December 27, 2003

PUBLIC MAY OBSERVE HISTORICAL MEETING

Recently, the local media has publicized a meeting to which the Larchmont Historical Society Board of Trustees has invited members of the Mamaroneck School Board to discuss the School Board’s proposals with regard to the Richard Kemper Memorial Park. This meeting will be held at 8 pm on January 8 at the Larchmont Village Center.

This meeting was intended as a private meeting for Historical Society board members with the School Board representatives, as our recent meeting with Richard Cantor (a representative of the Kemper family) was. As this has now been announced as open to the public, we have no problem at all with doing so in order that the public can hear about this dispute.

However, in light of the fact that this meeting was called for the purpose of giving our board members an opportunity to hear and question the School Board members and for School Board members to hear the feelings of the Historical Society board, it is my intention to limit questions to board members, or, if time permits, dues-paying members, of the Larchmont Historical Society. I hope that this clarifies the nature of this upcoming meeting.

Fred Baron
President
Larchmont Historical Society

December 8, 2003

HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ON KEMPER MEMORIAL

About three years ago, when I was President of the Larchmont Historical Society, I heard that the Mamaroneck School Board was planning on creating an athletic field and parking lot out of the Richard M. Kemper Park. I thought that there must be some mistake because the land in question had been donated to the School District by a grieving family. This donation was made to not only honor their only son, who was killed in France in l944, but to honor all of those from the community who gave their lives in World War II. But there was no mistake. Fortunately, to protect their donation, the Kemper family had included a restrictive covenant in the deed. Furthermore, New York State Education Law requires school boards to abide by the instructions of donors.

Why should we, as a community, insist on the preservation of this park as is? Because it provides vital insight into our community’s history. Far more lives were lost here during World War II than in any war, before or since. No matter where you lived, there was a family close by who had lost a loved one. Our community grieved and suffered. Many of the dead were not buried stateside. Others were never buried at all because their bodies were never recovered. Adolph and Helen Kemper’s gift, the park with its monument and trees, helped to give all of the families and friends some closure. It was a place to go to remember what had been and what would never be. Thousands, if not millions, of tears were shed on this ground. Each name represents heartbreak.

The School Board claims that their proposal means no disrespect to these individuals. To me, it does. Honoring the individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice is the most important thing in this discussion and honoring the promise made to Adolph and Helen Kemper is a close second. Both are way more important that any athletic field. It may be difficult for Kevin O’Shea (Journal News, Letters to the Editor, November 26, 2003) to schedule practices but it doesn’t come close to the difficulty the community had in dealing with the deaths of 100 young men and women in just three and a half years. This is the only memorial that honors everyone who lived in the Mamaroneck School District.

The School Board now says that the Kempers’ vision of a memorial park no longer has merit because it is in the wrong location. I beg to differ. The location is just fine and the vision is just fine. As a matter of fact, it is perfect.

It is the duty of the School District to abide by the promises made to a donor. If it can no longer do so, then the gift should go back to the donor with sincere apologies. Using it for another purpose is tantamount to theft.

Jan Northrup
Larchmont, NY

November 20, 2003

GAZETTE SCOOPS NEWSWEEK ON WINE

It was with gleeful pleasure that I read in your pixels that Landmark Vineyard's Overlook chardonnay was recommended as a most appropriate partner to our annual Thanksgiving turkey feast.(See: Which Wine with the Turkey?) It was indeed somewhat anticlimactic to find this same insider's tip posted in no doubt recycled pulp on page 92 of Newsweek magazine's November 24th issue. As a local, who still has deep roots in the community I applaud you journalistic scoop.

Eric Stern
formerly of Mamaroneck, NY

November 10, 2003

SPEND MONEY FOR EMPTY NESTERS, TOO

I'd love to see the money being spent on Flint Park (substantially for kids) being matched for the enjoyment of empty nesters and seniors on outdoor activity facilities. The latter don't seem to have the same ability to raise large sums (note the failure of the 11 year struggle to build a real nature center at the reservoir), but need facilities, none the less.

Joe Zelvin
Larchmont, NY

October 29, 2003

BRESCIA: CLEAR CHOICE ON MERIT

We in Mamaroneck and Larchmont are fortunate to have Judge Jean Marie Brescia as our Town Justice - a justice who was appointed by our own Town Board in January as a result of an open-merit selection process. The Board interviewed several people for the position, including Judge Brescia's opponent in the upcoming election. Judge Brescia was the clear choice of the Board.

I was proud to be at Judge Brescia's swearing-in ceremony. I recall the kind words Supervisor Valerie O'Keeffe had for Judge Brescia's qualifications, and I was impressed by references to Judge Brescia's accomplished legal career and her tireless volunteer service to the community.

I'm proud that our Town has such a qualified Justice, and I appreciate that she was appointed through our Town's merit-based process. I urge you to vote for Judge Brescia on November 4.

Alice Tenney
Mamaroneck, NY

October 27, 2003

ELECT DON DERRICO TOWN JUDGE

As a resident and an attorney with a local practice, I can only begin (in this short space) to tell you how important it is to have a Judge who has prior experience practicing law in the local courts. The Town of Mamaroneck Justice Court handles a wide range of matters, including not only criminal cases, but the court also has jurisdiction over such matters as small claims, landlord -tenant disputes, vehicle & traffic violations and violations of local ordinances.

To be an effective Town Judge, a person must have extensive experience handling these types of matters; the Court should not be a training ground. Donald Derrico, a lifelong resident of Mamaroneck, has practiced law locally for more than a decade and has handled hundreds of the types of matters that routinely come before our Court. When you compare the resumes of the candidates it is obvious that Donald Derrico has substantially more real "hands on" experience. The Town of Mamaroneck deserves a Judge who is familiar with the day to day issues that come up in our local Court, and its ins and outs.

Finally, Donald Derrico is known to have a judicial temperament. He will listen closely to the issues of each case, treat all parties with respect, and make just decisions. This factor is of extremely great importance in choosing a judge. Who we elect as Judge in the Town of Mamaroneck is vitally important to us all. I urge you to vote for
Donald Derrico for Mamaroneck Town Judge on Tuesday November 4.

