THE
CityREVIEW NewRochelle November 24, 2017 | Vol. 5, Number 33 | www.cityreviewnr.com
Astorino releases 2018 budget; partisan tensions flare By JAMES PERO Staff Writer
Cerebral Palsy of Westchester hosted its 12th annual A Taste of Westchester, giving attendees a chance to try more than 30 of the county’s finest dining establishments, while raising money to fund a park for children with and without disabilities. For story, see page 6. Photo/Sibylla Chipaziwa
Senior center employee helps reconnect siblings after hurricane Eastchester Senior Programs employee, Maureen Casey, really cares about the residents who come to the Garth Road Senior Center. After Hurricane Maria hit the island of Puerto Rice, she showed that care and concern and jumped into action. Sonia Tull, a regular at the center, was very upset about not being able to reach her brother, Father Terry Tull who was living in Puerto Rico. Casey offered to help Sonia Tull locate him after seeing her so worried each day. She searched the internet for helpful phone numbers, websites and social media to find him. She was able to search the Red Cross Safe & Well page, but Terry Tull wasn’t registered there. She found find him on Facebook and sent him a private message, but did not receive any response from him. Casey gave Sonia Tull and
her daughter phone numbers listed online for people to call to locate their loved ones, but all lines were tied up for weeks. Sonia Tull was worried sick about his safety while Casey tried to keep her optimistic that he was probably okay in a shelter and out helping others. It turns out that Terry Tull was out helping others and doing a documentary with reporters from Germany on the destruction in different areas in the mountains. Terry Tull made it to New York for a few days of rest and was extremely tired. On Oct. 27, Terry Tull, from the San Antonio De Padua Parish in Guayama, Puerto Rico, was welcomed as a guest speaker at the Garth Road Center to discuss the devastation to Puerto Rico, what he encountered from Hurricane Maria and the
damages to his church. During his presentation, he referred to his scary experience during Hurricane Maria as “feeling like you were in a high-powered vacuum cleaner.” His church also experienced two tornadoes with 185 mph winds. Eighty homes were lost in his Parish neighborhood alone. In addition, he said “the church’s door was blown off and a steel door on the ceiling roof was sucked out.” He compared his overall Hurricane Maria experience to the movie “The Day After Tomorrow.” Furthermore, Terry Tull said this devastating hurricane brought the people of Puerto Rico together. “People were able to forgive each other and come together as one community on the countryside, where they have never spoken to each other before.” He also said the people
were left bewildered, but want to go to church now. Most of the distressed people Terry Tull helped said, “Although they have lost material things, they are happy because they have their health, family, faith in God and their community.” The Garth Road seniors enjoyed Terry Tull’s visit. The center was very well attended with over 50 seniors in anticipation of his visit and the annual Halloween party. He was pleased with the warm welcome and the senior’s personal donations of $312 to help with some repairs to his church. Attached with all the donations, they filled out a pumpkin card with their best wishes and inspirational thoughts for Terry Tull and the people of Puerto Rico. SENIOR continued on page 5
In his final budget as Westchester County executive, Rob Astorino once again held the line on taxes, but in doing so scaled down the workforce and cut key staffing positions that opponents claim will hamstring the incoming administration. The Republican Astorino, in unveiling his $1.8 billion 2018 county budget on Nov. 13, continues a flat tax levy for the eighth consecutive year, but concerns have been affixed on a number of cuts that county Democrats say deal incoming County Executive-elect George Latimer, a Democrat who will take office come January, a short hand. Latimer beat Astorino on Election Day, Nov. 7, to win the county executive seat for a four-year term. As proposed, the 2018 budget keeps the tax levy flat at $548 million, holds expenses flat and accounts for a minimal increase in overall spending of less than 1 percent. “I made a promise to protect taxpayers, and I have kept it,” said Astorino about his commitment to never raising the tax levy during his 8-year run in the county executive’s office. “In doing so, much needed money has stayed in the pockets of individuals, families and, in particular, seniors across Westchester.” In releasing the 2018 budget, the outgoing county executive touted the plan to preserve essential services in the budget.
Funding for the Department of Social Services would increase by $8.5 million under this plan. Funding for day care would also increase by $2 million, meaning parent contributions would remain at the current level of 27 percent. Also, nonprofit funding, which has become a hot-button issue after nearly ending up on the chopping block throughout the past several years, is being kept static next year. “This is a budget that protects taxpayers, preserves essential services and promotes economic growth,” Astorino said. But members of the county Democratic Caucus have already begun criticizing the budget by keying in on staff cuts to the county Engineering Division of the Public Works Department, which will lay off 12 people, in addition to reducing manpower on the county executive’s staff by 25 percent; that Democrats contend were enjoyed throughout the entirety of Astorino’s administration. “From the self-imposed fiscal crisis the Astorino administration has left us in to the inclusion of irresponsible revenue sources in this budget, it is clear we have some real work to do on behalf of the people of Westchester County,” said Democratic Majority Leader Catherine Borgia, of Ossining. “The attempted use of $30 million of revenues reserved for the [Westchester County] airport is bad budgeting, fiscally reckless, and exactly what the voters made clear they were fed up with.” BUDGET continued on page 9
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WBT presents ‘The Christmas Voyager’ This Delightful Holiday Musical is a true celebration of the Season. All the splendor of Christmas is brought to life in a magical journey through Yuletides past. The holiday songs we all know, and love are wrapped up in a heartwarming celebration of spirit that will delight audienc-
es of all ages. “The star shone down upon the earth a dazzling silver beam while in a far-off galaxy the star was also seen. And so our voyager began his quest to reach that source of light. Two thousand years to find his way and end his astral flight.”
