Mike on Twitter @LiveMike_Sports

Learn about estate planning and elder law On Tuesday, April 5 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Michael J. Greenberg, Esq., is presenting “Nuts & Bolts of Estate Planning” as part of New Rochelle High School’s continuing education program. Part 2 of the course, “Elder Law: How to Protect Your Assets,” will be given on Tuesday, April 12. Greenberg is currently an associate at Keane & Beane P.C. in White Plains. His practice focuses on estate and tax planning and administration, elder care and disability planning (including asset transfers, preparation of wills, trust and advance directives), guardianship, Medic-

aid planning, Surrogate’s Court litigation and special needs planning. For more information, visit kblaw.com. In these seminars, Greenberg will provide an overview of wills, living wills, probate, financial instruments for estate planning, health care proxies, Medicaid, nursing homes, home care and many other important topics. The goal is to preserve family assets built over a lifetime and to care for loved ones as they age. For more information and to register, visit nrhs. nred.org/groups/continuing-education. “Planning for the future

should be a lifelong process,” according to Greenberg. “This program will help people of at many economic levels deal with the challenges.” In addition to practicing law, Greenberg serves as a second lieutenant/judge advocate in the New York Guard where he provides free legal services for soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines, coast guardsmen and their families. A 2010 graduate of the Emory University School of Law and a 2007 graduate of Williams College, Greenberg is admitted to the Bar in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and Florida. (Submitted)

SPORTS

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 15

Huguenots take second at states

New Rochelle cheerleaders perform at the Westchester County Center on Jan. 28. On March 5, the Huguenots competed in the New York State Championships in Syracuse.

By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor Earlier this month, New Rochelle’s cheerleading team headed to Syracuse to compete in the first-ever New York State Cheerleading Championships. Despite advancing to the final day of competition, the Huguenots fell just short of claiming the state title, finishing second to Penfield High School on March 5 in the Division 1 Small School field. Although Huguenot coach Chrissy Stanionis was somewhat frustrated with the outcome, she believes that her squad acquitted itself well in the inaugural state championship. Despite nailing the final routine,

New Rochelle was awarded 104.8 points to Penfield’s 107.9, something that Stanionis attributes to the subjectivity of judging, as well as a few unfamiliar rules unique to the state competition. “It was definitely hard to explain to them what happened afterwards, because there was really nothing else we could have done,” she said. “I had an issue with our score, but it is what it is. As far as the kids are concerned, I think that was the best performance they had all year.” In particular, Stanionis felt that her team’s adherence to a more traditional routine format—one that they followed to a third place finish at the Universal Cheerleaders Association

A Huguenot cheerleader holds up a sign during a routine on Jan. 28.

National Championships in February—worked against the Huguenots. Whereas New Rochelle’s routine included tumbling, music and crowd participation, Penfield’s winning effort was essentially two minutes of musical performance, according to the coach. With only a few weeks between the UCA Nationals, sectionals and the state tournament, she said, it wasn’t feasible to insert a whole new routine into such an abbreviated timespan. “[Penfield] had a very showy style: no signs, no prompts, no crowd participation,” she said. “As far as layouts, we went with our typical routine.” In terms of the format of the competition and adhering to judges’ preferred styles, Stanionis believes that figuring out how to run the New York State Championships will be an ongoing process. “For now, it’s kind of trial and error,” she said. “There have already been discussions about creating a separate group for teams that only have the musical portions.” But no matter which changes the New York State Public High School Athletic Association decides to make to future cheerleading events, Stanionis is confident that her squad is eager to get back to work next season. “We were a young team and we ended up having a phenomenal season; placing third at nationals, and second at states,” she said. “We only had two seniors, so we gained a ton of experience, and they’re really looking forward to next year.” Contact: sports@hometwn.com

The Huguenots cheer earlier this winter. New Rochelle returns most of its squad for the 2017 season.

