harrison review 8-21-2015

August 21, 2015 | Vol. 3, Number 32 | www.harrisonreview.com

Harrison REVIEWTHE

Harrison Shopping Center has new identity

By JOHN BRANDIStaff Writer

With a new property owner at the helm, the Harrison Shopping Center is about to undergo some changes, perhaps bringing new clients and clientele to the nearly 60-year-old complex.

Urstadt Biddle Properties, Inc, a Greenwich, Conn.-based real estate investment trust, sealed the deal on the property earlier this month after manag-ing the 25,000-square-foot shop-ping center for three years.

James Aries, director of ac-quistions at Urstadt Biddle, said the purchase was the natural, next step after the company’s close relationship with the sell-ing family over the years, though the selling price has not yet been disclosed.

The complex was also on the company’s radar, as it is located 10 miles from their main head-quarters and because, as bank-ruptcy proceedings are finalized and are forcing the failing A&P chain out, it would give Urstadt Biddle a chance to sort of reset the image of the property with their own vision, according to the company’s senior manage-ment.

Willing Biddle, president of the trust, said the most impor-tant step in moving forward is to stabilize a new anchor tenant to ensure a smooth transition from outgoing A&P into a new supermarket chain. According to court papers released in July that detailed the closing of 31 A&P

locations in Westchester, Put-nam and Rockland counties, Key Food Co-Operative has placed a sole bid on this location, at 341-385 Halstead Ave, for an undis-closed amount of money.

“Our goal is to work with [Key Foods] in a way that’s ap-propriate and nice for the neigh-borhood,” Biddle said. “They’ll be improvements to the store and much better operation than the A&P ever did and we’re encour-aged by that.”

Though the deadline runs un-til Oct. 15 of when the court will finalize the buyout of the loca-tions, Biddle said, in the mean-time, three more supermarket chains have expressed interest in the Harrison A&P location. However, he declined to release their names, as he said the pro-ceedings have a competitive na-ture to them, since companies attempt to buy up these old loca-tions before the deadline.

The A&P had about nine years left on its lease with the shopping center with an option to renew, according to Aries.

“It’s a great location for a successful supermarket, and we think [that] is the best use for that space,” Aries said.

Biddle echoed this sentiment and felt a successful anchor would make its neighboring ten-ants better in the process, some-thing the A&P was failing to do in recent years.

“[We’re looking for a] better anchor supermarket to feed off

sHOppINg continued on page 8

School district’s state test scores jumpBy JOHN BRANDI

Staff Writer

As statewide standardized testing remains marred in con-troversy, results have shown that a percentage of students in the Harrison Central School District have made progress in a year’s time and results have ticked up in both English and mathematics.

Though fewer kids tested

this year, as 19 percent of the student body in grades three through eight opted out of the state tests in Harrison, the re-sults remained strong, accord-ing to data released by New York State’s Education Depart-ment. A range between 1,121 and 1,302 students were still tested on their skills in math-ematics and English Language Arts, ELA, respectively.

Students scoring in the top

three and four percentile in ELA testing have gone up five and three percentage points, respec-tively, from 2014 to 2015. Over that same timespan, math scores also jumped, and the students scoring in the high percentiles increased three and 11 percent-age points, the latter marking the biggest jump in the results.

Harrison Superintendent of Schools Louis Wool questioned the validity of the results and

felt that they weren’t good indi-cators of students’ progress.

“[They are] limited in value in determining whether or not students are making appropriate academic progress,” Wool told the Review.

Furthermore, the superinten-dent said it’s unclear if those opting out in Harrison on exam day affected test scores.

scORes continued on page 7

A New Rochelle receiver leaps to make a catch against Eastchester at July’s Champions Camp. Sports Editor Mike Smith breaks down the upcoming football season for some of Westchester’s top programs in the Review’s Back-to-School preview. For more, see page 23. Photo/Mike Smith

Up for grabs

2 • THe HARRIsON RevIew • August 21, 2015

August 21, 2015 • THe HARRIsON RevIew • 3

Back-to-school supply costs continue to riseBy JOHN BRANDI

Staff Writer

School supply lists have con-tinued to grow for cash-strapped parents across Westchester Coun-ty, but a few organizations are trying to provide relief to help ease that burden and give kids the tools to succeed in school.

rison’s Louis M. Klein Middle School, which describes what a child entering kindergarten through grade 12 needs, feature 10 items or more, with the quan-tity of some items requested sev-eral times over.

For example, a child enter-ing third grade will need eight broad-tip markers, two spiral notebooks and 12 No. 2 pencils.

According to the Hunting-ton Bank Backpack Index, an analysis for exploring the costs related to school supplies, there has been a jump in price in each respective grade level for ba-sic supplies since 2007. This year alone, parents can expect to spend an average increase of 1, 2.5 and 9 percent for kids in elementary, middle and high school, respectively.

“With the ongoing slow growth in wages, it is difficult for many families to meet the rising costs of sending children to school,” George Mokrzan, director of economics for Hun-tington Bank, said in a released statement. “For a family of five living at the poverty level guide-

line of $28,410, the cost of send-ing three children to school would consume as much as 10 percent of their income.”

Moreover, according to the U.S. Department of Education, one in every five school-age child was living below the fed-eral poverty line in 2013, total-ing 10.9 million children.

In an effort to help low-in-come families combat the grow-ing costs of school supplies, Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino, a Republican, launched Operation Backpack in 2012. The county began team-ing up with The Sharing Shelf of Family Services, a Port Ches-ter nonprofit, and other similar agencies and businesses to col-lect and distribute school sup-plies for children in need.

“It’s wonderful to see the community step forward to make such a positive difference in the lives of local children,” said Deborah Blatt, coordinator of The Sharing Shelf.

Meanwhile, Hazel Alexander-Campbell, a Tuckahoe resident, is working to provide backpacks and other school supplies to lower-income children living in the Tuckahoe Housing Author-

ity, THA, on Union Avenue, totaling around 67 children, up from 61 just two years ago. The demand for school supplies is still high, but luckily, Alexander-Campbell said, the donor list has grown and remains strong. Some 30 donors on her list in-clude elected officials from Tuckahoe and neighboring East-chester, businesses in the area, emergency, first-responder or-ganizations and even people whom Alexander-Campbell has met from as far away as Engle-wood, N.J.

“The feedback from the com-munity at large has been posi-tive so far, and there’s been such a big response from everyone who has donated and continues to donate,” Alexander-Campbell said.

Though she’s received near-ly 100 backpacks, she said her committee, The Children Work-ing for All Children, has col-lected other school supplies as well. The committee was started by her church, Shiloh Baptist in Tuckahoe, in 2008, but fizzled out when her pastor left the state. She reignited the effort in 2011 as the committee’s new presi-dent, and set her sights on initia-

tives that would assist children. For the past three years, she has been pushing to provide kids in the THA with the opportunity to have the same experiences as their higher-income peers.

“There’s an importance in children having supplies which make them have a better educa-tion,” Alexander-Campbell said. “[I want] for the children in my area to be just as successful, so they can go to school feeling positive.”

Jeanne Canon, a teacher in the Eastchester School District, said there’s a school budget in place for supplies, but oftentimes the parents will provide any ad-ditional item needs. She said, however, teachers are supple-menting school supplies in the interim to a certain degree.

“What am I going to do? Wait six months to buy markers?” Canon said.

Pastor Ramaul Morgan, from West Harrison’s Memorial Com-munity Church and organizer of an annual backpack giveaway which serves 150 local children, could not be reached for com-ment, as of press time.

cONTAcT: [email protected] few countywide organizations are coming together to ease the cost burden of school supplies for parents with school-age children.

As summer comes to a close, parents with school-age chil-dren now have to shift their fo-cus to the ever-increasing cost of school supplies. Item needs, usu-ally in the form of a list provided by the child’s school, detail what should be bought for the school year ahead. The 2015-2016 digi-tal school item lists from Har-


What’s going on...Harrison library events 16 by mail. Ten winners and three alternates will

be selected to participate. Choice of month will be on a first come, first served basis. February and March are not available.

For more details, visit harrisonpl.org and click on the “Events and Programs/Juried Art Program” tab or contact Dan Briem at [email protected] or 835-0324 or Connie Perrotta at [email protected] or 315-1922.

English conversation group Non-native English speakers can practice their

English and make new friends in an informal, vol-unteer-led setting and learn about the Harrison li-brary, too. No registration necessary. Group meets Mondays from 11 a.m. to noon at Uncle Henry’s Bar and Grill, 309 Halstead Ave.

Wiggle and GiggleThis event, with Dawny Dew, includes songs,

puppets, music and laughs for ages 6 months to 5 years. Sponsored by the Friends of the Harrison Public Library. The event includes two 30-min-ute sessions and meets Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Harrison Jewish Community Center, 130 Union Ave.

Laptime for BabiesThis event includes songs and fingerplays with

Miss Claudia. This program is specifically designed for non-walkers. Caregiver participation is required. Meets Wednesdays at 11 a.m. for 20 minutes at the Harrison Senior Center, 216 Halstead Ave.

Movers and ShakersThis event includes songs, rhymes, fingerplays,

dancing and fun. For ages 1 to 3. Meets Wednes-days at 10 a.m. for 30 minutes at the Harrison Se-nior Center, 216 Halstead Ave.

West Harrison library events

Hours starting Monday, Aug. 3: Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Tuesdays, Thurs-days and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; closed on Sundays.

Story TimeGreat stories, music and fun for ages 1 to 5. No

registration necessary, bring your friends. Mon-days at 10:30 a.m. for 30 minutes.

Open Play TimeCome into the library and meet other parents,

grandparents, caregivers and children. Open for children ages 1 to 5. Make new friends, play, read and have fun with some special toys. Meets Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

Crochet and knitting classWant to learn how to knit or crochet a simple

scarf? Join the class. Come anytime between 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays. Bring hooks, needles and yarn or practice with materials provid-ed. Walk-ins are welcome. No registration needed. Call 948-2092 for more information.

Mahjong classLearn mahjong every Wednesday afternoon

from 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Classes for beginners and people who need to refresh their skills. For more information, visit the library or call 948-2092.

Mother Goose TimeSongs, dancing and fun for the little ones ages

3 and under. Meets Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.

White Plains Performing Arts Center

at the SPCA of Westchester, 590 North State Road, Briarcliff Manor. Call 941-2896, Ext. 10 to sched-ule a required appointment.

Cats and ferrets must be in carriers and dogs must be on a leash. Aggressive dogs must be muz-zled. No examinations will be given and all pets must be supervised by an adult.

Under New York State law, dogs and cats must receive their first rabies vaccine no later than four months after birth. A second rabies shot must be given within one year of the first vaccine, with additional booster shots given every one or three years after that, depending on the vaccine used. Owners who fail to get their pets vaccinated and keep the vaccinations up-to-date may be fined up to $2,000.

Rabies is a fatal disease that is spread through the bite or saliva of infected animals. Those ani-mals most commonly infected are raccoons, skunks, bats and foxes. However, domestic ani-mals such as cats and dogs are also at risk because they can easily contract rabies from wild or stray animals.