Lost in a future time and desperate to return to his home galaxy, our Starman journeys back through time searching for that magical Dec. 24 evening when three brilliant stars came together and changed the course of history. Knowing that these same stars
The cast includes Zach Trimmer, Katie Brunson, Jayson Elliott, Bonnie Fraser, Lily Lewis, Tony Triano, Allyson Tucker and Daniel Scott Walton.
will set him on the right course toward home, Noel journeys around the world and touches down in a small town in America, The North Pole, Dickens’ England and many other places on his quest. The show features dazzling effects and many favorite Christmas songs, “We Need A Little Christmas,” “Holly Jolly Christmas,” “Silver Bells,” “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas,” “Deck The Halls,” “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town,” “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” “We Wish You A Merry Christmas,” “Silent Night,” and more. Our terrific cast includes Zach Trimmer as Noel, the Starman, Katie Brunson, Jayson Elliott, Bonnie Fraser, Lily Lewis, Tony Triano, Allyson Tucker, and Daniel Scott Walton. The Book of “The Christmas Voyager” was written by Robert Fitzsimmons and Kathy Wheeler and musical arrangements are by Steven Silverstein. Fitzsimmons, who passed away in 1992, wrote “The Christmas Voyager,” as well as several other Christmas Shows which he directed and produced here at Westchester Broadway Theatre, WBT, and at An Evening Dinner Theatre. He was a gifted playwright of children’s theatre and an accom-
The cast of Westchester Broadyway Theatre’s “The Christmas Voyager.” Photos courtesy John Vecchiolla
plished director. Directed and choreographed by Richard Stafford who has directed many shows at WBT including the recent hits, “Annie Get Your Gun” and “Saturday Night Fever.” Shane Parus returns as musical director after his recent success with “Annie Get Your Gun.” The winning production team
includes Steve Loftus as the set designer, Andrew Gmoser as the lighting designer, Mark Zuckerman as the sound designer, Claudia Stephany as the costume design, Victor Lukas as the production stage manager and properties design. Duane McDevitt is the ASM. For reservations, call 592-2222, or visit BroadwayTheatre.com. (Submitted)
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What’s going on... New Rochelle Public Library
For more information on hours and programs, visit nrpl.org. Both the main and Huguenot Children’s libraries will be closed on Saturday, Nov. 11 in observance of Veterans Day.
Lunchtime Yoga Express On Mondays from 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. and Wednesdays from 1:15 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the main library’s Ossie Davis Theater/Meeting Room. Guided by yoga instructor Nora LeMorin, these mid-day sessions are designed to help relax and strengthen, and involve traditional and adapted poses that are practiced either standing or seated in chairs, no mats required. Free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
Steps to Success: Homework Help On Mondays through Thursdays from 3 p.m. until 10 minutes to closing time in the Children’s Room and Teen Room. College students and volunteers are on hand to offer homework help to assist elementary school students and middle school students (up to grade eight) in organizing homework needs, locating appropriate resources, and strengthening reading skills. The free homework help service is offered September through May, except during school vacation weeks. The Steps to Success program is offered in conjunction with the Youth Bureau of the City of New Rochelle, Monroe College, and Westchester Library System.
Friends Book Store On Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Friends Bookstore, located in the main library’s lobby. The Friends of the NRPL
Book Store is where you’ll find bargains from popular novels, mysteries and nonfiction in hardcover and paperback, to children’s books, CDs, and DVDs. Proceeds from these sales allow the Friends to provide funding for quality children and adult programming, as well as assisting the library by contributing to various projects and improving service to the community.
Job Search Coach On Tuesdays from 4:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. in the main library second floor Conference Room. A trained job search coach assists individuals looking for a new or improved job by helping with writing resumes and cover letters, identifying suitable jobs, completing online job applications, searching for jobs on the Internet, networking, honing interview skills and completing follow-ups. Drop-in. Free.
Fundamentals of Microsoft PowerPoint On Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon in the main library’s third floor Computer Lab. Learn how to create a simple presentation, create and edit slides, insert clip art, apply designs, work with views, and run a slide show in Microsoft PowerPoint. An understanding of Windows and keyboard and mouse use is required. Registration is limited. This is a four-session, hands-on class for new users. Participants must attend all sessions. All computer classes are free, but registration is required. Please call 813-3737 or stop by the Reference Desk on the second floor to register.
Hands-On Technology Drop In On Wednesday, Nov. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon in the main library’s Community Gallery on the first floor. This is a drop-in session: ask a computer PC question (you can even bring in your laptop, iPad, Kindle or Nook); receive hands-on instruction on downloading free e-books and audio books, instructions on searching through the library’s downloadable collection and checking one out; and more. Free.
Health Care Navigators On Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in the main library’s Conference Room on the second floor Receive one-on-one assistance with open enrollment to purchase, change or renew coverage in a qualified health plan; enroll or renew coverage in Medicaid and Child Health plus; and enroll in the new Essential Plan for lower-income New Yorkers from a health navigator from the Westchester County Department of Health. Appointments are recommended. For an appointment, please call 995-6350.
League of Women Voters Coffee & Conversation On Friday, Nov. 17 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. in the main library’s Meeting Room on the first floor. The guest will be Jerry Bermingham, executive vice president of development and acquisitions of Watermark Pointe, the new development planned for the tip of Davenport Neck. Local issues are discussed over light breakfast fare. All are welcome. Free.
How to Scan Documents and Upload Photos On Friday, Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to noon in the main library’s third floor Computer Lab. Learn how to scan photos or images, change the resolution and size of photos, how to select a file format, and save images to a disk. An understanding of Windows and keyboard and mouse use is required. All computer classes are free, but registration is required. Please call 813-3737 or stop by the Reference Desk on the second floor to register.