The Huguenots compete at the County Championships in January. New Rochelle finished second in the state earlier this month. Photos/Mike Smith

16 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

SPORTS

INSIDE

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 17

Lifestyles of Westchester County/mARCH 2016 Vol.4 NO.3

Camps & Health INSIDE WESTCHESTER COUNTY

Michelle Thomas talks business Fun is coming at Purchase Day Camp Taking camp on the road Strong is the new skinny Exercise tips for beginners

18 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 19

Say “I Am Iona Prep” this summer

You can feel it like the sun on your back. The days are getting longer, and pretty soon, the weather will become warmer, and will stay warm. Your kids will begin anxiously anticipating summer vacation, and you might begin wondering what to do with them. At Iona Preparatory, we say send them back to school. Westchester’s premiere college preparatory institution, which includes the area’s only all-boys, kindergarten through eighth grade Catholic school, is hosting six different camps this summer designed to keep your children academically engaged and physically active during the dog days of summer. The fun begins the week following the Fourth of July with our Scholar-Athlete Camp, SAC, which runs for three weeks from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Mornings are devoted to classroom and academic activities, and the afternoons are dedicated to friendly athletic competition, both on the field and in the gyms. Students are free to bring their own lunch or may purchase lunch through the SAC. The SAC program was originally developed for boys

entering the eighth grade, where the morning classes focus on study skills and strategies for the Test for Admission into Catholic High Schools, TACHS. In addition to TACHS prep in English and math, there is also time for creative writing and some hands-on science activities. Many years ago, the camp expanded and now provides boys and girls entering sixth and seventh grade with a myriad of scholastic, scientific and artistic activities in the morning. Creative writing, comic book art, junior detective science labs, rocket building and more are all part of the coeducational SAC program. Morning classes are taught and afternoon sports are supervised by Iona Prep’s eminently capable and highly credentialed faculty and coaches. To learn more about SAC, call 600-6154 or visit IonaPrep.org/ summer to register. And no matter what sport you play, summers at Iona Prep offer a little something for everyone with camps and clinics offered in baseball, basketball, football, lacrosse and soccer, all using state-of-the-art facilities. Summer camps at Iona Prep are a great way to experience our expansive

37-acre campus and to appreciate the brotherhood of the Iona community. Baseball and basketball clinics for boys and girls entering grades three through nine both begin June 27 and run from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Baseball goes until July 1, and then picks back up for a second week from Aug. 15 through Aug. 19. Basketball stops on June 30 for the first week, with a second session from Aug. 8 through Aug. 11. The football camp also starts June 27 for boys in grades three through nine, but will run in the evenings from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The lacrosse camp accommodates grades one through eight, and runs from July 18 through July 21 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. Iona Prep’s soccer camp is for boys and girls ages 6 through 13, and will run from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Aug. 1 through Aug. 5. For more information on our sports camps, please 600-6180 or visit IonaPrep.org/summer to register. That’s six great opportunities at Iona Preparatory, all of which are sure to make summer vacation smooth for mom and dad and exciting for the campers.

20 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

Save money and still get in shape

Committing to multiple personal training sessions as opposed to paying on a session-by-session basis is one potential way to save money when trying to get in shape. The costs of getting fit can sometimes seem formidable. Men and women on tight budgets may feel that gym memberships, home exercise equipment or costly personal training sessions are simply beyond their means. Such concerns can have longterm negative impacts on individuals’ health, which only highlights the need to find ways to save when attempting to get in shape. While there is no shortage of ways to spend money when trying to get back in shape, there are even more ways to save when adopting a healthier lifestyle. Buy in bulk Many professional fitness services, whether it’s gym memberships or personal training sessions, offer greater discounts to individuals willing to make bigger commitments. Men and women who commit to a 12-month gym membership instead of going month-to-month can typically save a substantial amount of money each month by making such long-term commitments. For example, a gym may charge $89 for a month-to-month membership, but only $69 per month for people who commit

for a full year. That’s a savings of nearly 23 percent. Personal trainers also typically offer considerable discounts to clients who commit to a greater number of sessions than those who simply purchase one session at a time. Join a gym at the right moment. Many gyms capitalize on people’s New Year’s resolutions to get fit by offering steep discounts to men and women who sign up at the end of December or in January. Others may discount memberships in late winter when people want to get in shape before the return of beach season. Signing up during the height of discount season or when gyms are offering special discounts, such as anniversary or holiday deals, can save you a lot of money over the course of the year. Work out at home If a gym membership is simply beyond your means, create your own workout area at home. Visit a nearby sporting goods store and purchase some weights and go for jogs around the neighborhood to meet your daily cardiovascular exercise goals. If space is limited at home, embrace yoga. Yoga