Carol (Kirshner) Carozza
Larchmont, NY

October 23, 2003

QUALIFICATIONS MATTER, NOT PARTY

I have practiced law for more years than I care to admit and have lived in the Town of Mamaroneck for almost 20 years. I knew the Hon. Martin King our former Town Judge for many years. Marty King was not only a good friend but a great Judge. Despite the fact that I am a registered Democrat I always voted for Marty King, a Republican, because I believe that when selecting a Judge political affiliation is irrelevant.

I have known Donald Derrico for 10 years. In fact, we have been adversaries on several matters. Not only is he an excellent trial attorney but a gentleman as well. As a Trial Attorney with many years as a member of the Bar I think I have some insight as to what qualities make a good Judge. A Judge must be chosen based upon experience, temperament and knowledge of the law, not which party they are registered in. Therefore, please join me in supporting Donald Derrico on Tuesday November 4, 2003.

Leonard Arye
Mamaroneck, NY

October 23, 2003

DON DERRICO FOR JUSTICE

I write this letter in support of the election of Don Derrico as Judge in the Town of Mamaroneck. Don is not only a life long resident of the Town but is an experienced trial attorney. The Town of Mamaroneck has had a long-standing tradition of a bipartisan judiciary … until this year. In December Judge Martin King, who served with distinction for more than 20 years passed away. The Democratic dominated Board appointed a fellow democrat despite Supervisor Valerie O'Keeffe's recommendation that Donald Derrico be appointed. Apparently, the Democrats on the Board felt that party affiliation was more important than qualifications. Don Derrico has over a decade of experience trying civil and criminal cases. Further, Don is a certified Small Claims Arbitrator who sits in New York and Bronx County Civil Court. Don has tried hundreds of cases over the years and has appeared in local courts for more than a decade. Party affiliation should not be the measuring stick we use when electing a Judge in the Town of Mamaroneck. I urge the residents of the Town of Mamaroneck to vote for Don Derrico on Tuesday November 4, 2003.

Kristy McKeon
Larchmont, NY

October 20, 2003

BRESCIA IS BEST FOR TOWN JUSTICE

Jean Marie Brescia is the best candidate for Mamaroneck Town Justice. We've known Jean Marie for over seven years as a good friend, trusted neighbor and reliable colleague. Jean Marie is a good person, a moral person. She has worked very hard on behalf of our community as the President of the Mamaroneck Avenue School PTA and Trustee of the Library Board. She possesses the rare quality of modesty: downplaying her Harvard Law credentials, vast courtroom experience and extensive community service, she prefers to focus instead on accomplishing the job at hand.

Our town would be well-served by this level-headed, non-partisan candidate. We will be voting for Jean Marie Brescia for Mamaroneck Town Justice on November 4.

Harry Gaffney and Judith Dupre
Mamaroneck, NY

October 15, 2003

JUDGE BRESCIA KNOWS THE COURTROOM

As an attorney admitted to practice in New York State and the United States District Courts for the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York for over 14 years, I recognize in Town Justice Jean Marie Brescia the qualities we residents of Mamaroneck and Larchmont deserve in our Town Justice--fairness, impartiality, integrity, intelligence and a judicial temperament. From my years of experience in courts throughout the New York area, I understand how important these qualities are in judges, especially on the
local level.

Judge Brescia knows the inside of a courtroom. As a Legal Aid attorney in Manhattan and Brooklyn representing children in abuse and neglect cases, young people in criminal cases, families in landlord/tenant proceedings and seniors in social security cases, Jean Marie was constantly in court. Jean Marie also knows how to run court proceedings from her years as an impartial hearing officer in special education cases and for the New York State Banking Department. She is truly an asset to our Town Court and our community as a whole.

On November 4, I will vote for Judge Brescia and I hope that the people of Larchmont and Mamaroneck will recognize her
qualifications and commitment and vote for her, too.

Hank Joselson
Mamaroneck, NY

September 29, 2003

OUR FAR-FLUNG CORRESPONDENTS: NOTE FROM EDINBURGH

It was an amusing coincidence that I received the weekly update from Larchmont Gazette, including Diana Hechler's piece on Edinburgh, from the computer in the office of my B&B -- in Edinburgh! I spent most of last week in that bonnie city, delivering daughter Kate to the University for grad school. From the seventh floor window of Milnes Court, her residence hall, one can peer up the Royal Mile to the Castle, 2 blocks up the hill. Bagpipe tatoos begin and end the day and will probably occur even more sonorously once the Scottish Parliament reconvenes in their temporary quarters right next door.

Diana makes note of the cobblestones which are ubiquitous along with stone steps leading up, down and around this city, which has, in my experience, not one level street. My best friends during my stay were the sturdy rubber-soled clogs I bought several years ago in Alaska -- rain- and slip-resistant.

The Scots are very proud of their city -- a late-night cabby (bus transportation is more than adequate by day) pointed out Conan Doyle's birthplace, right down the street from the apartments where RL Stevenson wrote "Treasure Island." He also reminded me that Alexander Graham Bell was born in Edinburgh.

For a very pleasant abode when you visit the city I enthusiastically recommend MINGALAR (2 EAST CLAREMONT STREET EDINBURGH - EH7 4JP) run by a delightful professor of linguistics and his wife in the Leith district (the Firth of Forth is visible down the street): quiet, friendly, 3-star, not fancy but very comfortable. The #8 bus (be sure to get the scenic view from the upper level) whisks you from the front door into the center of town.

Restaurants include every imaginable cuisine (we enjoyed Thai and Bengalese foods on various nights) for very reasonable prices.

Enjoy!

Fran Snedeker
Larchmont

August 28, 2003

THANKS FOLEY'S FOR BLACKOUT HELP

I know there are many untold stories that may not get acknowledged, I want to share my personal experience.