Senior Benefits Information Center On Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. main library’s Conference Room on the second floor. Trained counselors help those 60 and older understand and manage Medicare health insurance and access related services to which they are entitled such as food stamps, weatherization and heating assistance, home repair, and caregiver support. Drop-in. Free.
Brown Bag Book Discussion On Wednesday, Nov. 22 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the main library’s Conference Room on the second floor. “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls will be discussed. Bring your lunch and join in the librarian-led discussion. Copies of the book are available at the Registration Desk. Free.
New Rochelle: Home for the Holidays On Sunday, Nov. 26 from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the main library’s Ossie Davis Theater. City Historian Barbara Davis will present an illustrated overview of New Rochelle’s long and impressive history. The digital presentation will cover the community’s 325plus years—from a unique Huguenot settlement to a premier New York suburban community, including New Rochelle’s exceptional architecture, notable residents and trend-setting movements. A brief program on how to research your New Rochelle home will follow. Free.
New Rochelle news Fall leaf collection The Department of Public Works reminds property owners that fall leaf collection will conclude at the end of December. All leaves must be placed in biodegradable paper bags or open containers weighing no more than 75 pounds for collection. Remember, loose leaves will not be picked up. Bags and containers can be placed at the curb anytime but must be placed at curb by 7 a.m. on the following days for pickup:
North End - Monday: north side of Quaker Ridge Road to Scarsdale border; Tuesday: north side of Eastchester Road, Beechmont Drive and Barnard Road, to the south side of Quaker Ridge Road. South End - Wednesday: north side of Metro-North Railroad to the south side of Eastchester Road, Beechmont Drive and Barnard Road; Thursday: south of Metro-North Railroad. If a holiday occurs on any of the scheduled pickup days, Friday is the alternate pickup day. There will be no collection Thanksgiving week. Licensed landscapers and gardeners can dispose of leaves at the city’s yard waste transfer site at 85 Beechwood Ave. Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vouchers can be purchased from the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall, 515 North Ave., Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Rather than raking, bagging, or transporting fall leaves off site, property owners should consider mulching, a sustainable alternative that actually benefits lawns and gardens. A mulch mowing tutorial is available online and more information at lele.org. The benefits of mulch mowing include: a healthy property; savings of time and effort; and helping the environment. Additional leaf collection information is available on the city’s website at newrochelleny.com/leaf or by calling 235-4029.
New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce 54th annual Thanksgiving Parade The 54th annual Thanksgiving parade, presented by the New Rochelle Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Saturday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. along North Avenue, from Eastchester Road to Main Street and Maple Avenue. Please note that marchers must be in the parade lineup at 9:30 a.m. Register at the NR Fund Pancake Breakfast, to be held at New Rochelle High School from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., or at the Huguenot Children’s Library. The 2017 grand marshals are the New Rochelle fire and police departments and the New Rochelle Department of Public Works. For more information, visit newrochelleny.com or newrochellechamber.org.
LEGOLAND Westchester LEGO Star Wars Days From Friday, Nov. 17 through Sunday, Nov. 19. May the Force be with you as Jedi Knights, Droids and Clone Troopers invade LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester during the LEGO Star Wars Days. The weekend features fun-filled activities for all ages including a themed mosaic build in the Master Builder Academy, a Star Wars MINILAND scavenger hunt, and photo opportunities with LEGO Star Wars creations built by the center’s Master Model Builder. Star Wars fans are encouraged to dress as their favorite character while exploring the ultimate LEGO Star Wars galaxy of fun. Costumed fan groups will also make appearances to meet and greet fans of all ages. Annual Pass holders are encouraged to attend the LEGO Star Wars Days kickoff at 4 p.m. on Nov. 17. LEGOLAND Discovery Center Westchester is located at 39 Fitzgerald St., Yonkers. Tickets start at $15.95; children under 2 are free. Opening hours: Friday and Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, call 866-243-0770 or visit legolanddiscoverycenter.com/westchester. 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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Letters to the Editor
Thanks for your support on Election Day To the Editor, My deep appreciation goes to the voters of Westchester County for their strong vote of confidence on my election as county executive. I look forward to working with everyone in the community over the next four years on the important county issues we all care about. George Latimer, New York State Senator
SENIOR from page 1
He explained how he was able to eventually contact her after a few weeks. He received information of a small area where there was a signal to make phone calls. He drove an hour north on a ramp highway to this location and was successful in finally getting through to his sister. Casey said, “It was wonderful to see them reunited after seeing Sonia try desperately to get information pertaining to his safety in Puerto Rico during the weeks after hurricane Maria destroyed Puerto Rico.” (Submitted)
From left, Maureen Casey, employee at Eastchester Senior Programs, Father Terry Tull and Sonia Tull.
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writer’s address and phone number for verification purposes. We will not publish letters that cannot be verified. Publication by frequent letter writers will be limited to one per month. The opinions of letter writers do not reflect those of this newspaper. Please submit via fax to (914) 653-5000 or email to chris@hometwn.com or via post to Home Town Media Group, C/O Letters to the Editor, 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203, White Plains N.Y. 10601. We do not accept unsolicited Op-Ed submissions, film reviews, or food reviews.
