THE
CityREVIEW NewRochelle August 12, 2016 | Vol. 4, Number 21 | www.cityreviewnr.com
Benson knocked off primary ballot in DA race By COREY STOCKTON Staff Writer
Hillary Clinton accepted the nomination for president at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday, July 28, becoming the first female ever to be nominated for president by a major political party. For more, see page 6. Photo courtesy Twitter
DiNapoli: Mid-Hudson region economy shows strength By SIBYLLA CHIPAZIWA Editorial Assistant The mid-Hudson region is showing economic strength following the recession, but its high cost of living and doing business could obstruct future growth, according to an economic profile released by the Office of the New
York State Comptroller. State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli said in a released statement that while the region’s closeness to New York City has helped the economy, it “needs to carefully manage its ongoing need for services and infrastructure improvements given the already high cost of living.”
The mid-Hudson region is made up of the counties of Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster and Sullivan, with a total of 198 municipalities. The biggest highlight of the report is the annual regionwide unemployment rate dropping from 7.6 percent in 2012 to 4.7
percent in 2015. Further, according to the state Department of Labor, the unemployment rate for June 2016 has improved with the mid-Hudson region’s rate averaging out to just below 4 percent, which is lower than the state’s 4.7 percent for the same ECONOMY continued on page 9
Following a ruling by the Westchester County Board of Elections, Mitch Benson will not be able to challenge for the Republican nomination for district attorney, ending his plans of a primary battle against GOP frontrunner Bruce Bendish. The Board of Elections requires potential candidates for elections to submit petitions from registered voters within the party whose line they are seeking to run on. Both Benson and Bendish surpassed the 2,000-signature requirement, but on Aug. 3, the county Board of Elections found more than 1,000 of Benson’s 2,700 signatures to be invalid. Benson filed a lawsuit with the Westchester Supreme Court in attempt to validate his petition, and even though the court reinstated some of the grieved signatures, it wasn’t enough for him to meet the requirement to appear on the primary ballot. Doug Colety, commissioner of the county Board of Elections, said the Judge Bruce Tolbert— alongside attorneys for Benson, Bendish and the Board of Elections—went through Benson’s petition line by line for three days, by which time it became “mathematically impossible” for him to meet the requirement threshold. “The majority of [the chal-
lenges to Benson’s petition] pertained to people not registered to vote, people not enrolled in the Republican Party and defective witnesses’ petition statements,” Colety told the Review. Bendish submitted more than 4,000 signatures to the Board of Elections following his endorsement by the county GOP at the party’s nominating convention in April. At the convention, Bendish also received nearly 75 percent of votes from Republican delegates. Following the court’s decision, Benson said, “While I disagree with certain discretionary and technical determinations which invalidated hundreds of signatures, I recognize it is part of the political process and within the authority of the Board of Elections and the court to make the decisions they did.” Now, Bendish, 69, will begin his general election campaign against Democratic candidate Anthony Scarpino. “We’re comfortable that we put this primary question behind PRIMARY continued on page 11
2 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 2016
August 12, 2016 • THE CITY REVIEW • 3
Access to Transit Center changes
Map courtesy city of New Rochelle
Due to the planned replacement of the North Avenue Bridge and to improve traffic circulation in the downtown, Station Plaza North will be changed to a one way eastbound street starting Monday, Aug. 22. With access to the Metro-North Train Station and Transit Center garage through Memorial Highway, motorists coming from the north and south are urged to begin using alternate routes now in advance of the switch:
• From the north: From North Avenue, take Lincoln, Lockwood, or Burling Lane to Memorial Highway and enter Station Plaza North by making a left just after the I-95 overpass. • From the south: Take Main Street to Memorial Highway and make the first left to loop around to enter Station Plaza North by making a left just after the I-95 overpass. Complete details are available
on the city’s website newrochelleny.com/roadwayalerts. Variable messaging signs will be posted on North Avenue to announce the new traffic pattern. During the initial switch, the New Rochelle Police Department will be controlling and monitoring traffic especially during commuting hours. Questions and comments can be addressed to nrparking@lazparking.com or by calling 6542186. (Submitted)
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4 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 2016
What’s going on... New Rochelle Public Library
The New Rochelle Public Library has reopened the Memorial Highway entrance, but the Lawton Street entrance is scheduled to be closed for construction and is expected to be completed by fall 2016. While construction is underway, the only handicapped-accessible entrance will be the reopened Memorial Highway doors, which have a ramp leading down from street level. There will be additional handicapped-designated parking spaces on Memorial Highway. The only book drop at the main library will also be located by this doorway. Patrons may also return books by using the book drop at the Hugh Doyle Center located at 94 Davis Ave., or in front of the Huguenot Children’s Library, located on North Avenue in front of New Rochelle High School. Visit nrpl.org for information on these and other events and programs.