A pet that is up-to-date with its rabies vacci-nations would only need to get a booster dose of vaccine within five days of the pet’s exposure to a known or suspect rabid animal. Animals not up-to-date with rabies vaccinations would need to be quarantined or potentially euthanized following contact with a rabid or suspect rabid animal.

Neuberger Museum of Art

The Harrison Public Library will be closed for renovations and is scheduled to reopen on Satur-day, Sept. 12, 2015. Visit harrisonpl.org for up-dates and more information.

Art Exhibition Artists who are interested in exhibiting at the

Harrison Public Library for approximately one month during 2016 are invited to submit samples of their artwork for review by a juried art commit-tee sponsored by the Harrison Council for the Arts.

The samples and related items may be submit-ted in person at the library on Friday, Oct. 2 after 9:30 a.m. and must be picked up the next day, Sat-urday, Oct. 3 after 12 p.m. No registration or ap-pointment is required.

Art eligible for exhibition must be two-dimen-sional. Samples must include two different pieces of the actual art, preferably framed, the artist’s resume and 12 copies, all different, of the artist’s work in the form of 35 mm slides, photos or prints.

All entrants will be notified by Monday, Nov.

The White Plains Performing Arts Center will be putting on a production of “Bye Bye Birdie” on Friday, Aug. 21 at 7 p.m. at the White Plains Performing Arts Center at 11 City Place. “Bye Bye Birdie” is a musical that tells the story of a heart-throb rock and roll singer, Conrad Birdie, who plans to publicly kiss a young girl onstage before joining the military. Tickets for the performance cost $15 for adults and $10 for students in high school or younger. For more information, visit hwppac.com/shows/bye-bye-birdie-young-per-formers-edition/.

Free Rabies Vaccination Clinic

Westchester County residents can bring their dogs, cats and ferrets in for free rabies vaccina-tions on Saturday, Aug. 22 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

How artists respond to trauma and urban violence

Join the conversation about how creative ex-pression can communicate ideas, forge connec-tions and send powerful messages about violence and injustice. Panelists include Michelle Bishop of Harlem Needle Arts, Nathan Connolly, assistant professor of history at John’s Hopkins, Warren Lehrer, professor at Purchase College and artist Lachell Workman. The exhibition and conversa-tion will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 2 from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. For more information or to register, call 251-6110 or email [email protected].

Financial literacy workshopLed by a financial expert Robert S. Salomon

Jr., this three-part workshop addresses the basics of personal finance and money management in an easy to understand way. Salomon was Director of Stock Research and U.S. Equity Strategist at Salo-mon Brothers, Inc. This event is co-sponsored by the Economics department at Purchase College. Each part of this three-part workshop will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 9, Wednesday, Oct. 7 and Wednesday, Nov. 4 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. For more information or to register, call 251-6110 or email [email protected].

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 [email protected].


In conjunction with the cur-rent exhibition, “Teresa Mar-golles: We Have a Common Thread,” on view at the Neuber-ger Museum of Art through Oct. 11, the museum has organized a special panel discussion, tour and opening reception with the artist on Wednesday, Sept. 2.

The subject of the panel dis-cussion to be held at 12:30 p.m., “How Artists Respond to Trauma and Urban Violence,” reflects concerns about the socio-political issues related to violent death that Margolles raises in the exhibition.

The panel discussion will fo-cus on how creative expression can provide an outlet to com-municate ideas, make observa-tions, forge connections and send powerful messages about violence and injustice.

Panelists include: Michelle Bishop, founder and executive director of Harlem Needle Arts, which preserves an promotes fi-ber and needle arts in the Afri-can Diaspora; Nathan Connolly, assistant professor of history at John’s Hopkins University,

whose scholarship focuses on the politics of race, capital, and prop-erty; Warren Lehrer, Purchase College art and design professor and co-founder of the nonprofit community organization EarSay, Inc.; and Lachell Workman, an artist whose work investigates race, identity, society, memory and trauma.

The curator’s talk will begin at 5 p.m., led by Patrice Giasson, curator of the Margolles show. Giasson will explore the ways in which Margolles’ work transmits the personal experiences of com-munities plagued by violence and social inequities.

Bishop said, “Yes, this is a presentation on art responding to trauma and violence, but it’s also a wakeup call for a generation of people who’ve been disconnect-ed from the history of this coun-try and desensitized to the real-ity here in America.” She added, “One of the areas that I wish to discuss is how fiber, textile and needle arts tell a story, and it’s not just about hanging art on the wall and giving it a title, it’s about addressing issues, bridging

gaps, creating balance, and hon-oring traditions, ritual, and fam-ily through cultural art forms.”

The Neuberger Museum of Art, Purchase College, State University of New York is the premier museum of modern, Af-rican and contemporary art in the Westchester/Fairfield Coun-ty area. An outstanding arts and education institution, the mu-seum was conceived with the dual purpose of serving both as an important cultural resource to its regional, national, and in-ternational audiences, and as an integral part of Purchase Col-lege. Support for the museum’s collection, exhibitions, publica-tions and education programs is provided by grants from public and private agencies, individual contributions, the Friends of the Neuberger Museum of Art and its Board of Directors, the Purchase College Foundation and the State University of New York.

The museum is located at 735 Anderson Hill Road in Purchase. Call 251-6100 or visit neuberger.org for more information. (Submitted)

“Boee Chocami/Black Path,” 2014. Embroidery on fabric previously imbued with blood from the body of a woman assassinated in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. Photo courtesy Jim Frank

Panel to discuss art sending messages


By JOHN BRANDIStaff Writer

Two masked crusaders have come to Harrison to try and change its streetscape for the better. Along with their personalized mascots, Action Cat and Ad-venture Bug, Aw Yeah Comics has sprung up in a business dis-trict that has struggled in recent years.

And the comic book shop just may be what Harrison needs to reverse this trend.

The comic shop opened earlier this month and is carving a niche for itself in both the adult and teen demographic for those craving some action and adventure.

Co-owner Marc Hammond—one of three owners—said that Aw Yeah’s two other locations, one in Skokie, Ill., and the other in Muncie, Ind., have managed to spruce up and bring business back from the edge, much like a modern-day superhero.

“In Skokie, the street was half dead and now two-thirds of the shops are filled,” Ham-mond said. “Aw Yeah Games [a branch of Aw Yeah Comics] has increased the sales of the record store right next door.”

That’s the mission.

comic shop claws its way downtown

Hammond wants Aw Yeah to hitch its wagon to the recent re-vitalization efforts of Halstead Avenue in downtown Harrison and become a part of the “com-munity’s ID.”

In April, the Harrison Cham-ber of Commerce was rebooted by Holly Sharpe, its president, who has already visited the com-ic shop and has given the owners her well wishes. Sharpe is cur-rently involved in some business initiatives to make Harrison a destination shopping experience.

Hammond said certain in-store events—including car-toon classes, gaming card tour-naments and monthly comic book discussion groups—are designed to bring people from Harrison and beyond to their store. Once traffic has picked up, Hammond said, it will spill over to other shops like neighboring Pizza 2000.

“Being a part of the commu-nity is good business and good citizenship,” Hammond said. “At the end of the day, comic

book stores are the bandstand of Main Street, U.S.A. where people can escape for a bit and congregate.”

Hammond said he sees his role like that of a local bartend-er: to listen to and connect with the community at large. Apart from that, the co-owner said connecting with other business-es is just fun. The anticipated grand opening on Saturday, Oct. 3 will see the comic store collaborate with other local businesses, based on Halstead Avenue, to cater the event. From Pizza 2000 to the Butler Brothers deli, the food will be sourced locally. The real sweet treat will be a cake in the shape of Action Cat, from Harrison Bake Shop, just up the road.

Meanwhile, the shop’s own-ers have displayed some of the heroic qualities that characters in the graphic novels and com-ics they sell possess. Aw Yeah has taken part in different char-ity events including a project called the Hero Initiative—a fundraising drive which assists comic creators in need—Toys for Tots and donations to local

food pantries. Hammond said that the shop would like to con-tinue contributing to these ef-forts in Harrison once their feet are planted.

Still, the shop seems to be in good hands with the other two award-winning, co-owners Art Baltazar and Franco Aure-liani. Both are responsible for the out-of-state locations and bringing the shop to Harrison, its first New York destination. Baltazar and Aureliani have been comic-creating partners for nearly 20 years. Hammond said that there are very few people who own comic book stores, who are also creators.

The store soon hopes to ex-pand its merchandise to include T-shirts, gaming cards and more graphic novels and comic books. The plan to incorporate the Harri-son landscape into its own brand of comics, featuring Action Cat, is also in the works, and per-haps the superhero feline, much like the comic shop, will also be fixing Harrison one block at a time.

cONTAcT: [email protected]

Another character from the series is Adventure Bug who is featured inside the shop, painted on the back wall.

Aw Yeah Comics, at 313 Halstead Ave., will have its grand opening in downtown Harrison on Saturday, Oct. 3.

Marc Hammond, co-owner of Aw Yeah Comics, which has recently opened up shop in Harrison.

Action Cat, a superhero feline created by co-owners Art Baltazar and Franco Aureliani, is Aw Yeah Comics’ mascot and part of a fictional series that will feature Harrison in upcoming issues. Photos/John Brandi

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Executive Vice President | Ira Ellenthalext. 28, [email protected]

Editor-in-Chief | Christian Falconeext. 19, [email protected]

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Reporter | John Brandiext. 18, [email protected]

Graphic Designer | Arthur Gedin

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Advertising | Lindsay Sturmanext. 14, [email protected]

Advertising Coordinator | Marcia Schultzext. 27, [email protected]

Staff WritersChris Eberhart, Jackson Chen,

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Staff PhotographerBobby Begun

ColumnistsRon Belmont, Tonia Tagliaferro,

Lenore Skenazy

HarrisonTHE

REVIEW


SUNY Purchase adds new tattoo coursePurchase College kicks off

its first ever tattoo illustration course this fall semester. Open to the public, students will learn illustration concepts and tech-niques that are integral to the art of tattooing on skin. This noncredit course will be held on Saturdays from Sept. 19 through Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Offered through the School of Liberal Studies & Continuing Education, this course has been tailored for anyone interested in pursuing a tattoo apprenticeship or hand illustration work.

“We are pleased to offer this unique course that furthers the skills of those who aspire to heighten the artistic nature of their tattoo art or hand illustra-tions,” said Kelly Jackson, direc-tor of Continuing Education.

The intensive 10-week, 10-session course is led by prac-ticing tattoo artist Miguel Torres.

“Tattooing is now a part of mainstream culture, provid-ing a real option for those who would like to pursue it as a ca-reer,” Torres said. “What artists can achieve on skin these days is limitless and students should be prepared to fulfill this demand. I believe that it is critical to offer this kind of arts course in 2015.”

Pansy is an adorable one-and-a-half-year-old female tuxedo kitty with a lively impish personality. A real little mischief maker, she will add joy to your household. Pansy is spayed, in excellent health and up to date with all vaccinations. The adoption donation for Pansy is $80. To meet this charming kitty, please contact Larchmont Pet Rescue at 740-4072 or visit NY-PetRescue.org.(Submitted)

Torres holds a BFA in visu-al arts with a concentration in graphic design from Purchase College. An artist with experi-ence in various mediums and disciplines, he has worked at Marc Ecko Enterprises as a pro-duction artist, designer and illus-trator. Projects include Ecko Un-ltd, Avirex, and Zoo York.