Seniors at the Eastchester Senior Programs welcome guest speaker Father Terry Tull. Contributed photos
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CityREVIEW NewRochelle 170 Hamilton Ave., Suite 203 White Plains, N.Y. 10601 Tel: (914) 653-1000 Fax: (914) 653-5000
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A Taste of Westchester raises $50k for all-inclusive park By TAYLOR BROWN General Assignment Reporter Cerebral Palsy of Westchester’s A Taste of Westchester event has helped to raise money for the organization to create a fully accessible park for children with and without disabilities. On Nov. 13, Cerebral Palsy of Westchester, CPW, a nonprofit organization that provides services for children and adults with cerebral palsy, a condition caused by brain damage, hosted its 12th annual A Taste of Westchester. Stephanie Russo-Pastihla, associate executive director for CPW, said the funds from the evening will be allocated toward the creation of Harmony Park, an all-accessible sensory garden and park for children that will be located on CPW’s Rye Brook campus. Russo-Pastilha estimated the event raised $50,000. “I would definitely say it was a big success… and [that] we’ve raised more money [this year] than in years past,” she said. A site plan application for the park was submitted to the village of Rye Brook Planning Board in January, which specified that the park would include 14 pieces of recreational equipment “that provide a therapeutic component in the inner courtyard.” According to Richard Osterer, board president of CPW, they have broken ground on the park, but as of press time, there hasn’t been an official opening date announced. Osterer said, “Little ones whose lives are too often defined by challenges will reap the critical benefits of play that come so naturally to ‘typical’ kids.” At $125 a ticket, the event brought out more than 300 people who were given the opportunity to bid on curated gift baskets, purchase raffle tickets, and try dishes from more than 30 restaurants from around Westchester County. All the funds from these sales will go toward CPW. Russo-Pastihla said the participating restaurants played a key role in helping bring in people to the event. Beyond the delicious sam-
From left, tuna tartare with avocado, crispy shallot and soy-lime vinaigrette, and hanger steak with potato gaufrette, jalapeno mashed potatoes and chimichurri by BLT Steak in White Plains. Photos/Sibylla Chipaziwa
ples, eventgoers were treated to a cooking demonstration from Jean-Claude Lanchais, the executive chef at the Renaissance Westchester Hotel. Lanchais made a crab avocado salad with a dressing of mustard, mayonnaise, ketchup and hot sauce. Other notable attendees included Harrison Mayor Ron Belmont, who said he believes the event serves an important role in
making others aware of the work that CPW does. “To host an event like this is sensational,” he said. Belmont added that A Taste of Westchester is also important because it brings friends and family together and raises awareness and funds for a common cause. “We do as much as we can,” he said. CONTACT: taylor@hometwn.com
Baskets were auctioned off as part of the evening’s event.
From left, Richard Osterer, and Peter Russo, executive committee chairman for A Taste of Westchester.
A TASTE OF WESTCHESTER PARTICIPATING RESTAURANTS: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Albanese’s Chocolate Fantasies in Scarsdale Angelina’s Ristorante in Tuckahoe Antipasti di Napoli at The Briarcliff Manor in Briarcliff Manor Antonees Gourmet Catering in Tuckahoe Basta in Ossining BLT Steak in White Plains Blue Moon Mexican Café in Bronxville Captain Lawrence Brewing Company Chocolations in Mamaroneck Crabtree’s Kittle House Restaurant & Inn in Chappaqua Don Coqui in White Plains Edible Arrangements of Eastchester in Eastchester Emma’s Ale House in White Plains EQUUS at the Castle Hotel & Spa in Tarrytown Havana Central in Yonkers Hive Living Room + Bar in White Plains Longford’s Own-Made Ice Cream in Rye Lulu Cake Boutique in Scarsdale NoMa Social in New Rochelle Quenas Restaurant in Harrison Texas De Brazil in Yonkers The Gourmet Taste Catering in Rye Brook The Olde Stone Mill in Tuckahoe Walter’s Hot Dogs in Mamaroneck Williams Sonoma in White Plains Wood & Fire in Plesantville
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Local UJA women spend day of learning, inspiration UJA-Federation of New York’s Westchester Women spent a day exploring pressing topics and becoming motivated to make a difference at a Day of Learning and
Inspiration. The event took place on Nov. 15 at Westchester Reform Temple in Scarsdale. Expert speakers explored topics including religious pluralism
in Israel, such as the Women of the Wall and the conversion crisis; how to be an effective advocate for issues of concern; and professional coaching to help participants
From left, Jill Miller of Larchmont, Roberta Bar-Levav of Yorktown Heights, Michele Gregson of Chappaqua, Vivian Sklar of Scarsdale, and Laura Kleinhandler of Rye Brook. Contributed photo
make powerful, positive changes in work, life, and the world. “UJA has provided me with a wonderful opportunity to make a difference and connect with other women who want to do the same, women who find meaning in giving back to their community, women who are energized by change and by each other,” said Michele Gregson of Chappaqua, chair of Westchester Women. “That’s what UJA Women is all about. Harnessing our pow-
er, our knowledge, our perspectives, and our kindness— to change millions of lives each year.” “A huge piece of what I want you to leave the day with is an understanding of how you can get involved and change your piece of the world,” said Jill Miller of Larchmont, who served as event chair along with Roberta Bar-Levav of Yorktown Heights, Vivian Sklar of Scarsdale, and Laura Kleinhandler
of Rye Brook. Funds raised at the event go to UJA-Federation, which supports a network of more than 80 core partners and hundreds of other nonprofit organizations, large and small. These nonprofits provide food for the hungry, shelter for the homeless, independence for the elderly, jobs for the unemployed, as well as stimulating education programs for people in New York, in Israel, and in nearly 70 countries. (Submitted)
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Pajama Program collects donations for Stuff-a-Bus event
The Pajama Program collected 5,175 new pajamas and 3,388 books for students in need.