provides both strength and balance training, and all you need is room for a yoga mat. Investigate your health insurance Many health insurance providers offer gym membership rebates to their customers. If you have never had a gym membership in the past, you may not even know if your provider offers this benefit. Gym membership rebates typically require that policy holders visit their gyms ‘X’ number of times in a six- or 12-month span (i.e., 50 times in six months or 100 times in 12 months) in order to earn rebates. A $400 annual rebate on a gym membership that costs $69 per month cuts the yearly cost of that gym membership by nearly 50 percent. If your existing insurance plan does not offer such rebates, speak with your employer about including it when the time comes to renew the insurance offerings in the future. Getting fit does not have to break the bank. Healthconscious men and women can find numerous ways to save on their journeys to living more active lifestyles.

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 21

Fun is coming at Purchase Day Camp Purchase Day Camp is located on 8 scenic acres and offers lowpressure, high-energy, broadbased programs for children ages 3 through 15. Our staff is professional, sensitive, enthusiastic and encouraging. One-hundred and fifty TEAM members, including 40 teachers, oversee 375 campers as they participate in a variety of activities including sports, rocketry, archery, golf, zipline, computers, GaGa, cooking, crafts, swimming and so much more. We want every camper to find something that they can excel at and go home at the end of the day feeling good about themselves. Campers are grouped by grade and gender with a typical group having 20 campers and 5 TEAM members. The TEAM leader is generally a teacher who is supported by college and high school students. Activities are also led by teachers so the TEAM leader can focus on each camper’s individuality and help them establish meaningful relationships with peers and TEAM members. We have two registered nurses on site, along with a group of dedicated administrators who

have extensive experience at Purchase Day Camp. We feature four heated swimming pools with instruction every morning and free swim in the afternoon. Using the American Red Cross Learn To Swim Program, our staff evaluates each camper on their first day and assigns them to a swim group. Our 20 lifeguards along with counselors participate in swim instruction which allows us to have very small ratios at the waterfront. In addition to our pool complex, our site features a challenge course, tennis court, pickle ball court, GaGa pit, an 18-hole mini golf course, multiple playfields, two playgrounds, nature trails and a gym inside our 22,000-square-foot building, so

rainy days are no problem. Special events and Dynamo Days add spice to the daily routine. Show your spirit on Crazy Hat Day or Red, White and Blue Day, and let loose on Carnival Day, Color War or Theatre Day. Towel service, lunch, daily snack plus transportation or extended hours are included in your fee. Register for as few as two or as many as eight weeks. Half and mini day options are available for preschoolers. Check out our website or call to see why everyone says “I just LOVE it here!” Purchase Day Camp is located at 3095 Purchase St. in Purchase. For more information, call 949-2636 or visit purchasedaycamp.com.

Strong is the new skinny Do you want muscular arms, tight glutes and flat abs? Try Pilates! For more than 12 years, Fiore Pilates in Mamaroneck has been providing this amazing form of exercise. A Pilates workout includes very specific movement sequences designed for remarkable results without the need for tremendous repetition. It constantly stimulates new muscles while keeping the mind engaged in the workout. The workout targets the entire body with extreme emphasis on the core muscles. An individual with strong core muscles will experience any movement with greater ease and more efficiency. Aesthetically, stronger core muscles slim the waistline, eliminate the “muffin top” and give the entire body a longer leaner appearance. By

concentrating on smaller muscle groups, Pilates develops better alignment, balance and control in the body. Another important aspect of Pilates is balancing strength and flexibility. With a variety of unique stretches and movements, your muscles will learn to work harder without bulking, cramping or straining. This results in fewer injuries due to enhanced core stability, improved stamina and better performance. Everyone can benefit from Pilates. Since every workout is individualized, the highly educated trainers at Fiore Pilates can tailor the session to accommodate your age, fitness level or chronic issues. You will enjoy the challenge that Pilates offers through specialized machines such as the reformer, cadillac,

