Harrison Report 3-9-12

Express yourselfOn March 4, Harrison kicked off its Youth Art Month with displays of artwork by

residents in the town’s Municipal Building. For more, see page 11.

Chloe Robinson, 7, and Jonathan Gary, 8, show off their portraits. Photo/Daniel Offner

Town plans three dams to mitigate Brentwood flooding

By CHARLIE JOHNSONSTAFF [email protected]

Harrison officials last week ap-proved funding for the preliminary action on a proposed flood miti-gation project in the Brentwood Brook floodplain that officials say they believe would significantly re-duce flooding issues in that section of town through the construction of three dams.

At its Feb. 29 meeting, the Town Board ap-proved just over $260,000 in sur-veys, designs, p e r m i t t i n g and other pre-liminary work related to plan-ning the con-struction of the dams, which is expected to cost $1.5 million.

H a r r i s o n Mayor Ron Belmont, a Republican, said that some of the planning phase work had been budgeted and the rest would be funded through a portion of a $600,000 sum the town received from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Of the town’s four flood-plains, which include those of the Mamaroneck River, Blind Brook and Beaver Swamp Brook, the Brentwood Brook floodplain has, by far, the largest impact on the town with 478 parcels within its reach. Some of the town’s ma-jor thoroughfares along with the Harrison Avenue and Louis M. Klein schools are also within the confines of the floodplain.

The dams would be built on two adjacent town-owned parcels to divert flooding to the undevel-oped land. The parcels, located be-tween Genesee Trail, Woodlands Road, Shawnee Trail and Harrison Avenue, total over 25 acres. One of the parcels was purchased in 1975, specifically for a dam project like the one being proposed.

A dam on Woodland Road Brook and another on Nelson Creek would measure 10 feet high by 300 feet long and 16 feet-by-325 feet,

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respectively, with a gradual slope up to the dams’ peaks. A third dam, designed to keep the two storage basins separate, would measure eight-by-200 feet.

All three dams would be earthen with a concrete core to prevent water from seeping through. There would be no spillways on the dams, and the reservoirs behind them would be intended to fill with

water only dur-ing storms.

In a Feb. 27 presentation on potential flood mitigation proj-ects in town, Town Engineer M i c h a e l Amodeo said that the dam project was the immediate pri-ority because it could have the greatest impact of several pro-

posals the town had been looking at.

“We had to find how we could help,” said Amodeo. “We wanted a real job that we could get done and make a difference.”

Amodeo estimated that once the proper dam permits were obtained, the $1.5 million project would take 11 months “from authorization to completion.” While additional projects remained to be examined in other sections of town, Amodeo said that the dams would eliminate the need for two proposed projects, with an estimated combined cost of $5 million, near Tamarac and Shawnee trails.

“It’s not the final answer, but it’s the first step, and it’s a huge step to solving a lot of problems,” said Amodeo, of the dam proposal.

Last week’s presentation also served as an update on a larger study undertaken by the town on flooding conditions in Harrison and possible remediation proj-ects, a study that was revisited following the flooding stem-ming from Tropical Storm Irene. Mayor Belmont told the audience

DAM, continued on page 4

Vol. 12/Number 10 www.myharrisonreport.com March 9, 2012

PRST. STDU.S. Postage

White Plains, N.Y.Permit No. 770

Town sells $243K excavator after only one useBy DANIEL OFFNERSTAFF [email protected]

A veritable hodgepodge of but-tons and levers, the Menzi Muck Excavator is no simple piece of machinery.

Purchased five years ago with the intent of mitigating flooding, the $243,000 piece of equipment has been collecting dust since 2008, the first and only time it was brought out to use in a local wa-terway.

According to former Mayor Joan Walsh, a Democrat, members of the town Department of Public Works found the machine too complicated to operate.

“The one time they used it was at the foot of Brae Burn Drive,” Walsh said. “It fell over and they had to pull it out.”

Looking to get rid of the excava-tor, Commissioner of Public Works Anthony Robinson proposed to the Town Council on Feb. 29 to sell the excavator to the municipality of Woodbridge, N.J. for less than half of the purchased price.

Passing in a controversial 3-2 vote by the board, the excavator, trailer and attachments were au-thorized for sale for $90,000.

Councilman Steve Malfitano, a Republican, opposed the sale. He was mayor of Harrison when the town agreed to purchase the ma-

chinery. Republican Councilman Joseph Cannella also served on the board at that time; he voted against selling it last week.

“You are now asking me to sell a piece of equipment that prob-ably has less than 100 hours on its meter, hasn’t been put to use, could have been put to use and perhaps should have been put to use,” Malfitano said. “And now we are being told we can’t operate it because we don’t have the proper personnel.”

Expressing that the Department of Public Works may have initially overstated some of the areas of

EXCAVATOR, continued on page 10

Harrison Fire Department vote causes a stirBy DANIEL OFFNERSTAFF [email protected]

On Feb. 29, the Town Council appointed 10 fire department mem-bers to administrative positions based upon a vote of the Harrison Fire Department, but a question was raised concerning exactly who was eligible to vote.

Recently voted out of office, Vito L. Faga Jr., the former presi-dent of the department, addressed the Town Council on the issue encompassing the department’s bylaws. Clearly upset with the election results, Faga insisted that a rule was previously put in place that holds members of the depart-

ment responsible to attend at least three of their meetings prior to being able to vote during a fourth meeting.

Addressing the topic, Councilman Steve Malfitano, a Republican, explained that the bylaws currently in place could be interpreted several ways.

“The one thing that I do know is that there has been over the years an inconsistency in the way that this department conducts its elec-tions,” Malfitano said.

Still president at the time of the elections, Faga claimed that the firehouse erupted after a letter ad-dressed from Town Attorney Frank Allegretti was presented to him.

“It allowed everyone to vote,” Faga said at the meeting. “People who aren’t even exempt members voted in the election.”

Within a memo issued to the fire department on Dec. 13, Allegretti addresses several issues surround-ing the language used within the bylaws.

At the very bottom of Allegretti’s memo, it states that all members who would traditionally be able to vote can still take part in the election, “regardless of whether they have made a minimum of four meetings during the year.”

Republican Councilman Joe

FIRE, continued on page 13

2 • THE HARRISON REPORT • March 9, 2012

March 9, 2012 • THE HARRISON REPORT • 3

Harrison activist Geiger celebrates 90th birthdayBy DANIEL OFFNERSTAFF [email protected]

Created in 1908 with the intent of pro-viding housing and support to women, the

Osborn retirement community in Rye is like entering a museum. With a view of chande-liers, Greek columns, paintings, and lavish furniture, walking through the Osborn is a

lot like walking onto the set of “Gone with the Wind.” And while you may not find Clark Gable or Vivien Leigh living here, you will find one of the most politically savvy activists and feminists to have ever called

Harrison home.Recently celebrating her

90th birthday, Lola Geiger doesn’t seem like the kind of person who belongs in a retirement community. Living by the old expres-sion, “to retire is to expire,” Geiger is acting president of the Harrison League of Women Voters and works within the Osborn com-munity as a creative retire-ment volunteer.

“Most people don’t think about it, being 90, but here you do,” Geiger said. “I’ve always felt that you need to live in the moment but plan for the future.”

After 63 years in Harrison, Geiger is no longer technically a town resident. But while she gets her mail in the City of Rye now, she still keeps her ties with members of the community. A former PTA President, one of the

founders of Harrison’s Little League, the di-rector of the Feely Fund, an interfaith coun-cil member, a political activist and former president of the Harrison Public Library,

Geiger has always dedicated her free time to the community.