Pajama Program held its 10th annual Stuff-a-Bus campaign from Nov. 7 to Nov. 14. Westchester schools and organizations stuffed the inside of a school bus with new pajamas and books to be given to the children and teens Pajama Program serves. Pajama Program offers at-risk children, often abandoned, abused and neglected, and living in group homes, shelters and temporary housing, the unconditional, magical gifts of new pajamas and new books so that they can enjoy the greatest benefit of a loving bedtime and peaceful good night: a fulfilling good day. The Pajama Program is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, which be-
lieves that every child, no matter their circumstances, has the inherent right to a loving good night, complete with the comforting bedtime ritual of changing into clean, warm pajamas and enjoying an enchanting story. The school bus is donated by County Coach each year, and made stops at Westchester County schools and businesses to collect the new pajamas and books to fill the inside of the bus. A Pep Rally was held at the Yonkers Montessori Academy with Yonkers Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, Nov. 14 where Genevieve Piturro, Pajama Program founder and Westchester resident, announced the week’s total donations – 5,175 new pajamas and 3,388 books
were collected. The best days begin at night. Pajama Program’s mission is to turn “once upon a time” into tonight, for every child in the world. Stuff-a-Bus is an effort to raise support and awareness for every child’s right to a loving good night and comforting bedtime. This is especially timely as the need is so great as we enter the holiday season and winter months, when temperatures across the country drop, children are especially in need of a warm, soothing good night. After all, good nights are good days. To date, Pajama Program has collected and distributed over 5 million pairs of pajamas and books to children and teens across the United States. (Submitted)
Temple Beth El Nursery students “Stuff-A-Bus” with new pajamas and books for the children and teens served by the Pajama Program. Contributed photos
BUDGET from page 1
Democrats have criticized the budget for relying on $30 million in prospective revenue included as a part of a prospective deal to privatize the county’s airport. On Nov. 10, Astorino announced that he had selected Macquarie Infrastructure Corporation, who agreed to a $1 billion deal that would last for 40 years, and throughout its lifespan pay the county $595 million in new revenue on top of $550 million for capital improvements at the airport. The selection of the company came after a formal bidding process; but the deal still has to be approved by supermajority—12 votes—of the 17-member county Board of Legislators. Astorino first sought a deal for the airport last year in an attempt to reclassify the airport under a Federal Aviation Administration-run program allowing participants to transition their publicly owned airports into the private sector and then use subsequent revenue toward other area in the county budget. Without the Board of Legislators signing off on the new airport deal, the 2018 budget would face the prospect of significant revenue shortfalls, roughly $30 million, that could affect the county’s capital reserve and subsequently its AAA bond rating—
Partisan tensions simmer after Democrats accuse the outgoing Republican administration of County Executive Rob Astorino of intentionally “hamstringing” the incoming Democratic administration with the recent release of his 2018 budget. File photo
the highest rating by credit rating agency Moody’s. Also of concern is the lack of a new contract with the Civil Service Employees Association, CSEA, union who has found itself at odds with the Astorino administration over their contribution to health care costs. Under its current contract with CSEA, the county is obligated to pay 100 percent of union employees’ health care costs, while all of the other major seven unions are now contributing 5 percent to their own health care. In a statement, county Board of Legislators Chairman Michael Kaplowitz, a Yorktown Democrat, said that the Democratic majority fully intend on restoring proposed staffing cuts before the budget’s adoption in Decem-
ber. “We must restore the critical personnel that are needed to keep county government running,” he said. “I am hopeful that those efforts will produce a balanced budget that protects taxpayers but also provides the essential services that our residents need and deserve.” When reached by phone regarding the staffing cuts amid the Democrats’ claims, Dan Branda, a spokesman for the Astorino administration, declined to comment. “The budget speaks for itself,” he said. “It’s before the Board of Legislators for its review, modifications, and approval by the end of the year.” Latimer could not be reached for comment as of press time. CONTACT: james@hometwn.com
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from which they were taken. Nick Cave creates garments and sculptures out of found objects that often represent human empowerment. He is best known for his “Soundsuits”—colorful and whimsical suits that were first created in response to the Rodney King riots, pictured above. These suits fully cover the body and empower the wearer by preventing any bias by the viewer about the wearer’s identity. Influenced by the Dada art movement, artist Arman protested against the materialist ideals found in the Modernism movement. Using found and discarded items, he constructed new pieces that act as a voice of nonconformity. The exhibition title’s use of the word “object” has double meaning: the word can be defined as a tangible item, as well as an act of protest or opposition. In this exhibition, both artists embrace both meanings, as the objects in their works act as agents of social commentary. “Their shared love of objects found in popular culture makes their work visually arresting and intellectually satisfying, full of rich associations and symbolic meaning,” explained KMA Executive Director Darsie Alexander. In KMA’s Learning Lab, collected materials will be on hand for visitors to use as part of a collaborative installation or personal artwork. Visitors are invited to incorporate their own tchotchkes into the collective piece. For more information, visit katonahmuseum.org.
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The Review, in collaboration with ArtsWestchester, offers a rundown of art-related events throughout Westchester County. You can find our Arts in the Area page each month.
New book by acclaimed choral conductor “A Practical Guide to Choral Conducting,” a new book by critically acclaimed choral conductor and Westchester resident Dr. Harold Rosenbaum, was recently published by Routledge. It offers a valuable resource to conductors, singers, organists and music teachers about challenges that all conductors of choral ensembles face. The book reveals a behind-the-scenes look at 50 great choral works from throughout history, along with analyses and suggestions that will help to aid conductors in directing each piece. Rosenbaum lends his keen ears, observations from his 45-year career and personal insight to provide practical technical ideas for conductors and singers to consider during performances. Rosenbaum is the founder and conductor of The New York Virtuoso Singers, now in its 30th season. For more information about the book, visit routledge.com.