Summer hours at libraries The main New Rochelle Public Library will be closed on Sundays through Sept. 4. The Huguenot
Children’s Library will be closed on Saturdays through Sept. 4. The main library will be open on Saturdays through Aug. 27, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Both libraries will be closed Saturday, Sept. 3 through Monday, Sept. 5 for Labor Day weekend. Regular Saturday hours will resume at both libraries on Sept. 10. The main library will resume its regular Sunday hours, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., on Sept. 11. The Huguenot Children’s Library will remain closed on Sundays. Summer hours at the main library are: Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Wednesdays: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sundays: Closed. Summer hours at the children’s library are: Mondays and Thursdays: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays: Closed.
Friends Mini Book Sale The Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library will be holding a mini book sale on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the main library lobby. The book sales include popular novels, mysteries and nonfiction in hardcover and paperback, to children’s books, CDs and DVDs. Proceeds from these sales allow the Friends of the New Rochelle Public Library to provide funding for quality children and adult programming, and will help the library by contributing to various projects and improving service to the community.
English as a Second Language registration On Tuesday, Aug. 16 from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 17 and Saturday, Aug. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon, and Thursday, Aug. 18 from 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Sponsored by Westchester Community College. Registration for the fall session will be held in the main library Meeting Room. Inglés como Segundo Idioma. Inscription auspiciado por Westchester Community College.
Introduction to Social Media On Friday, Aug. 19 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the main library Computer Lab on the third floor. In this course, participants will learn all about Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. They will also learn how to use LinkedIn to search for jobs, business opportunities and network with other professionals. To register for this free class, call 6327878 ext. 3737 or stop by the Reference Desk on the second floor.
Calpulli Mexican Dance Company performance On Saturday, Aug. 20 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on the Library Green. Members of the acclaimed Calpulli Mexican Dance Company will be joined by students of the library’s summer Mexican dance classes. In colorful costumes, the dancers will celebrate the rich, regional dance traditions of Mexico’s diverse cultural history. This special performance will take place on the platform overlooking Ruby Dee Park at Library Green or, if weather is uncooperative, in the Ossie Davis Theater.
City news Sports Camp at Flowers (City) Park From Monday, Aug. 22 to Friday, Aug. 26. For ages 5 to 11. There will be three daily sessions: 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Fees range from $120 to $200. Participants will be split by age and ability. To register, visit goo.gl/Uq9nHA. This summer multi-sports camp gives players the opportunity to experience up to four different sports each day, and more than 15 sports in one week. Players will develop their technique and skills within each sport, and then play tournamentstyle scrimmages that promote teamwork and good sportsmanship.
Preschool Sports Camp at Flowers (City) Park From Monday, Aug. 22 to Friday, Aug. 26 from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. For ages 3 to 5. Fee is $90. To register, visit goo.gl/xbVpCy. Total Sports Squirts programs are designed to introduce children to sport in a safe and structured
environment. All games and activities will encompass hand-eye coordination, balance, agility and movement—all key factors to the early development of children in sport.
Weekend valet parking The city of New Rochelle reactivated valet parking services in the downtown area. This whiteglove valet service allows downtown restaurant patrons to drop off their cars at the New Rochelle Public Library’s south parking lot, between Lawton Avenue and Memorial Highway, and pay a flat $5 fee to park until midnight, eliminating the need to circle for a space or worry about expired meters. The city is working jointly with the New Rochelle Downtown Business Improvement District to provide this service. Valet parking services will be overseen by LAZ Parking, and will be available from 4 p.m. to midnight, Friday and Saturday, through Labor Day weekend.
Parks and beach are open Hudson Park Beach is open every day, conditions permitting, through Monday, Sept. 5. Beach hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hudson Park Beach includes a tented food court area, playground and picnic area. For the best value, frequent visitors are encouraged to purchase an Omnicard, New Rochelle’s Parks and Recreation’s identification card. As an added plus, the Omniplus plan or Family Pass covers all beach access fees. The Omnicard is also your pass to enter Five Islands Park, Davenport Park, Cameron Dock, Sharkey Park and Neptune Park. Omnicard fees: • Adult Resident (ages 14 to 61): $40 • Adult Resident Plus (Omincard + Hudson Park Beach pass): $75 • Non-resident: $65 • Non-resident Plus: $125 • Senior Resident (ages 62 and up) Lifetime card: $40 • Senior Resident Plus (Omnicard + Hudson Park Beach pass): $35 per season • Family – New Rochelle Residents only: $125 • Family – Non-residents: $250 Hudson Park Beach fees: • Adult Resident with Omnicard: $5 • Resident Guest: $5 • Resident Senior: $5 • Resident Senior Plus: Free • Family Omnicard: Free • Non-resident with Omnicard: $5 • Non-resident Guest: $10 • One-Day Pass: $10 Deadline for our What’s Going On section is every Thursday at noon. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to news@hometwn.com.