Torres created the cover for the Wu-Tang Clan’s “The Swarm Part III” album. He tattoos under the name MIGZ TATZ and his work is published in tattoo art books “Excavate: Unearthing Artistic Skeletal Remains” and “Black & White Vol. 1.”

Throughout the year, the School of Liberal Studies & Continuing Education offers

professional certificate programs ideal for busy adults who are seeking a career change, honing career skills, or pursuing a pas-sion and want a focused course of study that can be completed within a short timeframe. The school offers both noncredit and credit professional certificate programs as well as personal en-richment classes, youth and pre-college programs, undergradu-ate credit courses, and a degree completion program. Learn more at purchase.edu/ce.

Purchase College, part of the State University of New York, SUNY, network of 64 universi-ties and colleges, was founded in 1967 by Gov. Nelson Rock-efeller. His aspiration for Pur-chase was to create a dynamic campus that combined conser-vatory training in the visual and performing arts with programs in the liberal arts and sciences, in order to inspire an apprecia-tion for both intellectual and ar-tistic talents in all students. To-day, the college is a community of students, faculty and friends where open-minded engage-ment with the creative process leads to a lifetime of intellectual growth and professional oppor-tunity. (Submitted)

Either way, the overall mes-sage of that resistance is clear.

“We would hope that the state would take note that the opt out movement is a vote of no-confi-dence in its approach to assess-ing student growth,” Wool said.

Opting out of test-taking is still a fairly new phenomenon, with some parents pulling their kids from the classroom on test day in response to over testing and burn out. Statewide numbers of those students, in grades three through eight, who’ve opted out hovers at 20 percent, according to the same Education Depart-ment data.

Opting out is used as a civil disobedience tool to protest teacher evaluation models and Common Core curriculum stan-dards. The Common Core State

Standards Initiative is a national, educational initiative that details what students in kindergarten through grade 12 should know in English and mathematics at the end of each grade. New York, along with 43 other states, agreed to adopt Common Core in 2010 to be eligible for grant money under President Barack Obama’s Race to the Top program.

Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia speculated on what effect opting out could have on how teachers are evaluated moving forward.

“This assessment is part of a bigger plan to let us know how we’re doing and where we’re go-ing, and without that data we’re certainly at a disadvantage in knowing how those schools and those districts performed,” she

said. Under the current teacher

evaluation system, students’ state scores make up 20 percent of the evaluation for a teacher; another 20 percent is based on local tests, while the bulk—60 percent—is based on observa-tions. Teachers are then scored on a scale of “ineffective,” “de-veloping,” “effective” and “high-ly effective,” and teachers who score “ineffective” twice in a row could be fired under state law.

That evaluation system is set to change however, due to edu-cation initiatives introduced by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a Demo-crat, through the 2015-2016 Executive Budget, which was passed in March.


scORes from page 1

Harrison Central School District has seen an increase of those scoring in the highest percentiles on statewide, standardized testing, according to state data released this month. File photo

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one other and the problem with A&P was that it was not main-tained,” Biddle said. “They’ve had financial troubles and trouble maintaining staff and its stores.”

The financial stress of the A&P didn’t deter Urstadt Biddle with the all-cash purchase, as Biddle called the transition from supermarket chains “a plus.”

Meanwhile, Biddle and Aries both see big plans for the com-plex beyond the A&P vacancy. The attention, once a food-item store is secured, is going to turn to filling the two vacancies in the plaza—out of 11 store-

fronts—that will complement its anchor’s appeal. There’s al-ready a plan to work with the existing tenants on drafting new leases and talks are taking place to bring a new client in soon to fill one of the vacancies, though Biddle declined to name the possible tenant as the negotia-tions are ongoing.

Other plans include cosmetic work to the property’s façade and changes in the parking model.

The property had been through undisturbed ownership for 58 years, and has seen two owners now, as it was built in

1957 and has been a “mainstay in downtown Harrison for gen-erations,” according to Urstadt Biddle. Other tenants in the complex include a bakery, hair salon, a florist, restaurants and an AT&T satellite store.

Urstadt Biddle operates 74 locations throughout Westches-ter and Putnam counties and some locations in New Jersey in some capacity with the general atmosphere being “dominant, grocery-anchored centers in wealthy neighborhoods.”


The Harrison Shopping Center on the corner of Halstead and Oakland avenues has officially come under new management, as Urstadt Biddle Properties, Inc. recently acquired the property which had been under continuous ownership for nearly 60 years. Photo courtesy Urstadt Biddle

sHOppINg from page 1 Harrison mainstays and tips on staying cool

Some of our local merchants have had a long and distin-guished presence in our commu-nity. Several Harrison businesses date back more than 75 years and I would like to feature our oldest retail establishments in this column. I’m taking this op-portunity to ask readers to email me or call my office to suggest retailers that could be showcased for their longevity. I’m sure many of our residents would like to know more about these won-derful Harrison mainstays.

Please take note of the fol-lowing announcement from the Harrison Public Library: The library will welcome the com-munity to the brand new Richard E. Halperin Memorial Building at 2 Bruce Ave. on Saturday, Sept. 12, with a grand opening weekend celebration. The latest information technology and de-vices will be officially opened to the public following a year-long construction project. With en-hanced exhibition and program-ming space, updated infrastruc-ture and improved technology, the library is better equipped to provide services and encourage the exchange of ideas.

The celebration will include

an art show, Japanese dancers, llamas, storytelling, a children’s maze, balloon animals, calligra-phy demonstrations, a local au-thor’s reception and book sign-ing, a family scavenger hunt, puppet show, craft exhibits and performances by local bands.

The library’s $3.6 million renovation was made possible through a public-private partner-ship between the Town of Har-rison, the Harrison Public Li-brary and HPL Foundation and the Richard E. Halperin Memo-rial Fund, which contributed $1.3 million. Other major contributors included the Javitch Foundation honoring late Harrison resident Lee Javitch, the Jarden Corpora-tion and Morgan Stanley. More than 500 private donors also con-tributed to the project. While the Harrison Public Library remains closed, Harrison residents are encouraged to utilize library ser-vices at both the West Harrison branch and the Purchase Free Library.

I would like to take this time to recognize the West Harrison Junior Firefighters. Fourteen Ju-niors trained and competed on Saturday, Aug. 1 and Sunday, Aug. 2 at the 14th annual Put-nam County Fire Explorer Week-end Competition and won Best Overall for the second year in a row. Approximately eight teams,

ranging from Suffolk County to Albany County, competed in this year’s competition. The Harri-son Juniors won a total of four firematic events, placing first in EMS, first in Bucket Brigade, third in Hose Hockey and third in Search and Rescue. Congratu-lations to all the West Harrison competitors and their mentors, Assistant Chief Mike Pellegrino and First Lt. and advisor Rocco Umbro for a job well done.

Con Ed’s Government Rela-tions Office recently contacted Harrison Town Hall and offered the following tips to residents on how to stay cool: to reduce heat and moisture in your home, run appliances such as ovens, wash-ing machines, dryers and dish-washers in the early morning or late at night when it’s cooler outside, when the AC is run-ning, close doors to keep cool air in and hot air out, keep shades, blinds and curtains closed even when using AC, use ceiling and other fans to provide additional cooling and better circulation and keep AC filters clean.

The next “Lunch with the Mayor” is on Friday, Aug. 21 and I will be at Silver Lake Piz-za, located at 79 Lake St. in West Harrison from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. I look forward to meeting with residents and talking about issues facing our community.

In the Aug. 7 article, “Field grows in justice primary,” it stated that Town Justice Marc Lust, a reg-istered Democrat will appear on the Independence, Democratic and Conservative lines in the general election. Lust will not appear on the Conservative line.

In the same article, it stated that if Town Justice Nelson Canter were to lose the Republican primary he would still appear on the general election ballot. Canter would have to win the Conservative Party primary on Sept. 10 in order to still appear on the general election ballot.

Correcting the record


When Texas came to New York

Hello, sucker!That’s not an insult to you,

dear reader. That’s how Texas Guinan, New York’s “Queen of the Nightclubs,” used to greet her patrons, friends and pro-tégés—including Mae West, Barbara Stanwyck, Legs Dia-mond, Lucky Lindbergh and Rudolph Valentino, the cream of the Jazz Age crop.

And I don’t know about you, but I’ve never heard of her.

I happened to read about a talk coming up at the Jefferson Market Library in Greenwich Village by Linda Ann Los-chiavo, a historian, journal-ist and playwright. The blurb said Loschiavo usually gives an annual presentation on Mae West, but this year, she’s reach-ing a little further back in his-tory to the woman who makes Lady Gaga look like Laura In-galls Wilder. The woman who made a salary second only to William Randolph Hearst in the 1920s. The woman who went to jail dripping in dia-monds and slyly thanked the police for giving her one night when she didn’t have to worry about them being stolen. The woman who actually invented the word “nightclub.” I learned all that and more when I called Loschiavo up for a preview.

“She didn’t break the mold, she created it,” Loschiavo whooped the minute I men-tioned Texas, which, as you might guess, was not Texas’ real name. Born Mary Lou-ise Cecilia in 1884 in Waco, Texas, she moved to New York in 1907 to Washington Square

South and paid $2 a week for room and breakfast. Her other meals? “Milk and rye bread,” Loschiavo said.

That humble diet didn’t last long.

Very soon, Loschiavo said, Texas was telling rapt reporters tales of her life back home on a ranch where she’d starred in Wild West shows and attended an elite boarding school.

All lies. All believed.The press loved her brass,

Broadway producers loved her sass. “And she was a very at-tractive woman,” Loschiavo said, “so she picked up all these older men who brought her things.”

Not before long, Texas was living in an antiques-filled du-plex at 17 W. 8th St. She was even making enough to move her family up from Waco, where, for the record, her dad had been a grocer.

By 1917, Texas was out in Hollywood starring in silent movie Westerns and getting rich. By 1922, she moved back to the city she loved and finally found her calling: Queen.

New York was roaring, and liquor was pouring—illegally, in speakeasies, thanks to pro-hibition. Rip-roaring Texas was hired to keep the crowds singing, dancing and over-spending at ever-swanky clubs, and eventually she opened her own. She even coined the term “whoopee.” With a string of scantily-clad chorus girls to liven things up, she made sure everyone was happy—politi-cians, musicians, gangsters (they were key), college boys, bankers, gossip columnists (also key) and police on the take.

Nonetheless, her clubs

would get raided periodically. And just as periodically, she would get off. Each raid only added to her fame.

At least some of Texas’ tri-als were held in the Greenwich Village building that was a courthouse then, and is the Jef-ferson Market Library today—and Loschiavo’s inspiration. “I live down the block from the library and there’s tons of women’s history there,” she said. “But every time you walk by the building you see a lit-tle plaque with men’s names. This used to boil my blood. So many important things hap-pened in this building!”