chairs and barrels. You can experience a small—maximum of eight people—group class that offers personal attention, variety and positive encouragement. The trainers are supportive and patient to help you accomplish your personal goals. You will see results quickly, according to Joseph Pilates: “In 10 sessions you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.” Fiore Pilates makes finding the time to exercise easy. We offer over 25 group mat classes weekly, and personal training sessions seven days a week. With no membership or monthly fees, you have nothing to lose but so much to gain! Visit FiorePilates.com for more information.

22 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

Exercise tips for beginners The right combination of diet and exercise is one of the keys to a long and healthy life. While many people find adapting to a healthier diet challenging, that challenge often pales in comparison to the intimidation felt when working out for the first time in years. Exercising after an extended period of inactivity may intimidate people who choose to workout at gyms, where fellow gym members may appear to be in tip-top shape. Overcoming that intimidation factor can be as simple as working out with a friend or working with a personal trainer, each of whom can offer the support and guidance beginners need when reacclimatizing themselves to more active lifestyles. In addition to the buddy system, beginners can employ the following strategies to make their return to exercise go as smoothly as possible.

Stretching after a workout can improve flexibility and help muscles work more effectively. Gradually build up your exercise tolerance When you exercise, your body releases neurotransmitters known as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. Those positive feelings can be addictive, but it’s important that beginners do not go too hard too quickly when beginning a new exercise regimen. Gradually build up your exercise tolerance, exercising two or three days per week and taking a day off between workouts when you start. As your body becomes more acclimated to exercise, you can start to workout more and with more intensity. Stretch after working out Stretching can improve flexibility, and that may decrease your risk of future injury. In addition, improved flexibility may improve your exercise performance by improving your range of motion and helping your muscles work more effec-

tively. Muscles contract during a workout, and stretching after workouts can help reset those muscles to their natural position. Include both static stretching and foam rolling in your post-workout stretching routine. Find a routine that works for you Many men and women feel they must sign up for a gym membership upon resolving to adopt a more active lifestyle. While gyms afford you the opportunity to strength train and get in your cardiovascular exercise, they’re not for everyone. The best approach and the one that’s likely to be most successful over the long haul is to find an exercise routine that engages you and that you find enjoyable. If the gym is not for you, try to find a routine that still includes both strength training and cardiovascular exercise. Strength training can make your body more durable, and cardiovas-

cular exercise can reduce your risk for various health problems, including heart disease. Track your progress. One way to stay motivated is to keep track of your progress. If you’re working out but not monitoring your results, you may not feel like you’re getting anywhere. Keep a workout diary, tracking both your successes and failures, so you can see what’s working and what’s not. The longer you stay committed to your workout routine, the greater the likelihood that you will be tracking more successes than failures, and those successes can provide the motivation to keep you going on those inevitable days when you want to skip workouts. Returning to exercise after an extended period of inactivity can be quite the challenge, but it’s nothing motivated men and women cannot overcome.

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 23

Parkinson’s disease:

Recognize early onset symptoms P

arkinson’s disease is a neurological movement disorder. Classic motor symptoms, such as tremor, rigidity and extreme slowness of movements and reflexes, called bradykinesia, are typically used to identify Parkinson’s. However, identification of other, more subtle symptoms may help identify the disease years before more obvious motor conditions present themselves. Since Parkinson’s is a chronic and progressive neurological disease, symptoms are often mild at the onset, becoming more severe over time. Initial symptoms may be so subtle that they’re even difficult for specialists to detect, according to the The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research. Symptoms also may be different for some patients than others and may progress at different paces. Dopamine loss is a major contributor to the onset of Parkinson’s disease. Dopamine controls movement and mood, so when dopamine is affected, walking, talking and writing can be impacted. Depression or anxiety may accompany other symptoms. The National Institutes of Health says Parkinson’s disease affects as many as 500,000 people in the United States. An early diagnosis may help improve quality of life and delay the onset of greater motor issues. Here’s what to look for and discuss with a doctor. Micrographia and other handwriting issues occur. Those with Parkinson’s disease may start experiencing changes in their handwriting. Penmanship may look cramped, and letters tend to be smaller than normal (micrographia). Individuals may find it difficult to hold a pen and write. Tremors take place in a limb. Tremors usually begin in the hands or fingers and may even mimic a pill-rolling technique, which is a tremor between the thumb and