Sen. Suzi Oppenheimer, a Democrat who has worked at length with Geiger, explained that Geiger’s aspirations were always to help oth-ers.

“She is able to look at the world as it is and then figure a way to improve upon it,” Oppenheimer said.

The only thing Geiger worked harder at than her political and social work over the years was raising her four children. Married for 35 years prior to her late husband Phil Geiger’s passing, she always had a lot on her plate between work and her life at home.

According to her eldest son Lawrence “Larry” Geiger, 67, she cooked all the dinners and was always there for him, his sister and their two brothers.

“She always led this dual life,” Larry Geiger said. “One half a mother to four children and the other is a public person that is well known through the Town of Harrison.”

Running for county legislator in 1979, Geiger stopped her campaign short when her daughter Ricki Lynn lost her kidney after being struck by a car. A mother first and a politician second, she has always put her family ahead of work.

“She has set an example of public

service that I and my wife have tried to follow,” Larry Geiger said. Larry Geiger and his wife are active in the White Plains school system.

Geiger has seen her fair share of politi-cians over the years. So what does she think of the town’s new administration that took office in January? According to Lola, the newly elected Supervisor/Mayor of the town, Ron Belmont, is someone who will do well because he

recognizes his limitations.It’s a period of change, Geiger said, and

one of her biggest hopes for Harrison is to see more parking in the downtown area.

Geiger is still concerned about traf-fic and parking because she gets behind the wheel when needed, and drives a red Chevrolet. But while she feels and acts younger than her age, Geiger stays mind-ful that all life comes to an end.

Explaining in depth what she plans to inscribe on her tombstone, Geiger remi-nisced about the first time she heard the “Spoon River Anthology” by Edgar Lee Masters. From one of his many poems, she plans to have her headstone read, “It takes life to love life.”

“The way I see it, Masters was saying, be part of life, be active, be helpful, be creative, be a leader, be an innovator,” Geiger said.

Lola Geiger, 90, sitting in the foyer of the Osborn retirement community. Photo/Daniel Offner

“She always led this dual life…One half a mother to four children

and the other is a public person that is well known through the

Town of Harrison.”- Larry Geiger, son of longtime community activist Lola Geiger

CommunityBRIEFSEvents at the Harrison Public Library, Bruce Avenue

Russian Story TimeMarch 23 at 9:30 a.m.Ages birth – 24 monthsCome listen to the stories, play, sing, learn

and meet new friends. Delight and stimulate your baby’s senses with books and music.

For more information, call (914) 835-0324.Computer classes

The Harrison Public Library, Bruce Avenue, is expanding its group computer classes.

In addition to the regular computer ori-entation classes for the Internet and library catalog to be held on March 17, 24 and 27 at 10 a.m.

The following new classes are offered:March 15 at 10:30 a.m.

Mouse skillsLearn/practice using the mouse.

Book club meetingThe Millennium Book Club will discuss

“Prayers for Sale” by Sandra Dallas on Wednesday, March 14 at 7 p.m. Newcomers welcome.Children’s programs for March

Storyland will now be held on Mondays at 10:30 a.m. March 12, 19 and 26. This 45-minute story time is just right for 3 – 5 year olds and is fi lled with stories, songs, move-ment and activity. Siblings welcome.

Circle Time for Tots continues on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., March 14, 21 and 28 for ages 1 – 3. Siblings welcome.

Events at the West Harrison Branch Library, Madison Street

Driver safety programAARP Driver Safety Program on Saturday,

March 10 from 10:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Cost is $17 for AARP members and $19 for non-members (check due only on day of class). Space is limited. Call to sign up at (914) 948-2092.

Pet Rescue events

Feral cat workshopAnyone interested in learning how to trap,

neuter and release feral cats is invited to a free workshop on March 10.

The event, presented by Pet Rescue volun-teers, will be 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. at the Bronxville Library, located at 201 Pondfi eld Road.

Attendees will learn why it’s important to spay, neuter and vaccinate feral cats, and fi nd out what the process involves.

RSVP is required. Call (914) 282-4474 or email [email protected]/dog meet & greet

Saturday, March 10 and 1711 a.m. – 1 p.m.PetSmart, Port ChesterKohl’s Shopping Center421 Boston Post RoadFor more information, call (914) 834-

6955 or visit NY-PetRescue.org.

Upcoming WESTMED events

Defensive driving six-hour courseMonday, March 13 and Tuesday, March 14210 Westchester Ave., White Plains

Tune up your driving skills while lower-ing your insurance premiums and violation points. Sign up for the six-hour defensive driving course on Tuesday, March 13 and Wednesday, March 14 from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. at WESTMED Medical Group’s 210 Westchester Ave., White Plains offi ce. Participants must attend both sessions to re-ceive course credit. Cost: $50 per person. To register, call (914) 681-3101.

“Nutrition Dos Don’t Have to be Boring”Thursday, March 151 Theall Road, RyeA WESTMED registered dietician will

give a free program on nutrition dos on Thursday, March 15 at 6 p.m. at 1 Theall Road, Rye. Find out how eating right is a key ingredient for overall health and wellbe-ing. Then learn how to maintain a healthy body weight and choose healthier foods at the grocery store. Call (914) 681-3101 to register.

Soundview Sports day camp announces new program

Soundview Sports Day Camp has devel-oped a unique movement-based program for 3.5 – 5-year-old boys and girls. Age appropriate activities and sports such as swimming, yoga and soccer will be offered. Created by Soundview Sports educators, together with experienced pre-school and elementary school physical education and health professionals, the Soundview Sports Pre-K Mini Camp focuses on fi ne motor as well as gross-motor skills.

For the past 17 years, Soundview Sports has offered a Summer Sports Skills Building Day Camp at Manhattanville College for boys and girls ages 6-14. The Soundview Sports Pre-K Mini Camp will run from 9 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. at Manhattanville College throughout the summer.

For more information on both pro-grams, attend the Soundview Sports open house on Sunday, March 11 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Call (914) 323-5400 and/or visit soundviewsports.com for further informa-tion.

Harrison School of Music student recital

Sunday, March 18The Harrison School Of Music will hold

several student recitals on Sunday March 18 at the Harrison Public Library. Students will perform music on various instruments that they have been working on in front of an audience. The event is free and open to the public. Recitals will be held at 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.

Harrison Republicans to host fundraiser

Republican Town Chairman Bob Amelio, council members Joseph Cannella and Marlane Amelio, and Receiver of Taxes Nancy Masi invite you to help the Republicans celebrate their November win:

Ron Belmont-Supervisor/MayorFred Sciliano, Steve Malfi tano-CouncilmenJackie Greer-Town ClerkMark Lust, Nelson Canter-Town JudgesDavid Gelfarb-County Legislator

DateMarch 22 from 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.LocationThe Fountain Head55 Quaker Ridge Road, New RochelleCost $125 per personFor more information, contact Republican

Chairman Bob Amelio at (914) 835-4945.

Forgotten Felines Champagne Brunch event

Sunday, April 15 at 11:30 a.m.Antuns of Westchester35 Valley Ave., Elmsford$35/person; advanced reservations requiredRSVP by April 1 with check, names/number

of people attending, and contact information to:Forgotten Felines Champagne Brunch,

PO Box 430, Valhalla, N.Y. 10595.

Deadline for our Community Briefs sec-tion is every Friday at 12 p.m. Though space is not guaranteed, we will do our best to accommodate your listing. Please send all items to [email protected].

DAM, continued from page 1

that, although the study was still only 65 percent complete, the community had been getting “restless” waiting to hear about the results, and the town decided to give them a report on the progress thus far.

