THA board meetings canceled

The meeting of the Tuckahoe Housing Authority Board of Commissioners scheduled for this evening, March 29, at 7 p.m. was canceled due to the absence of a quorum of the voting members.

Four members of the seven-member board are required to be present to establish a quorum. Cheryl Floyd, Janette Hayes and newly appointed commissioner John DiSisto were the three members in attendance for tonight's meeting, just shy of the required attendance.

Commissioners that were not in attendance apparently left no word that they would not be present for tonight's meeting.

The Feb. 22 regular meeting of the THA board was also canceled due to excessive absences among the commissioners, as was the March 16 work session of the board.

According to Hayes, the board members who have been in communication are looking to schedule a special meeting on the evening of April 7, in order for the board to catch up on the business of the past two months.

Village Board names second THA appointee

At its March 22 meeting, the Tuckahoe Mayor John Fitzpatrick (D) and the Village Board named Donald Wauchope as their second appointee to the Tuckahoe Housing Authority Board of Commissioners in a month.

Wauchope and John DiSisto were appointed to fill the unexpired terms of former THA commissioners Phil White and Kevin McBride, both of whom were removed from the board in November hearing. Both men are appealing their removal with the help of another former THA commissioner, Anthony DeCintio, who is serving as their attorney.

Wauchope's term continues until July 5, 2010, at which point he would be eligible for reappointment to serve a full term.

Bronxville author featured in Journal of Accountancy

Local Bronxville author Gail Farrelly was featured in the March 2010 Journal of Accountancy, a publication of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants which goes out to 386,000 paid subscribers each month.

Farrelly was the columnist for the March "Last Word," a steady feature at the journal's close, in which she discussed her evolution from a career in accounting to her pursuit of mystery writing.

Farrelly is the author of three mystery novels, "Beaned in Boston," "Duped by Derivatives" and "Creamed at Commencement." Most recently, she included a story entitled "The Kindle Did It" in "The Gift of Murder," a holiday crime anthology sold to benefit Toys for Tots.

Police commissioner alerts Rye community

Dear Parents/Guardians: 
 


This week we received a report of a suspicious incident involving a 10-year-old child walking to school. While she was walking through the parking lot of 200 Forest Avenue enroute to a path leading to Midland School, the girl reported that a white van stopped about 10 to 20 feet away from her. The driver stepped out of the vehicle and motioned for her to approach, and said "Are you..?" He was described as a male, white or Hispanic, wearing a gray hooded sweatshirt and ripped jeans, and having a tattoo on his right forearm. There was no physical attempt to reach out, touch, or pursue the girl. She fled and continued to school.


Our investigation of this incident has been inconclusive thus far. No crime was committed, but our policy is to ensure that our residents are as fully informed as possible. As many of you know from our handling of prior incidents, we make every effort to provide you with appropriate and accurate information.


There is no cause for alarm, but it is a good time to continue a routine, ongoing dialogue with your children about basic safety precautions. We live in a remarkably safe community, but crimes against children can happen anywhere, and at any time; they are unpredictable. Teaching children how to protect themselves should not be crisis-driven; ideally, defensive behavior should be part of their routine.
Most importantly, if you observe suspicious activity, it is absolutely critical that you call the police without delay.

If a crime is taking place, our mission is to respond quickly enough to prevent it or to apprehend a suspect and rescue a potential victim. If a crime has not taken place, it is equally important that we are notified quickly, so that we can determine that the incident is unfounded and prevent the spread of alarming but incorrect information. We rely on the information you provide, and welcome the opportunity to respond.
Rest assured that we respond vigorously to suspicious incidents involving children, and will continue to work with the school district to ensure that parents are kept informed when necessary.
 


Very truly yours,
 


William R. Connors


Police Commissioner

Marraccini named chief

Call him Chief Marraccini.

The Town Board named former Capt. Anthony Marraccini the new police chief tonight. As expected, democrats Mayor Joan Walsh and Councilman Pat Vetere voted against the promotion.

We broke the news on twitter @harrisonreport. As we reported this morning, the town agreed to appoint a liaison/advisor to the police department who would report to the Town Board and assist with community relations. It will be an outsider with training in law enforcement, such as a retired chief from another department.

More on this story over the next few days and next week's edition of The Harrison Report.

Rye councilman floats term limits again

Rye City Councilman Joe Sack (R), known to stir the proverbial pot did so once again on Wednesday night floating a term limits proposal for the second time during his tenure.