Tremors in the hands, loss of balance, handwriting changes, and slowed movements may be early indicators of Parkinson’s disease. forefinger. Tremors usually occur when the limb is at rest. Pace or activities slow down Parkinson’s disease may reduce one’s ability to move and may slow down movements. An early symptom may be a noticeable slowing down in steps or ability to react to something, like a ball being thrown one’s way. Some with Parkinson’s may drag their feet or shuffle as they walk or find it difficult to get out of a chair. Loss of automatic movements and functions can occur Difficulty with unconscious movements, such as blinking, smiling or even swinging arms, may occur when a person has Parkinson’s disease. Movements may be uncoordinated and stiff. Increased salivation and perspiration also may be indicators. Poor balance and loss of posture may develop People with Parkinson’s disease may hunch over more and more and be unable to

stand up straight. Balance issues, such as greater incidences of falls or being able to tip over more easily, may occur. Speech can change Changes in speech can begin, including hesitating before speaking, slurring words or speaking in a monotone voice. Others may notice a masked face This describes a vacant or fixed stare and lack of facial animation. Sleep issues may increase Parkinson’s disease can affect sleeping patterns and behaviors. People with Parkinson’s may experience vivid dreams and nightmares, as well as an inability to stay asleep. Daytime drowsiness may also occur. Parkinson’s disease is rare, and symptoms that mimic those of Parkinson’s may be caused by other conditions. However, if you or someone you know is experiencing repeated symptoms of any of the ones described here, speak with your general practitioner or a neurologist.

24 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

Talking Business:

With Michele Thomas By IRA ELLENTHAL Her warm and disarming personality seems a perfect fit for Michele Thomas’ relatively new position as executive vice president of Osborn Home Care, a business unit of the venerable Rye-based Osborn Retirement Community. Home care, in a nutshell, has become a popular, growing segment of the health care market; an alternative to independent or assisted living communities. Of course, there is more to this aging-in-place phenomenon, just as there’s more to Thomas than her engaging demeanor. One senior staffer, who has gotten to know her well during the 13 months she’s been at The Osborn, says, “She’s a home health care professional who knows how to grow our 20-yearold, well-established home care agency, among the largest private home care agencies in New York state, as well as our newest home care operation in Connecticut, into something special. She’s been working tirelessly to maximize the opportunity.” One thing is certain: the Ohio-born executive didn’t give up her successful career on Florida’s West Coast in order

Michele Thomas, executive vice president of Osborn Home Care.

to take advantage of the Northeast’s weather. “That’s for sure,” she laughs. “The weather here wasn’t exactly an incentive to join The Osborn, but I did manage to bring some Florida weather up north several days ago.” I told her we all owe her for her largesse. Turning serious, Thomas makes it clear that the opportunity she’s been handed is huge. “We’re currently employing 340 home health aides and of those, just over 150 were vetted

and hired in 2015. We’re growing and have great momentum in Connecticut and Westchester, but we’ll never sacrifice quality,” she explains. That she feels the weight of her responsibilities is uncontestable. “I feel a tremendous sense of responsibility to our clients, making sure we’re sending quality personnel to them, the kind I’d send to help my own parents. And, as far as our own people are concerned, I recognize that the onus is on me to make sure we’re all working

The Osborn in Rye, New York. Photos/Bobby Begun

together to improve our services on a daily basis.” The more Thomas talks, the clearer it becomes that her job has become something of a love affair. I asked her what she would have done differently earlier in her career if she knew then what she knows now. Her answer is worth noting, and worth remembering. “Ignore the talk and the naysayers. Don’t worry if they like you; worry only about you liking you. Work harder at things that matter and spend less time on managing the process; sometimes things just have to get done, so do them.”