She started writing about those things, including the obscenity trial that made Mae West famous. And guess who covered that trial for the Jour-nal American? Mae’s friend, mentor and role model, Texas Guinan.

Like so many high roll-ers, Texas did not weather the stock market crash particularly well, and had to take her act on the road. She was in Vancou-ver when she died at 49 of ul-cerated colitis—but not before declaring, “I would rather have a square inch of New York than the rest of the world.”

Twelve thousand New York-ers turned out to pay their re-spects right back and in a way, we still do. To this day, what we think of as that innate New York brash is really a bit of Texas.

“Onstage Outlaws: Mae West and Texas Guinan during the Lawless Prohibition Era” will be screened on Monday, Aug, 17 at 6:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Market Library, 425 Sixth Ave. in Manhattan. Free. For more information, call (212) 243-4334.

Holy days, first dates and bad associations

TONIA SAYSTonia Tagliaferro

Dear Tonia:With the Jewish holidays

coming up, I wondered about your thoughts on wearing pants to temple or on the High Holy Days. I often see women wear-ing pants but it’s usually the younger generation.

L.S., Rye

Dear L.S.:Very frequently, we find adult

leaders and youth in disagree-ment about the appropriateness and acceptability of dress. It is easy to forget that what is ac-ceptable for one may not be for another. It depends on what kind of synagogue you are go-ing to: Orthodox, Conservative or Reform.

Smart, simple, conservative clothing is the key, regardless if it’s a pant, skirt or dress, but never jeans, which is disrespect-ful. Prayer is considered more important than dress, and while pants are not the most appro-priate choice at all times, it is not seen as a problem the way shorts, a miniskirt or a tank top would be. One should dress with reverence for the service, and that includes not showing too much skin.

Dear Tonia:I am going on a first date with

a guy I really like, and want to “wow” him. He’s taking me to

a casual place for dinner. What should I wear?

B.D., Ardsley

Dear B.D.:First, decide what you are

looking for in a relationship. If it’s for the long haul, wear a simple feminine dress that doesn’t reveal too much skin, es-pecially on a first date. You don’t want to send the message that you are “easy.” Men like the hunt and are always up for the chal-lenge. After a few dates you can dress sexier for a formal dinner or for dancing the night away.

Let him get to know who you are before distracting him with cleavage or a miniskirt. Too much too soon will make him lose interest in getting to know you. He will be more focused on getting your clothes off than getting to know you. “Wow” him with your charm, intellect, personality and sense of humor. Guys who generally like “easy” women don’t typically marry them. Let him work for your affection and show him you’re worth waiting for, unless of course, you had something else in mind.

Dear Tonia:My girlfriends look slutty

when we go out. They wear very tight short skirts or dresses, six-inch heels and have their boobs hanging out. I want to fit in but I am not comfortable dressing like that. How do I fit in without looking frumpy or like a slut?

S.J., Mamaroneck

Dear S.J.:Your friends are emulating

what they see celebrities wear-ing or what they see in fash-ion magazines that promote scantily-clad women to attract the consumer. They are selling a feeling or image they falsely attach to owning their product. Unfortunately, sexy/slutty looks are the rage, compared to old-world Hollywood glam. Back in those days, a woman could ex-ude sensuality without revealing any skin. What made her look sexy was fitted clothing coupled with “attitude,” as she swayed her hips and wore her “Colgate” smile. Men, with their imagina-tions running wild, chased them continuously.

Usually women who dress provocatively are screaming for attention because they are insecure and are seeking the love and approval that they didn’t get from their parents, particularly their father. I un-derstand that you want to fit in, but usually people judge you by who you are hanging out with. Either choose to look classy rather than trashy with just a hint of reveal or find new friends that better represent you. Always stay true to yourself.

RHYMES WITH CRAZY

Lenore Skenazy

Tonia Tagliaferro is a fashion stylist. For questions and

advice, you can contact her at [email protected]. And for more information,

visit artofdressing.net.


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lEgAl NOTICENotice is given hereby pursuant to the New York State Alcoholic Beverage Control Law, that PJS Hospitality, LLC, Serial Number 1286503, has applied for a license to sell wine, beer and alcohol for on-premises consumption doing business as Carlo’s Restaurant, located at 179 Main Street, New Rochelle, New York 10801.

By pAUL BOOKBINDeRContributor

Frequently, readers call or email, and ask me if they can ask a stupid question. As I used to tell my students, when you’re learning about something new, there are no stupid questions, (other than asking if you can ask a stupid question). This espe-cially holds true when it comes to remodeling. However, many a question can be answered by us-ing “common sense,” and if you just think about it for a minute, sometimes the answer just pops into your head.

In the dictionary, common sense is defined as sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situa-tion or facts. For example, you are about to cross the street and an 18-wheeler is barreling down the street toward the intersection. Should you cross or wait for the truck to pass by? If you chose to cross the street, you’re probably reading this column in your hos-pital bed, after being crushed by the truck, because you didn’t use your common sense.

Unfortunately, you can’t go to a convenience store to buy common sense. You get your allotment when you’re born and that’s it, but, most people have at least a modicum of this priceless attribute. The real trick is to use every bit of it that you were born with, and never ignore it just to save a buck or take the easy way out. You should know better.

So, you’re getting estimates for new semi-custom kitchen cabinets. Diligently, you get

Common sense doesn’t cost a centthree estimates and two are about the same at $10,000 and one comes in at $5,000. What does your common sense tell you? There has to be a reason one estimate is considerably cheaper than the other two. Common sense dictates that you must evaluate what the cabinets are made of, where they are be-ing manufactured, and most importantly, who you are buy-ing them from. Most likely they are made from sub-standard materials, from a country that doesn’t pay its workers a living wage and the dealer has a less than stellar reputation and will probably be long gone before cabinets are delivered or your warranty expires.

Comparing appliance prices is not as complicated as the cost of cabinets, but even the appliance companies are mak-ing it more difficult to make “apple to apple” comparisons. If you choose a certain brand of dishwasher from a box store (big home center that’s shaped like a box), often it is not the same model as one you find at your local appliance dealer. The model number may be KCMA1223QV34-W1543 for one and KCMA1223OV34-W1543 for the other. Decep-tive, isn’t it? (Why can’t the appliance companies call it a model “5” instead of a hun-dred numbers and letters? But that’s another topic.) Check the model numbers carefully if you want an accurate comparison.

Common sense is not lim-ited only to pricing; it has to be used when dealing with every aspect of a remodeling project.

An equally exciting example is the location of a wine rack in the design of your new kitchen. I’ve had clients insist that it be positioned over the refrigerator (model #X123ABF25Q15a-2b) or next to the dishwasher. Al-though I’m not a wine connois-seur, my common sense tells me it gets hot over the fridge and next to the dishwasher. Find an-other place, so your wine won’t turn to vinegar.

One last example before I let you go. When you empty your dishwasher, you can stack sever-al plates on the counter and then bring them all to the cupboard where they are stored. But, you can only carry two glasses at a time, unless you want to risk breaking them. So, which cabi-net should the glasses be stored in and which should be used for dishes? Think real hard and let your common sense answer this question for you.

Most of the remodeling ba-sics will be taken care of by your kitchen designer, because with training, experience, and common sense they will know what to do. It’s your job to use your common sense when pick-ing the right kitchen designer and contractor. If you choose strictly by price, you usually get what you pay for, and you may end up drinking vinegar.

Paul Bookbinder is president of DreamWork Kitchens, Inc. located in Mamaroneck. He can be

reached for questions at 777-0437 or

dreamworkkitchens.com.

NOTICE OF SALESTATE OF NEW YORK EXECuTIVE DEPARTMENT OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES

SALE OF REAL PROPERTYPursuant to Section 33 of the Public Lands Law and Findings of the Commissioner of General Services in the Executive Department of the State of New York dated, July 13, 2015, I shall offer for sale at public auction all the right, title and interest of the People of the State of New York in and to the following improved parcels, at the place and time indi-

cated or at such other place and time to which the sale may be adjourned:

All that certain piece or parcel of land known as 3031 Purchase Street, located in the Town of Harrison, County of Westchester. The property consists of an improved 9,300 square foot single-family residence on a 3.51± acre lot.

The property is identified on the Town of Harrison Tax Map as Parcel ID 0672.-2.

Place of Auction: Purchase College, State university of New York Student Services Building, First Floor, Room 0129 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, New York 10577

Date and Time of Auction: Thursday, September 17, 2015 at Noon

Minimum Bid: $1,300,000.00Deposit: $130,000.00 in certified check or bank draft only, and made payable to the “Commissioner of General Services,” or the bidder.

Additional Deposit: A non-refundable amount which, with the initial deposit, constitutes 10% of the successful bid, said amount is payable within ten business days of notification of acceptance of bid.

Balance Due: 120 days after notification of acceptance of bid.

Broker’s Commission: A 5% broker commission will be paid by the State of New York to a qualified real estate broker who represents the successful bidder. Bidder and Broker Affidavits must be submitted to the Office of General Services, Legal Services, by close of business 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2015.

Other important terms and conditions are applicable to this sale, including, but not limited to bond defeasance, broker commission and pre-registration, bidder pre-qualification, auction bidding through authorized representative, and forfeiture and default provisions. See Public Lands Law Section 33 as well as 9 NYCRR § 276. To obtain a copy of the Contract of Sale with applicable terms and conditions, together with a copy of a more detailed description of the premises, call (518) 474-2195 or write to: State of New York, Office of General Services, Bureau of Land Management, 26th Floor, Corning Tower, The Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza, Albany, New York 12242. Web site: www.ogs.ny.gov

NEW YORK STATE OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES

Dated: July 13, 2015 _________________________________ By: RoAnn M. Destito, Commissioner

lEgAl NOTICE


Safety tips for school bus riders

Evolve Exam Prep and Tutoring

Rye YMCA open new studio

2015 Review football preview

BACk-To- SChool

Make school day mornings easier

Add health screenings to back-to-school checklist

INSIDE WESTCHESTER COUNTYINSI

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Lifestyles of Westchester County/august 2015 VoL.16 No.118

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Safety tips for school bus riders

• Wait for the bus in a safe location that is away from traffic, ideally staying in a designated school bus stop until the bus arrives.• Dress for optimal visibility, especially in inclement weather when it can be difficult for the school bus driver and other motorists to see pedestrians.• Do not board the bus until it comes to a complete stop. Wait for the driver to open the door, which engages the “Stop” sign for oncoming motorists.• Use the handrail and enter the bus in an orderly manner.• Promptly find a seat, sit down and buckle the safety belt if there is one available. Students assigned seats on the bus should take their seat without making a fuss.• Keep backpacks and other belongings out of the center aisle. Store them under your seat or on your lap.• Remain seated at all times while the bus is in motion.• Keep arms, hands, legs, and heads inside of the bus at all times.• Always follow the driver’s instructions and avoid situations that will cause driver distraction.• Wait for the bus to stop completely

before standing up or attempting to exit.• Exit the bus in an orderly manner, without pushing fellow passengers.• Only cross the street in front of the bus. It is very difficult for the driver to see students crossing behind the bus.• Wait for the driver to check traffic before crossing the street and be on the lookout for inattentive motorists.