His initial attempt came in the summer of 2008 when the councilman loosely pushed for limits for all city boards and commissions including the City Council saying, "you have to draw the line somewhere. At some point enough is enough...people can't serve in perpetuity." After some heated dialogue the move was shot down by each of Sack's council colleagues and deemed political as a means to drive then three-term Mayor Steve Otis (D) out of office. Councilwoman Catherine Parker (I) was also adamantly opposed to the previous proposal arguing that many boards and commissions already have to many vacancies without restricting time served.

However, Sack, in his first-term in office, told us earlier this year that some of the same concerns he had during the Otis administration still exist today even with new mayoral leadership. Holding to true to his word the councilman put forth the proposal toward the tail end of Wednesday's meeting reigniting the proposal while a new Republican majority holds control of the council. And new Mayor Douglas French (R) did ask for more turnover of boards and commissions during his State of the City address in January - there is no word yet on the mayor's stance regarding the proposal.

Still in its infancy it is not known what the new proposal entails or if it will reflect all the various boards and commissions; it is believed that a resolution will be put to a vote. Rye City Council members serve volunteer four-year terms with no annual compensation.

Sack asked for it to be cued for discussion at the next council meeting scheduled for April 7.

No new chief yet in Harrison

A gridlock in a decision over who is to be the next chief of police of Harrison has resulted in the Town Board pushing the vote back yet again. The board is required, by law, to make an appointment by March 30 - 90 days after former Chief David Hall retired.

Last night's special meeting had the mayor and councilmembers retreat immediately into executive session to discuss the appointment. Out of the three candidates for the job only Capt. Anthony Marraccini was in attendance. He was joined by several supporters who waited for the board to emerge from session, anticipating that the captain would be named new chief.

Marraccini was called into the executive session as was Town Attorney Frank Allegretti. After two hours behind closed doors, the group emerged and announced they had no decision. Officials had no comment on the nature of their discussions, but the indication is that one of the three Republican candidates was the deciding factor who was not prepared to vote for Marraccini's appointment (the two Democratic candidates are expected to not vote in favor of the captain). Behind closed doors officials floated the idea of appointing a liaison that would report directly the Town Board.

Rye High School magazine awarded

Zephyr Magazine, the award-winning art and literary magazine of Rye High School, was awarded a Silver Crown Award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association. News of the award was announced on March 19 at the 86th annual Scholastic Spring Convention. Crown Awards are the highest recognition given by the Columbia Scholastic Press Association to a student print or online medium for overall excellence.

Zephyr was one of only 12 high school magazines awarded a Silver Crown this year.

Judging took place at Columbia University over the winter. No set number of Crown Awards is required; the awards are discretionary, based on the evaluation by the Crown Judges who consider writing/editing, design, content, concept, photography, art and graphics.

"This is a wonderful culminating achievement from the students of the Rye City School District," said Catherine Telfer, Zephyr advisor and Rye High School art teacher.

For more information log onto http://cspa.columbia.edu/docs/contests-and-critiques/crown-awards/recipients/2010-scholastic-crown.html#N101B6 or www.zephyrmagazine.com

350 years of Rye Town set to kick off

In trying to reach the community at large, the Town of Rye is inviting you to the Kickoff Party for the celebration of 350 years of the founding of the Town of Rye. They are casting a wide net, trying to capture all of the leaders of our service clubs, non-profits, volunteer organizations, local governments, schools, churches, etc. Feel free to pass this on to any organizational leaders, that are truly involved in the betterment of your community.

While food and drink will be available, the town will unveil its 350 Celebration Calendar of Events, and have some relevant entertainment as well. It should be a fun time and the Cocktail Party is free.

The event will take place this Thursday, March 25 at 7 p.m. at the Crawford Park Mansion, located at 122 N. Ridge St. in Rye Brook. The event will feature historical characters and a preview of the original music "Flashbacks".

Although invitations were sent out weeks ago, the group is still looking to get a head count of those planning to attend. Please respond if you are planning to attend by calling 914-939-3075 ext. 100 and leave your name, organization and number attending. If you wish to recommend a person or group to be considered leave their organization contact info as well. You can also email your response to parksdept@townofryeny.com

Special meeting to focus on Harrison's next chief

The town will hold a special meeting this Wednesday, March 24. The topic of conversation will be the appointment of the next chief of police of Harrison. Though a vote is possible, officials say the meeting is scheduled only as a discussion meeting. If the mayor and members of the vote are prepared to make a decision, they would most likely appoint a new chief after an executive session.