Though the town will not be certain of the dam project’s feasibility until after the initial phase is complete, Belmont said he is hope-ful the town’s fi rst impression is correct.

“This seems like something we really, re-

Town Engineer Michael Amodeo (left) presents a slideshow on fl ood mitigation in Harrison, as Republican Councilman Fred Sciliano looks on. Photo/Charlie Johnson

ally should do,” said Belmont. “We’re pretty sure it’s going to happen. I’m a very opti-mistic person, but until the shovels go in the ground, we can’t say for sure.”

Jody Freeman, who came to last week’s presentation of the dam proposal, said that her Genesee Trail property has been fl ooded four times in the 16 years she has lived in town.

Freeman, 49, said she was pleased the town planned to use lots it already owns to retain the fl oodwaters. “For me, I’m hopeful that it will do what they say it’s going to do,” she said.



Cohen formally announces for Oppenheimer’s Senate seatEastchester’s Town Supervisor Colavita will again sit out seeking higher office

By CHARLIE JOHNSONSTAFF [email protected]

Even as negotiations continue on the dis-trict lines for this year’s legislative elections, Republican Bob Cohen formally announced Monday that he plans to reprise his 2010 run for New York State Senate, seeking the re-organized seat to be vacated at the close of this year by state Sen. Suzi Oppenheimer, a Democrat who narrowly defeated him two years ago.

Along with Cohen’s announcement came word this week from Eastchester Town Supervisor Anthony Colavita that he would not be campaigning for the Senate this year.

Speaking in front of Artuso’s Pastry Shop on McLean Avenue in a section of Yonkers that – along with Eastchester – is proposed to join the Sound Shore communities in Oppenheimer’s District 37, Cohen pledged to campaign tirelessly for the seat and for change at the state level.

“For the next eight months I will work day and night in every corner of this district to deliver my message of tax relief, transpar-ent government, and citizen intervention in Albany,” he said in his speech.

In his announcement, Cohen highlighted his platform of lowered spending and taxes, education reform and relief from state man-dates, noting his support for Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s proposal to revamp the state’s pen-sion system for future hires.

Reached by phone Monday afternoon, Cohen, who has business experience in real estate and construction, said he chose Artuso’s to launch his campaign as part of

his effort to reach out to small businesses. He referred in his speech to “burdensome” state regulations that make it harder for New Yorkers to do business.

Cohen, 57, is not the only candidate seek-ing the Republican nod for the seat. He faces a challenge within the party from North Castle Councilwoman Diane Roth, a realtor who told The Harrison Report last month that she has strong ties to the communities that would make up District 37 under the proposed lines.

“It could not have been better for me,” said Roth, who said she grew up in Pelham Manor and has family in Rye, Eastchester and Harrison. “I have a really big following in all of these communities. I just know ev-erybody.”

Roth indicated in that interview that she would not be deterred by a race against Cohen, who was already planning a run for the seat. “To me, I’m a maverick,” she said. “Whether I get the endorsement or not, I will just primary.”

Cohen said Monday that he had already be-gun campaigning in earnest and would not back down from a challenge for the nomination.

“I’ve been working for the last couple of months to get my message out and meet vot-ers,” he said. “If she chooses to primary me, that’s her prerogative.”

Despite expressing initial interest in the race, Eastchester Supervisor Colavita, a Republican, told The Harrison Report this week that he would not be joining the race for the GOP nomination.

“I advised Mr. Cohen that I would not be seeking that elected office and that I sup-ported his candidacy,” Colavita said, noting he would continue to focus on the operations of the Town of Eastchester. “Though I think I would make an excellent senator, at this time I am not able to run for the Senate.”

Colavita said this week that he still has not ruled out one day seeking higher office. “I would definitely consider other positions as they become available,” he said, “as long as Eastchester, Tuckahoe and Bronxville are part of my constituency.”

On the Democratic side of the District 37 race, state Assemblyman George Latimer has said that he is considering a run for the seat. The assemblyman planned to wait and see what happens with the district maps be-fore solidifying his decision.

Perhaps Cohen’s biggest theme is the need for an outsider in Albany, which he views as overrun with entrenched special interests. In his announcement, Cohen pledged that his Senate run is not the jumping-off point for a political career. “I want to do the job that’s needed,” he said during Monday’s speech. “And then I

want to come home to my family.”In January, Oppenheimer announced her

decision to retire at the end of the year af-ter 28 years in the senate. Cohen’s race in 2010, in which he lost by 626 votes, was the first strong challenge the senator had faced in years.

Cohen moved to New Rochelle last year from his home in Scarsdale, where he lived during the 2010 campaign. Scarsdale was removed from District 37 in the redistricting proposal released in January. At press time, it remained unclear whether Gov. Andrew Cuomo would veto the new senate and as-sembly district lines drawn by the majority of each chamber.

But Cohen said his campaign would move forward even if the district boundaries shift again before the final maps are approved.

“I’m running to represent all the people in this district,” he said. “If the lines are a little bit to the left or a little bit to the right, I’m running to represent these communities.”

As the candidate endorsed by the GOP two years back, Cohen already has accu-mulated some endorsements going into this year’s campaign. One of his supporters, Republican County Legislator Jim Maisano, made a video statement on Cohen’s behalf outside of Artuso’s following Cohen’s an-nouncement.

“He’s running for all the right reasons,” said Maisano. “He’s a businessperson with career business experience. He wants to bring a good-government and pro-business agenda to New York’s state senate.”

-With reporting by CHRISTIAN FALCONE

Bob Cohen

Killoran to lead first Sound Shore St. Patrick’s ParadeBy PAIGE RENTZASSOCIATE [email protected]

As the first Sound Shore St. Patrick’s Day Parade winds its way down Mamaroneck Avenue on March 18, Habitat for Humanity’s Jim Killoran will be leading the way as grand marshal.

Killoran has stood out as a leader in the Sound Shore communities, where as executive director of the Westchester branch of Habitat, he has worked tirelessly to rebuild flood-wrecked communities and ensure locals have af-fordable homes, said Mike Hynes, parade committee co-chair and owner of Molly Spillane’s Pub.

“That’s Jim Killoran, just one hell of a good man, a great leader, and it makes me proud as an Irishman and Irish-American to see the work that Jim does and what he means to this Sound Shore area,” Hynes said as he presented Killoran with his grand mar-shal’s sash. Killoran’s sons, Daniel James Killoran and Joseph Ryan Killoran, will join him as marshal’s aides.

Tim O’Neill, co-chair of the commit-tee, said that the presentation and the sash itself is very important to the parade organizers. “It’s representative of the Irish flag,” he said. “It signifies that Jim is a significant member of the Irish com-munity here in the Sound Shore.”

Killoran noted it was especially gratify-ing that he would be leading the parade down Mamaroneck Avenue, where he and other vol-unteers have helped flood victims recover in times of crisis. He dedicated his march down the avenue to those homeowners and taxpayers he said he has committed to speaking out for.

“The best of every immigrant who comes to this country is you work hard for the American Dream,” said Killoran, whose own family hailed from the Irish counties of Galway, Sligo and Waterford. “And so as we walk down the avenue...you have Irish and non-Irish and Hispanic and Italian and African-American all in the parade. We celebrate the great dreams of having freedom, of faith no matter what back-ground, and of being successful and having the

freedoms to walk down any parade, any street.”Hynes said the idea for the parade was born

out of a conversation with O’Neill at his restau-rant, in which they decided that it was high time the Sound Shore had its own parade. Slowly but surely, he said, they began to organize a com-mittee and set to work to for a year and a half to organize the three-hour event: fundraising, set-ting up a 501(c)3, securing the date and permits for the parade from the Village of Mamaroneck, contacting bands and other organizations to march, coming up with logos and letterhead, and trying to get the word out about the event.

