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Archives 2

April 2009, May 2009 June 2009

04-24-09
RUBBISH! Art and the Ecosystem
Artists Use Strong Materials to Make Strong Statements

D. Dominick Lombardi ( Valhalla ) “Don’t Dream Side 1” found objects

     A junkyard dog made from metal rebar, scrunched steel oil drums, a huge slab of cherry wood reaching nine feet into the air, whimsical mechanical contraptions, and bird nests perched on a tower of wooden pallets, are just a few of the beguiling pieces that make up RUBBISH! Art and the Ecosystem!.
     RUBBISH! opens to the public on Saturday, May 16 at The Arts Exchange, the headquarters of ArtsWestchester, in downtown White Plains. The exhibition will be on view through August 29^th. Gallery Hours are Tuesday-Sunday, 12-5 pm and by appointment. For more information, please call (914) 428-4220 x 273 or visit www.westarts.com.
     For RUBBISH! Art and the Ecosystem, over 70 pieces from 20 Westchester artists will be displayed throughout ArtsWestchester’s sprawling Grand Banking Room, mezzanine, sculpture court and second floor gallery. On display will be several large-scale sculptures made from industrial and natural materials that utilize the spacious Banking Room.
     The diverse media that make up the exhibition include everything from drawings and assemblages to installations and sculpture. What unites the distinct pieces is that all of the artists bring new life to found materials (including metal and wood) while making serious statements about personal connections they have to the natural environment and the impact we have on the earth.
     Says ArtsWestchester Executive Director Janet T. Langsam, “Our environmental future will be shaped by the decisions (large and small) that we make every day. However, in order to make good decisions we need to be more conscious of our actions. These artists wake us up. They remind us that nature is precious, they chide us, they jolt us, they encourage us, they offer us a vision…and a compass for the future.”
     RUBBISH! is the second in a series of three exhibitions ArtsWestchester is presenting sponsored by Swiss Re to coincide with the Quadricentennial (the 400^th Anniversary of the first exploration) of the Hudson River. The first exhibition (on view through May 10^th) entitled Hanging by a Thread examined the processes of textile art and its possibilities for recycled materials. An exhibition opening in September will creatively explore the problem of Global Warming. Full story

04-23-09
Financial Fitness Forum taking place May 12 at County center
    Come to Westchester County government’s Financial Fitness Forum and learn how to make better sense of your money. The May 12 event at the County Center will help participants deal with everything from managing their personal finances and saving for college or retirement to credit, mortgages and identity theft. The free program, which runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m., is part of a larger financial education initiative that includes online information about on personal money topics and a "Dollar Sense" workshop series that will run throughout the year. Online registration is being accepted now for this first forum.
     Motivational speaker and Paralympic athlete Ron Williams will start off the forum with a discussion on overcoming challenges, setting goals and working toward reaching them. He will also make a connection between physical fitness and financial fitness in terms of the discipline, skill and practice needed to achieve personal success. Attendees will then participate in smaller workshops addressing different areas of personal finance.
     The workshops include:

Managing Personal Finances in Times of Economic Turmoil
Getting the Most from Your Retirement Savings
Managing Your Credit & Protecting Your Identity
Teaching Your Children About Personal Finance
Paying for College Today - What Does it Take?
What Homeowners Need to Know About Mortgages and Mortgage Assistance

“When it comes to money these days, everyone is making hard choices and experiencing some angst,” said County Executive Andy Spano. “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to find the information they need to make the best choices. This is a chance to hear from the experts and learn how to take better charge of your finances.”
Several financial seminars in the "Dollar Sense" series are directed at seniors and retirees and will also be scheduled throughout the year, beginning in April. The first one, focused on protecting your retirement savings and investments in this economic environment, will be April 17 at the North Castle Senior Center in Chappaqua. Others will be scheduled at different locations throughout the county. Check the online Financial Education calendar for dates and locations. To sign up for the May 12 forum, register online or call (914) 995-2913.

04-20-09
E-Waste Collection Day a Huge Success

Saturday, April 19th was a smashing success for the first E-Waste Collection Day held in E-Waste

Mount Vernon. Municipal Lot #1 on South 5th Avenue was a hotbed of activity as a constant stream of vehicles passed through the collection lanes. Mount Vernon Auxiliary Police were on hand and made sure that traffic flowed smoothly and without confusion as the small army of workers unloaded an estimated 15 tons of E-Waste from the 280 vehicles that came through the parking lot. Everything from old televisions and computers to air conditioners and freezer chests were safely disposed of.

By the end of the sunny and warm day, an entire 30 yard dumpster and a tractor-trailer were jam-packed with refuse that would ordinarily have been dumped in landfills and potentially contaminated the environment with toxic and harmful materials.