Up for the job are Capt. Anthony Marraccini, Lt. Doug Buschel and Lt. Larry Marshall. By law, Harrison must appoint a new chief by March 30 - 90 days since Chief David Hall retired from the post. Also by law, the town must name an appointee out of the three candidates within the department.

Town of Eastchester Recreation Egg Hunt

The Town of Eastchester Recreation Department is holding its annual Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 27 at 2:00 PM for girls and boys up to grade four. There will be thousands of eggs scattered on Town Hall lawn, 40 Mill Road. Bring a basket to fill up with lots of goodies. You might even catch a glimpse of a special Bunny. The event is FREE and registration is not required. If you have any questions regarding any of our programs, please call 771-3311.

NCAA picks by New Rochelle City Manager Chuck Strome

Take a look inside the mind of the man who steers the New Rochelle ship to see his Final Four picks.

The bracket remains pretty status quo until the Elite Eight when Strome puts it all on the line with his pick of the tournament, the #2 seed Ohio St. Buckeyes bumping tournament favorite Kansas. Three #1 seeds - Kentucky, Duke and Syracuse round out the Final Four.

Kentucky and Syracuse, as they say "survive and advance" into the final round and Strome again swaying from popular opinion goes with the New York team tagging the Syracuse Orangemen as national champions.

Click here to view his bracket in full.

Coyote spotted in Bronxville

A coyote has been roaming the streets of Bronxville today, according to police.

Sightings were reported on Avon Road, High Road, and Masterton Road. With the rash of sightings of the coyote, Bronxville Police issued safety tips to residents:

March Madness hits Mamaroneck

Hey sports fans! The Sound & Town has a special treat for you in the form of Village of Mamaroneck Mayor Norman Rosenblum's picks for the biggest tournament in American athletics.

Rosenblum, a Vermont alum, said his is a "Favorite Son" bracket. He's picking Vermont over one-seeded Syracuse in the first round and Gonzaga in the second. He said he returns to earth after that, ultimately sending Kansas State to fall to state rival Kansas in the Final Four, but picking Kentucky to take home the title by an 11-point margin.

Click here to see his bracket in full.

Rye Mayor Doug French's NCAA tourney picks

Hey sports fans! Here is Rye Mayor Douglas French's (R) field of 64.

The mayor's bracket is pretty conservative with mostly higher seeds and favorites but one pick in particular might make some scratch their heads - Purdue heading into the Sweet Sixteen even with the loss of their star forward Robbie Hummel.

His Final Four picks are considered safe bets settling on #1 seeds - Syracuse, Kentucky and Kansas as well as Villanova, a #2 seed. In the championship, Kentucky is pitting against Kansas - widely recognized as the top two teams in the country throughout the season - but this is where French swerves from many of the experts landing the young and brash Kentucky Wildcats as national champions.

Click here to view his bracket in full.

March Madness fever

It's the most wonderful time of the year - oh yes it is, none other than the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament [otherwise known as March Madness]. And for all you collegiate athletic aficionados we have a special treat in store for you.

HomeTown Media Group and HomeTown Happenings is set to bring you brackets of the field of 64 from some of our local political elite. They may be able to run municipalities ,but can they pick the next college basketball champion - the jury's still out on that one.

So stay tuned for some high-octane, month-long basketball and try and match your brackets up against the political pros - if you dare.

Take a look online and in all our printed editions next week.

Shared services report release by tri-municipal committee

The Tri-Municipal Shared Services/Consolidation Study Group has released the report its members have been working on since last summer. The work of 12 lengthy meetings over that time period, the study makes recommendations in several areas, including the police detective bureaus, fire departments, recreation, assessor's services, parking permits and information technology. The full report has been made available online.

Judge tosses suit against Harrison PD

Today, a judge tossed another suit against Harrison Police Department and awarded the town costs of $8,211.60 in a separate case.

The suit dismissed was the second wave of the surveillance camera lawsuit, a decision was entered as a summary judgement (the first wave having already been dismissed). Paul G. Gardephe, U.S. District Judge entered his decision on the case, with much the same reasoning the first wave was dismissed. The judge said the surveillance camera suit was "not a matter of public concern" and therefore was not actionable as a First Amendment retaliation claim. The court characterized prior suits as personal grievances.