With the success of events like Harbor Fest and Mamaroneck Shares, said Hynes, there is already recognition of Mamaroneck as a great place to host inclusive, family-oriented events. “There are very few places you can march down the main street and end look-ing at the beautiful harbor,” he said. As the committee and the parade gets on its feet in the first few years, the parade will remain in Mamaroneck, but the committee members hope to be able to begin rotating the event to other communities along the Sound Shore.

Police Emerald Society of Westchester Pipes & Drums

Westchester & District Pipe BandO’Rourke Academy of Irish DanceHendry School of Irish DanceGalwaymen’s AssociationByram Hill High SchoolMamaroneck High School baseball teamEmerald Society Department of Sanitation Pipes &

DrumsHabitat for Humanity High School VolunteersMamaroneck Elks Lodge 1457Eastchester Irish American Social ClubBrassmen Drum & Bugle CorpsPort Chester Fire Department

Lynn Academy of Irish DanceWestchester Firefighter Emerald Society Pipes &

DrumsNYU Pipes & DrumsWestchester & District Pipe BandVillage of Mamaroneck Fire Department Town of Mamaroneck Fire DepartmentMamaroneck Youth Hockey AssociationHarrison Fire DepartmentTipperary N&B AssociationVillage of Mamaroneck Mayor Norm RosenblumNYU Pipes and DrumsMamaroneck Avenue SchoolSalesian High School marching band

Jim Killoran (center) received his grand marshal’s sash from Mike Hynes and Tim O’Neill, co-chairs of the Sound Shore St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. Photo/Paige Rentz

THE PARADE WILL BEGIN AT 12:30 P.M. AND INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING CONFIRMED PARTICIPANTS:

Bruce Cohen Art Director x36

[email protected]


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Rotary Club names “Students of the Month”

Isabelle Sheck and Faryn Brown, members of the Harrison High School senior class, were selected as the Harrison-Mamaroneck Rotary Club’s “Students of the Month” for March. Two students are selected each month from submitted applications for this program and are honored for their academic achievements and service to their com-munity.

Students are chosen through their written essays as individuals who exemplify the true Rotary spirit of “Service Above Self.” These students were recognized at a Rotary luncheon on March 1. At the end of the year, Sheck and Brown will be added to the pool of previous month’s winners for “Student of the Year” honors, where they may receive $1,000 scholarships.

Applications to be considered for the Harrison-Mamaroneck Rotary “Student of the Month” program are available through the Harrison High School Guidance Department. (Submitted)

GOP candidates and movie villain quotes

What a long, an-noying trip it’s been. After four years of an-t i -Obama

rhetoric and two years of politically-timed Congressional gridlock, you’d think the GOP would have had someone primed and lined up for the nomination. But no!

Super Tuesday has come and gone and still we aren’t totally, exactly, 100 percent sure who the Republican nominee will be this year. It shouldn’t be surprising, one thinks, based upon the fact that the party can’t agree whether its election platforms are small government and less taxes or a unifi cation of church and state and a new slew of religious and citizenship-based legislation.

It’s all led to a bit of a sensory overload for those of us even mildly still paying attention to the ho-hum nature of the candidates and the gasp-inducing wackiness of the things they have said.

You never compare politicians to villains – that’s something Newt would probably say the elite media would do. I wouldn’t think of it! Instead, I just want to retread the GOP primary trail, while also quoting some of my favorite movie villains. I’m not saying one really has to do with the other at all, and I’m only kind of implying that the movie villains said similar things, but in a more poetic fashion.

Here’s to another eight months of Pokémon references, wrong birthdays for Elvis, discussions about Satan and condoms, and everything else that’s made some of us become born again hockey fans in the last few months:

Hopefuls and villains on faith“You expect the president of the United

States to be sensitive to that freedom and protect it and, unfortunately, perhaps be-cause of the people the president hangs around with, and their agenda – their secular agenda – they have fought against religion.”

-Mitt Romney at a Michigan “Town Hall” meeting in February

Source: ABCNews

“I fi nd your lack of faith disturbing.”-Darth VadarSource: “Star Wars” (1977)

Hopefuls and villains on R-E-S-P-E-C-T

“All I’m asking for is the respect for me to give my comments and my speech, that’s all I’m asking. Just be respectful, that’s all, thank you very much.”

-Herman Cain in October to a crowd of rowdy Ron Paul supporters

Source: CNN

“Why can’t you give me the respect that I’m entitled to? Why can’t you treat me like I would be treated by any stranger on the street?”

-Joan CrawfordSource: “Mommie Dearest” (1981)

Hopefuls and villains on communication

“There’s going to be a lot of debates. I mean shoot, I may get to be a good debater before it’s all over with.”

-Rick Perry to reporters in Concord, New Hampshire

Source: WFAA Dallas/Fort Worth

“What we’ve got here is a failure to com-municate.”

-The CaptainSource: “Cool Hand Luke” (1967)

Hopefuls and villains on rivalry“Anybody up here can probably beat

Obama.”-Ron Paul Iowa Debate, December 2011Source: Daily Mail, U.K.

“Keep your friends close, but your en-emies closer.”

-Michael CorleoneSource: “The Godfather, Part II” (1974)

Hopefuls and villains on self-awareness

“I’m not the most fl amboyant. I don’t get the biggest applause in here. But I’m steady. I’m solid. I’m not going to go out and do things that you’re going to worry about.”

-Rick Santorum at the South Carolina Debate

Source: L.A. Times

“I am putting myself to the fullest pos-sible use, which is all I think that any con-scious entity can ever hope to do.”

-HAL 9000Source: “2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968)

Hopefuls and villains on persistence

“We survived the national elites’ effort to kill us in the summer because people…said we are not going to allow the elite to decide who we are allowed to nominate.”

-Newt Gingrich after winning Georgia on Super Tuesday

Source: NBC

“There’s no sense dwelling on our losses. We just keep on lighting the lights and fol-lowing the formalities.”

-Norman BatesSource: “Psycho” (1960)

Hopefuls and villains on manners

“Well that’s rude. That’s absolutely rude. I’m not a judgmental person.”

-Michele Bachmann on a recent Piers Morgan appearance

Source: CNN“Rudeness is an epidemic.”-Hannibal LecterSource: “Silence of the Lambs” (1991)

Hopefuls and villains on the future

“This is a campaign to make sure that we save the future for our young people and hopefully, as they focus on this election and as it comes closer to the general election, they’ll recognize what’s at stake.”

-Mitt Romney in Massachusetts on Super Tuesday

Source: MTV News

“We are the future, Charles. Not them. They no longer matter.”

-MagnetoSource: “X-Men” (2000)

Hopefuls and villains on the long journey

“Hopefully some people will start look-ing at this race and see where this race is going to end up. If everybody stays in, it may end up at the convention.”

-Rick Santorum in Oklahoma on Super Tuesday

Source: Boston Globe

“Cold be travelers far from home…They do not see what lies ahead, when sun has faded and moon is dead.”

-GollumSource: “Lord of the Rings: The Two

Towers” (2002)

Mark Lungariello

LUNGARIELLO AT LARGE


Mamaroneck Village to consider ban on plastic shopping bagsBy PAIGE RENTZASSOCIATE [email protected]

Following the lead of neighboring Rye City, the Village of Mamaroneck is looking into banning the use of plastic bags at local checkout counters.