My immediate response, upon learning that the blackout was not local, was to drive to Foley's Hardware on Boston Post Road in Larchmont for some emergency supplies. What I found upon my arrival was totally unexpected - the Foley's staff, operating with flashlights, guided customers through the store, now in the early stages of darkness, to find and purchase whatever emergency supplies were available. Batteries and flashlights were the first items to be depleted. There were, however a variety of candles ranging from 12 inch tapers to votive candles to plumbers candles. And, the hot items
were food coolers, charcoal/gas grills, battery operated radios, clocks, fans - even boxes of wooden matches. An extremely orderly and patient line of customers, perhaps 35-40 persons or more, formed in the now darkened store to make their purchases. They were met by the very patient staff who
helped them find what they needed and accepted checks in payment when cash was not available, while owner, John Merrill, tallied each sale by hand on paper. This continued till 6:30 or so in the evening and began again the following day.

Needless to say, the real work was to follow when the power was returned and the sales were now entered into the computer and the stock inventoried and re-ordered, a task, which I'm told, is still ongoing.

Thank you Foley's for all your efforts and for proving, once again, that this community is right there for us whenever a crisis occurs.

Sandra Tashoff
Mamaroneck, NY

July 31, 2003

WATER RATE HIKE UNJUSTIFIED

Ken Bialo is trying to raise Larchmont’s water rates again, this time by 17%, and the increase is not justified.

The stated reason for the increase is to pass through the 12% rate hike by Larchmont’s supplier of water. However, the cost of water represents less than a third of the budget of the Water Fund. (More than two-thirds goes for overhead --maintaining pipes and administration.) Thus, a 3% pass-through increase is closer to the mark.

Another reason was offered -- to maintain and replace the system's infrastructure. However, this rationale was offered for last year’s 15% increase to the current rate of $2.30 per unit. Since then, major capital maintenance projects such as a new water tank remain a vision, and the additional funds have only added to the Water Fund’s surplus.

The development of a list of projects that needs attention, and a fiscally sound program to finance the improvements has been lacking for some time now. A better explanation of the difference between the water purchased and sold by the Village is also needed as there has been an approximately 12.75% variance between those two figures (according to the 1998 figures published on the Village’s web site). If adopted the water rate will have gone up 32% since the administration took over in March 2002, and we have no projects, no plan, and no accounting for a variance that could top 72 million gallons each year.

The big change, however, is in the fine print of the budget approved last Spring. Most of the projected deficit in the Water Fund is because $140,000 was transferred from the Water Fund to the General Fund - $100,000 more than the year before. This administration thinks that the Water Fund should make larger reimbursements to the Village Department of Public Works for overtime for pipe maintenance. Disclosure issues aside, if the Village’s cost accounting policy is uniformly implemented, the General Fund should pay the Water fund more than its $2,000 annual allocation for the water used in watering the plants, fighting fires and cleaning the streets.

My conclusion is that this administration is trying to trim some whopping property tax rate increases by collecting additional revenues through our water bills. I would personally rather pay a justified increase as a property tax increase, since my property tax is tax-deductible and the water charge is not.

I attended the July 14th Board Meeting. Bialo tried to push the rate increase through, but the Board finally relented when three Trustees agreed with me that more information and public comment was needed. Since then, I prepared a detailed analysis, which I have shared with the Board. (Click here for the letter to the Board.) In short, I think the rates should not go higher than that paid by neighboring residents, namely $2.48-2.50 per unit. I also think the inter-fund allocations need to be re-evaluated.

On August 4th the Board is scheduled to hold another hearing and vote on the rate. At that time, the Board should provide residents with a complete explanation for any increase that it adopts and should commit to developing a plan and budget for maintenance of the system.

Michael Gottfried
Larchmont, NY

July 24, 2003

DISCOUNTS DUE AT HARBOR

Swimming at Harbor Island has recently returned this summer after a prohibition due to pollution. We can only hope that the County Health Department continues to find the water safe for swimming but there are no guarantees. Despite the precarious water quality, Village residents are still being charged full price to sit on a beach that may or may not offer a dip in the Sound.

At the June 9, Mamaroneck Board of Trustees meeting the board was asked to consider halving the fee for beach permits in light of the uncertain nature of our water quality. The Board is selling a product, (swimming at the beach) that they obviously can't consistently deliver. A common sense business approach would have been to offer permits this summer at a discounted rate. Having failed to do that the board should at least rebate half of the fee to permit holders.

I am a huge supporter of and worked hard to insure that the Sprayground was installed. I am delighted that it has been such a success. Yet the Sprayground was only intended to be an enhancement to the beach not a replacement for swimming in the Sound. During the recent beach closure the Village was charging admission to the Sprayground even though the Sound's water was off-limits. In most communities small sprayparks are provided free to the public. Almost every New York City park provides one without a fee. Why should Mamaroneck be any different? To add insult to injury adults without children were charged for the privilege of just sitting on the sand.

I sincerely hope that the beach at Harbor Island Park remains open but swimming there will always be tentative at best for the foreseeable future. I believe that the board should, in the interest of fairness, offer fifty percent rebates to current permit holders and to charge future permit purchasers fifty percent less. We should be doing everything in our power to encourage people to come back to our beach and to enjoy the park.

Tom Murphy
Mamaroneck NY

July 22, 2003

DAVIS -BEST OF OUR GENERATION

I was happy and suprised to see an article about my little brother's friend, Dan Davis, and see pictures from the going away party we held for him at our house. Furthermore, I was delighted to see the picture of the cake I modified/decorated for the occasion. Dan is an amazing young man, a good friend, with a clear set of goals and aspirations. I have no doubt that he will accomplish whatever he sets out to do. Thank you for giving credit to him and showcasing the best of what our generation has to offer: discipline, aspirations, and dedication. He will always have a home here in Larchmont/Mamaroneck.

Kate Jenkins
Larchmont, NY

July 20, 2003

RECORD: 336 SWIM SOUND

Many thanks to John Spollen and you for the excellent coverage of the 11th Annual Swim Across America(SAA) event this past week in Larchmont. A record number of 336 swimmers splashed into the Sound swimming to fight cancer.