Next, I wondered aloud how her success—she was previously the president of Florida-based Home Health Services—has impacted her life. Thoughtfully and carefully, she says, “Over the years, I’ve become a confident woman with direction and purpose, a passionate advocate for the needs of older adults. I’ve learned to be selective and do what I know is right. During my career, I’ve had as many as 400 employees reporting to me, either directly or indirectly. I feel a great joy when I get home knowing that, together, we made a significant difference today.” Thomas admits that reloca-

tion has been difficult for her and her family. She says, “I have two wonderful children and a caring and supportive husband. We are adventureseekers and we enjoy everything the New York area has to offer, from Broadway to applepicking. Every opportunity to be together is a joy.” And speaking of a joy, after interviewing her, it wouldn’t be much of a stretch for me to suggest that Thomas’ presence has become something of a joy to everyone at The Osborn. Ira Ellenthal is the executive vice president of Home Town Media Group.

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 25

How to maintain mental focus The technological advancements made in the 21st century have undoubtedly made life easier in many ways, but this golden age of gadgets has not come without some negative side effects. Thanks to the near-constant availability of the Internet and devices like smartphones and tablets, many men and women find it difficult to maintain their focus throughout the day. But while such distractions are never too far away, there are some ways to stay focused and productive. Get more exercise Studies have shown that exercise and improved mental focus are linked. In a 2013 analysis of 19 studies involving more than 500 children, teenagers and young adults, researchers found that exercise sessions between 10 and 40 minutes immediately boosted concentration and mental focus. That im-

provement might be a result of exercise increasing blood flow to the brain. Men and women who find themselves struggling to focus at work after lunchtime may benefit from incorporating some exercise, whether it’s a brief walk or a more strenuous workout, into their midday routines. Perform breathing exercises Nervousness is an oft-overlooked cause of loss of focus. When nervous, breath can become shallow and restricted, which can have a negative impact on the flow of oxygen to your brain, making it more difficult to concentrate. Professional athletes have long espoused to the virtues of breathing exercises as a means to calming their nerves, and professionals can follow suit. Some simple breathing exercises can help

busy professionals multitask more effectively by helping them concentrate on the tasks at hand and overcome the distraction of having so much to do at one time. Stay hydrated A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that dehydration caused loss of focus and a sense of fatigue among women. While the loss of focus was considered insubstantial and the study only examined women, remaining hydrated throughout the day may make it easier to focus on work and other tasks throughout the day. Get adequate sleep One of the best ways to improve focus during the day is to make sure you’re getting enough sleep at night. Sleep deprivation produces a host of negative consequences, not the least of which is its

impact on cognitive functioning. Research has shown that sleep deprivation compromises alertness and concentration, making it more difficult to focus at work and tackle tasks that require deep analysis and

thought. In addition, a survey from the National Sleep Foundation found that sleepdeprived men and women are less likely to exercise and eat healthy diets, each of which can boost mental acuity.

Focusing in today’s atmosphere of constant distractions can be difficult, but men and women can overcome diversions by employing a handful of successful strategies aimed at improving concentration.

Taking Camp on the Road! Zeal Adventure and Travel is the ideal travel program for teenagers who have graduated out of their summer camp, but still seek to enjoy all of the attributes of camp for more summers. Zeal is a slightly more grown-up version of sleep away camp, a teenage sleep away camp, that still incorporates the best parts of camp: the friendships, the sense of community, the personal growth, the excitement, and the opportunity to give back to others. Zeal was designed and developed by longtime summer camp professionals, with the idea of creating a travel program that provides the hiring, training, supervision, intentionality, and attention to detail and safety of a sleep away camp. Each trip combines outdoor adventure, sightseeing, community interaction, and 25 to 30 hours of community service. Adventure At the heart of each Zeal trip is adventure. With safety always in mind, our trip leaders guide Zeal participants from place