The law is part of an initiative by the village’s Committee for the Environment, whose members, along with those from committees in Rye and Larchmont, met jointly last spring to hear from a representa-tive of Westport, Conn., where a similar law was implemented. The proposal would ban plastic checkout bags in favor of reusable bags or paper bags made of at least 40 per-cent recycled material. Plastic produce bags and plastic garment bags used by dry clean-ers would not be included in the ban.

It’s a good time to implement such measures because people are aware of the problems caused by plastic bags and use of more eco-friendly alternatives is on the rise, said Michaela Zeuss, a co-chair of the Mamaroneck committee. “We feel it’s the right thing to do.”

Rye’s ordinance, which was passed unani-mously by the City Council on Dec. 7, was the first of its kind in the county and one of a handful of such ordinances in the state. Advocates hope the trend will spread, and Mamaroneck is poised to be the first to join Rye as a so-called “bag town.”

The law carries a penalty of a fine of up to $150 after an initial warning for each day after the violation goes on.

“I think it’s a given that this will be passed,” said Mamaroneck Village Mayor Norman Rosenblum, a Republican. According to the mayor, the Board of Trustees is set to vote

on Monday to schedule a public hearing for the proposed law.

Such measures have the potential to spread along the Sound Shore communi-ties. According to Larchmont environmen-tal committee chair Julia Steinmetz, the plastic bag law is “on their radar,” though members haven’t acted on it just yet. And in the Town of Mamaroneck, Democratic Town Supervisor Nancy Seligson has brought it up to fel-low town council members to mixed reactions. “It’s cer-tainly been on my radar, and I’d like for it to be on the table,” she said.

But in Mama-roneck, “education, education, educa-tion is key,” said Zeuss, who hopes the campaign will promote an in-crease in reusable bags.

Mamaroneck’s Committee for the Environment has already incorporat-ed the issue into the Green Screen Film Festival (taking place through Sunday) with a screening of “Bag It,” a film that outlines the ills of plas-

tic production. She said committee members hope to be able to show the film into local schools to help spread the word.

Ultimately, she said, the law is about mak-ing sure today’s children have a healthy en-vironment once they grow up. According to statistics from the Environmental Protection

Agency, the recy-cling rate for HDPE plastic bags, which are those most commonly used in checkout bags, have ranged around 5 per-cent in recent years. “It’s really miser-able,” said Zeuss.

For Steve Joseph-son, owner of the Toy Box and president of the Mamaroneck Chamber of Commerce, the or-dinance won’t be much of a strain. Already, he doesn’t give out plastic bags to his customers unless they request them, which only happens about half the time, he said.

He said he hadn’t heard any negative reactions from other chamber members, even though there is a possibility of a

slight increase in expense for other types of bags, he said. But Josephson said that if the

law passed, he would sell reusable bags in his store and promote their use with a dis-count on purchases when customers bring in their own bags. “I would do something like that to make it more gung-ho,” he said.Mamaroneck Trustee Toni Ryan, a Democrat who serves as liaison to the Committee for the Environment, said that aside from the abysmal statistics about plastic bag waste, the law had even greater implications in a flood-prone community like Mamaroneck, where plastic bags frequently end up cover-ing storm drains and blocking the flow of water. “For us, it’s a real no-brainer; we re-ally need to take every single measure we can,” she said. “We can’t help that we’re at the bottom [of the watershed], but we can help plastic bags floating around.”

Ryan said she was thrilled with the reaction from her fellow board members, who were all supportive of moving the measure along.

“It’s a minor inconvenience that I think people in general will get used to,” Rosenblum added.

And that’s been the experience in Rye, according to Sara Goddard, chair of the Rye Sustainability Committee. “There are always questions; there are always misinter-pretations of the law,” she said.

But she and fellow committee members have been working to get the word out to local businesses before the law takes ef-fect in May. They’ve handed out copies of the law, an FAQ sheet, and recently, post-ers and information cards that illustrate which types of bags are acceptable under the ordinance. Goddard said that she has learned from other bag towns that there is pretty much a month-long learning curve for stores and residents.

If local municipalities approve plastic bag ordinances like the City of Rye’s, shoppers will

see a lot more displays such as this one at Trader Joe’s in the Town of Mamaroneck.

Photo/Paige Rentz


Author to visit Harrison LibraryOn Wednesday, March

28 at 7 p.m., Andrew Gross, the bestselling au-thor and Purchase resident, will visit the Harrison Public Library at 2 Bruce Ave. and talk about his book “Eyes Wide Open.” The book is his most per-sonal book yet, based on two real-life experiences – the tragic loss of his nephew and a chance en-counter years before with the nation’s most notori-ous cult killer.

Gross will also talk about his new book com-ing out in July – a tale of an event from one of his book tours gone crazily wrong.

Gross is the author of the New York Times and international bestsellers “Blue Zone,” “Don’t Look Twice,” “Reckless,” and “Dark Tide.” He is also co-author of several num-ber one bestsellers with James Patterson, includ-ing “Judge & Jury” and “Lifeguard.”

The event is spon-sored by the Friends of the Harrison Library. For more information, call the library at (914) 835-0324. (Submitted) Andrew Gross

use, Robinson explained that the real issue is one of manpower.

“We used to have part-time personnel at our disposal during the springtime when we would do our streams and brooks,” Robinson said. “Now we don’t have those people. These would have been the guys who would have been allotted to work on the Menzi.”

Given his concerns over who could man the excavator, Robinson also explained that in some cases, like with smaller streams, the excavator experienced access problems as the only access would be on private proper-ty. Rather than have an unmanageable piece of equipment sitting idle for years at a time, Robinson felt it would be best for the town

EXCAVATOR, continued from page 1 to sell it.Adding to the conversation, Councilman

Fred Sciliano, a Republican, explained that the town also tried to advertise and put the machine up for bid. With a final bid of $40,000, the town didn’t want to see this machine go for $200,000 less than what they paid.

Offering the excavator for a discounted price to the County of Westchester and some of the town’s neighboring communities, of-ficials believed the offer from Woodbridge was the best they could get.

“The county wasn’t interested in pur-chasing the vehicle,” Sciliano said, “The longer it sits, the less you are going to get for it. So, I think we should just take our losses and move on.”

PET RESCUE

With her blue-grey coat and long, slim face, exotic Gia has both Russian Blue and Siamese ancestry. She is a mellow cat with a calm personality who enjoys being pet-ted. Gia was found pregnant and gave birth to her kittens at Pet Rescue’s Cat Place. Now spayed, Gia is in excellent health, up to date with all shots, and is ready for a permanent home. The adoption donation for Gia is $75. To meet this kitty, contact Larchmont Pet Rescue at (914) 834-6955 or visit NY-PetRescue.org.


With honorsJennifer Carpenito of West Harrison

was named to fall 2011 Dean’s List at Binghamton University’s

Harpur College of Arts and Sciences.

Youth Art Month brings inspiration to the Harrison community

By DANIEL OFFNERSTAFF [email protected]

Children, parents, teachers and town of-fi cials gathered on March 4 to mark in the start of the town’s Youth Art Month. Started 32 years ago, the event has become one of the longest standing traditions put together by the Harrison Council for the Arts.

According to the chairperson of the event, Doreen Grozinger, the program gives the com-munity a way to see what children are doing artistically.

“It’s like another language,” Grozinger, 57, said. “One in which young students can speak through an artistic means.”

With over 100 people in attendance, several students from public and private schools in the area came to Harrison’s municipal building to get a chance to showcase their work.