Special thanks go to Westchester County for helping to coordinate this successful effort and we look forward to hosting more of these environmentally friendly events in the future.
E-Waste

04-20-09
Volunteers from the Fleetwood Neighborhood Association
Help to Beautify the Armory
On Saturday, volunteers from the Fleetwood Neighborhood Association got FNA together and put in a lot of time and effort to improve the appearance of the Armory on North 5th Avenue. The tool shed outside of the building got a much needed fresh coat of paint and the landscaping work they did made a world of difference. Those who use the building and who live in that neighborhood certainly will benefit from and enjoy the fruits of this labor. Thanks go out to the Fleetwood Neighborhood Association.

04-20-09
No Kidding, Me Too! Movie Screening May 18

     Award-winning actor/producer Joe Pantoliano (see picture) is making his debut as a documentary film director with No Kidding, Me Too!, a film that combats the stigma and shame of mental illness. A work-in-progress, the film will be shown on Monday, May 18 at 7:00 p.m. at the Tarrytown Music Hall , 13 Main Street in Tarrytown , NY . Pantoliano will participate in a pre-screening reception at 6:00 p.m. and will discuss the film and answer questions following the screening.
     The name No Kidding, Me Too! is based on the exchange that often occurs, according to Pantoliano, when an individual discloses their history of mental illness to another person. Disclosure is a moment of vulnerability that is often followed by reassuring affirmation. Statistically, one in every four Americans experiences mental illness at some point in life.
     Proceeds from the May 18 event will benefit The Mental Health Association

of Westchester County, Inc. (MHA) and a non-profit group named No Kidding, Me Too!, started by Pantoliano to educate Americans about the stigma related to all forms of brain disease. Tickets for the movie and Q & A are $10; tickets for both the pre-reception and the movie are $40. Tickets may be obtained from the Music Hall box office, 877-840-0457, or on line from www.tarrytownmusichall.org.
MHA, a not-for profit organization, is the leading resource for mental health services in Westchester County . Through its advocacy, community education, and direct services, MHA meets a broad spectrum of critical needs of thousands of children, adults and families each year. MHA is committed to eliminating the stigma associated with mental illness and fulfilling its guiding values of hope, respect, commitment and progress. Visit MHA’s website, www.mhawestchester.org, for information on critical mental health issues and services in Westchester County .

04-19-09
Mt. Vernon Boy Scout beautifies local park in quest to become Eagle Scout

Prospective Eagle Scout, Adrian Awoonor-Renner, pictured using a chain saw

Story by Joe Parisi
Adrian Awoonor-Renner is a candidate for Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America, the highest ranking a Boy Scout can attain. As part of fulfilling the requirements for achieving the Eagle level in Scouting, he is required to complete a community based service program. After consulting with his parents, he decided to engage in the cleanup and re-establishment of a neglected and heavily littered walking path along a stretch of the Hutchinson River Parkway, not far from his home in Mount Vernon. Adrian appropriately named the project "Reclaiming a Green Space."
With the help of his father, Awoonor-Renner, Scout Master of Troop 40 in Mount Vernon, along with fellow Troop 40 Boy Scouts, friends, relatives and neighbors, Adrian commenced the ambitious and lengthy project in March of this year, finalizing the transformation on Sunday, April 19. Full story

04-18-09
“Draw the Mount Vernon Public Library” contest attracts 130 entries

Ruth Shire (r) pictured presenting a certificate of appreciation to one of the winning students

The Friends of the Mount Vernon Public Library, in celebration of National Library Week, sponsored a “Draw the Mount Vernon Public Library” drawing contest for students in grades three through six. Over 130 entries were received and are currently on display at the library.
On Friday, April 17, twelve contest winners, three from each grade, attended a ceremony in the children's section of the library with family members and friends. Each winner was presented a certificate of appreciation, along with a Borders $25.00 gift certificate by the Ruth Shire, President of "Friends of the Mount Vernon Public Library." Full story

04-17-0
Updated
Klein Calls for Property Tax Relief Now! . . . Unveils Plan to Restore the STAR Rebate Check
Deputy Majority Leader and State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Westchester/Bronx) joined with Senators Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D-Yonkers), Suzi Oppenheimer (D-Mamaroneck), Ruth Hassell-Thompson (D-Mt. Vernon/Bronx), and outraged homeowners to unveil his proposal to provide real relief to middle class homeowners who are struggling under the crippling burden of property taxes. Full story