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August 12, 2016 • THE CITY REVIEW • 5
Patriot Housing Initiative continues to succeed
From left, Ron Tocci, director of Westchester County Veterans Service Agency; Alvin “Sarge” Cook, a veteran helped by the county’s Patriot Housing Initiative; and Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino. Photo courtesy Westchester County
In celebration of the Fourth of July, Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino announced that the county’s Patriot Housing Initiative continues to successfully help keep veterans from homelessness throughout Westchester. Since the Patriot Housing Initiative was launched in August of 2013 with the goal of ending homelessness among veterans by the end of 2015, permanent housing has been secured for more than 300 previously homeless veterans. “During times when we prepare to celebrate or honor national holidays like Memorial Day, Veterans Day and Independence Day, we’re reminded of our freedoms and those who sacrificed so that we may enjoy those freedoms,” Astorino said.
“Our veterans have always been there for us, and we need to be there for them if the need ever arises, and we are doing just that.” Astorino credited the extraordinary cooperation between the county Veterans Service Agency, local governments, nonprofit housing and service providers, and private sector partners, including local landlords who agree to give veterans priority in the renting of available units. “To have housed 368 homeless vets is a proud moment for this initiative and our county,” said Ron Tocci, director of Veterans Services. “We are at functional zero in veteran homelessness and we will remain vigilant to keep it that way.” Astorino added that anyone aware of a veteran recently
homeless and living on the street should contact the 24-hour VA hotline at 1-877-4AIDVET (1877-424-3838). Karl Bertrand, co-chair of the Westchester County Continuum of Care Partnership for the Homeless and the Patriot Housing Initiative, and Thomas DeFilippo, the HOPE Community Services Outreach/Housing Specialist who found veteran Alvin Cook, spoke about the importance and effectiveness of this program. U.S. Navy veteran Cook, also known as “Sarge,” spoke at the July 1 morning press conference, sharing his moving experience with the initiative and the programs that helped save his life. Sarge was homeless for at least five years before he was placed into supportive housing designated for veterans. (Submitted)
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.”
6 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 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 Christian Falcone Associate Publisher | Editor-in-Chief ext. 19, chris@hometwn.com Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthal ext. 31, irathal@hometwn.com
Clinton accepts historic nomination
Democrats from across the country came together for the Democratic National Convention from July 25 through July 28 to nominate Hillary Clinton’s candidacy for president. The convention marked a historic moment, as Clinton became the first woman to accept a presidential nomination from a major political party. She recognized this pivotal moment when addressing the crowd on the final night of the conven-
tion. “When any barrier falls in America, it clears the way for everyone. After all, when there are no ceilings, the sky’s the limit.” Before accepting her nomination, Clinton was spoken highly of by a multitude of elected officials from various political affiliations. President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama and Vice President Joe CONTINUED on next page
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 Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin Graphic Designer | Jim Grasso Advertising | Lindsay Sturman ext. 14, lsturman@hometwn.com Advertising Coordinator | Sibylla Chipaziwa ext. 27, ads@hometwn.com Staff Writers James Pero, Corey Stockton, Franco Fino
Bill Clinton, who served as the 42nd president, takes the stage at the Democratic National Convention on July 28. Photo courtesy Alex Hoffman
Staff Photographers Bobby Begun, Andrew Dapolite Intern Josh Stabile
Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton embrace after Bill speaks on the final night of the convention.
Columnist Lenore Skenazy
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Hillary Clinton while accepting the nomination for president on the final night of the Democratic National Convention. Now, she and running mate Tim Kaine hit the campaign trail ahead of the general election on Tuesday, Nov. 8. Photos courtesy Twitter
August 12, 2016 • THE CITY REVIEW • 7 Biden took the stage toward the end of the convention, expressing both gratitude to the nation and trust in Clinton to lead the country toward greatness. Former presidential candidate and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders also took the stage, urging his supporters—some of whom took to the convention in protest over what they considered an unfair election after controversial emails were leaked, documenting an orchestrated effort
to tilt the Democratic primary in Clinton’s favor—to turn their support toward her, adopting the phrase “stronger together.” A multitude of other advocates and high-profile speakers filed in throughout the fourday-long event, concluding with Clinton urging the nation to join the movement. Now, she and running mate Tim Kaine hit the campaign trail ahead of the Tuesday, Nov. 8 general election. -Reporting by Suzy Berkowitz
Former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders takes the stage, urging his supporters to vote in favor of Hillary Clinton. Photo courtesy Alex Hoffman
Hillary Clinton embraces daughter Chelsea after she speaks on the final night of the Democratic National Convention, held in Philadelphia. Photos courtesy Twitter
Hillary Clinton makes a surprise entrance after President Obama’s speech on July 27. The president embraced his former secretary of state after stating that there is no one more qualified to be president than Clinton.