Many students take the bus to school twice a day, five days a week. Approximately 26 mil-lion elementary and secondary school children ride school buses daily in the United States, and the U.S. Department of Transportation says more than 50 percent of all K-12 stu-dents in the country ride yel-low school buses, traveling approximately 4 billion miles each year.

The vast majority of these miles are traveled without in-cident. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, the national school bus acci-dent rate is 0.01 per 100 miles traveled, compared to 0.96 for other passenger vehicles, which makes school buses consider-ably safer than other passenger vehicles.

Though school buses are safe, there are other ways to make them even safer. Chil-

dren, especially those new to school buses, may find the bus fun and unique and not pay at-tention to simple safety rules.

But parents should take steps to ensure that youngsters always heed the following school bus safety guidelines.


Make school day mornings easier

Parents can take several steps to make sure school day mornings go more smoothly.

School day mornings can be hectic, as getting kids ready for school and out the door on time is not always easy. Working parents may find school day mornings especially difficult, as their own work schedules can make mornings feel even more rushed. Fortunately, parents can employ several strategies to free up time in the morning so everyone starts their days off in a more relaxing atmosphere.

Wake up earlier. Sleep might seem like a precious commodity, but waking up just 10 to 15 minutes earlier can remove some of the stress from weekday mornings without costing you a lot of sack time. Let kids sleep in until their normal wakeup time, using your extra 10 or 15 minutes to shower or enjoy your morning cup of coffee before the house is abuzz with activity.

Tackle certain chores the night before. Delaying certain chores until you wake up makes

for a hectic morning, so tackle as many morning chores as possible before you go to bed for the night. Prepare school lunches, lay clothes out for yourself and your children, and make sure kids have their backpacks packed and ready to go before they go to bed. Each of these things may only take a few minutes, but when left for the morning, they can add up to a substantial amount of time.

Encourage youngsters to pick up the pace. Some people are morning people, while others dread setting their alarms for early morning hours. Kids who fall into the latter group may drag their feet in the morning, but parents should offer encouragement when kids are moving slowly in the morning. Allowing your frustration to show may only make kids less fond of mornings, so remind them as nicely as possible that everyone has a schedule to

stick to if they seem to be dragging their feet.

Keep the television off. If watching the television is ingrained in your morning routine, try going a few days without it to see if this makes it easier to get out the door on time. Kids might grow distracted by morning cartoons, and even adults may get caught up in morning news shows or other forecasts. Eliminating television from your morning routine can save time and also may help your family grow closer, as you will have more distraction-free time to speak to one another. In addition to turning off the television, resist the urge to turn on your devices or scan work emails when getting ready in the morning.

Parents know that school day mornings can be hectic. But there are several ways to make such mornings go more smoothly so everyone gets where they need to be on time.


Add health screenings to back-to-school checklist

Schedule visits to the doctor, dentist and eye doctor so your child is up-to-date upon the dawn of a new school year.

As summer vacation winds down, thoughts turn from jaunts to the beach to readying for a new school year. To-do lists in-clude many of the typical tasks that precede going back to the classroom, including shopping for new clothes, purchasing school supplies and finishing summer reading assignments.

Another essential require-ment parents must find time for is completing their children’s health screenings and immuni-zations so youngsters can return to school.

Health screenings may in-clude, but may not be limited to, routine physical exams, eye ex-ams and dental cleanings. Each school district may have its own set of health requirements that must be met in order for children to attend school.

Many schools require that children are up-to-date with all immunizations before they can begin a new school year. While the issue of vaccinations has inspired debate in recent years, parents should recognize that

many schools will only exempt students from receiving certain vaccinations due to religious reasons. For a list of state vac-cination requirements and pos-sible exemptions for schools in the United States, visit www2a.cdc.gov/nip/ schoolsurv/schImmRqmt.asp.

Students who have specific learning disabilities or medical conditions that require class-room modification should obtain recent documentation from any therapists or specialists prior to beginning a new school year. Doing so facilitates the process of setting up procedures within the school while ensuring chil-dren have what they need to excel in the classroom. All par-ents may want to ask doctors to provide copies of medical and immunization records so that schools will have the most re-cent copies on file.

Parents should schedule eye examinations well in advance of the first day of school so they have ample time to fill new pre-scriptions for youngsters before

school begins. This ensures kids won’t be starting off on the wrong foot because of vi-sion problems that could already have been addressed.

Parents of adolescents or students on the verge of adoles-cence may want to address the subject of bodily changes before the school year begins anew. Address which changes can be expected, including the start of menstruation for girls. This will help children better understand what is happening when they witness changes in themselves and fellow classmates and give them a chance to receive accu-rate information rather than gos-sip from their peers.

Keep in mind that health screenings conducted in ad-vance of the school year may not preclude students from school-sponsored screenings. Schools may offer their own vision and hearing screenings and may take physical measure-ments to ensure students are growing on schedules in line with normal development.


Evolve Exam Prep and Tutoring

Who is the best tutor for your child? This may seem like a simple question but it is not. And it was this same question that the owners of Evolve Exam Prep and Tutoring set out to an-swer when they formed their lo-cal tutoring company. Evolve is owned and operated by certified local teachers who run small sessions that focus on the stu-dent’s individual needs. Evolve also offers private tutors for all subjects and all standard tests for all ability levels including students with special needs.

Evolve’s tutors are trained specialists. They work with stu-dents in local schools on a daily basis. Their professional train-ing and experience gives their tutors and instructors the skills necessary to assess and address student needs. They are able to recognize and react to underly-ing issues that cannot be easily detected by tutors who are not

certified educators. They have local teachers on staff that are not only experts in various sub-jects but who have experience working with special needs students.

Evolve believes that certi-fied teachers and educators are better equipped to prepare students for course curriculums and standardized exams. Other companies may use tutors and college students who did well on their SAT or ACT but have no experience teaching students on a daily basis and have no formal training in education.

Evolve Exam Prep and Tu-

toring specializes in private tutoring as well as standardized tests and college prep courses. Evolve conducts courses to prepare students for Regents exams, SAT and ACT exam prep and College essay writing. All courses are designed and taught by certified teachers in small classroom settings. Class size has a direct impact on suc-cess and Evolve’s class sizes are kept small to offer the most advantageous setting for their clients.

Hali from Larchmont says that Evolve’s courses were “extremely helpful! Great way

to go over all the material. The teacher taught the material bet-ter than my school teacher all year. Very friendly staff and the booklet was incredible. Thanks for the great experience.”

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said, “Today was a great ex-perience to help me review for my chemistry Regents. I was able to go over key concepts and really understand topics that weren’t clear to me before. I now feel comfortable to take

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Students preparing for exams and receiving tutor help at an Evolve session. Contributed photo


Entering freshmen can take several steps to make their transition to high school easier.

Easing the high school transition

Each school year brings new opportunities. Although attending a new school can involve some butterflies as kids acclimate to their new classmates and teachers, the transition from grade school to high school is typically one of the more dramatic transitions students have to make. Although starting high school can be an overwhelming experience full of change, there are many ways for students to ease this transition.

Take part in high school orientation. Orientations help students acclimate to their new surroundings. Orientation sessions can provide insight on coursework and help kids learn about the campus and any amenities it provides. Learning the layout of the school in advance can help calm any first-day jitters students may encounter.

Arrive prepared. Make sure all summer assignments are completed so you start off on the right foot. Unprepared students are likely to be apprehensive.

Adjust to new sleep-wake schedules. Summer vacation may have been filled with late nights and sleepy mornings, but now that school will begin anew, it’s time for students to gradually readjust their schedules. That will make it easier to wake up for school. Many high schools begin the day earlier than grammar schools and middle schools. It may take a few weeks to grow accustomed to the earlier hours, so start waking up earlier as the summer winds down.

Plan to arrive with friends. Seeing familiar faces can help students feel more secure. High schools tend to be larger than grade schools and include kids from various neighborhoods, but chances are your friends will be attending the same school as you. Carpool with friends during the first week of school so your first steps on campus are with friends.

Enroll in a mentoring program. Some high schools pair freshmen with upperclassmen so younger students can learn the ropes of

the school. New students can benefit from these personalized guides and should feel comfortable asking questions about teachers and school protocol.

Participate in clubs and extracurricular activities. Another way to feel more comfortable at a new school is to participate in activities. High schools offer numerous extracurricular activities that cater to an array of interests. Band, choir, sports teams, debate teams, student government, and foreign language clubs are just a few examples of enjoyable extracurricular activities. Joining such groups can introduce you to like-minded students.

Arrive to class on time. Teachers may be more lenient the first few weeks of school, but over time they will expect students to learn their schedules and arrive to class on time. Students can make arrangements with friends to share lockers or employ other strategies to make it easier to get to class on time.


How to help kids find extracurricular activities

Sports may be the first thing that comes to mind when many parents think of extracurricular activities for their children, but not all kids are cut out for or interested in competitive athletics. But just because a youngster may not be the next star quarterback or captain of the soccer team does not mean he or she can’t find an extracurricular activity to be passionate about.

Parents know that schoolwork comes first, but extracurricular activities can be important to a child’s development, serving as an avenue to meet new people and an opportunity to learn the importance of teamwork. The following are a handful of things parents should consider when trying to help their children find the right extracurricular activities.

InterestsOne of the easiest ways to

help kids find an extracurricular activity they can be passionate about is to discuss their interests with them. Youngsters with a love of animals might enjoy volunteering at a local animal shelter or hospital, while those who love to write may find writing for the school newspaper is a great way to apply that passion in a practical setting. Even kids with a passion for video games might be interested in learning about computer graphics and what it takes to design games. When trying to find extracurricular activities for your children, resist the urge to write off any of their interests. Instead, use those interests as jumping off points to further engage their passions.

AvailabilityParents know that school

comes before extracurricular activities, but kids may not be

so wise. Keep in mind kids’ existing workloads when helping them find the right afterschool activities. Many organizations are especially flexible with teenage volunteers or employees, but parents still must keep a watchful eye to ensure kids do not overextend themselves. Kids who overcommit to extracurricular activities may end up feeling burnt out, which can have a negative impact on their schoolwork. Encourage kids to find activities they care about, but emphasize that these activities should not become bigger priorities than schoolwork. Let kids know that they can get more involved during summer vacation, but make sure kids don’t devote too much of their time to afterschool activities during the school year. A couple of hours per week and even some additional time on

the weekends should not distract kids from their responsibilities at school, and that’s still ample time for kids to explore their interests.

InternshipsInternships were once

exclusive to college students, but many organizations now offer

internship opportunities to high schoolers as well. Kids who find themselves interested in particular subjects at school, whether it’s graphic design or a beginner’s course on finance, may be eligible for internships with local companies. Such opportunities may even encourage kids to

pursue a particular course of study once they enter college.

Extracurricular activities can help youngsters develop into well-rounded adults. Parents can help kids find the right activities while still encouraging them to keep schoolwork atop their priority lists.

Students passionate about a particular subject or course of study may be eligible for internships with local businesses that encourage them to apply that interest in practical settings.