04-16-09
May is Mental Health Month! Mental Health Association of Westchester County, Inc. (MHA) Announces Events and Activities
May 13, 2009, 11:30 a.m. - “Bridge” for a Cause
Are you a bridge player? Then join us for an afternoon of bridge to benefit MHA's programs and services.
May 18, 2009, 6 p.m. Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main St., Tarrytown, NY
Film Screening of "No Kidding, Me Too!" a documentary directed by award-winning actor/producer Joe Pantoliano. An educational, provocative, inspiring, hopeful and sometimes even humorous look at mental illness and recovery. The screening will occur at 7:00 p.m., preceded by a 6:00 p.m. reception with Mr. Pantoliano and followed by a Question and Answer period.
$40 for the Pre-Reception and Movie, $10 for the Movie and Q & A only. Proceeds benefit MHA and No Kidding, Me Too!, a non-profit that educates America about the stigma attached to mental illness. For tickets visit www.tarrytownmusichall.org or call 877-840-0457.
May 26, 2009, 9:00 a.m., Westchester County Center, White Plains, NY
29th Annual Ira Stevens Conference, "It's All About You: Person Centered Service Planning." A daylong conference for providers who work with adults with serious mental illnesses, individuals receiving services and their families, as well as mental health agency Executive Directors and Chief Financial Planners. It is co-sponsored by MHA and the Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health.
For information about any of these events, contact Constance Moustakas, 914-345-5900, ext. 209 or moustakc@mhawestchester.org.

04-14-09
Senior citizens say “Yes” to good diet and nutrition
“Yes, seniors can eat what they want and still maintain a balanced and nutritional diet…” says Esther Ventillo of the Dumont Masonic Home. Of course there’s a caveat to that statement, she continues “…within moderation.” Diets, like promises, are often made to be broken. But a broken diet doesn’t do anybody any good. You’re better off eating the things you like (in moderation) so you can have a lifestyle that you can live with. And Esther has a few tips for seniors that can make a diet not only nutritious, but delicious. Full story

04-14-09
Lost Your Local Tax Assessment Grievance? You Can Appeal through the County Clerk’s Office

These are bad economic times. Tax bills are rising while real estate values have dipped. Homeowners looking for relief may try to reduce their property tax assessment through the grievance process. Since it could be a record year for property tax grievances filed with a local Board of Assessment Review, it could also be a record year for rejections by boards. Rejection by your local Board is not the end of the road. If you live in a home you own, you can appeal that decision through the Small Claims Assessment Review (SCAR) process. Full story

04-14-09
Take Part in Shaping the Future of Mount Vernon - Complete the Comprehensive Plan Survey Now
It's been over 40 years since Mount Vernon has had a comprehensive plan for Plan MV development and Mayor Young is proceeding with his plans to craft a new plan for future development in our city. However, we could use your help. It will take just minutes, but by completing an online survey and offering your views and vision about development in Mount Vernon, you'll be fulfilling a crucial role in this process. Visit www.PLANMV.com and fill out the survey now. Also, please forward this email to anyone else who you think would be interested in participating in the process. If you would rather fill out a paper copy, they are available at City Hall in the second floor lobby. The deadline for submissions is April 30.

04-14-09
Mount Vernon Consumer Protection News
Thanks to an unyielding protection effort, the Mount Vernon Office of Consumer Affairs has virtually eliminated all outdated merchandise in Mount Vernon supermarkets. Consistent enforcement has resulted in the establishment of a "Fresh Friday" program at Target's Mount Vernon location. Every Friday, Target team members scour the shelves for proper coding while removing outdated items. Pathmark has two dedicated employees to check on expiration dates and Stop and Shop has hired a consultant to audit the store and track near expired and expired items. Full story

04-14-09
Highlights from the County Board's April 13 Meeting
Approved: Fairview Affordable Housing
$2,070,000 Bond Act and Intermunicipal Agreement (IMA) with the Town of Greenburgh and Fairview Housing Development Fund Company, Inc. approved to refurbish apartments and provide infrastructure improvements at Greenburgh’s Fairview Manhattan Park Apartments, a longstanding affordable housing complex in the community consisting of 189 affordable units. Full Report

04-13-09
Police Departments Saying Goodbye To “Ink And Roll” Fingerprints
    All across New York State, police departments, big and small, are making the switch from “ink and roll” fingerprints to digital, thanks to grants being provided by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS).
    With the awarding of said grants, every county in New York State will soon have at least one law enforcement agency with the ability to electronically capture and transmit arrest fingerprint data.
    This infrastructure will allow law enforcement agencies across the state to comply with a mandate requiring that all fingerprint submissions to the state’s fingerprint database at DCJS be made electronically as of January 2010. Smaller police departments with very low annual arrest numbers, for example, will be able to access the technology via their local sheriff’s department or another large police agency in their counties rather than investing in their own systems.
     “Accurate and timely processing of fingerprints is crucial to public safety,” said Deputy Secretary for Public Safety Denise E. O’Donnell. “Local authorities need to make timely decisions on whether to detain or release someone who has been arrested. Having that individual’s correct identity – as well as any information about prior contact with law enforcement, such as convictions, immigration status or warrants – is critical information on which to base those decisions.”
     Once DCJS gets a criminal fingerprint submission, it compares those prints to the more than 40 million fingerprint images on file and provides the arresting agency with a positive identification, past criminal history and any warrant information in less than an hour.
     Agencies with digital fingerprint technology transmit fingerprints immediately upon arrest; those using “ink and roll” technology send the prints via surface mail, which could result in fingerprints being analyzed days after an arrest.
     Last year, DCJS processed 730,111 criminal fingerprint transactions, with the New York City Police Department accounting for more than half (54 percent) of those submissions. Of all the criminal fingerprint transactions submitted to DCJS, 86 percent were submitted electronically.
     All told, there are 568 police departments and sheriff’s offices across New York State; 224 of them – including large departments in Albany, Binghamton, Buffalo, Rochester, Schenectady, Syracuse and New York City – process and submit fingerprints electronically. Another 28 agencies (including the 11 recipients of these Tools grants) are working toward that goal.