8 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 2016
Best of Westchester shows off its finest
DeCicco & Sons Events and Cuisine provides catering services from its stores in Larchmont and Harrison.
Hal Prince Entertainment provided the music during Westchester Magazine’s Best of Westchester party at Glen Island Harbour Club on July 27.
Patrons are all smiles after a night of drinking, eating and dancing.
For the last 15 years, restaurateurs, residents, guests and vendors alike have looked forward to Westchester Magazine’s annual Best of Westchester party, which celebrates the culmination of an online survey collecting readers’ and editors’ highlights of the county, encompassing food, drink, shopping and leisure. From December 2015 through February 2016, more than 12,000 readers across the county cast their votes on what they thought were the crowning jewels of the lower Hudson Valley. Editors of Westchester Magazine selected favorite spots from 147 categories, including food and drink, fun and leisure, health and beauty, while readers selected winners from another 224 categories. Readers crowned Yonkers eatery X20 Xaviar’s on the Hudson best American restaurant, and Mamaroneck distributor Half Time best in beer selection. Best burger was awarded to Eastchester eatery Piper’s Kilt, the Rye Roadhouse took home the gold for best fried chicken, and Mamaroneck’s Sal’s Pizza won best slice. Larchmont’s Acura of Westchester was crowned best auto dealership, Mamaroneck’s Salon POSH took home best beauty salon, and Larchmont’s The Voracious Reader won best bookstore. The Best of Westchester party was hosted at New Rochelle’s Glen Island Harbour Club on July 27. The event brought out businesses from across the county, allowing them to display the goods and services they provide. Residents and guests enjoyed a night of eating, drinking, dancing and entertainment. -Reporting by Suzy Berkowitz
Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino spends some time with Miss Westchester and Miss Hudson Valley. Photos/Bobby Begun
A beautiful outdoor setting at Best of Westchester’s 2016 extravaganza last Wednesday evening at New Rochelle’s Glen Island Harbour Club.
David Spencer, of The Brazen Angel Entertainment Corporation, delights the crowd with his flair.
August 12, 2016 • THE CITY REVIEW • 9 ECONOMY from page 1
month. Major employers in the region include health care and social assistance, government, hospitality and retail. Attracting other industries, such as biotechnology, entertainment and tourism, is also being encouraged as a way to take advantage of the region’s infrastructure and workforce. One way Westchester is attracting the biotechnology industry is with the construction of a $1.2 billion biotech and medical office complex on undeveloped land in Valhalla, which would also include a hotel and stores. The development is estimated to create 4,000 construction jobs and 8,000 permanent jobs to take advantage of the county’s educated workforce, and could generate $9 million a year in property tax revenue. With the region’s unemployment rate being low and more jobs expected in the near future, the mid-Hudson population is bound to increase—the total population of the region as of 2015 is just over 2.5 million, with 43 percent of those residents living in Westchester” according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Most of the population growth in the past five years has taken place in Westchester, Rockland and Orange counties. The senior population has been growing regionwide; according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, residents over 65 made up around 15 percent of Westchester’s population in 2014. Ulster, Sullivan and Dutchess counties all have the highest numbers of seniors, possibly due to the lower costs of living, according to DiNapoli’s report. Westchester’s Hispanic population has been increasing as well, making up about 23 percent of the total county population in 2014. The county has had
At a glance The mid-Hudson region consists of seven counties: Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess, Ulster and Sullivan Although it is showing signs of strong economic recovery following the recession, the region’s high costs of living and doing business could affect future growth Region’s unemployment rate as of June 2016 is just below 4%, lower than the state’s 4.7% rate With 2.5 million residents, the region’s population over age 65 is increasing, as well as the Hispanic population Westchester has had the highest median home sale price of the region for the past decade