The courts issued a judgment in favor of Harrison, in the amount of $8,211.60 in the Duffelmeyer et al. v. Marhshall et al.

For more on the story, visit myharrisonreport.com tomorrow.

Rye Neck, Mamaroneck supers talk school budgets

This month’s Larchmont-Mamaroneck Summit hosted superintendents and administrators from the Mamaroneck and Rye Neck School Districts to discuss the challenges they faced in preparing the budgets that they will present to the community this week.

Rye Neck Superintendent Peter Mustich, who will formally present his recommended budget tomorrow morning, said the district has remained “lean and mean” this year, trimming around the edges of programs rather than making any large cuts. His budget includes a budget-to-budget spending increase of 1.08 percent and a tax levy increase of 1.42 percent. Because the district’s boundaries span two taxing districts, the potential tax impact will different for residents of Rye Town and the City of Rye, who will see and estimated tax rate increase of 2.04 percent and 3.88 percent respectively.

Mamaroneck Schools Superintendent Paul Fried, who will present his budget to the community this evening, said he saw this budget process as “a unified effort” between the district and the community, in which the district recognizes financial hardships and has been transparent and open to community input. His recommended budget comes with a 1.47 percent budget-to-budget spending increase and a 1.42 percent tax levy increase, which Fried attributed to Meryl Rubinstein, the assistant superintendent for business operations, who has looked carefully at every revenue source to close the gap between the budget increase and the tax rate increase. Even so, the estimated tax rate increase for residents is projected to be 2.81 percent.

Tuckahoe Trustee Elections Today

Polls opened at 7 a.m. and will remain open until 9 p.m. for the Tuckahoe trustee election taking place today. Two seats on the Tuckahoe Board of Trustees are up for election.

Deputy Mayor Steve Ecklond (R) and newly-appointed Trustee Stephen Quigley (D) are seeking to hold onto their current seats on the board. No other candidates have announced.

The polling places for today's election are as follows:

10th District - Tuckahoe Community Center, 71 Columbus Ave.
11th District - Assumption Church Hall, 100 Pleasant Ave.
12th District - Assumption Church Hall, 100 Pleasant Ave.
13th District - Tuckahoe Community Center, 71 Columbus Ave.
14th District - Tuckahoe Community Center, 71 Columbus Ave.
32nd District - Tuckahoe Community Center, 71 Columbus Ave.
33rd District - Tuckahoe Community Center, 71 Columbus Ave.

Eastchester St. Patrick's Parade CANCELED

Eastchester's St. Patrick's Day Parade originally scheduled for this afternoon at 3 p.m. was canceled today, due to the effects of the weekend's storm. With emergency personnel busy dealing with the impact of the storm, which cut off power for thousands of Westchester residents, the Town of Eastchester asked the organization to call off the event due to a shortage of available police and other resources, according to the Eastchester Irish-American Social Club website, eastchesterirish.org.

The Town of Eastchester site notes that the parade will be rescheduled, but no future date has yet been set. The Eastchester Irish members-only festival at Lake Isle, originally set to follow the parade, is still scheduled to be held at 5 p.m. today.

Stay with Home Town Media Group for more updates on the Eastchester St. Patrick's Day Parade and the aftermath of the weekend's storm.

Senator Schumer calls Toyota to task over Harrison accident

Sen. Charles Schumer was at Harrison Police headquarters today, calling for Toyota to cooperate with an investigation if a Monday Prius accident on Purchase Street was the result of a manufacturing defect.

“It’s time for Toyota to work in good faith with the Harrison police department and turn over the information that the investigators need to get to the bottom of this accident,” Schumer said. “This is about basic fairness. If a person goes out to buy a product they have the right to know all the facts. If a product is being recalled then the information should be readily available for consumers as well, and that’s what I’m going to fight to make happen."

The Osborn, Rye Middle School donate to Haiti

Opposite ends of the Rye age pool were thinking alike in donating almost $6,000 to aid relief efforts in earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

At Rye Middle School, its Reach Out Rye program was able to raise nearly $1,000 toward efforts aiding the impoverished country by selling t-shirts. Generating $902.54 in total the group donated the money to Fonkoze USA, operators of the largest microfinance lending bank in Haiti.