04-10-09
FREE CAREER WORKSHOPS AND CAREER COUNSELING AT MOUNT VERNON PUBLIC LIBRARY
A series of free career workshops for adults will be held at the Mount Vernon Public Library beginning Tuesday, April 14. In collaboration with the Westchester Library System and conducted by a professional career counselor, the workshops are designed to help people looking for work or making a career change sharpen their skills. No registration is required to attend. All of the workshops are held on Tuesdays from 1:30 to 3:00 pm:

April 14 Job Search Strategies in a Tight Market
April 28 Make a Successful Career Change
May 12 Write a Dynamite Resume
May 26 Effective Interviewing
June 9 Careers Without Four Years of College
June 23 Job Search Strategies in a Tight Market

     Adults looking for a job help can also meet privately with a career counselor on Tuesdays between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. at the Mount Vernon Public Library. The counselor can assist with writing a resume, selecting the right career, searching for a job, interviewing and finding information on training and educational possibilities.
     To make a free appointment with a career counselor, call the Mount Vernon Public Library at 914-668-1840 x211. You may also stop by the Reference desk during regular library hours to make an appointment.
     The Mount Vernon Public Library is located at 28 South First Avenue. The library is handicapped accessible, and is convenient to many Bee-Line bus routes and the Metro-North Mt. Vernon East train station.

04-10-09
Hearing Loss Association of America Announces 4th Annual Westchester Walk4Hearing

The Hearing Loss Association of America (HLAA) announces its fourth annual Westchester/Mid-Hudson Walk4Hearingä, to take place at Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Yorktown Heights, NY, on Saturday, May 2, 2009. The Westchester/
Mid-Hudson event is part of a nationally coordinated effort of 21 HLAA walkathons that have two clear goals: to increase awareness of the causes and consequences of hearing impairment, and to raise funds to provide critical information and support for people with hearing loss. Full story

04-09-09
News from County Legislators Lyndon Williams & Kenneth Jenkins
Shot Spotter is a much needed tool to combat gunshot violence
We respond to the article written by Damon K. Jones entitled “ShotSpotter funding could be put to more effective use” which criticizes Westchester County’s purchase of a gunshot detection systems for deployment in Mount Vernon and Yonkers.
The article provided inaccurate and misleading information. As the legislators from Mount Vernon and Yonkers, we support the County’s purchase and deployment of the Shot Spotter gunshot detection system as a tool to assist local police in dealing with the substantial increase in gunshot incidents, injuries and fatalities in our communities. Mount Vernon has seen an increase of 59% in shooting incidents from 2007 to 2008, the number of shooting victims have increased by 67% over the same time period. Yonkers has seen an increase of 70% in shooting incidents from 2007 to 2008, the number of shooting victims have increased by 88% over the same time. These statistics prove that there are criminal elements in our community whose acts of violence have become emboldened - they have no fear of arrest or legal repercussions for their actions. While we must always continue to address the root causes of crime, the present circumstances are intolerable and they dictate that we use every available avenue to protect innocent residents and children from being caught in a cross-fire of gun violence. This technology will greatly assist the police in doing just that. Full story

04-09-09
Dr. T. Berry Brazelton, "America's Pediatrician," to speak at National Provider Appreciation Day Celebration