As you reported, $565,000.00 has been raised to provide cutting edge research and treatment to cancer patients. Since 1992, the SAA Long Island Sound chapter has raised over $3,000,000.00.
When you consider that in 1992, SAA had 28 swimmers and raised $16,000.00, this event has come a long way.

This is truly a local, grass roots event whose support is gathered here and from the neighboring communities of Larchmont. Thank you.

Jim Smith
Swim Across America
Mamaroneck, NY

July 14, 2003

OPPOSE THE PATRIOT ACT

A group of Village of Mamaroneck citizens approached our trustees on Monday July 14 to get a resolution passed that protects major parts of our Bill of Rights, such as the right to privacy. With the implementation of the USA PATRIOT ACT and more specifically Section 215, such privileges are being threatened. In September, we will be making a similar request to the Human Rights Commission.

The act, for example, defines “domestic terrorism” so broadly that any act “that violates a criminal law," and “is dangerous to human life,” and also “appears to be intended to influence the policy of government” could be considered a terrorist act.

Federal policies adopted since September 11, 2001, including provisions in the USA PATRIOT Act threaten fundamental rights and liberties by:

(a) authorizing the indefinite incarceration of non-citizens based on mere suspicion, and the indefinite incarceration of citizens designated as “enemy combatants” without access to counsel or meaningful recourse to the federal courts;

(b) limiting the traditional authority of federal courts to curb law enforcement abuse of electronic surveillance in anti-terrorism investigations and ordinary criminal investigations;

(c) expanding the authority of federal agents to conduct so-called “sneak and peek” or “black bag” searches, in which the subject of the search warrant is unaware that his property has been searched;

(d) granting law enforcement and intelligence agencies broad access to personal medical, financial, library and education records with little if any judicial oversight;

(e) chilling constitutionally protected speech through overbroad definitions of “terrorism;”

(f) driving a wedge between immigrant communities and the police that protect them by encouraging involvement of state and local police in enforcement of federal immigration law; and

(g) permitting the FBI to conduct surveillance of religious services, Internet chatrooms, political demonstrations, and other public meetings of any kind without having any evidence that a crime has been or may be committed.

Over 130 localities and cities across the USA have petitioned for the repeal of the Patriot Act. We in Westchester must do the same and get our county legislators to oppose the act and ask for its repeal.

Luis Quiros, Member of the Human Rights Commission
Mamaroneck, NY

June 24, 2003

CHEF GONE FROM SAVINI

Procrastinators lose again! The Post Road restaurant, Savini, just lost its main reason for being. Chef Christina is no longer there for you and us to enjoy her creative menu, excellent cooking and homemade treats ranging from pasta to desserts. We understand that one won't even find the former caring, well-trained waiters, Andre and Brendan. Our personal "thanks" to Christina and crew for many pleasurable dinners.

Phyllis & Murray Wittner
Larchmont, NY

June 6, 2003

LEAF-BLOWER BAN BEING IGNORED

I applaud Susan Lavi's column about noise in Larchmont. Readers may remember I wrote to the Larchmont Gazette last summer with exactly the same complaint.

We are only a few days into the leaf blower ban but already I have heard them running and several times called the police to ask them to silence them.

It seems that I am just trying to find a little peace in my home and would like some serenity to return to Larchmont.

The construction issue is an ongoing problem. It seems the private contractors pay no heed to the hours of work and noise.

I think the village has to address these issues seriously and we as residents must be vigilant in reporting violations.

Jenny Carter
Larchmont

June 6, 2003

GRASS-ROOTS CAMPAIGN FOR LIBRARY FUNDING

Thank you for your coverage of the New Rochelle Public Library budget vote, but may I make one important correction for your readers. I was but one of about a dozen women who came together to organize a grassroots campaign to save our libraries. We were able to do so through the financial support of private monies from The New Rochelle Public Library Foundation, The Partnership for the Huguenot Children's Library, and donations to YES for Libraries.

The Larchmont Gazette has provided fair and accurate coverage of the issues surrounding the budget vote and we are grateful for your help in publicizing the importance of establishing a budget for the NRPL in the manner required by NYS law, so that the future of our libraries could be secure for now and subsequent generations. In many ways the story of the NRPL budget is an important example of how the communities along the Sound Shore are linked. We share borders, we share values, and we share political representation on the state level. We will all be wise to monitor the well-being of our neighboring communities, to "watch each others backs" as my kids would say. I am sure there are many ways we can and should continue to work together. I look forward to that.

Alisa Kesten
New Rochelle, NY

May 26, 2003

GIVING HONOR TO THOSE WHO SERVED

The photos of the Larchmont Memorial Day Parade were superb. You really caught the hometown spirit of the event. Thank you for the investigative piece on the names on the War Memorial at Myrtle Blvd. and Murray Avenue. Your work helps bring alive the terrible sacrifices our young men and women made for our country during times of war.

Please join in giving honor to their memories at our annual Memorial Service Friday, May 30th at 6PM at the above location. Again this year the ceremony will be conducted by our Larchmont American Legion Post.

Valerie Moore O'Keeffe,
Supervisor
Town of Mamaroneck, NY

May 13, 2003

HOMMOCKS TIDAL AREA SHOULD BE PRESERVED

The upcoming improvements to Flint Park offer a great opportunity to make the Hommocks tidal area accessible to the Larchmont/Mamaroneck community. This area is a salt water inlet off of Larchmont Harbor on Long Island Sound located behind Flint Park. It is a nursery and hatchery for a large number of species of birds, fish and other wildlife. Many ducks winter in the area, including species not easily observed in Westchester County, such as the American Black Duck, Blue-winged Teal, Bufflehead, Canvasback, Common Loon, Goldeneye, and Merganser. Recently, Osprey and other birds of prey have returned and again begun nesting in the area.

The plans to improve Flint Park should allocate sufficient space to make this area accessible to the public in a natural state and maintain a sanctuary for the animals. The monies received by the community to develop the area came from an Environmental Protection Fund grant for playing fields, to restore native plant life, and to provide waterfront access and visibility. Yet the preliminary plans call for the current buffer zone to be greatly reduced and sporting fields to be moved much closer to water's edge.