Jonathan Gary, 8, and Chloe Robinson, 7, came with the intention of showing their self-portraits to their family and friends.

Sarah Palefsky, a second grade teacher at the Purchase School, explained that the student’s self-portraits took a few days to fi nish and that both Jonathan’s and Chloe’s work was very creative.

Across the street from the reception at the Harrison Public Library, middle and high school art students also had their works dis-played. Additionally, a piano recital was held showcasing the musical talents of some Harrison youths.

One of the students in attendance, Jim Jackson, 12, said that he enjoyed getting to perform his rendition of Billy Joel’s “Piano Man” in front of the community.

“I loved getting to see all the different per-formances today,” he said. “I think I did pretty well, messed up here and there, but overall I think it sounded good.”

With all the talent on display, the event proved to be an inspiration to students and adults alike, including the Harrison Mayor/Supervisor Ron Belmont.

“Passion, whether it’s art, theater, or what have you, I think if children have a passion they need to go with it and enjoy it,” said Belmont, a Republican.

The artwork will remain hanging in the municipal building for the next few weeks. After the display comes down, the Harrison Children Center will host a reception for their presentation, Art of the Young Child on April 15. The event will feature photos of pre-school students working on their pieces, showing the process of creating artwork.

Marco Citro, 5, poses with his painting.

Attendees of the event included Mayor Ron Belmont and several Council of the Arts members.

Eighth-grade student at Louis M. Klein Middle School, Harry Barnwell, 14, performs his rendition of Billy Joel’s “Prelude.”


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ALL Replys to: [email protected]

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Harrison Central School District hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for the following:Bid Number: 11/12-36Commercial Landscaping Services

Bids shall be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “Bid Spec #11/12-36: Commercial Landscaping Services” on the outside. Bids will be received until 1:45 p.m., Wednesday, March 21, 2012. by the Purchasing Agent (or his duly designated representative), Harrison Central School District, Business Office, 50 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528; (914) 630-3011; Fax: (914) 835-2715, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from the same office beginning Wednesday, March 7, 2012. The Harrison Central School District is not responsible for bids opened prior to the bid opening if bid number and opening date do not appear on the envelope. Bids opened prior to the date and time indicated are invalid. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail, or in the handling of the mail by employees of the Harrison Central School District, as well as improper hand delivery.

A pre-bid walkthrough is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2012. All potential bidders are strongly encouraged to attend.

The Harrison Central School District reserves the right to waive any informalities in the bids, or to reject all bids, or to accept any bid which in the opinion of the Board will be to their best interest.

By order of the Board of Education

Gene George Purchasing AgentDated: March 7, 2012

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Harrison Central School District hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for the following:Bid Number: 12/13-01Pneumatic Controls/HVAC – Provide and Service

Bids shall be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “Bid Spec #12/13-01: Pneumatic Controls/HVAC – Provide and Service” on the outside. Bids will be received until 2:00 p.m., Wednesday March 21, 2012 by the Purchasing Agent (or his duly designated representative), Harrison Central School District, Business Office, 50 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528; (914) 630-3011; Fax: (914) 835-2715, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from the same office beginning Wednesday, March 7, 2012. The Harrison Central School District is not responsible for bids opened prior to the bid opening if bid number and opening date do not appear on the envelope. Bids opened prior to the date and time indicated are invalid. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail, or in the handling of the mail by employees of the Harrison Central School District, as well as improper hand delivery.




NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Harrison Central School District hereby invites the submission of sealed bids for the following:Bid Number: 12/13-02Duct CleaningBids shall be submitted in sealed envelopes marked “Bid Spec #12/13-02: Duct Cleaning” on the outside. Bids will be received until 2:15 p.m., Wednesday, March 21, 2012. by the Purchasing Agent

(or his duly designated representative), Harrison Central School District, Business Office, 50 Union Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528; (914) 630-3011; Fax: (914) 835-2715, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read. Specifications and bid forms may be obtained from the same office beginning Wednesday, March 7, 2012. The Harrison Central School District is not responsible for bids opened prior to the bid opening if bid number and opening date do not appear on the envelope. Bids opened prior to the date and time indicated are invalid. The bidder assumes the risk of any delay in the mail, or in the handling of the mail by employees of the Harrison Central School District, as well as improper hand delivery.

A pre-bid walkthrough is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 14, 2012. All potential bidders are strongly encouraged to attend.




LEGAL NOTICES


There’s no place like homeSadly, last week, I lost my most loyal and

avid reader, (who was often quoted in “The Kitchen & Bath Insider”). Just shy of 98 years old, my mom peacefully passed away. Lucid until the end, she always enjoyed reading (and constructively criticizing) my column, as only a

mother could. So if you don’t mind, I chose to re-print her favorite article out of the 137 that she had read.

(Reprinted from August 2009)I just watched “The Wizard of Oz” again, and realized for the fi rst time, how

closely the plot parallels our current global plight. Homes are being sucked up from families by an inexorable force that can’t be controlled. The wicked witches of the (middle) east want to destroy everything we hold dear, and our only hope is a bunch of world leaders with limited brains, courage, and heart. But obviously, the most im-portant theme in the fi lm is that during troubled times there’s no place like home.

Accepting this premise, it’s only logical to take it one step further and agree that in the home, there’s no place like the kitchen. So until the wicked forces of evil are destroyed and our economy is restored, there are alternatives to make your kitchen as pretty as a pair of ruby slippers – but without spending a small fortune. These choices include inexpensive cabinet restorations, painting, refi nishing, custom refacing, and complete renovations.

If you already have beautiful wood cabinets but they’ve been neglected, cabinet restoration may be just what you need. Technicians remove all the grime that has been building up on the woodwork; touch-up nicks and scratches and apply a new topcoat to the woodwork. The hinges can be adjusted and oiled (look what it did for the Tin Man), and the hardware can be changed, making a world of difference. Keep in mind, however, that a restoration of this type will not make heavily worn cabinets look new again, nor will it change their color or style.

When wood cabinets have deteriorated to a point where restoration isn’t pos-sible they can be painted or refi nished. Painting can make cabinetry look new again but it doesn’t last as long as some of the other options. Just as you have to paint your home every several years, you will have to re-paint the cabinets. Because the surfaces on the doors are subject to the wear and tear of everyday use the paint can scratch, chip, and eventually fade.

Refi nishing cabinets is a traditional method of rejuvenating them and in some cases can lighten the color as well. A good refi nishing job will last for years and will be more durable than painting. The procedure can take a few weeks to complete and involves sanding and harsh chemical “strippers” to remove the old fi nish and stain. As with painting your cabinets, this options does not change the style of the door and drawer fronts and if that is your goal, then other options must be investigated.

Probably the least invasive method of a real renovation is refacing, (also known as resurfacing). If you’re ready for an exciting new look for your kitchen and you’re happy with the location of the cabinetry, custom refacing provides an attractive alternative to replacing them. You can have the look and feel of a new kitchen in about a week. Replacement components come in real woods like cherry, maple and oak, or easy-to-clean and economical thermofoil. With the addition of cabinet and drawer organizers, your kitchen can also have the convenience of a completely new kitchen. Easily, the equivalent of anything you’d fi nd in the Emerald City.

If you want to change the layout of your kitchen, then you must consider remod-eling. If you select from the multitude of stock cabinets on the market, new cabinets can be a relatively economical solution for your project. Custom and semi-custom cabinets are available in numerous styles, colors and wood species but will cost more than stock cabinets.