the highest number of Hispanic residents in the region since as early as 2000. “Given the changing demographics, there seems to be an increased preference for urban living among younger people,” said William C. Perkins, professor and chairman of the Department of Economics, Finance and Management at Manhattanville College, referring to the region’s growing elder and Hispanic populations. Westchester seems to be at the forefront of developing urban living, with its proximity to New York City, the highest median home value of more than $509,000 and the third highest household income at more than $83,000 in the region. The county has seen significant investment into transit-oriented developments, taking advantage of mass transit options and suburban space, offering a cheaper alternative to New York City’s real estate, especially for businesses. William Mooney, director of Westchester County’s Office of
Economic Development, said that DiNapoli’s report confirms the county’s “exciting growth.” “Promoting economic growth has always been a pillar of County Executive Rob Astorino’s administration,” Mooney said. “The market is clearly responding to Westchester’s strengths, including a highly skilled and talented workforce; accessibility with trains, infrastructure and proximity to New York City; and an unparalleled quality of life with schools, arts and open space that employers and employees are looking for.” The mid-Hudson region’s high cost of living and doing business, seen as possible obstacles to future growth, is attributed to high homeowner costs, having some of the highest property taxes in the state, or in the case of Westchester County, the entire country. Foreclosures in Westchester have increased by 18 percent since 2014, a lingering effect of the recession. CONTACT: sibylla@hometwn.com
10 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 2016
August 12, 2016 • THE CITY REVIEW • 11
NRCCS honors leaders, organizations at luncheon
PRIMARY from page 1
us,” Bendish told the Review. “We’re all gearing up for the November election. We’re prepared for it.” Bendish, who is running with the slogan “Experience Matters,” has served as assistant district attorney in Westchester for 14 years. During that time, he also served as the head of the county’s homicide bureau. Scarpino, 64, is a former Westchester County Court judge and a New York state Supreme Court justice. CONTACT: corey@hometwn.com
Bruce Bendish, left, will no longer have to run in a Republican primary for Westchester County district attorney against Mitch Benson, as Benson’s petitions have been invalidated by the county Board of Elections. Bendish, the GOP candidate, will now face Democratic nominee Anthony Scarpino, right, in the general election. File photo; photo courtesy law.pace.edu
Seniors’ farmers market coupons available Seniors looking to stretch their food budgets this summer and fall may be entitled to discount farmers market coupons. To be eligible, individuals must be 60 years of age or older and have a monthly income at or below $1,832/single, $2,470/couple, $3,108/three-person household, or be 60 and older and currently receiving or eligible to receive SSI, Public Assistance or Section 8 housing subsidy.
The check book-style coupons will be distributed while supplies last through Sept. 30 at the Hugh Doyle Senior Center, located at 94 Davis Ave. in New Rochelle, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., Monday to Friday. Proof of age and New Rochelle residency are required. Applicants must come in person to sign an affidavit. The coupons are valid at New Rochelle’s Down to Earth Farm-
ers Market, located at Huguenot Park, every Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and the New Rochelle BID Grand Market at the Library Green, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The farmers markets feature a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and specialty foods. For more information on the farmers market coupons, contact the Hugh Doyle Senior Center at 235-2363. (Submitted)
From left, Michelle Zhi Hui Zhang, Jonathan Reyes, Gustavo Barbosa, Millie Radonjic-Ilich, Andreas Messis and Kara O’Neill. Photo/Barbara Davis
The New Rochelle Council of Community Services, NRCCS, honored three outstanding community leaders and organizations at their annual luncheon on Thursday, June 9 at Beckwith Pointe in New Rochelle. The 2016 honorees were: transFORM: The Art of Custom Storage; Milijana “Millie” Radonjic-Ilich, coordinator of Amy’s Greenhouse and creator of the Committee of the Hudson Park Children’s Greenhouse; and Gustavo Barbosa, House 1 Principal at New Rochelle High School. Both individuals and the business exemplify service to the New Rochelle
community. Andreas Messis, cofounder of transFORM, accepted the ward on behalf of his organization, along with Kara O’Neill, transFORM gallery director. The NRCCS also awarded its annual $1,000 scholarship to two deserving New Rochelle High School juniors: Jonathan Reyes and Michelle Zhi Hui Zhang. Both have demonstrated the mission of the New Rochelle Council of Community Services by extraordinary volunteer work for various New Rochelle entities, including the Youth Council and the Boys and Girls Club of New Rochelle.