The animals that nest in this area are sensitive to this encroachment and may lose one of the few breeding grounds left to them in lower Westchester County on Long Island Sound.

We should use this opportunity to sensitively develop and open this area for the education and enjoyment of the community. The Mayor and Trustees of Larchmont are wisely seeking input from the community on the plans for Flint Park. A well organized and vocal constituency needs to advocate on behalf of the protection and enhancement of this beautiful natural area and the animals that live there.

Our Village officials and the community groups who have volunteered their considerable efforts and time to beautifying Flint Park are seeking input. Members of the community can register their interest in preserving this important environmental area with these community groups (such as the Flint Park Conservancy and the Village's newly formed Environmental Committee), with local environmental organizations and Larchmont's elected Village officers.

Michael Zupon
Larchmont

May 8, 2003

COMMENTS ON BUDGET SURPLUS DESERVE RESPECT

Comments reported here and elsewhere convey a disturbing response by some Republican members of the Larchmont Village Board to the passage of the 2003-4 budget. Two Democrats expressed concern over the large amount taken from surplus and allocated to next year’s revenues in order to control the tax rate increase. Trustees Kolbert and McAndrews commented because they found the amount, $420,000, to be so great. And indeed it is historically the largest ever. Comments are surely in order.

The Republican response, failing to acknowledge the validity of comment, was typically dismissive. One said, in effect, “Don’t panic.” Questioning is not panicking. The other said, in effect, “The surplus is the people’s money and we’re giving it back to them. They’ve been overtaxed for years.” Neither of those statements is true. In fact, they reveal a very shallow understanding of government and taxation.

Paying taxes is not the same as shopping in a store. You don’t check out your police protection, fire protection, recreation, street cleaning, etc., render payment and get change. You entrust your tax money to elected people to fund village services at a level they have determined to be necessary. If there is revenue unspent at the end of a fiscal year, that revenue is retained by the village till needed for expenditures. There are no refunds. Even allocating surplus to an anticipated budget is not a refund. It is the exercise of the rights and duties of elected officials to manage village finances in a manner consistent with their fiduciary responsibility to the village residents.

It is also a fact that unexpended tax revenues are not the only source of surplus funds. Far from it. Other sources are non-tax revenues that exceed budgeted figures, insurance reimbursements and investment earnings, which our treasurer has always pursued assiduously. Attributing surplus funds exclusively to over-taxation is false.

The prudent use of surplus funds also allows the Village to address emergencies without borrowing at what might be an inauspicious time. Yes, major capital projects are funded by issuing bonds. But that method of financing is not always the most appropriate or prudent. For example, St. Augustine’s school annex, now the senior center and children’s library, was purchased with funds taken from surplus. Surplus funds also paid for reconstruction of the Nassau Road sewer line when it unexpectedly collapsed and required instant repair. There was no need to borrow. Remember, money borrowed must be repaid, both principle and interest. It is not free.

While drawing down funds from surplus for use in an annual budget may be acceptable, the amount of the funds so used requires prudent judgment and thoughtful discussion. To dismiss questioning and comments is inappropriate. Respect for questioners is essential to civil government.

Miriam Curnin
Larchmont, NY

April 24, 2003

SENIORS SHOULD GET ONLINE, LEARN FROM KIDS

I agree with your editorial about what cybernetics can do to help local government reach the citizens. My answer, in two words, is: A lot!

Although I have been a Virginian for more than a year,I lived 46 years in one house in Larchmont and eagerly follow Larchmont news online through The Larchmont Gazette, a great innovation in local journalism.

So the fact that Town officials are pondering email and the Internet as means of keeping the citizenry informed is good news. And much as I admire Supervisor Valerie O'Keeffe, I agree with you that local government can't wait for 100 percent of the population to get computers and get into the Internet and the email circuit. No doubt many citizens, mostly the elderly, could not now be in the cyber loop with local government--but that problem is not insoluble.

I have a suggestion for senior citizens who want to follow local government news but lack computers and/or the skill to use them. Let your children teach you! That's what I did. I have a son and a niece who have patiently led me along to where I can buy books and other stuff I want online, print out a map online, do family genealogy online, get my Larchmont Gazette delivered weekly to me in Virginia by e-mail, Gazette, and e-mail friends and family as far away as California and England. Right now I'm working with Virginians and New Yorkers on a project relating to the United Nations, and how do we communicate? E-mail, of course. How do I communicate with my 90-year-old brother-in-law and his daughter in England? E-mail.

I haven't the faintest notion how those little microchips make my computer work, and I don't have to know. It is a Godsend, and my life is a lot richer at age 84 because of it.

And what helped geezers like me can help local government too. Valerie, please reconsider!

Wallace Irwin Jr.
Staunton, VA

April 23, 2003

GAZETTE "ENORMOUSLY HELPFUL"

Your web-paper has grown into an enoromously helpful tool in keeping members of the community informed. Local news is so poorly and sparsely covered that the Gazettee is helping to fill a very large void. The only thing that I find lamentable is that you have not yet branched out to cover the Village of Mamaroneck. Why not morph into the Sound Shore Gazette?

Tom Murphy
Mamaroneck

April 22, 2003

ACTION ON DAVIDS ISLAND NEEDED NOW

Since the late 1960’s thousands and thousands of citizens around Long Island Sound have protested against turning Davids Island over to Con Edison for a nuclear power plant or over to Xanadu or Donald Trump for 55 story towers. Millions of dollars obtained with the help of Congresswoman Nita Lowey and reduction of point- and non-point source pollution have begun the cleanup of one of our most precious resources, Long Island Sound.

All that effort now seems to have been in vain. Due to the current fiscal situation and the high cost of clean- up, action on this vital issue has been put on hold while those hoping to develop the island are beginning to line up once again. There has been a lot of lip-service in Westchester about clean water and the environment, but this latest inaction by the County legislators is simply incomprehensible. The island should be purchased by the County for the benefit of all its citizens and for future generations; cleanup can begin when the fiscal situation improves. Southern Westchester with limited waterfront access and population density should not be a stepchild in Westchester County’s acquisition of parkland and open space.