-Mary Alice Franklin
-Mary Alice Franklin
Baroque master exhibited at iona college
Songcatchers celebrates 40 years with documentary Songcatchers continues its 40th anniversary celebration with the premiere of a new documentary, “40 Years of Music-Making: A Tribute to Songcatchers,” by filmmaker Nicholas Carter. Presented in tandem with New Rochelle Council on the Arts on Nov. 19, the documentary chronicles the history of the nonprofit choral group. The documentary also honors the group’s founder, Sister Beth Dowd, who began the group with a mission to nurture programs that “create a peaceful community spirit and enable growth of body, mind and spirit.” The event will feature a performance by the group’s intergenerational concert choir, which will be joined by former members and friends to sing a selection of their favorite and signature songs. For more information, visit songcatchers.org. -Mary Alice Franklin
An exhibition presented by Iona College Council on the Arts this month explores Flemish artists of the 16th and 17th centuries and the Flemish Baroque period. Twenty-six works from the collection of Seena and Arnold Davis were carefully chosen by curators Tom Ruggio and Thomas Germano to provide a narrative of the Baroque period, with Peter Paul Rubens as the connective tissue. All of the works “somehow relate to the political and religious climate from which Rubens emerged, his development in Antwerp, travels to Italy, artists who worked alongside him and students in his workshop,” explains Ruggio. “Peter Paul Rubens and the Flemish 17th Century” showcases four works by Rubens, including “Head of Marie de’ Medici (Study for Reconciliation of the Queen and her Son).” The exhibition is on view through Nov. 30 at Iona College’s Brother Kenneth Chapman Gallery. For more information, visit bit.ly/IonaCollegeArts.
-Rocio De La Roca
Arman, Nick Cave at Katonah Museum of Art Through Jan. 7, 2018, Katonah Museum of Art, KMA, presents the work of two visual artists who each gather and reassemble everyday items from their surroundings as a way to create a commentary and open dialogue about their environments. “Object Out Loud: Arman and Nick Cave” showcases more than 20 works that utilize the power of these found materials to speak volumes about the society
Artists explore voting rights On Nov. 6, 1917, women won the right to vote in New York state. As a result, organizations throughout the county are also taking a look at the history of women’s suffrage and voting rights. ArtsWestchester: The “Give Us The Vote” exhibition commemorates this anniversary with works that shine a light on the suffrage movement, as well as works that examine barriers to the voting ballot that still exist in America today. For instance, Natalie Baxter’s suspended white and gold flags and umbrellas reference the 1916 protest during which delegates had to walk through a line of women wearing white attire with gold sashes and umbrellas; her work “The Golden Lane” is pictured above. Laurel Garcia Colvin combines images of women’s rights figures from throughout history, leading to the recent women’s rights marches, along with protest signs and resources for visitors to write to their local representatives. Works in the exhibition look at what it took to get to this point, and the work that still needs to be done for equal voting rights for all citizens of the United States. For more information, visit artsw.org/giveusthevote.
Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art: In conjunction with ArtsWestchester’s “Give Us The Vote” exhibition, two artists have created a voting booth for Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art, HVCCA, which is on view through Dec. 17. For “Women Warriors,” five large-scale panels by artist Isis Kenney depict suffragettes like Susan B. Anthony and Sojourner Truth in their fight for equal rights. It also portrays modern day feminist icons such as Sonia Sotomayor, Hillary Rodham Clinton, and Oprah Winfrey as superheroes. Culture-laden flags by popular muralist Cey Adams are also on display. According to HVCCA director and co-founder Livia Straus, “[The exhibition] looks to history to teach what has been accomplished and what ingrained issues still must be addressed.” Kenney and Adams both use bold visual signifiers of hip-hop to address what it is to be an American. For more information, visit hvcca.org. New Castle Historical Society: The New Castle Historical Society’s exhibition explores women’s suffrage and the life of Carrie Chapman Catt, a leading suffragist and former New Castle resident. Through historic documents, replica artifacts such as “Votes for Women” sashes, pennants and buttons, as well as historic photographs of suffragists participating in rallies, this exhibition explores the story of the men and women who fought for the creation of the 19th Amendment. Catt, a founder of the League of Women Voters, was a driving force in the expansion of the suffragist movement as she proposed that supporters campaign for suffrage on the state and federal levels simultaneously. The exhibition is on view through June 30, 2018. For more information, visit newcastlehs.org. Neuberger Museum of Art: In Neuberger Museum of Art’s “Votes!” a set of wall panels, provided by the New York State Museum, delineate the struggle for voting rights that women faced between 1848 and 1917. The project also focuses on New Yorkbased cartoonist and suffrage activist Lou Rogers, who was born Annie Rogers. Her political cartoons had a pro-women stance and were published in many magazines and newspapers. Finally, a voting booth in conjunction with ArtsWestchester’s “Give Us The Vote” exhibition will be designed as an art installation by Purchase College’s Political Science class. For more information, visit neuberger.org. -Mary Alice Franklin
These articles appear in the November 2017 issue of ArtsNews, ArtsWestchester’s monthly publication. ArtsNews is distributed throughout Westchester County. A digital copy of the full issue is also available at artsw.org/artsnews.