Meanwhile, over at The Osborn continuing care retirement community, senior residents of its Sterling Park community raised $5,000 in funds donated to support the American Red Cross' programs to help the victims of the earthquake.

Rye High School's My Soldier Club to host assembly featuring Bob Woodruff, army major

My Soldier, the Rye High School (RHS) club that works to support our country's active troops, will hold an assembly among the students of the high school to generate awareness of the sacrifices our military makes for our country.

Guest speakers will be television journalist Bob Woodruff, and Major James McCann of the United States Army who has just recently returned from his second tour in Iraq. They will both tell of their experiences in Iraq, as well as present photos and videos. Mayor Douglas French (R) and other Rye City dignitaries are also expected to attend.

The assembly will be held on Monday, March 15 in the RHS auditorium and will be repeated twice; the 9th and 10th grades will attend at 8 a.m. and the 11th and 12th grades will attend at 9:30 a.m.

For the past two weeks, RHS students have been selling specifically-designed t-shirts, for $10, outside the school's cafeteria to raise funds to be donated to organizations that help returning veterans.

My Soldier is not a political group. It is a program started at Manhattanville College to support our troops by sending letters and needed items to the men and women serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Katherine Mechem and Gabrielle Garofalo are this year's co-presidents.

Rye-Harrison set to square off again

The Fifth Annual Rye-Harrison Spelling Bee will take place on Tuesday, March 23 at 7:30 pm in the Rye High School Auditorium. Over 60 students from Grades 6-8 at Rye Middle School and Harrison's Louis M. Klein Middle School will compete in the annual Spelling Bee. The RMS PO has donated funds for the competition and after-bee refreshments. Prize money has been graciously funded by the Rye Rotary.

Rye City Council to hold special financial session

On Monday, March 15 the Rye City Council will hold a special meeting in City Hall to hear a presentation led by City Manager Frank Culross and City Comptroller Jean Gribbins on the city's financial position as well as an overview of budgeted capital projects for the 2010 year. The meeting is expected to begin at 7 p.m. in City Council Chambers; all members of the public are encouraged to attend.

Mayor Douglas French (R) said the city began its financial planning for next year back in January of this year - something outlined in the mayor's State of the City.

"The city manager and comptroller have just completed an initial assessment of 2010 and a look-ahead for 2011," French told HomeTown Happenings on Friday. "The city manager and I felt we needed to get to the council and public an update so we can begin a planning discussion sooner rather than later in order to fully vet our options and generate new ideas with our Finance Department, senior staff, Finance Committee, organizations and the public at-large."

Maisano upset at Jenkins over no public input

County Legislator James Maisano (R-New Rochelle/Pelham) sent a letter to the Chair of the Westchester County Legislators Ken Jenkins expressing disappointment over a vote on the "Health Insurance Contribution Act." Maisano is upset that the vote will take place at a special meeting on Monday March 15 without getting any input from the public. Maisano understands that under law there does not need to be a public hearing but he would prefer to have one and hold the vote to the regular meeting of the County Legislator on Monday March 22.

Mamaroneck PD issues "stranger danger" alert

The Village of Mamaroneck Police Department has issued a "stranger danger" alert after a man in a white sedan tried to pick up a Mamaroneck student as she waited for the school bus.

Rye Neck Schools Superintendent Peter Mustich issued the following communication this morning to warn parents of the incident and remind students of proper safety precautions:

The Village of Mamaroneck Police Department called earlier today to notify us of a stranger danger incident in the community on Tuesday morning. An older model white sedan with a male driver inside stopped near an 11-year old girl waiting for a school bus in the Harbor Heights area of the Mamaroneck School District. The male is described as possibly Hispanic, having hair slightly below his ears, slightly heavy set, and short. Without saying a word, the driver beckoned the child to enter the vehicle. The girl rightly refused the driver’s advance, and instead boarded the school bus, which was traveling just behind the car.

Any further information can be forwarded to Youth Officer Osvaldo Ramos at 914-825-8562.

Parents are encouraged to be vigilant for suspicious activity regarding their children and to reinforce basic safety precautions:

· Do not talk to strangers
· Never enter a vehicle with a stranger
· Walk in public areas when possible and walk in groups
· If approached by a stranger, run to safety
· Try to remember license plate numbers or other descriptive information
· Call 911 immediately and report suspicious behavior to the police

We will continue to work together with the police department and parents to ensure the safety of children.