Imagine if legislators in New York City had adopted the view of Westchester County in planning the city. Central Park would be covered with income-producing apartment houses or office buildings. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity. We can’t squander it. The time to act on Davids Island is NOW, tomorrow will be too late.

Marlene Kolbert
Larchmont

April 7, 2003

ANTI-WAR DEMONSTRATOR HARRASSED

I am a Larchmont housewife and a community activist. I am also a patriotic American who feels our government has led us into the first of so-called pre-emptive wars in Iraq, perhaps to be followed by the same in North Korea and Iran), for the wrong reasons. Despite an onerous government, Iraq did not threaten us and was never proved to have weapons of mass destruction or to have been connected to Al Qaeda and 9/11.

It is heart-rending to me that our brave young American men and women are being killed for other reasons, unacknowledged publicly, by Bush, Cheney and Rusmfeld. In all conscience, I felt compelled to raise my voice in protest and therefore participated in such a demonstration in White Plains on April 6.

For this expression of my perceived patriotic obligation, I have been harrassed by numerous anonymous calls, some threatening, calling for me to leave Larchmont and even America, "or else." There are presumably the same people who profess support for democtratic values like free speech in this country.

Iris Freed
Larchmont

April 7, 2003

ENJOYED BONADONNA ARTICLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

We're in Cape Town, South Africa, and wanted to tell you how much we enjoyed the extremely well written article about Colonel Reed Bonadonna article about Colonel Reed Bonadonna and his family, by Judy Silberstein.

Reed's father, Robert, and his wife Eileen, have been friends of ours for very many years. We met while on holiday in Florida. Last July we visited them while they were visiting Reed and his family in Larchmont, and had the pleasure of meeting the family. They invited us to a bbq and an outdoor concert, and we had such a pleasant time getting to know them all. What a lovely family. And what a nice town too.

Isn't it wonderful how close we all are, despite being thousands of miles apart in Iraq, New York, Florida and South Africa.

Vic & June Barter
Cape Town, South Africa

March 18, 2003

LARCHMONT TAXI STILL VERY MUCH IN BUSINESS

I would like to inform the people of Larchmont that there is no truth to the rumors circulated that Larchmont Station Taxi & Limousine Service International are out of business or have been purchased by Leon's Taxi or Red Oak Transportation. Larchmont Station Taxi is still owned by me, John T. Villanova, and has been since the year 2000 when it was incorporated. I am the same person who innovated the taxi industry in the Village by offering Lincoln Town Cars for taxi service. I have also owned Limousine Service International for the past 20 years - the service many of the people in Larchmont have come to rely on for high quality limousine services.

John T Villanova, Jr.
Larchmont, NY

March 13, 2003

MCANDREWS RESPONDS: PROPAGANDA AND DISTORTION

I take strong exception to the statements made by John Rote in his letter of March 10.

When I took Rhetoric 101, I studied propaganda and its use of distortion, so I know it when I see it.

Throughout this campaign, Geoff Young and I have delivered a positive message of experienced leadership, open government and fiscal responsibility.

Each year I was a trustee I voted to lower taxes by using money in the surplus. In 2000, I voted that $250,240. be used from surplus to lower the tax rate. In 2001, I voted that the surplus be reduced by $191,280.

I believe we should use some of the surplus this year to lower taxes also. The question is how much. My concern is that drawing down the surplus precipitously this year will harm the Village and its taxpayers. The surplus is an asset that keeps our borrowing costs low; allows the Village to pay overbudget and unexpected items, like snow removal, without the costs of borrowing. The surplus produces income and provides the Village with the wherewithal to purchase open land, for example, if the opportunity arises.

The surplus is a Village asset. It is a tool to be used wisely. Thanks to years of careful planning, the Village has a surplus to help mitigate tax increases.

Anne McAndrews
Larchmont

March 13, 2003

REPUBLICANS KEEP PROMISE OF OPEN GOVERNMENT

Last year when the Republicans won the majority on the Village of Larchmont’s board a new era began. The newly elected mayor and trustees immediately kept their promise that village government would be more open and accessible, which it has over the last year.

Last year as a newly appointed member of the expanded Parks and Trees Committee I found myself able to give back to a community I have known all my life and part of the new open government process.

The committee, which I joined, was expanded from 2 members to 7 members and given the task to come up with different ideas, themes and enhancements for the parks in Larchmont; something it had not had a chance to do in the past. This new change directly came from the newly elected Republican majority. Open space for our residents would play an important role going forward and input was going to be needed by an expanded committee of village residents and those who would like to be heard or participate.

The Parks & Trees committee meets on a monthly basis, and the first order of business on our agenda begins with “Those Who Wish To Be Heard”. This allows any member of the community to be heard on issues as it relates to Parks and Tree’s in the Village. Over the last year we have enhanced the structure of the committee. We are hard at work developing ideas and proposals for Addison and Flint Parks and in the process of developing a Tree Ordinance for the Village.

Our liaison to the Village Board, Trustee Verni has given us encouragement and guidance during the past year and I know that his presence at our monthly meetings will be missed when he steps down from office on March 18th.

However, I am confident that both Republican Trustee candidates Wiener and Johansen who I know personally will be committed, as is Mayor Bialo and Trustee Feld to continuing the open government process. I know they will continue to encourage residents to be involved so positive change can make Larchmont a better place for all.

John Stackpole
Larchmont

March 13, 2003

"STUNNED" BY DENIAL OF REQUEST FOR REPORT

At the Larchmont League of Women Voters candidates debate, I was stunned when Democratic candidate Geoff Young said he was told his request for a
consultant's report had been denied by Republican Mayor Ken Bialo. Much of the debate, indeed much of this campaign and past campaigns, has been about "open government."

In discussing "open government," Republican candidates Phil Johanson and Mike Wiener repeatedly stressed open "meetings" and lamented that citizens did not take advantage of opportunities to participate. Open "meetings" are one slice of open "government." Being denied a report paid for with public funds -- taxes paid by property owners -- is something else. Any citizen should be able to see that report.