The New Rochelle Council of Community Services, established in 1936, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit umbrella organization for the health and human service agencies, religious institutions and educational facilities of New Rochelle. NRCCS provides an important opportunity for service providers and community administrators to make vital connections and address community needs. In celebration of its 80th anniversary, NRCCS luncheon tables were adorned with oak tree cuts and branches, oak being the symbol of an 80th anniversary. (Submitted)
Now presenting for your delight and amazement: Silverado’s kittens, about 10 to 11 weeks old. From left, Tigger: beauteous, light gray glamour puss, melt-in-your-arms sweetness; Blanche: dark and sultry, mysterious and playful; Thistle: king of the house, knows how handsome he is and plays it up to the hilt; and Oakey-Smokie: clever, keeps the group hopping with his playful antics. These young kitties must be adopted with a sibling or other kitten or young cat in the home. The kittens are up to date with shots for their young age and are in excellent health. The adoption fee for each kitten is $80 plus a refundable $60 spay/neuter deposit required by New York state. To meet these kitties, please contact Larchmont Pet Rescue at 835-3332/4133 or visit NYPetRescue.org. (Submitted)
12 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 2016
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August 12, 2016 • THE CITY REVIEW • 13
Cuomo votes for Poké-hystseria RHYMES WITH CRAZY Lenore Skenazy
Our governor wants us to panic about a problem that does not exist: Sex offenders preying on kids playing Pokémon Go. About a week ago, state Democratic Sens. Jeff Klein, of the Bronx and Westchester counties, and Diane Savino, of Staten Island, proposed legislation banning Level 2 and 3 sex offenders from playing the popular new phone game. The senators also demanded that the game’s developers eliminate any Pokémon within 100 feet of the home of a registered sex offender. Not to be outdone, Gov. Andrew Cuomo jumped on the Poké-wagon 48 hours later to make an even tougher, first-inthe-nation law: From now on, even a Tier 1 sex offender found playing Pokémon while on parole could end up in prison. That means, if you happened to be an 18-year-old who got a sext from your 16-year-old girlfriend, and this got you labeled a low-level sex offender (which is already crazy), you could play a game on your phone and end up in prison. It should be noted here that Pokémon is more like solitaire than poker. As you walk around, cartoon creatures suddenly appear on your phone. You “catch” them by tapping the screen. Now, I realize that anytime a politician mentions new and harsher sex offender restrictions, many voters cheer. That’s why politicians keep proposing them. But these laws will not make our children safer, because they
are based on the incorrect idea that registered sex offenders pose a big threat to kids. Sex offenders pose a big threat to kids on “Law & Order” because that makes for an exciting plotline: The creep outside the playground, preparing to pounce, or the criminal mastermind online, stalking children by decoding their posts. But in real life, which is as horrifying as it is mundane, the vast majority of sexual abuse occurs at the hands of someone in the child’s life: a relative, family friend or another trusted adult. “Stranger danger” sounds like a huge threat, but the FBI stats on children abducted for nefarious purposes show exactly what percent were snatched by registered sex offenders? In 2009: Zero. And in 2010, it was less than 1 percent. Even the group that put the missing kids’ pictures on the milk cartons, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, has labeled stranger danger a “myth we have been trying to debunk.” What’s hard to believe or even understand is that registered sex offenders pose very little threat to children. A study of Washington, District of Columbia, neighborhoods compared blocks with registrants on them to those without and found no difference in the number of sex crimes committed. That’s because even though we have heard that people on the registry are insatiable child molesters, the surprising truth is that they have a very low level of recidivism. It’s about 5 percent. That’s lower than other criminals, except murderers.
So the sex offender registry itself is a failed idea, a way of labeling hundreds of thousands of people who are, for the most part, not going to hurt anyone, much less a stranger. In fact, my guess is that you probably know someone—a friend, or a friend of a friend—who is on the registry, even though you know they’re not a threat to anyone. Add to this the idea that registrants are going to use Pokémon as Predator Helper and you have created a fantastical scenario that would be a great plot point for a Liam Neeson movie—or maybe on “The Simpsons.” But making legislation based on that fantasy is worse than mere grandstanding. Far from reassuring parents, it scares them even more by making it sound as if our kids are in constant danger the second they step outside. These laws ignore the wonderful fact that it’s actually the opposite: Kids today are safer now than they’ve been in 50 years. (And it’s not just because they’re “helicoptered.” Adults are safer today, too, and we don’t helicopter them.) Crime is back to the level it was in 1963. The real danger kids face is in NOT going outside. Obesity and diabetes are on the rise, not child rape. Making it seem as if registered sex offenders are constantly on the prowl for tots and only harsh new laws can prevent them from doing damage is a lie. The new legislation is pointless. Gov. Cuomo and Sens. Klein and Savino are guilty of a new political crime: Fear-Pokémongering. CONTACT: lskenazy@yahoo.com
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Precautions to avoid mosquito-borne diseases
Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino and the county Department of Health continue to advise residents on how to protect themselves from mosquito bites this season. “The county is working diligently to address the Zika virus through education, surveillance and mosquito control,” Astorino said. “Although there are currently no locally acquired cases of Zika or West Nile virus in Westchester County, we encourage our residents to do their best to avoid mosquito bites.” The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises pregnant women to avoid travel to Zika-affected areas, including the Wynwood neighborhood in Miami. Couples planning a pregnancy are advised to avoid pregnancy for eight weeks after they travel to regions where Zika is spreading. Residents who return from these areas are also urged to use repellents daily for three weeks after their return to protect their families and communities. County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said that additional advice to help residents avoid Zika can also help them steer clear of the West Nile virus, which typically appears in the region at this time of year. Both Rockland County and New York City have reported several batches of mosquitoes that have tested positive for West Nile virus. The mosquitoes were collected in Orangetown the week of July 10 and on Staten Island, Queens and in the north Bronx in June and July. While no mosquitoes found in Westchester County have tested positive for the virus to date, this is the time of year when the health department expects to find them. “Given the fact that our neighbors have reported positive mos-