Signs a tutor might be necessary

School is not always easy, and some students struggle as they transition from grade to grade. As students get older, some who may have experienced smooth sailing as youngsters may find they need some extra help grasping the material as coursework becomes more complicated.

Those who need some extra clarification and reinforcement may first turn to their parents.

But parents may not be familiar with certain subjects or capable of explaining certain concepts in terms kids can understand. In such situations, tutors can prove to be valuable resources to get kids back on the right academic track.

One-on-one attention from a tutor can benefit all types of learners. Students who discover newfound success under the guidance of a tutor may have

more self-confidence in the classroom. Parents wondering if a tutor can help their children may want to consider the following indicators that students may need tutors.

Consistently falling grades: Tutors may be necessary for students whose grades are gradually on the decline. First speak with your child’s teachers, who may recommend tutors that specialize in certain subjects.

Confusion in and out of the classroom: Some kids struggle to grasp certain concepts, and such confusion can sometimes be remedied with the kind of intense study available in tutoring sessions.

Low confidence: Some kids’ confidence wanes when their grades suffer. Kids whose grades have been on the decline may feel a sense of defeat even before they take a test or work on an assignment. Tutors can help restore confidence by creating small victories that slowly build up to larger successes.

Indifference to coursework: No student will be captivated by every subject he or she studies, but there should be some subjects that students find engaging. Students battling indifference toward their

coursework may benefit from a dynamic tutor who can present subject matter in new ways and revive students’ interest.

Students who are struggling in the classroom may need some extra help outside the

classroom, and many tutors are adept at reviving interest in subjects kids are studying at school. Some teachers may recommend certain tutors, while others may do some tutoring work themselves.


REVIEW FOOTBALL

PREVIEW

2015


2015 TUckahoe Tigers schedUle 09/05 1 p.m. WOODLANDS

09/12 2 p.m. @ HALDANE

09/26 1 p.m. HACKEY

10/03 1 p.m. RIVERDALE COUNTRY

10/10 1 p.m. DOBBS FERRY

10/17 2:30 p.m. @ RYE NECK

10/24 1 p.m. CHESTER

THE REVIEWFOOTBALL PREVIEW

Tuckahoe gears up for fall and new coach

Head Coach: Tom Itri I 2014 record: 6-4

2015 Overview:For Tuckahoe, 2015

will be a year of transi-tion with first-year head coach Tom Itri taking over the reins of the pro-gram. Itri, who was hired away from his position at

Blind Brook High School in May, has spent the last

three months trying to attract new players while putting his own

stamp on the storied program. Last fall, the Tigers claimed yet

another Class D Section I title, but were hit hard by graduation and had only 12 returning players on the roster when Itri took over. Since then, howev-er, Itri says that the ranks have swelled, as roughly 30 athletes have been par-ticipating in summer workouts.

Among the team’s returnees, senior

Chris Corrado could play a huge role this fall. As a junior, Corrado proved his versatility, doing a little bit of every-thing for the Tigers. Serving primarily as a running back, Corrado rushed for 290 yards but he also completed 8-of-10 pass attempts and caught another eight balls for more than 100 yards.

The Tigers will play a Class C/D schedule during the regular season, which should prepare them for their annual postseason tilt with fellow Class D school Haldane. They should be tested right off the bat when they take on reigning Class C champ Wood-lands on Sept. 5. Although rival Bronx-ville is not currently on the schedule, the Tigers will also gear up for their annual game against 2014 Class C run-ner-up Rye Neck, which will happen on Oct. 17.-Reporting by Mike Smith

Tuckahoe players participate in an agility drill during a summer workout session.

First-year head coach Tom Itri watches his players prepare for the 2015 season. Itri has worked hard to build the program’s numbers since he was hired in May. Photos/Mike Smith



2015 mamaroneck Tigers schedUle 09/04 7 p.m. MAHOPAC

09/11 7 p.m. @ NEW ROCHELLE

09/19 1:30 p.m. HORACE GREELEY HS

09/25 7 p.m. CLARKSTOWN NORTH

10/02 7 p.m. @ CLARKSTOWN NORTH

10/09 7 p.m. JOHN JAY

Tigers hope to duplicate 2014 success

Head Coach: Anthony Vitti I 2014 record: 7-2

2015 Overview:After experiencing a banner year

in 2014, the Mamaroneck Tigers are hoping to stay in the Class AA hunt

this fall with another dominant performance.

Last season, the Tigers went 7-2, earning a berth in the Class AA playoffs thanks to an explosive of-fense that averaged 31

points per game. Al-though the team has lost some key con-

tributors like linebacker Andrew Sommer, wide

receiver Alex Parkinson and running back Marquez

Jackson-Allen to gradu-ation, they return a

number of players that should keep the squad in con-tention this year.

Quarterback Bill Flatow will once again be under center for the Tigers, coming off a junior year that saw him throw for 1138 yards and 15 TDs. Emerson Genovese, who was one of Flatow’s favorite targets in 2014, will be back in the fold as well. Last sea-son, Genovese rushed for two scores and had four touchdown receptions.

Peter Matt, who also caught his fair share of passes last season, should be one of the team’s top de-fensive returners after tallying 15 sacks last season.

The Tigers will need to hit their stride quickly this fall, with contests against Mahopac and New Rochelle, two perennial contenders, to open the season. The final game of the season will be against John Jay, which best-ed the Tigers in the second round of the Class AA playoffs last year with a 34-33 win in double-overtime. -Reporting by Mike Smith

Tiger players go through a drill on Aug. 17. Mamaroneck has been a program on the rise for the last few years. Photos/Bobby Begun

Head coach Anthony Vitti works with his players during the preseason on Aug. 17. Vitti and the Tigers are hoping to build on last year’s stellar campaign.



2015 easTchesTer eagles schedUle 09/04 7 p.m. HARRISON

09/11 7 p.m. @ BREWSTER

09/19 1:30 p.m. WALTER PANAS

09/26 1:30 p.m. @ SLEEPYHOLLOW

10/03 3 p.m. PEARL RIVER

10/10 1:30 p.m. HENDRICK HUDSON

Eagles ready for aerial assault

Head Coach: Fred DiCarlo I 2014 record: 4-5

2015 Overview:After a tough start to the 2014

season, Eastchester turned its sea-son around late, winning three of its last four games to finish with a 4-5

record. With a strong group of re-turning players this fall, the Eagles are hoping to build on their strong finish and be-come a player in the Class A landscape.

Although the Eagles have traditionally been known to have a conservative, run-

based offense, if East-chester is to contend this season, it stands to reason that wideout An-

drew Schultz will be heavily featured on offense. At 6-foot-5, Schultz, who also stars on the basketball team, has both the size and the athleticism to cre-ate mismatches on the outside

against smaller defensive backs. Quarterback John Arcidiacono and Schultz have been red hot this sum-mer, even against the top-flight com-petition they faced at New Rochelle’s Champions Camp in late-July.

The Eagles won’t stray too far from their roots, however, and have a deep backfield that will be able to move the chains and control the clock when the need arises.

Eastchester will be tested right off the bat, as it opens the season with a showdown against Harrison on Sept. 4. Both the Eagles and Huskies are hoping for bounce back years, and their first game under the lights could be a positive step for one of the squads.

The Eagles don’t play many area teams this fall, with matchups against schools like Brewster, Walter Panas and Pearl River on the schedule. -Reporting by Mike Smith

An Eastchester quarterback throws a pass during summer workouts. The Eagles will likely have success through the air this year. Photos/Mike Smith

Senior Andrew Schultz celebrates after a touchdown at New Rochelle’s Champions Camp on July 31. Schultz comes into the 2015 season as one of the most highly-touted wideouts in the league.



2015 neW rochelle hUgUenoTs schedUle

09/04 7 p.m. JOHN JAY EAST FISHKILL

09/11 7 p.m. MAMARONECK

09/19 1:30 p.m. NORTH ROCKHAND

09/25 7 p.m. @ ARLINGTON

10/03 3 p.m. CLARKSTOWN NORTH

10/10 1:30 a.m. @ MAHOPAC

2015 Overview:It seems that every year, New Ro-

chelle shows a marked improvement from opening week to the time playoffs

roll around in November. With a talented group coming into the season, it looks as though the Huguenots could be poised for big things this year.

Last season, New Rochelle fell to Arlington in the Class AA semifinals, with a few key inju-

ries hurting the Huguenots’ chances at another section title. This year, the team is likely to use that postseason loss as motivation as they attempt to reach the AA mountaintop again.

Senior Greg Powell is back under center for New Rochelle and he will be joined by a bevy of talented runners in the backfield. Sophomore Jared Baron,

who starred for the Huguenots as a freshman, is one of the most physical backs in the section and should only improve as he continues to mature. Last season, he split time with star Jon Forrest and gained 100 yards in the Huguenots’ semifinal loss. He will be joined by senior Keelan Thomas, a speedster who should compliment Bar-on’s rugged style nicely.

New Rochelle will have to make the most of their preseason practices be-cause they will be tested right out of the gate this year. On Sept. 4, the Hu-guenots will travel to John Jay to take on the reigning Class AA champions. New Rochelle will also have a chance to avenge last season’s loss to Arling-ton when they take on the Admirals on Sept. 25. -Reporting by Mike Smith

Greg Powell looks for an open lane during summer workouts. Powell will be charged with providing veteran leadership to a young New Rochelle squad. Photos/Mike Smith

New Rochelle youth lead the way

Head Coach: Lou DiRienzo I 2014 record: 8-1

Running back Keelan Thomas makes a move during New Rochelle’s Champions Camp in July. Thomas could be a big play threat for the Huguenots this fall.


By MIKe sMITHSports Editor

When I was going into my se-nior year of high school, our var-sity football team took a week-long trip in August to a secluded summer camp in Massachusetts. For five days—or, what felt to me like two years—we toiled under the late summer sun, run-ning four sessions a day to pre-pare ourselves for the upcoming regular season gauntlet.

But while we struggled to memorize the playbook, learn our reads and get ourselves into play-ing shape, we were learning other,

A lesson in trust

more important lessons about the value of hard work and persever-ance in the face of adversity.

I don’t want to make it sound like we went through some in-tense, life-altering experience, but I do think that a good num-ber of players on that team came back to school in September with a better sense of what it meant to set, and then accomplish, a goal.

At its very best, high school sports can be used to mold young athletes into future lead-ers. During each game and each practice, there is a treasure trove of teachable moments; mes-sages that extend far beyond

the scope of the play-ing field.

And getting the chance to cover our young area athletes, I’ve been blessed to see these lessons re-ceived on an almost daily basis.

During my time at the Review, I have covered my fair share of inspiring sto-ries. From players battling their way through injuries, illnesses or other adverse situations to teams taking it upon themselves to give back to their communities, there is certainly no shortage of narratives that could serve as lessons to all of our future student athletes. But if there was one overarching theme that I saw in our teams last year, it would be that when it comes to the success of a group, few things are as important as trust.

Trust, unlike 40-yard-dash times, vertical leaps and fast-balls, isn’t something that can be measured. But to quote for-mer Supreme Court Justice Potter Stewart, “I know it when I see it.”