Mamaroneck Town and Village seek to purchase Hampshire

The Village of Mamaroneck and Town of Mamaroneck, along with the Trust for Public Land, have announced that they are working to purchase Hampshire Country Club. They have released a joint statement regarding their intentions:

The Village and Town of Mamaroneck are working with the Trust for Public Land, to pursue the possible purchase of the Hampshire Country Club in the Village of Mamaroneck, New York.

The Trust for Public Land (TPL) is a national, nonprofit, land conservation organization whose stated mission is to conserve land for people to enjoy as parks, community gardens, historic sites, rural lands, and other natural places, ensuring livable communities for generations to come.

We are interested in the purchase of this property. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the Village of Mamaroneck and the entire Town of Mamaroneck.

The Village and the Town in conjunction with the Trust for Public Land will continue to pursue negotiations with the Club’s representatives, and will continue to perform our due diligence with regard to this purchase.

EUFSD Board of Education President to speak out on Wicks Law

Eastchester Board of Education President Willa Brody will be participating in a press conference tomorrow morning, Friday, March 12, at 10:15 a.m. in Tarrytown to call for a repeal of Wicks Law.

Accompanying Assemblywomen Sandy Galef (D-Ossining) and Amy Paulin (D-Eastchester), Lisa Davis, executive director of the Westchester-Putnam School Boards Association and Karen Zevin of the Croton School Board, Brody will speak on the problems posed by the nearly 90-year-old state law, which places constraints on the bidding and contracting process for public construction projects.

Wicks Law, which applies to all public entities including school districts, requires the use of several separate contracts for public construction, as opposed to seeking bids for a single general contractor. Detractors say that the law leads to increased costs for capital projects.

"The bidding process just ends up becoming very complicated under Wicks Law," said Brody, on the challenges under the current law. "What happens is one person is not accountable for everyone's performance."

Brody also addressed her rationale for supporting the appeal and what she hopes will result from tomorrow's press conference.

"Anything that could save the school district money and allow us to proceed responsibly with our construction projects is certainly something we're going to endorse," Brody continued. "There needs to be legislative action on this, and I think with Amy Paulin and Sandy Galef stepping up and spearheading this it will enlighten their legislative peers and enable this to happen."

Deputy Mayor Ecklond appointed to County Electrical Licensing Board

Tuckahoe Deputy Mayor Steve Ecklond (R) attended his first meeting Tuesday as a member of the Westchester County Electrical Licensing Board.

Ecklond was appointed to the board two weeks ago by County Executive Rob Astorino (R) to serve as the municipal representative to the volunteer board, which has seven members and meets once per month.

The board's role is to regulate the licensing of master electricians in Westchester County. Ecklond's term on the board expires Dec. 31, 2014.

"I appreciate the confidence that County Executive Rob Astorino has placed in me for this appointment," Ecklond said Wednesday morning. "I look forward to serving the residents of Westchester County in this capacity."

Lowey Calls for Federal Investigation of Harrison Prius Crash

Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland) today called on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to investigate a recent car accident in Harrison NY involving a Toyota Prius that accelerated suddenly, which could have resulted in a severe injury.

“Drivers need answers about why their vehicles may suddenly and uncontrollably accelerate, and the problem needs to be fixed,” said Lowey. “As NHTSA investigates consumer complaints against Toyota and potential causes for these crashes, it must consider this recent crash, which could have resulted in serious injury or death.”

On Tuesday, March 9, a 2005 Toyota Prius in Harrison, New York accelerated suddenly down a winding driveway, crossed a two-lane road and shoulder, and crashed into a stone wall. The crash resulted in significant property damage and a knee injury to the driver. Despite several such accidents, model years 2004-2009 Toyota Priuses have not yet been recalled because the cause of sudden acceleration is still unknown and a solution has not been developed.

As Toyota continues to air television commercials, Lowey also called on the automotive company to redirect immediately planned marketing and advertising expenditures toward critical engineering research, which is needed to determine the cause of these sudden acceleration crashes and devise a solution.

“Toyota has no business airing commercials at a time when their cars are malfunctioning so severely. At this time they should concentrate on protecting their customers, not selling more potentially dangerous cars.”

Concordia to host book lecture on 2008 election

John Heilemann, a political journalist and author, will give a lecture at Concordia College in Bronxville, next Thursday, March 18 at 7:30 p.m. Heilemann will speak about his book chronicling the 2008 presidential race entitled "Game Change: Obama and the Clintons, McCain and Palin, and the Race of a Lifetime."