quitoes, it is safe to assume that mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus are also present here in Westchester County,” Amler said. “The recent rain provides optimal breeding conditions for mosquitoes that can carry viruses. I urge all residents to remove standing water from their property, ensure their window screens are tight-fitting and free of tears, and to use repellents appropriately to avoid mosquito bites when spending time outdoors here or when they travel.” Last year, 17 positive mosquito batches of West Nile were found in Westchester County and two human cases were reported. This year, the health department has sent 168 batches of mosquitoes for testing since it began collecting them in early June, and will continue collecting batches of mosquitoes throughout the season. As part of its integrated pest management strategy, the health department evaluated 59,530 catch basins. Of those, nearly 42,534 were treated with larvicide. The department also gave away 400 pounds of free minnows to property owners with ponds. The minnows reduce the mosquito population by feeding on larvae and pupae before they become adult mosquitoes. Once positive pools are identified, the department will also send out inspectors to locate and eradicate standing water. If needed, storm drains in the area will be re-treated with larvicide. To help eliminate mosquito breeding grounds: • Remove standing water around your home. After it rains, walk around and look for toys, flower pots or similar waterholding containers that should be overturned or put away to avoid collecting water. • Cover outdoor trash contain-
ers and drill holes in the bottoms of recycling containers left outdoors. • Clean roof gutters and remove standing water from flat roofs. • Drain water in bird baths, plant pots and drip trays twice a week. • Sweep driveways of puddles after it rains. • Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty and covered if not in use and drain water that collects in pool covers. To reduce your risk of mosquito bites: • Use insect repellent or avoid the outdoors in the late afternoon and early evening when mosquitoes are active and feeding. • Be sure to follow the instructions on the label. Adults can apply insect repellents with up to 30 percent DEET on infants over 2 months of age by applying the product to their own hands and then rubbing their hands on their children. Products containing DEET are not recommended for use on children under 2 months of age. • Wash treated skin when mosquito exposure has ended. • Wear protective clothing, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks when outdoors and at times when mosquitoes are active. • Make sure doors and windows have tight-fitting screens, and repair or replace screens that have tears or holes. Residents who notice large areas of standing water on public property should report this to the Westchester County Department of Health at 813-5000 or by email at hweb@westchestergov. com. For more health information, visit westchestergov.com/ health. (Submitted)
SPORTS
14 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 2016
Torching the Olympics LIVE MIKE Mike Smith
I don’t think it comes as a huge surprise that, despite the myriad of problems facing the 2016 Summer Olympics, the instant that the torch was lit last week, sports fans—both diehard and casual alike—seemed to immediately forget all about the issues preceding the Rio games, and instead focused on the actual athletic competitions. I mean, let’s face it; our collective attention spans are only slightly longer than a fruit fly’s. In the months leading up to the Summer Games, there was certainly no shortage of good, hard-hitting reporting done about the ugly downside of the Olympic process. From the undeniable corruption of the International Olympic Committee and its selection of host cities, to the harm that hosting these games has done to the already
bankrupt nation of Brazil, to concerns about the Zika virus and the unsafe conditions that face Olympic athletes who will have to compete in the polluted Rio de Janeiro water, it seemed as though no stone was left unturned in exposing the underbelly of this year’s summer spectacle. And then the games started, and nobody cared anymore. Before the games, any discussion you had with anyone who even had a passing familiarity with the Olympics was likely centered on the controversy surrounding it. But for the last week, all people are talking about are the tremendous performances by competitors like American swimmer Katie Ledecky, who won the women’s 400-meter freestyle event by roughly four months. But really, this is par for the course in terms of sports fandom. Just look at the NFL. For the last few years, pro
football has had its share of bad press in the offseason. From growing concerns over head injuries and the shady off-field behavior of players, particularly those accused of domestic violence, there has been much talk, from pundits, former players and fans, about cleaning up the sport and making it safer. But when the 2016 season kicks off on Sept. 8 with a rematch of last year’s Super Bowl, the ills of the sport won’t be the conversation of choice among area fans. They’ll be much more concerned with whether the Giants did enough in the offseason to address their defensive woes. Sports—and the spectacle that comes with it—has always been a prime source of escapism. Just look at Ancient Roman history, when rulers used gladiatorial games and chariot races were used to distract the populace to great effect. But what’s amazing about these games is that they’re a distraction from problems with the
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In the months leading up to the 2016 Summer Olympics, there was much talk about the problems facing the games in Rio de Janeiro. Now that the games have started, however, most people seem to have forgotten those concerns. Photo courtesy Wikipedia.com
Olympics themselves. I’m not telling you to stop watching. The Olympics are insanely entertaining, a global phenomenon, and a terrific chance to learn about new sports that may not get much coverage here in the states.