The Larchmont Republican leadership has set the tone -- and it is not one of open government. The Republican candidates are supporters of a denial of fundamental fair play, not to mention raising suspicion about what is in the consultant report.

Democrats Young and Anne McAndrews were articulate in speaking of the broad concept of open government, which includes reaching out to all sides of an issue, not suppressing those you don't what to hear.

John Boudreaux
Larchmont

March 12, 2003

JOHANSON DEDICATED, COMMITTED

In the March election I will be casting my vote for Village Trustee candidate Phil Johanson. Like Phil, I too, am a lifelong Larchmont resident. I feel that I have come to know him very well over the years and I am qualified to speak about Phil’s character. I know his priorities and abilities, and he will serve the Village well as a Trustee.

As a committed and devoted father, I have witnessed Phil with his four children, and he is one of the most involved men I know.
As a dedicated volunteer, I have seen Phil serve his kids and the community as a coach of kickball, t-ball, baseball, soccer and basketball, as a teacher of religious ed., as the Cubmaster of our Chatsworth Pack 33, and as a parent volunteer in classrooms, at carnivals and on class trips.
As a faithful son, I have also witnessed the numerous times that Phil has been on hand to help out his mother and mother-in-law, both Larchmont residents for 30+ years.

Phil is successful in the financial investment industry in his work. He has also been a dedicated member of the village budget committee. This unique qualification sets Phil apart from all of the other candidates. I feel confident that Phil will work hard for Larchmont. Phil is like many of us with young children. He knows about Larchmont’s past, he cares about Larchmont’s present, he wants to work hard for Larchmont’s future.

Vote for Phil Johanson on March 18th.

Nancy Dyer
Larchmont

March 12, 2003

SUPPORT FOR UNDERSTANDING HANDICAPS PROGRAM

I am writing to voice my support for our school district's elementary
school program "Understanding Handicaps." I was dismayed to learn that this valuable program has been eliminated in the proposed school district budget for next year.

Understanding Handicaps gives children hands-on exercises to experience what life is like for persons living with a variety of disabilities, such as deafness/blindness, physical disabilities, or learning differences. The children also speak with and ask questions of a
person who has that handicap. As a volunteer in my son's classroom
during two of these units, I could see the children developing empathy for the people sharing their disabilities, as well as admiration for their resilience and achievements.

These lessons are at least as important as the ever-increasing emphasis on high test scores. The salary for the professional who conducts this program is a real bargain for the District, one that we cannot afford to eliminate.

Leanne Grove

March 12, 2003

CLARIFYING EDITORIAL

We are writing to correct a misconception that may have occurred on the part of your readers in response to an editorial appearing in the Gazette on February 13, 2003. That editorial was written by the editors of the Larchmont gazette and expressed concern about the process the Village government and the mayor are using to make needed changes in Flint Park as a result of the receiving of a $125,000 grant. It was not written by the Flint Park Conservancy and does not reflect the opinion of the organization, although it may reflect the opinion of individual members.

The Flint Park Conservancy is a bipartisan citizen’s group whose mission is to improve the grounds and facilities in the Park for the community-at-large. The Conservancy has worked with both Democratic and Republican town administrations and believes it is in the best interest of the Village to work cooperatively with government to achieve the results we desire. We are happy to be part of the process and hope that the Village involves other relevant community entities soon. We believe that the best Park for our community will result from the early and active participation of all interested parties in reaching a collaborative plan and joint implementation effort.

The Flint Park Conservancy
Larchmont

March 12, 2003

IN SUPPORT OF WIENER AND JOHANSON

I am writing to express my support for Trustee Mike Wiener and Phil Johanson candidacies for Larchmont Village Trustee.

As a life long resident of the Village of Larchmont, I have known many Trustees and Fire Chiefs and I can attest to the amount of time, energy and dedication it takes to fulfill these positions. Mike Wiener has these qualities. In less than a year, Mike has had many accomplishments; let him continue the work he has begun.
As Trustee, Mike has continued his drive for public safety. He led the enactment of the new residential sprinkler law, long a fire safety issue. He initiated tri-municipal discussions to review and expand emergency procedures. He has solved numerous problems at Village Hall: the wet basement, the new heating system, and installation of the new phone system. He has been a leader in storm water cleanup. He has worked to resolve the flooding in Pine Brook.

I have known Mike since he was a boy. I have watched his volunteer activities mature from Eagle Scout, to a volunteer firefighter, to Fire Chief and now his current service as Village Trustee. There are few, if any of us who could say that they have had 25 plus years of continuous, dedicated volunteer service to this village, as Mike has given.

I have also known Phil Johanson since he was a youth. His dedication to our youth is unsurpassed. Phil’s many years volunteering as a sports coach and Cub Scout leader has proven that he has patience and energy. His service on the Budget committee, and as a financial professional will bring valuable insight and experience to the Board.

Mike Wiener and Phil Johanson have all the necessary skills, energy and dedication to get the job done. I urge Larchmont residents to cast their vote for Mike and Phil on March 18th.

Nancy Andersen
Larchmont

March 10, 2003

MCANDREWS WRONG ON BUDGET SURPLUS

Another election is upon us and Anne McAndrews is still defending the need for a huge budget surplus while advocating a double-digit tax increase for residents. The Village of Larchmont currently maintains a $2.5 million surplus - double what it was 10 years ago. That means that over the past ten years, Village residents have been overtaxed to the tune of over $1 million dollars. Why are our taxes being raised, every year, only to see the surplus balloon?

This is the wrong year for McAndrews, and her running mate, to further punish residents. Right now, we’re facing a County tax increase of at least 14%, and a nearly 10% hike in our school taxes. McAndrews thinks we should reserve our “rainy day fund” for a disaster, or for a project of her liking, rather than use a tiny portion of it to keep our taxes “unrealistically low.” I don’t think anyone in this Village thinks taxes here are “unrealistically low.” For the past ten years, the Village Board has made allocations from the budget surplus to keep taxes affordable. McAndrews knows this, since she voted to do just that during her two years as Trustee. One only needs to look at how the surplus has grown to see that this kind of budgeting hasn’t hurt the surplus one bit. It continues to grow.