Mamaroneck’s Kumar Nambiar throws a pitch in the regional finals against Horseheads in June. Nambiar and the Tigers would go on to capture another state title for Mamaroneck’s baseball program last year.

Rye quarterback Andrew Livingston’s success over the last four years can be attributed to both his right arm and his trust in the Garnets’ receiving corps.

New Rochelle’s Jon Forrest breaks a tackle against North Rockland last September. The Huguenots, traditionally, get stronger as each season wears on.

I saw it in the connec-tion forged by Rye quarter-back Andrew Livingston and wideout Tim DeGraw, as the duo staked their claim as the most prolific passing tandem in Sec-tion I history over the past few years. Livingston, who played with DeGraw all his life, trusted his receiver to run his routes and

cONTINUeD on next page


the wideout ran them with pre-cision, knowing full well that when he turned his head back, Livingston’s offering would be right on the money.

I saw it in the way the Mama-roneck field hockey team played, with supreme confidence in a defensive unit that was nearly impenetrable. That trust in the defense flowed into the offensive end, allowing Tiger attackers to play more aggressively, as they led the team to yet another state title last fall.

But it’s not just having trust in their teammates that makes a team successful. Success is also tied into the confidence that the players have in their coaching staff and vice versa.

Each year, it’s noted that New Rochelle’s football team is much tougher to beat in October than in September. That notion undoubt-edly stems from the fact that

head coach Lou DiRienzo has earned the respect of his players, who know that, if they follow his lead, they will begin to peak right around playoff time each year.

In June, the Mamaroneck baseball team captured its third state title in 10 years. In every postgame interview I conducted with players and coaches alike, “trust” was the theme that reso-nated consistently. Head coach Mike Chiapparelli had enough trust in his No. 2 starter Bill Fla-tow to give him the ball in Ma-maroneck’s first-round playoff game, holding the splendid lefty Kumar Nambiar, who established himself as one of the best pitchers in the state this year, for the Ti-gers’ second round contest. Sure, it was a risk, but it was one that paid off in another state crown as Flatow, Nambiar and fellow pitcher Jason Kreinces all rose to the occasion when called upon.

Bronxville’s Caitlin Fryer scores a goal in a 2014 playoff game. Last fall, the Broncos captured their second state title in four years.

Bronxville’s Killian Donohue rushes upfield in a playoff game against Pleasantville last May. The Broncos won the Class C section title. File photos

Mamaroneck’s Ellie Seid pushes the ball upfield against Scarsdale last fall. In November, the Tigers brought home another state title.

As for the way Chiapparelli handled the pitching staff, Nam-biar couldn’t have been more ef-fusive in his praise.

“Chapp knows what he’s do-ing,” Nambiar would later say. “We trust him completely.”

We all want our kids to grow up to be self-sufficient. But through their participa-tion in athletics, we also want them to learn that not all obstacles—in life or in sports—can be faced alone. Being part of a team can often mean sacrificing a player’s in-dividual hopes and goals to be-come a part of something larger, something much more powerful.

If that’s the only thing our young athletes take away from the upcoming season, I’d say that our coaches have done a fine job, indeed.




2015 rye garneTs schedUle 09/04 7 p.m. SOMERS

09/11 7 p.m. SLEEPY HOLLOW

09/18 7 p.m. YORKTOWN

09/25 7 p.m. @ WALTER PANAS

10/02 7 p.m. OUR LADY OF LOURDES

10/10 11 a.m. @ HARRISON

2015 Overview:

After bringing home yet another Section I title in 2014—this one coming in Class A—the

Garnets will have some-what of a new look this year as they look to build upon last year’s success.

Rye graduated a number of seniors last May, includ-ing Andrew Livingston, the

section’s all-time passing yards leader and his fa-

vorite target, wideout Tim DeGraw. Over the last several years, Livingston and DeGraw have established themselves as the best tandem in the Hudson Valley and losing them means that the Garnets will have to find new ways to score.

Juniors T.J. Lavelle and

Mat Bruno have both taken snaps under center this summer, and both quarterbacks have shown great abil-ity in limited time so far. The team will also rely heavily on the two-way presence of senior Chase Pratt, who figures prominently in the backfield and on the defensive line. In Pratt, the Garnets have a tough, gritty leader who can set the tone for what figures to be another successful year in Class A.

Rye’s defensive line, which also features Patrick Hull and Will Glad-stone, should be an advantage for the squad this year.

The Garnets open up the season against a talented Somers team, but fans are already gearing up for the Oct. 10 showdown with rival Harri-son. The game, which will be played at Harrison High School, is sched-uled for an 11 a.m. kickoff.-Reporting by Mike Smith

Junior Mat Bruno throws a pass on Aug. 17. Bruno and classmate T.J. Lavelle have both taken reps under center this summer.

Mat Bruno follows a blocker around the edge. Rye is hoping to defend its Class A crown this year. Photos/Bobby Begun

Rye retools roster Head Coach: Dino Garr I 2014 record: 9-2



2015 harrison hUskies schedUle 09/04 7 p.m. EASTCHESTER

09/11 7 p.m. OSSINING

09/19 7 p.m. @ HENDRICK HUDSON

09/26 1:30 p.m. @ PEARL RIVER

10/03 7 p.m. @ PELHAM

10/10 11 a.m. RYE

Harrison looks to bounce back

Head Coach: Dom Zanot I 2014 record: 3-6

2015 Overview:2014 was a season of transition

for the Harrison program, as Dom Zanot took over for longtime Husky coach Art Troilo Jr. This season, the Harrison program is hoping for a bounce-back year in Zanot’s second go-around at the helm.

Last year, the team was plagued by inconsistency, but did show flashes of promise, including a hard-fought 24-13 loss against the eventual Class A champions from Rye and a pair of 40-plus point outbursts against Pearl River and Pelham. Zanot believes that with one year already under his belt, things should run smoother with players and coaches now on the same page.

Harrison has no shortage of ver-satile players, and it should be inter-

esting to see how a few key position battles shake out as the team prepares for its opening game. Mike Nannari-ello and Jack Witte have both taken reps at quarterback—both at New Rochelle’s Champions Camp and a three-day camp in Rochester, and both will likely play a role for the Huskies in 2015.

The Huskies open up on Sept. 4 against Eastchester, another team looking to rebound this year and will also take on Pearl River and Pelham, which accounted for two of the Hus-kies’ three wins on 2014.

Harrison’s regular season fi-nale will be its annual rivalry game against Rye, which will be played on Oct. 10 at 11 a.m. -Reporting by Mike Smith

Jack Witte throws a pass during New Rochelle’s Champions Camp on July 31. Harrison is hoping to have a more consistent year in 2015.

A Harrison running back carries Mount Vernon defenders for an extra yard in July. Harrison opens the season against a solid Eastchester team on Sept. 4. Photos/Mike Smith



2015 rye neck panThers schedUle

09/05 1 p.m. @WARRENSBURG

09/12 3 p.m. DOBBS FERRY

09/19 1 p.m. HALDANE

09/25 7 p.m. @ MILLBROOK

10/10 1 p.m. @WOODLANDS

10/17 2:30 p.m. TUCKAHOE

2015 Overview:

After a multi-year stretch that saw the Panthers rise back to promi-nence, the graduation of sev-eral key Rye Neck contributors means a youth movement could be afoot for the perennial Class C contenders.

Last season, the Panthers made their way back to the Class C fi-nals, where they were defeated by a surging Woodlands squad who shocked the section with back-to-back wins over Bronxville and the

Black Hats to claim the Class

A Rye Neck quarterback rolls out to pass during a June camp at White Plains High School. The Panthers are hoping to find themselves back in the Class C title game this year.

Black Hats turn to youth

Head Coach: Nick Ianello I 2014 record: 6-2C title.

With featured skill-position play-ers like Dom Brescia, Chris Richart and Jake Sevean all gone, the Pan-thers will look towards some less ex-perienced football players to fill that void. One such player could be junior Nick D’Errico, who shined at times on the defensive end in 2014. D’Errico showed a nose for the football and a flair for the dramatic last year, helping Rye Neck win its semifinal round game against Dobbs Ferry with a 35-yard in-terception return for a touchdown. Dan Garofalo should also serve to anchor the Panthers’ line play this year. The Panthers open up the season against Section II Warrensburg on Sept. 5, in a non-conference neutral field game that will be held at Dietz Stadium in Kingston, N.Y. Rye Neck’s first in-section game will be the following week against Dobbs Ferry. On Oct. 10, the Panthers will look for revenge against Woodlands when they hit the road to take on the Falcons. -Reporting by Mike Smith

A Panther receiver tries to haul in a pass during summer workouts. Photos/Mike Smith



2015 bronXVille broncos schedUle

09/05 1:30 p.m. @ EDGEMONT

09/12 3 p.m. @ NANUET

09/19 1:30 p.m. ALBERTUS MAGNUS

09/26 1:30 p.m. YONKERS MONTESSORI

10/03 7 p.m. @ PLEASANTVILLE

10/10 6 p.m. ARDSLEY

Broncos aim for new heights in 2015

Head Coach: Jeff Napolitano I 2014 record: 6-2

2015 Overview:If the Broncos were something of

an unknown team heading into the 2014 season, it didn’t take long to es-tablish themselves as one of the top squads in Class C. Blessed with a ter-rific passing game that accounted for 11 TDs on the year, the Broncos won their first six games of the season, outscoring opponents 198-59 over that span.

Unfortunately for Bronxville fans, however, that success didn’t continue in the playoffs, as the Broncos lost their first-round game against even-tual Class C champion Woodlands.

This year, a revamped Bronxville team is looking to get back to basics and once again compete for the top spot in Class C. Over the last few

years, the Broncos have found suc-cess in many different styles, from their line-dominated play in 2009 to last year’s commitment to the aerial game. It remains to be seen what head coach Jeff Napolitano has in store for opponents this season.

Bronxville’s schedule looks a bit different than it has in recent years, with rivalry games against both Tuck-ahoe and Rye Neck absent from their list of opponents. Instead, the Bron-cos are set to open at Edgemont be-fore taking on two schools from up north in Nanuet and Albertus Mag-nus. They will end the regular season at home against Ardsley on Oct. 10 in a game that is scheduled to be played under the lights. -Reporting by Mike Smith

A Bronxville quarterback looks downfield on the first day of preseason. Bronxville is hoping to be one of the top Class C teams in 2015.

A Broncos running back hits the hole on Aug. 17. Photos/Bobby Begun


Rye YMCA to open new studio

Responding to the needs of its members, the Rye YMCA will open a new studio this September that combines fit-ness with technology for a fun, fast-paced work-out experience. The studio, which will be called ExerZone, will replace the Y’s first floor racquetball court. Renovation of this previously underutilized space will begin in mid August.

“We’re very excited about this new studio and all the bene-fits it will bring to our members,” said Rye Y Executive Director Gregg Howells. “When we first started looking at new uses for the racquetball court, our primary goal was to create a unique space that would meet the needs of mul-tiple constituencies. We believe that ExerZone will bring fitness to a new level for members of all ages and levels of conditioning.”