to place, activity to activity, experience to experience. Participants gain new perspectives, skills, and understandings about the world as they enjoy their best summer yet. Community Service At Zeal Adventure and Travel, we’ve built global relationships. Our campers aren’t just doing trail maintenance, teaching kids English, or planting native grasses. They’re learning about local cultures and customs through friendships, eating home cooked meals together and sharing stories. Friendships While Zeal trips are a chance to deepen your friendships, they’re also an opportunity to gain new ones. On any given trip, you’ll find yourself in a mixed group of people you know (if requested) and others you don’t. Despite the normal tendency to stick with your friends, the groups quickly melt into a single team. This blending of the group comes from

the nature of Zeal trips and the skilled facilitation of our trip leaders. Our Leaders Our trip leaders are the best counselors from the best camps, hired for their deep knowledge of the locations we travel to, experience in our camps, and direct recommendation from camp directors. Simply said, they’re the best of the best. College Admissions College admissions teams look for well-rounded students with standout life experiences. With this high bar and overflowing competition, it’s easy to understand the stress of college admissions. Zeal is a perfect pairing to this challenge. On every trip, our participants learn new skills, provide meaningful community service, and have transformative experiences that are no brainers to write about. Armed with amazing experiences of adventure, adversity, and service; those college essays will almost write themselves!

26 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

Natural ways to relieve chronic pain Chronic pain can be debilitating and interfere with daily life in various ways. Overthe-counter, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs are some of the most widely used medications in the United States, but when such medications prove ineffective, prescription pain relievers, which can be

addictive, are often a pain sufferer’s next choice. Consumer Reports indicates that roughly 45 people per day in America die from overdoses of opioid-containing pain medications, which include methadone, morphine, oxycodone, and hydrocodone. Prescriptions for these drugs

have climbed 300 percent in the last 10 years. Although opioids can be safe when used properly to treat short-term pain, too often their usage leads to misuse and dependence, especially when they are used to treat chronic pain. For long-term pain from arthritis, research suggests that nonopioid medications and even nondrug treatments often provide relief with less risk of addiction and overdose than opioids. Reducing pain using alternative methods with less risk can involve rethinking trips to the medicine cabinet. Doctors and naturalists may advocate for natural pain relievers as a first step to managing pain. Massage There’s more to massage than working out the kinks of tight muscles. Massage may help boost the body’s levels of endorphins and serotonin, both of which are natural painkillers and mood regulators. The Mayo Clinic’s Complementary and Integrative Medicine Program has conducted a number of studies on massage as treatment for pain following surgery, ultimately finding that massage significantly relieves pain and reduces anxiety. Dietary changes Pain is often linked to inflammation in the body. When eating, choose foods that won’t worsen existing inflammation. Eating less sugar, dairy, and gluten products, which can contribute to inflammation, can help a person feel better. Increase

consumption of foods that reduce inflammation, such as raw vegetables. Hot and cold therapy Cold compresses can reduce inflammation quickly and also serve as a local anesthetic. Heat therapy can ease aches and pains and make muscles more flexible. Try applying a hot compress prior to stretching to make limbs more limber. Take the sun A Boston University study that examined 221 men and women with knee osteoarthritis found that those who spent 15 to 20 minutes in the

sun increased their body’s production of vitamin D and experienced less pain as a result. When the sun is scarce, it’s adviseable to get between 400 and 800 IUs of vitamin D daily through supplements and foods. Brisk walking Fast walking is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise that utilizes most of the body. Walking encourages blood circulation, removes toxins, burns calories, and stabilizes blood fats and sugars. Plus endorphins released from exercise can help a person feel good. A great thing about walking is just about anyone can do it. Mind-body exercises Exercises that combine focus with stretching can alleviate physical pain and improve mental clarity. Look for yoga, pilates and meditation classes and give them a try. Chronic pain may be relieved with the use of natural remedies, which help pain sufferers reduce their reliance on over-the-counter or prescription medications.