Co-authored by Mark Halperin, the book provides a behind-the-scenes look at numerous players in the campaign. Stemming from Heilemann's work as a political correspondent for New York magazine, "Game Change" is currently #1 on the New York Times non-fiction bestseller list.

Copies of "Game Change" will be on sale following the lecture, and there will be an opportunity to have them signed by the author.

The lecture will take place in the Sommer Center for Worship & the Performing Arts on the Concordia campus at 171 White Plains Road. As a part of Concordia's Books & Coffee series, the event is free and open to the public.

Low graduation rates amongst blacks and Hispanics

According to statistics, in June 2009 New Rochelle High School graduated only 55 percent of its black student population and 51 percent of Hispanic students. The high school has over 3,400 students; roughly 60 percent are of color.

More in the paper next week.

City changes time of public hearings

Beginning Tuesday, March 16, New Rochelle public hearings will begin at 7:30 p.m., followed by Citizens to be Heard. Hearings used to begin at 8 p.m.

Tuckahoe makes Home Rule request on parking

At the March 1 meeting of the Tuckahoe Village Board, the board passed a resolution to make a home rule request of the state legislature on expanding the right of the village to issue parking stickers to residents.

Residents in certain areas of the village are currently eligible for stickers which exempt them from the posted time limits for parking on the affected public roads. The state must approve all such requests.

According to Tuckahoe Mayor John Fitzpatrick (D), the village is trying again to push for exemptions for residents in the north end of Tuckahoe, near the Crestwood Train Station, which have felt more pressure on parking in recent years.

The past two years, the board has made an identical request, only to have it pass in the senate but die in the assembly. The board is hopeful that this year the proposal might move through both houses and pass.

Eastchester Irish advertise parade

Members of the Eastchester Irish-American Social Club have been making the rounds this past week, advertising the upcoming 6th annual Eastchester St. Patrick's Day Parade to be held this Sunday, March 14 at 3 p.m.

Stephen Huvane, accompanied by Pat Murtagh and Tom Huvane, respectively, made appearances at last week's meetings of the Tuckahoe Village Board and the Eastchester Town Board to rally support for the parade, which will have a record nine pipe bands in addition to other local acts among the marchers.

This year the parade will feature its first ever co-Grand Marshals, Mike Hynes and Steven Carty, proprietors of the popular restaurant Mickey Spillane’s on White Plains Road, who were named at the organization’s annual Christmas party on Dec. 12.

The Eastchester Irish have also announced Margaret Murtagh and Nancy O’Neil as the year’s honorees in the parade.

The parade will begin this Sunday at 3:00 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church in Tuckahoe, and will end at Lake Isle Country Club. Marchers are encouraged to park at Lake Isle, where shuttles will meet them and take them to the parade starting point at Immaculate Conception.

VOM Committee for the Environment looks to grow

The Village of Mamaroneck Committee for the Environment is seeking to expand. Members of the Board of Trustees last night set a public hearing on a proposed law that would expand the committee from its original membership of seven members to 11 members. The intent of the expansion is to allow the formation of subcommittees so that members can focus heavily on certain projects. Those interested in joining the new committee can send their resumes care of Trustee Toni Ryan at Village Hall: 123 Mamaroneck Ave., Mamaroneck, NY 10543.

Former president thrown out of Rye PBA

Tim Chittenden - a retired Rye City police officer - has been thrown out of the union retroactively by a unanimous vote of its membership, according to a police union official.

The orchestrated move follows the Rye PBA' suspension of Chittenden and lawsuit filed in state Supreme Court, back in January, seeking $179,121 in PBA funds. The union is accusing him of using funds, not authorized, beginning in 2003.

At its March 5 meeting, the union put a recommendation to expel Chittenden, a Rye resident, to a vote. According to Franco Compagnone, the current union president, the members in attendance voted unanimously to do so. The move is retroactive to Nov. 23, 2009 predating the embattled former president's December retirement from the department.

In January, he was suspended pending further notice after an internal investigation revealed the apparent misappropriation of union money for personal use, attorney fees, beer, and a storage facility - a recommendation for suspension came forward and was approved.

Chittenden served as PBA president for 13 years, and most recently as treasurer since 2008; he was removed from that position on Jan. 28, 2010. He spent 25 years in the Rye Police Department.