12 • THE CITY REVIEW • November 24, 2017
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November 24, 2017 • THE CITY REVIEW • 13
Business Briefs BSSNY: new location, new approach to care
Brain & Spine Surgeons of New York, BSSNY, a major neurosurgical and spine center located in White Plains, has moved to a new location. Formerly located at 244 Westchester Park Drive, Suite 310, BSSNY’s new offices are now located at 4 Westchester Park Drive, Suite 400. “Our new location opens up new possibilities for our patients and for BSSNY,” said Dr. John Abrahams, president of BSSNY. “Our new offices are larger and more accommodating to our patients.” In fact, with the move BSSNY expanded its offices by more than 10,000 square feet. What used to be three separate offices is now a combined 25,000-square-foot center with consolidated waiting and reception areas. According to Abrahams, BSSNY’s new location also offers an even more aesthetically pleasing experience for patients, as well as plenty of parking, access from all major roadways, and close proximity to public transportation. “We have patients coming to us from all over the country, so being located in an area that is easily accessible is paramount,” Abrahams said. “With our new offices, it’s even easier for our patients to have access to our world-class surgeons.” Additionally, BSSNY’s new space now includes on-site, state-of-the-art digital x-ray services, which are not only more convenient for patients, but provide a higher quality of care. Digital x-rays have a number of advantages over traditional methods, which include reducing radiation exposure by 75 percent or more and giving physicians the ability to instantly view, store, and send the x-rays. “Our goal at BSSNY has always been to give our patients the most advanced technology, along with the highest quality care from world-class physicians,” Abrahams said. “That’s why we developed our A.X.I.S. to Care protocol.” According to Abrahams, A.X.I.S. to Care is BSSNY’s promise to deliver an ideal patient experience while they guide patients to restored health, wellness, and vitality. “We developed our A.X.I.S. to Care protocol to help patients along their surgical journey by giving them Access, eXcellence, Integrity, and Service,” Abrahams explained. “This is the North Star by which BSSNY navigates, and our move is one more way we’re keeping our promise.” Founded in 1958 by the first neurosurgeon in the Hudson Valley, BSSNY now includes 10 neurosurgeons and four board-certified spinal orthopedic surgeons who perform more than 2,200 procedures each year. “In our group, you’ll find surgeons recognized among the nation’s best, as well as past and present heads of neurosurgical and orthopedic departments, who hold academic appointments at major university teaching centers,” Abrahams explained. “We’re also very fortunate to have the premier adult and pediatric scoliosis specialists in our region.” According to Abrahams, one of BSSNY’s points of difference is that they provide academic level care of a major medical center, but in the warm, caring atmosphere of a private practice. “What our patients are getting is the best of
all possible worlds: world-class surgeons, personal service…and now, more room to breathe!” Abrahams said. If you’d like more information about Brain & Spine Surgeons of New York, or would like to schedule a consultation, visit bssny.com or call the office at 996-6759.
American Medical Response names new regional operations manager
provider, serving 22 counties and caring for more than 250,000 patients every year. American Medical Response Inc., America’s leading provider of medical transportation, provides services in 40 states and the District of Columbia. More than 25,000 AMR paramedics, EMTs, RNs and other professionals work together to transport more than 4.4 million patients nationwide each year in critical, emergency and non-emergency situations. AMR, a subsidiary of Envision Healthcare Corporation, is headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado. For more information about AMR, visit amr.net.
Westchester Medical Center welcomes new OBGYN American Medical Response, AMR, recently announced that Patrick Pickering has been named operations manager of the company’s new Westchester County/Metro New York operation. Pickering, who began his career with AMR, worked for the company part time as a paramedic while also pursuing his career as a firefighter. After a 22-year career with the West Haven, Connecticut, Fire Department, he retired in April 2015 from his position as the chief of department/fire marshal of the West Shore district, and joined AMR full time to serve as the company’s regional operations manager for Washington, D.C. “Patrick’s role in Westchester/Metro New York adds a veteran operations and management professional to a key market for AMR,” said Tom McEntee, AMR’s CEO for the East Region. “He helped launch the successful Washington, D.C. operation and we are confident he is the right person to expand AMR’s presence in Westchester/Metro New York.” “I am thrilled to join the Westchester team as we move forward with expanding the operation to provide high-quality emergency medical services in the area,” Pickering said. “I look forward to working with the communities and healthcare systems in and around Westchester to provide the type of high-quality services their patients deserve.” Last month, AMR received approval from the Westchester Regional Emergency Medical Services Council to provide Advanced Life Support or ALS (Paramedic) level of care in Westchester County. Paramedics in Westchester County administer up to 35 different life-saving medications, use cardiac monitors to identify and treat dangerous heart conditions, insert specialized airways (intubation), and use ventilators to help patients who cannot breath well on their own, start IV’s to administer fluids for shock or medications to treat patients, as well as other life-saving skills. “AMR is proud to work in partnership with public fire, police and EMS agencies to provide emergency medical care tailored to the community’s needs,” Pickering said. “We are proud of our public and private partnerships across the country, including our most recent success story in Washington, D.C., where AMR and D.C. fire and EMS collaborated to design a partnership that has significantly improved the EMS system in the capital.” AMR will eventually adopt all optional protocols in addition to the required baseline protocols. As part of the upgrade plan, the company has recently completed a second round of hiring, bringing five additional paramedic professionals onboard at the regional headquarters in New Rochelle. Nationally, AMR treats and transports more than 4.8 million patients annually. In New York state, AMR is the largest medical transportation
Westchester Medical Center, the flagship of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, WMCHealth, recently welcomed obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Julia Keltz to the hospital’s medical staff. In her new role, Keltz will direct efforts in advancing minimally invasive gynecologic surgery, as well as outpatient care of complex benign gynecologic conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, chronic pelvic pain, adenomyosis and abnormal uterine bleeding. Keltz is a fellowship-trained, minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon who brings to Westchester Medical Center expertise in pelvic pain and minimally invasive surgery with a specialty in robotic surgery, advanced laparoscopic surgery, vaginal surgery and hysteroscopy, as well as officebased procedures. In caring for her patients, Keltz’s philosophy is to treat all of her patients the way that she would treat a family member, and she is passionate about working with women to manage their medical challenges. Keltz earned her medical degree with distinction in research from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, where she also completed a clinical research certificate and a certificate in public health. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in health and society from the University of Rochester.