March 25 & April 1, 2016 • The city review • 27

Be smart about antibiotic use

hen used correctly, antibiotics and similar drugs known as antimicrobial agents can alleviate infections caused by various bacteria and some types of fungi and parasites. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that these drugs have been used successfully for the last 70 years to treat patients with infectious diseases. But antibiotics cannot treat illnesses stemming from viruses, which include most colds and the flu. As effective as antibiotics can be, antibiotic resistance is a growing problem. The CDC reports that at least two million people become infected with bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics, and roughly 23,000 people die each year as a result of these types of infections. An April 2014 report from the World Health Organization stated, “This serious threat is no longer a prediction for the future, it is happening right now in every region of the world and has the potential to affect anyone, of any age, in any country. It is now a major threat to public health.” The Alliance for the Prudent Use of Antibiotics says antibiotic resistance occurs when an antibiotic has lost its ability to effectively control or kill bacterial growth. The three main ways resistance develops include natural resistance to certain types of antibiotics, genetic mutation or through the acquisition of resistance from another bacterium. This resistance can occur spontaneously or through misuse of antibiotics or antimicrobials. Prescription medications are not always the culprits, either. Antibiotic use in livestock and food production also may contribute to resistance. When antibiotic resistance occurs, a stronger drug may be needed to treat an infection that was once taken care of by a milder medication. Prudent antibiotic use can help prevent the recurrence

of resistance. Individuals can help the process in a number of ways.

illnesses may include strep throat, urinary tract infections or ear infections.

Become educated The health resource Medscape, powered by WebMD, says in a recent survey of 796 clinicians, 42 percent of doctors have admitted to prescribing antibiotics 10 to 24 percent of the time even when they are not sure they are necessary. Patient request is a large factor in such offerings. About 25 percent of patients ask their doctor or nurse for antibiotics. Patients who educate themselves about the proper application of antibiotics may be less likely to request them, and that can help prevent the development of a resistance.

Take a wait-and-see approach Wait for lab results to come back for strep throat or other cultures to see if you need an antibiotic. Many viral-based illnesses will go away within two weeks’ time.

Confirm need Only take antibiotics when a bacteria-, parasite- or fungusbased illness is identified. These

Adhere to dosage guidelines When prescribed antibiotics for an infection, take them as directed, making sure you complete the dosage cycle. Do not stop simply because you feel better. Stopping early may not be enough to effectively kill the bacteria and may contribute to resistance in the future. Antibiotic abuse and resistance are concerns that can be addressed by becoming informed and making smart medication choices.

28 • The city review • March 25 & April 1, 2016

Health boosters you have at home Many people desire to be healthier, and sales of nutritional supplements reflect such desires. A report by Packaged Facts titled “Nutritional Supplements in the U.S.” says supplement sales reached $11.5 billion in 2012 and have been climbing ever since. In addition to an increase in supplement use, gym memberships also have increased. IBIS World’s “Gym, Health & Fitness Clubs” market research report indicates the number of gym memberships have increased in the last several years as consumers have become more healthconscious. While these avenues to health certainly can be beneficial, individuals also can turn to many health boosters in their own homes to help them achieve their goals of living healthier lifestyles.

Yogurt: Probiotic pills can help return healthy bacteria to the digestive system, but so can eating yogurt regularly. Look for yogurts that contain live and active cultures for optimal benefit. Bicycle: Dust off that bicycle that has been hiding in your garage. Cycling is an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise, and riders can tailor their intensity levels to correlate to their ages and abilities. Many people find

cycling an enjoyable form of activity because it gets them outside and often doesn’t feel like exercise. Fruits and vegetables: Produce offers many of the vitamins and minerals people look to supplements to provide. Including diverse fruit and vegetable choices in one’s diet can improve health in various ways, including providing a boost to the immune system. Honey: Honey is a valuable

Lemon water: Lemon water is now being touted as a beneficial addition to one’s daily diet. Lemon water can help reduce acidity in the body, including removing uric acid, a main cause of inflammation. Lemons contain pectin fiber, which can aid in weight loss by helping to fight hunger pangs. Lemons also contain a load of vitamin C, which can give the immune system a boost.

superfood that can boost overall health. In addition to soothing sore throats, it can serve as an antibiotic and wound healer, provide allergy

protection, increase calcium absorption, and provide a source of energy without the insulin spike associated with other forms of sugar.

Being healthier is a goal for many people, and certain foods, beverages and products already in your home can help you get on a healthy track.