Dr. T. Berry Brazelton, pictured seated with Dr. Joshua Sparrow, noted pediatrician, author and nationally recognized expert on young children and Dr. Joshua Sparrow, child, adolescent and general psychiatrist, author and child development expert, will speak at Sarah Lawrence College on Friday, May 8 from 9:00 – 11:00am. During their presentation entitled “Touchpoints: A Developmental and Relational Model for Working With Children and Families,” Dr. Brazelton and Dr. Sparrow will discuss the issue of preparing children to be successful academically, in ways that respect and nurture the whole child. The event, which coincides with Westchester’s Child Care Provider Appreciation Day, is being sponsored by the Child Care Council of Westchester, The Guidance Center, a licensed

mental health agency, and Sarah Lawrence College. The lecture will be held in the Reisinger Concert Hall in Sarah Lawrence College’s Charles R. DeCarlo Performing Arts Center, and will be followed by a half hour question/answer session and a book signing. The event is open to all interested in early childhood (professionals, parents, providers) and costs $25 per person; you can register by e-mailing agelles@tgcny.org or calling 914-636-4440, ext 240. On site registration begins at 8:30am and a continental breakfast will be provided. Sarah Lawrence College is located at 1 Mead Way, Bronxville, NY 10708. Full story

04-08-09
CHILD CARE COUNCIL OF WESTCHESTER CELEBRATES “WEEK OF THE YOUNG CHILD” WITH BOOK DRIVE
The Child Care Council of Westchester is pleased to announce its collaboration with Westchester Association for the Education of Young Children (WAEYC) to celebrate “Week of the Young Child” with a Book Drive, April 20th to May 15th, to benefit Westchester’s children who may not have books of their own. On Friday, April 20^th there will be a kick-off celebration with refreshments from 3-4:30pm at the Child Care Council office at 313 Central Park Avenue in Scarsdale. The Child Care Council of Westchester, along with hundreds of local organizations around the country, will celebrate the “Week of the Young Child,” April 19-25, 2009. Full story

04-08-09
Scholarship Program to Help Cover Child Care Costs
The Child Care Council of Westchester is again offering the Westchester County Child Care Scholarship to families who are over income for the public child care subsidy yet still have difficulty affording quality child care. The scholarship covers the costs for 7 months of full time child care or school age care and will cover the period from June 1, 2009- December 31, 2009. Scholarship funding is paid in monthly installments directly to the program or provider. To be eligible, parents must be employed full time, reside in Westchester County and enroll their children full time in a child care program regulated by the Office of Children and Family Services. Full story

04-07-09
“Viva La Musica Bella” Opera Concert Set for April 24^th

Young opera talents from the Schuyler Foundation for Career Bridges, who will be performing on April 24^th, include: (from left) Valentina Fleer, Suongyum Moon, Katrina Thurman, and Ross Benoliel.

     As part of the “Arts at the X” performance series, ArtsWestchester will present Career Bridges and the New Rochelle Opera in an evening of memorable and popular musical selections from opera and musical theater on Friday, April 24^th at 8:00 pm. This unique collaboration will feature these two renowned Westchester organizations performing enduring and endearing compositions from Bizet’s Carmen, Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro, Puccini’s La Boheme, Strauss’ Die Fledermaus, Bernstein’s Candide, and Lee’s Man of La Mancha. The singers will also perform Verdi’s Rigoletto Quartet which will be the highlight of this evening’s performance. “Arts at the X,” takes place at The Arts Exchange, 31 Mamaroneck Avenue, in downtown White Plains. Tickets may be obtained by calling (914) 428-4220 x 223, or by visiting www.artswestchester.org.
     The April 24^th performance will include soprano Samantha Grenell-Zaidman, mezzo-soprano Malena Dayen, and baritone Ross Benoliel from Career Bridges, plus soprano Roseanne Ackerley, tenor Jin Hwan Byun, and baritone Lawrence Harris from New Rochelle Opera. Accompanist is New Rochelle Opera’s Georgianna Pappas.

04-07-09
ABINANTI WANTS REVIEW OF TAX COLLECTION CALENDAR
Legislator Thomas J. Abinanti (D, I, WF) is calling on the Board of Legislators to consider authorizing municipalities to collect their taxes in two installments. Abinanti’s proposal follows a request by Greenburgh supervisor Paul Feiner for revision of the tax calendar to allow taxpayers to pay municipal taxes in installments as is now done with school taxes. County law controls the collection of municipal taxes. “It is time for the County to review the system of tax collections to see if the benefits to those who don’t pay their property taxes through lending institutions outweigh the additional costs to the municipalities involved,” said Abinanti.

04-07-09

04-07-09
Fleetwood family facing tragedy supported by close-knit community
Less than one month ago, Ray and Janet O’Hara were overjoyed at the arrival of their first
granddaughter, Sofia. Despite some complications with the pregnancy, which caused the baby to
suffer several medical setbacks - the most serious being facial nerve damage - her family was
delighted at her arrival, and optimistic about her recovery.
But as they cooed over the new baby in the hospital, no one in the family could have suspected that
the situation was about become even more serious. On March 22, the O’Hara’s daughter Janine, a
new mother for only 10 days, was stricken with an aneurysm and died. She was only 29 years old.
Full story

04-07-09
National Historic Site Commemorates Bicentennial of Lincoln’s birth in Benefit Dinner on Saturday, May 9