I’m just saying that, while you watch, you should keep in mind that there are a lot of things wrong with the way the Olympics are currently set up, and a lot of people, including the people of Brazil, who stand to suffer so we can enjoy them.
But that’s a discussion for another day: Andora is getting set to take on Fiji in the men’s handball prelims, so I have to go set my DVR.
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SPORTS
August 12, 2016 • THE CITY REVIEW • 15
Lake Isle takes counties By MIKE SMITH Sports Editor On Thursday, Aug. 4, the Lake Isle Swim Team put the finishing touches on its successful defense of its 2015 title at the Westchester County Swim Championships, beating the rest of the county’s top swim teams at the Rye Playland Pool. Scoring 361 combined points, Lake Isle ran away with the competition, besting second-place finisher Wykagyl Country Club by 85 points. Coming into last week’s event, Lake Isle had enjoyed more than a decade of dominance at the county meet. With 10 Lake Isle wins since 2005, head coach Kevin Lavelle said he expected his swimmers to once again be in the hunt for another title. “We knew it was a possibility, but we had a lot of stiff competition with Wykagyl and the Chappaqua Swim Team,” he said. “They were very strong this year, but we knew we had the ability to compete with them.”
Lake Isle’s performance in the girls’ events proved the difference-maker, Lavelle added. While the boys’ team managed to outpoint Wykagyl 154-153, the girls were able to put some separation between themselves and the second-place finishers, scoring 207 points to top their opponents by 83. The 10U girls 200-meter freestyle and medley relay teams, comprised of Kait Sweeney, Claire Weinstein, Malaya Lathan and Sophia Colasacco, shined the brightest, setting new county records in the two events. The squad posted a time of 2:23.47 in the medley relay and turned in a blistering 2:05.61 in the freestyle event. Weinstein, Sweeney and Lathan were the top-three point scorers in the division, respectively. “The girls were really amazing,” Lavelle said. “In most years, it’s our boys who are the stronger side, but they really did a great job this year.” On the boys’ end, Lake Isle’s Nick Torres managed to set two county records and become the second-place over-
all scorer in the 14U division, despite participating on just two of the four days of the event. Torres, 14, has been swimming with Lake Isle for years, and has continually impressed the coaching staff with his ability in the water. “He was setting records when he was 9 years old and he’s still setting records,” Lavelle said. “We even put him in some of the 17-and-under races.” With its latest win at Counties, the Lake Isle team looked to replicate that success at the Conference Championships this past week. The event kicked off on Monday, Aug. 8, and will conclude on Thursday, Aug. 11 at the Westchester Country Club, after press time. According to Lavelle, Lake Isle’s competition is going to come from a familiar foe. “We hope to do well, but it’s going to be difficult,” the head coach said. “Wykagyl is tough, and it’s going to be a tough competition.”
Aidan Lee from the Wykagyl Country Club competes in the 50-meter butterfly event. Lee’s 36 points were tops in the boys’ 10U division.
Sophia Lord from the Rye Golf Club competes at the County Championships on Aug. 5.
CONTACT: sports@hometwn.com
Lake Isle’s Claire Weinstein competes in the 50-meter butterfly event at the Westchester County Swim Championships on Aug. 4. Weinstein was the top point scorer in the girls’ 10U division.
Klara Sweeney competes in the 200-meter freestyle relay on Aug. 5 at the Westchester County Swim Championships. Photos/Mike Smith
16 • THE CITY REVIEW • August 12, 2016