HTA to present check to Harrison Food Pantry

The Harrison Association of Teachers will present a $4,000 check to the Harrison Food Pantry at tonight's meeting of the Harrison Town Board.

Continue to visit our blog for more on this story.

Rye High School's Parsons Street Players dress rehearse

The Rye High School Parsons Street Players will be performing the hilarious winter production of "How to succeed in business without really trying". Opening Night is Thursday, March 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the High School Performing Arts Center, Parsons Street, in Rye. Additional performances will be held on Friday, March 5 at 8 p.m., with a matinee on Saturday at 2 p.m. and the final performance that same night at 8 p.m.

Prior to the show The Rye Sound Shore Review caught a glimpse of their dress rehearsal in anticipation of the opening night.

For further information please contact Larraine Mohr (917) 375-8145.

City launches new web redesign

Thanks to a generous partnership with CivicPlus, a nationally known website design and development firm specializing in municipalities and school districts, the City of New Rochelle launched its new website as the winner of the 2009 “Extreme Website Makeover” Competition. The site can be viewed at www.newrochelleny.com.

The total for design and development of the site and two years of free hosting, valued at over $65,000, was provided at no charge to the city. The city’s last web redesign was in 2001.

New Rochelle school budget proposes 3.8% tax increase, potential layoffs

The City School District released their proposed budget for the 2010-11 school year with a 3.8 percent increase to property owners. Due to a reduction of approximately $3.65 million from last years' budget, approximately 25 to 35 positions are potentially on the chopping block.
On average across New York State, Gov. David Paterson is calling for an 8% percent reduction in state aid to public schools. New Rochelle is getting cut 15 %. Approximately 25 employees of the City School District will be retiring plus 10 to 15 resginations are expected. The total budget is $225,813,303.

TONIGHT: MUFSD work session focuses on energy efficiency and budget

The Mamaroneck School District Board of Education will devote a great deal of its regular work session tonight to a third budget reduction initiative meeting. A review of the district's preliminary energy audit is scheduled for the first 45 minutes of the meeting, with the district striving to begin the budget portion of the meeting by 7:45. The budget review will take on a similar format to the Feb. 2 and Feb. 9 meetings with a presentation by Superintendent Paul Fried follwed by comments and questions from board members and the public.

The meeting will take place in the Mamaroneck High School Tiered Classroom at 7 p.m.

Peter Pan flies at Rye Neck this weekend

The award-winning musical theater program at Rye Neck High School will be putting on four performances of Peter Pan at the RNHS Performing Arts Center this week, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and a Saturday matinee that begins at 1 p.m. Though all performances are currently sold out, there is a possibility that tickets may become available at the door. A waiting list will be generated 45 minutes before each performance at the entrance of performing arts center.

The Rye Sound Shore Review to feature Superintendent's School Budget Report

For the second consecutive year, The Rye Sound Shore Review will be running a Rye City School District Budget Newsletter.

The report will feature the remarks of Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edward Shine and will offer the community a view of the complicated 2010-11 budget process up close and personal. On Tuesday, Feb. 23 the superintendent presented his recommended budget calling for a 1.32% budget-to-budget increase, a 1.96% tax rate increase and $69,791,200 in spending.

The ongoing budget report begins in March and runs through April when the School Board must adopt its budget and May when the community votes on the plan.

You can expect the first installment of the report in the March 5 edition of The Rye Sound Shore Review.

Rye High School's Parsons Street Players at it again

The Rye High School Parsons Street Players will be performing the hilarious production of "How to succeed in business without really trying". Opening Night is Thursday, March 4 at 7:30 p.m. at the High School Performing Arts Center, Parsons Street, in Rye. Additional performances will be held on Friday, March 5 at 8 p.m., with a matinee on Saturday, March 6 at 2 p.m. and the final performance that same night at 8 p.m.

This wonderful comedy has a cast of 52 high school singers and dancers, members of the high school orchestra, and professional musicians performing such classic songs as "I Believe in You", "Brotherhood of Man" and "Company Way".

Tickets for adults - $10, students - $5, and senior citizens are free. Tickets will be available at the box office on the day of the performance.

For further information, please contact Larraine Mohr at (917) 375-8145

Proposed School Budget to be released Wednesday

The proposed school budget will be released on Wednesday March 3 at the New Rochelle High School Library at 7 p.m. A regular Board of Education meeting will be held at William B. Ward Elementary School on Tuesday March 2.