     The 200^th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln, widely regarded as America’s greatest President, will be commemorated at the annual benefit dinner that supports the educational programs of St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site, in Mt. Vernon, NY on Saturday, May 9, 2009, from 5 to 9 PM, it has been announced.
     The event includes a special program highlighting the connection between St. Paul’s and the 16^th President. “One of the surgeons who tried, desperately but unsuccessfully, to save Lincoln on the night of the tragic Ford’s Theatre assassination, Dr. Charles S. Taft, is interred in the historic cemetery at St. Paul’s,” says site manager David Osborn. “He left behind a fascinating if chilling account of the events of that night, and his words will be dramatically presented at the program.”
     Additionally, the event features a presentation by a look-alike Lincoln re-enactor, a hardy 19^th century style meal, and period music by acclaimed balladeer Linda Russell. Special presentations will be awarded to Blake Bell, Pelham’s Town Historian, who has done remarkable work in capturing and sharing the history of the area, and to William Romano, a Pelham teenager whose recent outstanding Eagle Scout project helped to preserve   -- through digital photography -- inscriptions of many of the historic marble gravestones in the St. Paul’s cemetery, one of the nation’s oldest burial yards, Osborn explains.
     Tickets cost $65. Proceeds benefit the public and educational programs of St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site. These are a wide array of talks, demonstrations, re-enactments and performances that explore the rich history of the site over more than 340 years. The sponsor is the Society of the National Shrine of the Bill of rights, a 501 c 3 non-profit organization that administers St. Paul’s through a co-operative agreement. For more information, call the site at 914-667-4116.

04-06-09
“Ways to Keep You and Your Family Safe While You Fill Up AT THE PUMP"
Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. wants you to know that the Office of Consumer Protection has started its 2009 gas station inspections. Although we are no longer plagued by the high pump prices of 2008, the field inspections are witnessing consumer practices that are just as alarming and it has nothing to do with gas prices. In the first week of gas station inspections this office has witnessed people smoking while pumping gas, entering and exiting the car while pumping, and talking on cell phones while refueling.

“All of these things may seem like common sense, but we all need to be reminded sometimes about ways to protect ourselves and our families,” said Mayor Young. “Not paying attention to what you do at the pump has the potential to turn into a major catastrophe. However, this is not to scare anyone; we just want everyone to think about their safety.” Full story

04-06-09
Editor's Note
Photos from the Mount Vernon Inquirer's archives now available for viewing on this site

    The Mount Mount Vernon Inquirer has been covering Mount Vernon's celebratory moments for five years. I have made it a point to cover only positive and memorable events throughout the great city of Mount Vernon, and now I want to start sharing those great moments with our readers..
     Regrettably, I no longer can afford to print the paper for economic reasons, but I continue to cover positive Mount Vernon news on this site. Maybe one day, if funds magically appear, I will bring the paper back.
    Please note that I intend to keep our readers posted on the idea of creating an online paper similar to what the New York Times and LoHud offer. Online papers are the wave of the future and I hope to produce an exciting site for Mount Vernon soon. The site will cover not only Mount Vernon news, but Pelham, Bronxville, New Rochelle and Yonkers news as well.
    Enjoy the pictures and I will be posting more shortly. Click here to view the picture gallery!
Joe Parisi, Editor

04-06-09
MAYOR YOUNG WELCOMES NEW YORK STATE COMPTROLLER THOMAS P. DINAPOLI TO MOUNT VERNON

Mayor Young and his staff pictured during a conference at City Hall with New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli.

    As part of his on-going efforts to develop Green Initiatives and strengthen the city’s infrastructure, Mount Vernon Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. invited New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli to meet with local leaders at City Hall last month.
    “I have developed a great deal of respect for the work Comptroller DiNapoli has done to advance New York State,” said Mayor Young. “In these difficult economic times, we are fortunate to cultivate strong inter-governmental partnerships to bring Mount Vernon’s renaissance to fruition. Comptroller DiNapoli and our state delegation have been tremendous allies in advancing our green initiatives, information technology systems, the memorial field project, downtown infrastructure renovation and expanding our emergency services. We are pleased to have partners like Comptroller DiNapoli to help Mount Vernon achieve success.” Full story