If you’re considering updating your kitchen, I suggest that you watch “The Wizard of Oz” again to put things in perspective. If you’re worried that a tornado in Yonkers (or some other evil force) may suck up your home, but you still want to spruce up your kitchen without emptying your retirement fund, you may want to investigate some of the options that I’ve touched on in this month’s column. And ignore that man behind the curtain.

Paul Bookbinder, M.I.D., C.R., is president of DreamWork Kitchens, Inc. located in Mamaroneck. A Master of Design (Pratt Institute), and E.P.A. Certifi ed Remodeler, he serves on the Advisory Panel of Remodeling Magazine. A member of the National Kitchen & Bath Assoc., he is also a contributor to Do It Yourself magazine. He can be reached for questions at (914) 777-0437 or dreamworkkitchens.com.

Paul Bookbinder, M.I.D.©

THE KITCHEN ANDBATH INSIDER

Cannella, who was on the Harrison Town Council in 2009 when the bylaws were redrafted, explained that while the board accepted their bylaws in the pas,t they still need a lot of work. “We would like to see them revised by March 31, 2012,” Cannella stated to the on-looking fi re offi cials.

Faga pressed council members to rethink the appointments, feeling the vote by fi re de-partment offi cials may have been swayed by members voting who should not have been eligible to vote. The discussion grew to ar-gumentative levels, with Faga being called

out of order by the mayor. He was eventu-ally escorted out of the courtroom.

As it stands, the following offi cers have been appointed to either fi rematic or admin-istrative positions for 2012:

Firematic: Dino DelSignore (chief); Nick Cusumano (fi rst assistant chief); William Nardozzi (second assistant chief); Chris Colasacco (captain); Nick Baretto (fi rst lieutenant); and Vincent Straface (second lieutenant).

Administrative: Anthony Valentino (presi-dent); Ralph Straface (department secre-tary); Jerry Terranova (fi nancial secretary); and William Powell (treasurer).

FIRE, continued from page 1

Burke wins award for nursing qualityThe Burke Rehabilitation Hospital was

recently honored with the 2011 National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators Award for outstanding nursing quality by the American Nurses Association during the 6th annual Nursing Quality Conference in Las Vegas, Nev.

Out of more than 1,800 hospitals that report to the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators, Burke was selected as one of six top performing hospitals and was recognized for its achievement in the rehabilitation hospital category. Along with demonstrating excellence in National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators nursing performance mea-sures, the Burke Rehabilitation Hospital increased its percentage of registered nurses with national certification in re-habilitation from 8 percent to 56 percent between 2004 and 2011.

The winners were selected based on the nursing performance measures they collect-ed and reported for four consecutive quar-

ters to National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators – the only national database of nursing quality indicators – demonstrating sustained improvement. The data was ana-lyzed on measures indicating the structure of nursing care, such as nursing care hours and skill mix; processes of nursing care, such as steps taken to prevent pressure ul-cers and falls; and patient outcomes, such as hospital-acquired infections.

Each unit was assessed only in compari-son to other units of the same type. With one of every three hospitals nationwide report-ing to the database, the American Nurses Association was able to make side-by-side comparisons of similar nursing units at dif-ferent hospitals. The scores were then aver-aged across units in each hospital to yield a hospital score. The highest-ranking hospital in each category – academic medical cen-ter, teaching hospital, community hospital, psychiatric hospital, pediatric hospital and rehabilitation hospital – received the award. (Submitted)

Harrison teachers make $4,000 donation to Food Pantry

On Feb. 16, the Harrison Association of Teachers presented a donation of $4,000 to the Harrison Food Pantry. This is the third year Harrison teachers have made this donation.

“Harrison teachers are committed to sup-porting our local community as well as other communities nearby and afar in a variety of different ways,” said Angela Ader, Harrison Association of Teachers spokesperson and teacher at Purchase Elementary School. “We know it is important and that working together will make a difference for our stu-dents and our community.”

In addition to the monetary donation, the Harrison Association of Teachers col-lects non-perishable food items in each of the schools, and deliveries are made once a month.

The Harrison Association of Teachers has many charitable events throughout the year, including a drive to provide backpacks and school supplies for children in August.

“These are children in our own class-rooms,” said Ader. “How can we turn a blind eye to the needs of our students?”(Submitted)

Holy Child basketball player named to all-star team

School of the Holy Child junior Shannon O’Connor of Rye was named one of 84 high school basketball players to participate in the annual East-West New England Prep School Athletic Conference All-Star Game. She is Holy Child’s first varsity basketball player to receive this honor.

Hosted by the Nobels and Greenough School on Sunday, March 4, the game brought to-gether those who are considered to be some of the best players in New England, as selected by a broad group of member coaches.

So far this season, Shannon complied 33 assists, 52 steals, 58 blocks, 82 rebounds, and 176 points, helping to lead the Gryphon girls varsity basketball team to a 15-6 regular season record. (Submitted)

Holy Child’s Shannon O’Connor participated in the

East-West New England

Prep School Athletic Conference

All-Star Game. Contributed photo

Purchase College presents women’s history lecture

Purchase College

On March 28, Purchase Professor Marjorie Miller’s lecture looks at women’s liberation from the multiple vantage points of the United States and Asia. With her expertise as a professor of philosophy, gender studies, and Asian studies she will examine what it means to be “liberated” around the world in this year’s Mary Edwards Memorial Lecture “Telling Stories of Liberation: When Liberation Means Different Things, or, Am I Liberated?” The free lecture will take place from 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. at the college’s student services building in the multi-purpose room (red room).

For more information, visit purchase.edu for additional information. (Submitted)

Harrison Avenue School student receives top honors

Lianne Davidoff, a fifth grade student at Harrison Avenue School, recently received the Gold Cup Award at the Schubert Club Young Musicians Festival. The Schubert Club Young Musicians Festival annually sponsors non-competitive auditions for school-age students. These auditions provide students an opportunity to receive an evaluation of their perfor-mance and musicianship skills from highly skilled adjudicators.

In addition, Lianne performs in local theatre and is currently performing in “Guys and Dolls Jr.” at the Westchester Sandbox Theatre in Mamaroneck. She is also a member of Random Farms Theatre Company’s Kids Who Care. The Kids Who Care organization is comprised of a group of youths ranging in age from 7 – 13 years old who are using their talents to make a difference in the community by performing at senior centers, community events and hospitals. (Submitted)

Lianne Davidoff

Parsons Elementary students “Pause For A Cause”

The students at Parsons Elementary have been diligently involved in philanthropic activi-ties in these winter months. In a program known as “Pause For A Cause,” they have been involved in many aspects of community outreach.

Before winter break, students were encouraged to wear their pajamas to school and bring in a “bedtime” item to donate to those in need. Kindergarten and first grade students focused on toothbrushes and toothpaste; second and third graders brought in small stuffed animals or books; and fourth and fifth graders donated size appropriate pajamas. Twenty-five bags were assembled and donated to children in the Harrison area.

In the month of January, students had a second Sandwich Brigade, making sandwiches for the local homeless shelter, and donating boxes of food to the Harrison Food Pantry.

In February, the younger grades created decorated bookmarkers and delivered them on Valentine’s Day to the seniors at the senior center in downtown Harrison. (Submitted)

Students at Parsons Elementary School assembled packages for children in need in the Harrison area. Contributed photo


Mike Smith’s Hometown Sports ThrowdownPLAYERS TO WATCH IN 2012-2013

Jack Daly – EastchesterAs it stands right now, Jack Daly is one of the most talented point guards in all of Section

I. The scary thing, at least for opposing teams: He’s only a sophomore. For the past two seasons, Daly has been the catalyst for the Eagles’ offense, but this year, he is healthy for the playoffs, and may have made the leap to become one of the most thrilling players in the area. His decision-making, ball handling and shooting belie his age, and next year as a junior, he should be even better.