Finally, the current operating budget for the Village is approximately $10.5 million. A surplus that is 25% of the operating budget strikes me as both unnecessary and unjust. Most Village residents would rather keep more of their hard-earned money than further contribute to the already bloated Village coffers. With so many residents out of work right now, I don’t know how McAndrews can justify such a hefty tax increase when it’s just not necessary.

On Election Day, Tuesday, March 18th, I urge all residents to vote for Trustee Mike Wiener and Phil Johanson, the two candidates who are committed to sound fiscal policy.

John Rote
Larchmont

March 7, 2003

WIENER EMINENTLY QUALFIED

I am writing in support of Trustee Mike Wiener in the upcoming election in the Village of Larchmont.

I have known Mike since he was a teenager. He has worked toward the betterment of Larchmont for as long as I can remember. From his Eagle Scout project of refurbishing the police garage to his service as a volunteer fire fighter to his subsequent service as Fire Chief and now as a Trustee, He is very involved with both the safety and infrastructure in our village..

Especially in these troubled times, Mike Wiener is eminently qualified to take care of Larchmont as our Trustee. Mike has proven that he has the energy, drive and dedication to get the job done

I urge everyone to vote for him on Tuesday March 18th.

Carolyn Whittemore
Larchmont, NY

March 7, 2003

OUTGOING TRUSTEE FOR JOHANSON, WIENER

I am delighted that Phil Johanson and Mike Wiener are running for Trustee. Two of my biggest priorities since being on the Board have been the long-needed renovation to the business district and Flint Park. I am excited by the progress that this Board has made on furthering the planning of both these projects, and fully intend to stay involved to help see these through to completion. I know Phil Johanson shares these same concerns, and believe his involvement on the future Board would be invaluable for the implementation of these improvements. As a father of young children, coach, and member of the Flint Park Conservancy, Phil will provide a unique perspective as the Board looks to make the park even better. In addition, with a background in finance and a member of the Village Budget Committee, he will be able to make prudent fiscal decisions as it relates to both projects, so that they are reasonable, affordable and balanced with our other responsibilities in terms of the delivery of municipal services.

More importantly, we cannot lose sight that we are living in an age of an ever-increasing threat of war and potential terrorism attacks. No one is more qualified to keep the Board focused on this very unfortunate reality than Mike Wiener. Through his service as a past Fire Chief, Mike has brought real-world experience to the Board this year on the issue of emergency preparedness, most recently spearheading a tri-municipal effort to better prepare the community in the event of a potential disaster. Now more than ever, we all should be comforted that we have someone on our Village Board like Mike Wiener who will help keep us safe.
I encourage everyone to support Phil and Mike in this upcoming election.

Chris Verni
Larchmont Village Trustee

March 6, 2003

WIENER & JOHANSON: PROVEN TRACK RECORD

Responsible Larchmont residents will have to decide in the coming weeks whether to vote for Michael Wiener and Phil Johanson, candidates that have a proven track record for accomplishment and progress. This will not be easy because in some cases it will require us to set aside old time party affiliations and friendships in order to do what is best for ourselves, our families and our community.

We are proud to be members of a relatively modest family that has been deeply committed to our Village for three generations; in this time I cannot recall a more important election or a clearer choice for the future direction of our community. Our Village leadership has been making steady progress in balancing rapidly increasing demands and costs for services (security, police, fire, recreational, and so forth) against a stagnant tax base; now is not the time to abandon these gains.

Michael and Phil are fervently behind the Mayor's commitment to keeping property taxes under control without sacrificing our special way of life. Most of us agree that we are currently facing difficult fiscal, environmental and safety challenges in Larchmont. Our trustees must be prepared to dedicate the kind of time and effort necessary to meet these obstacles. Michael Wiener and Phil Johanson are serious about this commitment and come to this job with sound judgment and vast knowledge of our community, our people, appropriate technical expertise, and business experience.

For example, Michael has been at the forefront of issues involving oversight of environmental, zoning, financial and emergency preparedness initiatives. Phil has been a leader in developing our recreational and community infrastructure. Michael and Phil have devoted many late nights and weekends working for us in areas such as "Storm Water Management", Flint Park Facility Expansion and fiscal oversight, to name a few.

In time we are confident that Larchmont will be well positioned to rebound from our present setbacks. However, we will need dedication, maturity and experience to weather this storm and Michael and Phil are by far the best candidates for us in Larchmont at this moment. They deserve our support on Election Day. Thank you.

Chuck Crowley
Larchmont, NY

March 5, 2003

KOLBERT FOR MCANDREWS YOUNG, BERNSTEIN

I have been in office for one year and I want to thank you again for the confidence you expressed in me when you elected me Larchmont Village Trustee. It has been an exciting learning experience for me, but it’s also been a lonely year.

On March 18th, we have the opportunity to elect a terrific Democratic ticket: for Trustee, Anne McAndrews and Geoff Young; for Village Justice, Jerry Bernstein.

The Board will face some very significant matters in the coming months. Under government mandate, we must clean up our storm water. Plans to improve Flint Park, currently being circulated, will require your input and the delicate balancing of the needs of the many people who love and use Flint Park. Issues of governance in the Village will be very important in the coming year. In the current economic climate, how will we maintain the level of services we enjoy while practicing fiscal responsibility? How important is adding open space to the community? Should we join the Greenway—a move I have been advocating for some time now. Monitoring construction of the SSO (sanitary sewage overflow tanks) behind Flint Park will be vital. I continue to follow developments with Davids Island, an issue with long-term consequences for Larchmont and Long Island Sound. And these are only a sampling of the matters with which the Board will grapple.

We need Trustees now who are knowledgeable and experienced, and have the commitment and vision to deal with these issues. Anne McAndrews and Geoff Young are not only long-standing Larchmont residents, but both have previously served as Trustee. They will not need a tutorial to get up to speed. They understand the issues and will be able to get to work on them immediately. Geoff would tell you that many of the issues