04-06-09
News from Senator Klein's Office
New Analysis Shows New York City Losing Up to $150 Million a Year from Internet Cigarette Websites
   With the federal government raising new taxes on cigarettes, a new study shows that internet tobacco sales are cutting a deep hole into the city’s tax revenue.
     Representative Anthony D. Weiner (D – Brooklyn and Queens), a member of the House Judiciary Committee, and State Senator Jeff Klein (D – Bronx), Deputy Majority Leader, released a new report today showing that New York City is losing up to $150 million in revenue from untaxed cigarettes purchased over the Internet. Weiner announced Congress will soon consider legislation to ban the mailing of cigarettes – effectively shutting down these websites.
    Congress will soon consider Weiner’s Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act, which makes it a felony for selling tobacco in violation of any state tax law and effectively ends internet tobacco smuggling by
requiring the United States Postal Service to stop shipping cigarettes. FedEx, UPS, and DHL have already agreed not to mail tobacco.
     Rep. Weiner said, “Cigarette smuggling means one thing for New York: lost revenue. It’s time to pull the plug on these backdoor internet sales.”
     Senator Klein said, “The sale of cigarettes over the Internet with no restrictions and without collecting taxes jeopardizes the health and welfare of our children and robs our state blind. During these tough fiscal times, taxing cigarettes sent through the mail would bring in millions of dollars in critical revenue that could help get New York back on the road to recovery.”
     Klein’s 2000 law, the first of its kind in the nation, banned most direct shipments of cigarettes to consumers and imposed tougher penalties for cigarette tax evasion in addition to closing a much abused loop-hole through which tax evading retailers could reapply for revoked licenses through a proxy.

04-06-09
Behind On Your Mortgage Payments? Westchester County Clerk Idoni Urges At Risk Homeowners To Get Help Now

While New York’s subprime lending reform bill may have slowed foreclosure filings, foreclosure judgments are still being entered in alarming numbers. In fact, two hundred and thirty one Westchester foreclosure judgments were entered during the first quarter of 2009.
County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni urges Westchester residents who may be at risk of foreclosure, to seek help immediately. “Foreclosures hurt families, hurt our neighborhoods and hurt our municipal budgets” began Idoni. “And while we are glad to see that the first quarter of 2009 lags behind 2008 in both the number of actions started and the number of actions ending with a foreclosure judgment, it is critical that at risk residents get help before it is too late.”

04-05-09
MOUNT VERNON CONSERVATIVES SCREEN CANDIDATES FOR 2009 ELECTION
    Mount Vernon’s Conservative Party is screening candidates for their party’s nomination for City and County elected office in the November 2009 general election and the May 2009 School Board vote. Candidates who believe in Conservative Party principles must contact local party official for an interview. The nominating process will begin this month and nominees will be presented to the Mount Vernon City Conservative Party convention to be held at the end of May. School Board nominations will be made earlier.
     City voters will pick four city councilmen, a City Judge, City Comptroller, and two County legislators (13th and 14th CLDs) this year. The party has supported City Comptroller Maureen Walker in her last two campaigns and the party has received nearly 1,500 votes in recent city elections. The party will also nominate at least three supreme court justices candidates this year.
     Interested candidates should call 668-7249 or contact Rosemarie Jarosz at 917 731 7275 to arrange interviews.

04-02-09
Street Named After Living Legend: William “Billy” Thomas of Mount Vernon
Story by Sharon L. Conn, Ed.D

Photo (l to r) At Billy Thomas Way, alumni: Rev. Charles White (TX), Billy Thomas, Henry Grant (CT) and Lewis Ellis.
On March 29, 2009, the Southside Boys Club Alumni Association honored William “Billy” Thomas with the unveiling of “Billy Thomas Way” on the corner of Sixth Avenue and Fifth Street in Mount Vernon, NY. This was the first time a living legend received such an honor.
Over 250 people attended the event, which included: Mayor, Clinton Young, Loretta Hollinger (Councilwoman), Yuhanna Edwards (Councilman), George Brown (City Clerk), Lisa Copeland (former City Clerk and a member of the Boys

and Girls Club Board of Director’s), former first lady, Betty Davis and Rev Richard Dixon (emeritus of Macedonia Baptist Church). The attendees included over 75 Boys Club alumni, with Ed Harris, the national alumni president, who served as the master-of-ceremonies.
Full story

04-02-09

04-01-09
Karen Watts is seeking election to the Mount Vernon City Council

Mount Vernon needs leadership that is effective. The Council must continue to develop as the needs of the residents continue to change.
During the past few months, Mount Vernon has garnered more negative press than ever before. This is not a true representation of the people who take pride in their families and call Mount Vernon home. One however, cannot ignore the myriad of concerns Mount Vernonites face. It is clear that there is some question about the dedication and significance of our elected officials.

     Of late, it appears that no one is taking note of the frustration of residents. This cannot continue. The people of Mount Vernon deserve better.
     Elected officials are expected to act in the best interest of the residents, not the constituency of their campaign committee.
     I have been elected to serve on the Mount Vernon City Council, stepping away for the sole purpose of serving Mount Vernon as Commissioner of the Recreation Department in 2006. Having been in that profession for nearly thirty years, I was confident that I could make a difference there. With the support and assistance of staff, we did.
     My commitment to Mount Vernon is sincere, and I believe that I can bring to the council, as I did in the past, the independent voice and leadership needed today.