However, he will have to adjust to playing without the school’s all-time leading scorer, Dave Solano. Solano, a versatile forward, was usually Daly’s fi rst option down the court, and his ability to hit from long range has helped open up the fl oor for Daly to create for his other teammates.

Brian Ketchebaw – Rye NeckIf it seems as if there’s always a Ketchebaw in net for Rye Town/Harrison, it’s because

that’s the case. For the last few years, Brian’s older brother Jamie has held the position down becoming one of the more solid goaltenders in the area. With Jamie’s graduation looming, it would appear as if the reins will be handed to Brian, who is now just a freshman.

While Brian had a much smaller sample-size than his brother this year (Jamie’s 750 min-utes in net far outweigh Brian’s 200), his stats were nearly identical to his brother’s. If he can continue that trend as a sophomore, the sky is the limit for this netminder.

Coby Lefkowitz – HarrisonAs a sophomore this year, Lefkowitz emerged as Harrison’s go-to guy on the basket-

ball court, and that shouldn’t change as the forward matures. Lefkowitz averaged nearly 14 points per game this season, and should be an even bigger part of the offense next year as a junior. Lefkowitz is also poised to become a signifi cant presence in Harrison’s locker-room for the next few years as he leads a young group of Huskies – including eighth grader Zac Evans, who have already seen playoff action.

Nick Barbaria, Justin Douglas – New RochelleNew Rochelle, more than any other southern Westchester wrestling program, churns out

quality competitors year in, year out. This year, two more in that line of succession emerged, as Barbaria and Douglas both shined at sectionals. Barbaria, a talented sophomore, was one of the favorites in the 99 pound-division coming into the season and performed as such, winning the Section I title and placing sixth at states. Douglas, a relative newcomer, came out of nowhere to fi nish second in the 285-pound division at sectionals, surprising many area fans. Next year, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the duo should once again lead the Huguenots to success at dual meets and tournaments around the state.

Jack Daly will certainly be a player that basketball fans will keep their eye on next year. Photo/Mike Smith

Harrison relay squad captures sixth at statesBy MIKE SMITHASSOCIATE SPORTS [email protected]

Sometimes, teams need a lengthy gesta-tion period before they emerge as a true top-fl ight contender. For Harrison’s 4x400 relay squad this year however, that just wasn’t the case. Last Saturday, competing at the New York High School State Championships in Ithaca, the Huskies girls squad proved that some things – like familiarity with one’s teammates and even experience in big meets – don’t necessarily foretell success. A young, untested group found their stride at the right time, putting together an epic run to emerge as one of the best squads in the state.

Juniors Hannah Hochman and Ashley DelliPaoli, teaming with sophomores Sam Shopovick and Rula Samad, turned in a time of 4:21.00 in the state fi nals, earning a sixth place public school fi nish – as well as sev-enth in the Federation fi nals which includes private schools.

An early-season injury to senior standout Nina Sarmiento had the Huskies coaching staff scrambling to fi ll the last spot in the 400 relay, ultimately deciding on this four-some at the state qualifying tournament.

“This was really a shock to the whole team and the coaching staff,” said head coach Kate Zanot. “Everything really had to fall into place for them to get to this point, and then to have them actually place at states is amazing.”

A few timely scratches – including ones by local powers New Rochelle and Mount Vernon – helped pave the way for the Huskies runners. But according to Zanot, a larger force was at work as the girls’ steadily improved their times by running together.

“They all started turning in personal re-cord splits,” said the head coach. “We didn’t

have one standout on that relay, and I think running together, these girls all started im-proving themselves.”

Zanot also points to stiff area competition – namely runners from New Rochelle and Mount Vernon – as other factors in the team’s success.

“I would defi nitely give credit to running against those teams,” said Zanot. “They have such strong runners, running times that you see on the Division I level, and I think that it helped change our girls’ perspective on what

it means to be a high school runner.”Now, as the team gears up for the spring

season, the makeup of this particular re-lay squad lies in limbo. Returning run-ners, like sprinter Shawn Capparelli, who plays basketball in the winter, will be back in the mix, as Zanot and the rest of the coaching staff will continue to tinker with relay lineups and individual events in order to best prepare the team for postseason glory. While the future may

be uncertain for these still-young runners, however, Zanot believes that these girls will continue to shine.

“Any time we’ve have younger, under-classmen runners go to states, it’s really changed their outlook and they end up a more serious athlete for it,” she said. “These girls didn’t have a ton of expe-rience at this level beforehand, but this is going to change their expectations of what they’re capable of.

Harrison’s 4 x 400 relay squad (L-R); Olivia Capparelli (alternate), Ashley DelliPaoli, Hannah Hochman, Samantha Shopovick, and Rula Samad. Contributed photo

SPORTSMarch 9, 2012 • THE HARRISON REPORT • 15

Pros, locals compete in squash tourneyBy MIKE SMITHASSOCIATE SPORTS [email protected]

Over the past year or so, some of the squash world’s top talent has been on display in the United States performing with the Pro Squash Tour. During that time, the PST has had several stops in Westchester, helping to bring the fast-growing sport right into our backyard. Given the international flavor of the sport, it may not be surprising that some top players from all over the world competed in last weekend’s Buffalo Wild Wings Open at Club@800 in Rye Brook. But this time around, the tournament featured some local flavor as well, as Bronxville’s accomplished

amateur Dylan Murray and others helped round out the field.

Last weekend’s tournament in Rye Brook featured many notable squash players, as Egypt’s Wael El Hindi – who was at one time the ninth-ranked squash player in the world – defeated India’s Supreet Singh in three games in the open finals. But along with Murray, there were some other local competitors in the mix. T.G. Raubenheimer, the club pro at Mamaroneck’s Westchester Squash, beat Mount Vernon’s Adrian Leanzain in a first-round matchup and even-tually earned a third-place finish.

For Murray, who lost his quarterfinal round matchup with Singh, the competi-

tion was his first PST appearance, though the Bronxville junior is no stranger to big matches. Murray has been playing com-petitively for almost nine years now, and has

won several prestigious amateur events – including the U.S. Junior Open, as well as the German and Dutch open. Despite his loss on Saturday, however, Murray said he thoroughly enjoyed his first PST tournament.

“I was hoping to do better,” he said. “Any time you go into a tournament, you want to do well. But I wanted to play good matches with these guys to really test myself, and get an idea of what they were.”

Murray, fresh off his high school bas-ketball campaign, is headed to Qatar to play in the world championships in two weeks, and said that getting the chance to play against some of the world’s best pros this weekend was something of an eye opener. Despite a rigid workout regi-men, which requires he practice three times a week even in basketball season, there is no substitute to the tutelage he gets from the older players. Much of that stems from the pros’ role – not only as competitors, but as ambassadors for the sport.

“When you play against them, you learn a lot,” he said. “These guys are very open; they want to see the game grow. This is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and they want to help that.”

“This requires just as much athleticism and training as any other sport,” added Murray. “And I’ve got a lot of friends who are now getting into the sport.”Murray will travel to Qatar for the World Championships in two weeks.

Wael El Hindi, formerly ranked ninth in the world, won the Buffalo Wild Wings Open on March 3. Photos/Bobby Begun

Dylan Murray smacks a backhand shot on Saturday.

SPORTS16 • THE HARRISON REPORT • March 9, 2012

Documents

Harrison Report 3-9-12