With its new glass wall and lighting, ExerZone will feature six pieces of new equipment that use light, sound and technology

Two Rye Y members play an active game. The Rye YMCA will be opening a new studio this September called ExerZone. Contributed photo

to keep people moving. Each piece can be used by individuals or groups, allowing family mem-bers, friends and gym buddies to compete against each other. Sold by the Chicago-based Motion Fit-ness, the equipment will provide different cognitive and physical benefits, ranging from strength to agility to heart health.

In addition to creating a new studio, the Rye Y will install “Nexersys” in the adjacent Free-style Fitness Zone. Described by Motion Fitness as “the ultimate

interactive cardio machine [that] delivers high intensity interval training,” Nexersys combines kick boxing with gaming for a whole new experience.

Laura Tiedge, Rye Y’s senior director of Healthy Living, said, “After visiting other YMCAs that use this equipment, we knew that we had found a way to engage youth, teens, families and seniors. While the kids will undoubtedly be drawn to the technology, older adults will find new challenges that can be

adapted to any level of fitness. And, it will offer one more op-tion for members who are look-ing for ways to become more active or to just mix up their routine.”

The Rye YMCA’s ExerZone will be one of the largest Ex-erGame fitness studios in New York state. “We’re always looking for ways to support our members on their wellness jour-ney,” Tiedge noted. “We can’t wait to get started on this new adventure.”


Outfitting students’ technology needs

Nowadays, school supplies differ greatly from the mark-ers, protractors and pencil cases required just a few decades ago. Many classrooms are now geared toward digital learn-ing, and items such as tablets, smartboards and laptop com-puters are essential to enhanc-ing students’ classroom experi-ences. It’s no surprise then that many students require a long list of tech products and ap-plications to keep up with their studies.

According to a Project To-morrow report titled “The New Digital Playbook: Understand-ing the Spectrum of Students’ Activities and Aspirations,” a large percentage of students have access to various mo-bile devices in the classroom. Smartphones, laptops, tablets, and digital readers are some of the more commonly used devices in modern classrooms, and such usage is not limited

to older students, as the report noted significant penetration of mobile devices among the pri-mary grades, even in K-2.

To enhance the learning ex-perience found in school, par-ents may want to allow access to such devices at home. The following are some tech items to consider.

Tablet: Android and Apple-based tablets give students easy

access to a variety of applica-tions and web connectivity. Their portability makes them a convenient way of staying con-nected both inside and outside the home. Many tablets can be enhanced with plug-in key-boards that make typing easier. Tablets can be used to take notes, browse the Inter-net, check email, and maintain correspondence with classmates via messaging applications.

Smartphone: Smartphones now have many of the same capabilities of tablets, albeit in smaller packages. Parents may need to customize safety settings on phones to keep stu-dents secure, but the devices can be valuable tools in keeping tabs on kids’ whereabouts.

Laptop: Tablets and smart-phones may have reduced con-sumer dependency on laptop and desktop computers, but traditional computers remain

a valuable learning tool. Their larger screen sizes and mouse/keyboard features can make it easier for students to spend more time working on proj-ects that require a lot of typ-ing. Since many teachers now require assignments be type-written or completed online, students may need to have a computer at home. Peripherals, such as a printer and an external hard drive, may prove useful as well.

App access: Students may require different apps to com-plete their assignments and stay organized. Calendar functions, newspaper apps and calcula-tors can provide the boosts kids

need to perform well and stay organized. Mobile devices are pre-loaded with stores where users can purchase applications, such as the App Store on Apple devices and Google Play on Google-based mobile products. However, users will still need to establish an account, which is typically linked to a credit

card. If parents do not feel com-fortable giving children free rein, they can set parameters on app purchases or buy pre-paid app gift cards to avoid exces-sive charges on credit cards.

Technology is pervasive in the classroom, and students may need various digital de-vices to make the grade.


Test-taking tipsAccording to the Anxiety

and Depression Association of America, test anxiety is a form of performance anxiety

that can affect even the most prepared students. The ADAA notes that several factors, including fear of failure and a

difficult questions. Doing so may contribute to students’ confidence and calm their nerves as they approach the rest of the test. When tests include essay portions, students can outline their essays before they begin to write so they have a clearer idea of what they want to say and how they want to say it.

Employ relaxation techniques. Deep, slow breaths and systematic relaxation of muscles can energize students’

bodies and make it easier for them to focus. Students can apply such techniques before exams to curb any pre-test jitters they might have and, if necessary, revisit these relaxation exercises during the test if feelings of nervousness return.

Get enough sleep and eat healthy before the exam. Stress and anxiety are more difficult to cope with when the body is tired, so parents should encourage their children to get adequate sleep the night before

an exam. In addition, provide healthy foods for kids to eat prior to the exam so they are not lethargic or hungry once the test begins.

Don’t be afraid to seek help. Plenty of students experience test anxiety, and many schools offer programs designed to help students overcome their test-taking fears. Making use of these programs is a great way for kids to improve their testing performance.

poor test history, can contribute to test anxiety, the presence of which can make it difficult for students to concentrate and may even cause physical symptoms like headache and nausea. Parents of students who are anxious about upcoming tests can share the following test-taking tips with their children, courtesy of the ADAA.

Prioritize preparation. Test preparation should begin well in advance of the test, as cramming the night before may make students feel unprepared and less confident in their knowledge of the material. In addition, studying at least a week or two in advance of the test date affords students the opportunity to take practice tests in conditions similar to those in real testing situations. That familiarity can calm any nerves they may typically experience when taking exams.

Develop an effective test-taking strategy. The ADAA recommends students answer the questions they know first before returning to more


Tips for a healthy school year

Students are most likely to get sick when school starts because being at school put children’s immune systems to the test, offers The Mayo Clinic. Young children who are in close proximity to others in large groups tend to spread organisms like bacteria and viruses that cause illness. Breaking the cycle can take some work, but it’s possible to make this a healthy school year.

Encourage handwashingFrequent handwashing

is a great way to prevent illness. Handwashing habits are essential for school-aged children and should be taught as soon as possible. Children should wash their hands after they use the bathroom and before they eat. If they’ve been playing outside or have interacted with children who are sick, handwashing can help remove some of the

germs lingering on their hands. Antibacterial wipes are another option, but they may not be as effective as washing hands with warm, soapy water.

Stop (some) sharingSharing develops good

manners and can foster new friendships. But children should be discouraged from sharing food, drinks and other personal items. Once the item has been placed in a child’s mouth, it should not be shared.

Take a sick dayRare is the student who

will never come down with an illness. When kids get sick, keep them at home. Schools may have guidelines indicating when it is acceptable for children to return to school,

and it’s important that parents adhere to those guidelines so illnesses cannot spread around the school.

Promote adequate sleep and nutritionWhile adults may need

between seven and nine hours of sleep a night, children often require more. The National Sleep Foundation recommends eight to 13 hours of sleep a night for school-aged children. Begin adjusting sleep schedules during the latter part of summer vacation so that children can readjust to their regular sleep schedules.

Parents also should feed kids nutritious diets consisting of a variety of foods. Avoid high-calorie junk foods, reserving such items only as special treats every so often.

Donate cleaning suppliesSome schools may be

underfunded and may not have enough supplies to keep all of the classrooms and surfaces clean. Parents can help by donating cleaning wipes and sprays so that students and teachers can thrive in clean, healthy environments.


Creating a helpful homework atmosphere

for your childrenClassrooms conducive to

learning may go a long way toward helping students under-stand the subjects they study in school, but the environ-ment kids encounter at home also plays a big role in how well kids do in their studies. A homework-friendly atmosphere at home can facilitate learn-ing, and there are many ways parents can create such an en-vironment for their school-aged children.

Designate a homework zone in a distraction-free area of your home. Some youngsters are easily distracted, and those distractions come in many forms. A living room where the television is blaring, a noisy kitchen where dinner is being prepared and a room where pets can roam free are not ideal homework areas, as each can take kids’ attention away from their assignments. Designate a room in your home that is quiet and well lit so kids can do their homework free from distraction.

Choose the right loca-tion for the homework room. When choosing an area of your home where kids will do their homework, avoid rooms adjacent to the kitchen and living room, as these rooms tend to be popular and sub-ject to heavy foot traffic. But don’t choose a room that’s too

far away from the hustle and bustle, such as the basement, as that may make kids feel as though they are being punished. In addition, you want to be able to periodically check in on kids to see if they need help and make sure they aren’t spending their homework time surfing the Internet or procrastinating.

Keep the homework room clean. A cluttered homework room may be less appealing to children, and such disorganization also can distract kids from the tasks at hand. Encourage kids to keep their homework rooms clean, and

help them clean up if need be. Supplies and other items kids need should be easily accessible in the homework room so kids are not wasting time looking for items they need to complete their homework.

Let kids rest or relax before starting their home-work. Another element of a good homework atmosphere is letting kids unwind between getting home from school and cracking open the books. A break between school and homework time can help kids focus better on their studies. In the interim between arriving home from school and starting on their homework, give kids a healthy snack that can provide an extra jolt of energy they can use once they start their homework.

Evaluate how the home-work zone is working. Once an ample amount of time has passed, examine how kids are performing on their homework assignments. If they are doing well, then there is no reason to break up the current routine. If they are struggling, ask them if there is anything about the cur-rent setup they dislike and ad-dress those issues accordingly.

Kids rarely look forward to doing their homework. But the right atmosphere can make homework seem like less of a chore and more of an opportuni-ty for kids to apply themselves.


Tips to land a good internship

Many college students recognize the value of internships. Internships can help college students start building their resumes before they even earn their degrees, and those experiences can give them an edge in a competitive postgraduate job market.

Landing internships gives students some firsthand experience within a given profession, and that exposure can help them decide if a projected career path is right for them or if it’s good to go back to the drawing board. The following are a few tips to help college students land an internship and make the most of the opportunity.

Don’t hesitate. Though many internships are tailored to students with a year or two of college under their belt, that doesn’t mean freshman can’t begin to explore potential opportunities. Even if you don’t intend to get an internship in the coming school year or during summer break, you can begin to explore potential

opportunities that might interest you when the time to start seeking internships does arrive. Looking early may yield valuable information, such as courses that would improve your chances of landing an internship, that your fellow students who hesitate or procrastinate won’t have.

Speak with the career placement specialists at your school. Career placement departments at colleges and universities are an increasingly valuable resource for today’s college students, many of whom will graduate and face an uncertain and crowded job market. But career placement departments are not just a resource for grads. Such departments can be valuable tools for current students interested in landing internships. If you don’t know where to begin your internship search or simply want to see if any opportunities have opened up, speak with representatives at the career placement

department at your school. Look the part on such visits, dressing nicely and bringing a resume. Doing so might just separate you from your fellow students, and that can only help as you begin your search for an internship.

Ask around among friends and family members. Sometimes you need a little help to land a good internship, so don’t be afraid to ask your friends and family members if they’re aware of any opportunities. Adult relatives might be aware of internship opportunities at their companies before the general public, and there’s no shame in seeking help as you try to take the first step toward a rewarding career. In addition to friends and family members, inquire about your college or university’s alumni network. Many alumni look to hire students from their universities for internships or even entry-level positions, so make the most of this potentially valuable resource.

harrison review 8-21-2015

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