Prior to joining Westchester Medical Center, Keltz completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at New York University Langone Medical Center and a fellowship in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine/Montefiore Medical Center. Born and raised in Westchester County, Keltz enjoys hiking, being outdoors and spending time with family in her free time. Westchester Medical Center is the premier provider of advanced medical care in New York’s Hudson Valley region. The flagship of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network, this 895-bed academic hospital located in Valhalla, New York, provides local residents with acute care services—Level I trauma and burn care, organ transplants and advanced neurovascular procedures, and more—found nowhere else in the region. Westchester Medical Center is the primary referral facility for other hospitals in the Hudson Valley and serves as a lifeline for more than 3.5 million people. To learn more about Westchester Medical Center and the vital services it provides to residents of the Hudson Valley and beyond, visit WestchesterMedicalCenter.org or follow Westchester Medical Center at Facebook.com/WestchesterMedicalCenter or Twitter.com/WestchesterMed. The Westchester Medical Center Health Network, WMCHealth, is a 1,700-bed health care system headquartered in Valhalla, New York, with 10 hospitals on eight campuses spanning 6,200 square miles of the Hudson Valley. WMCHealth employs more than 12,000 people and has nearly 3,000 attending physicians. From Level 1, Level 2 and pediatric trauma centers, the region’s only acute care children’s hospital, an academic medical center, several community hospitals, dozens of specialized institutes and centers, skilled nursing, assisted living facilities, homecare services and one of the largest mental health systems in New York state, today WMCHealth is the pre-eminent provider of integrated health care in the Hudson Valley. For more information about WMCHealth, visit WMCHealth.org. The next Business Briefs section will run in November. Please send any submission for our November 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.
14 • THE CITY REVIEW • November 24, 2017
SPORTS
Coed volleyball tourney returns Registration is open for the Westchester County Coed Volleyball Tournament, to be held on Jan. 29 and Jan. 30 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. The tournament will be played in Round Robin format on Jan. 29 to determine the ranking of each team, with a championship round on Jan. 30. The tournament will be played in two levels of competition: recreation and power recreation. Awards will be given to the winning teams. Open to participants 18 and older. There is a $200 fee per team. Deadline for registration is Dec. 15. There will be no on-site registration. The Coed Volleyball Tournament is sponsored by Westchester County Parks and Friends of Westchester County Parks, Inc. The Westchester County Center
is located at 198 Central Ave. in White Plains. Parking fee is $10. Go to CountyCenter.biz to
download an application, or to receive an entry form by mail call 231-4645. (Submitted
Registration for the tournament ends on Dec. 15. Photo courtesy Facebook.com/Westchesterparks
The Westchester County Coed Volleyball Tournament will run from Jan. 29 to Jan. 30. Photo courtesy Gowccvikings.com
SPORTS
November 24, 2017• THE CITY REVIEW • 15
Men’s basketball returns to WCC Westchester Community College welcomed the return of men’s basketball with a home win over Monroe College on Nov. 2. When all was said and done, it was a terrific basketball game for the Vikings. Over 40 exciting minutes of dramatic end-to-end play with fans in a packed, raucous gym roaring at every turn, this was a sweet victory for the home team to open the season. For the administration, staff, and student-athletes who worked tirelessly to make the Westchester Community College men’s basketball team a reality this season, it was the culmination of years of exhaustive planning and preparation. Ultimately, it was a night during which the entire community claimed victory. When the Vikings closed out a 101-74 win over visiting Monroe College, the applause, hugs, and handshakes meant one thing: Westchester Community College men’s basketball was back. After several seasons of dormancy, the Vikings opened the
2017-2018 season 1-0, and can now go about the business of redeveloping a program capable of competing with the very best in Region XV. The game opened with a defensive stand that saw sophomore Tremaine Frasier steal an errant Monroe pass, and blast down the middle of the court for an uncontested lay-up to give Westchester a lead. From there, the Vikings dominated, opening a 10-2 run that never let up. Westchester led by more than 20 points during parts of the opening half, and withstood a Monroe (0-1) run to take a 56-39 lead into halftime. Any hope of a Monroe comeback was thwarted early in the second half as the Vikings overcame a constant Monroe fullcourt trap, and virtually ran Monroe out of the gym. As time wound down, the only drama remaining was whether Westchester Community College’s team would break 100 points, which they did when Derrick Ham-
lin converted a three-pointer from the corner with just under a minute of play. Frasier led Westchester with 19 points, while sophomore Brandon Martin added 14 points, and Hamlin chipped in 12. The Vikings dominated all statistical categories, and shot an incredible 14 for 17 from the free throw line. Westchester returned to action on Nov. 5 when they hosted Jefferson Community College for a 1 p.m. start at the gym on the Valhalla campus. “This season promises to be an enriching experience for many of our students, not only those who field the team,” said Dr. Belinda S. Miles, president of Westchester Community College. “The student athletes now have an opportunity to showcase their skills on the court, while their fellow students are now able to show their enthusiasm and exhibit school spirit during the season. This will truly enhance the overall college experience for all.” (Submitted)
Brandon Martin of the Westchester Community College Vikings shoots during the team’s victory over Monroe. Contributed photo
The team ended their first game back with a win of 101-74. Photos courtesy Gowccvikings.com
The Vikings made their return to the court after a brief hiatus.
16 • THE CITY REVIEW • November 24, 2017