04-01-09
Mayor Young Enlists Two Familiar Faces to Help With Foreclosure Questions & Other Real Estate Issues
   Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. of Mount Vernon has announced free spring seminars: “How to Buy/Sell/ Finance Real Estate Without Losing Your Shirt.” The seminars will consist of four seminars plus private counseling appointments to be hosted at Mount Vernon City Hall. Running the seminars will be two longtime Mount Vernon residents and former business owners Edna Haber and Liz Lindsey.
     “We are pleased to offer this program for buyers, sellers and those in financial trouble,” Mayor Young said. “These seminars will focus on answering questions and giving good information and procedures to help Mount Vernon people stay out of harm’s way. Edna Haber and Liz Lindsey have volunteered their help and expertise to fulfill a real need here in Mount Vernon.”
     The Four (4) “How to Buy/Sell/ Finance Real Estate Without Losing Your Shirt” Seminars will take place on the following dates and times:

· Monday, April 6^th starting at 6:30 p.m. – Buying Smart;

· Saturday, April 18^th starting at 12:00 noon – Selling Smart;

· Monday, April 27^th starting at 6:30 p.m. – Buying Smart; and

· Saturday, May 9^th starting at 12 noon – Selling Smart

     Edna and Liz both agree that owning a home is still a big part of the American Dream and should not become the American Nightmare.
     “We are eager to join Mayor Young in his vision to make Mount Vernon a model city, but even more so to make it an even greater place to live,” said Ms. Lindsey.
     Edna Haber, former owner of Haber Mortgages, Inc. in Mount Vernon for many years. She most recently was a partner, CEO, and president of White Horse Mortgages which was eventually sold to Wells Fargo.
     Liz Lindsey was the former owner of Lindsey Real Estate at 550 Gramatan Avenue for more than 12 years until she sold her company, but has been very active in the community for many years.
     If you have any questions regarding the program please e-mail us at REseminars@cmvny.com, or, if you do not have email, please call the Mayor’s Office at (914) 665-2361.

03-31-09
MOUNT VERNON COMPTROLLER TO SEEK RE-ELECTION

City Comptroller, Maureen Walker, announced today that she intends to seek re-election. Her current term ends on December 31, 2009. She was elected as the City’s first female Comptroller in 1993. She said it was significant to make the announcement now as we wrap-up March which has been designated as “Women’s History Month”.
She cited her academic qualifications (New York State Certified Public Accountant, MBA and BSc. Accounting (magna cum laude), her proven experience and her many accomplishments which have resulted in a financially stable Mount Vernon.

      “We have achieved a financially stable City even during these tough economic times”.
     The Comptroller also pointed to her long association with the City school district as a Junior Achievement Consultant. She has taught business programs at many of the district schools to promote the importance of education to the development of our children. The Comptroller is also an Adjunct Professor in Accounting and Finance at Iona College. There, she encourages high school graduates, many from Mount Vernon to excel in higher education.
      She also cited her independent and lack of “insider” status in doing the job she was elected to do. “If we are working in the interest of our taxpayers, I diligently support it. However if what is being done is not in the interest of our City, I oppose it with strength, courage and dignity “.   More than ever Mount Vernon needs elected officials whose allegiance is to the electorate and who reinforce the system of “checks and balances” inherent in our constitution.
     The City Comptroller emphasized that she is not afraid to make the tough decisions that come with being the Chief Financial Officer of the City. This has resulted in the City’s financial stability. “We have generated a budget surplus in each and every year that I have been the Comptroller. These budget surpluses were used to balance the following year’s budget”. During these tough economic times, I will use my knowledge and experience to maintain the financial stability of our city so we can fulfill our responsibilities to our residents, employees, suppliers and businesses who continue to demonstrate their confidence in our City.
     The Comptroller will kick off her 2009 campaign with a fundraising dinner/dance at the Beckwith Country Club in New Rochelle on May 8, 2009.

03-30-09
Senate Passes Bill to Raise Age Limit for State Troopers
Today the NYS Senate passed S1904A, introduced by Deputy Majority Leader Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester), to increase the age limit at which a citizen can apply to the New York State Police, from 29 to 35. Under current law, the superintendent has the discretion to increase the maximum age to 35 years, but is not required to do so. This proposed change would also be consistent with the NYPD age limit of 35. In addition, the age of 35 would still allow for the completion of potential service careers of 20 years or more (mandatory retirement age for a NYS Trooper is 57) while increasing the pool of qualified candidates interested in pursuing such a career.
“In these economically trying times we want to increase opportunities for qualified individuals to serve our state. Americans are living longer healthier lives and current law should reflect our 21st century reality. I admire anyone who devotes their life’s work to keeping our state safe. We cannot afford to turn down talent because of an outdated statute, ” said Klein.

03-30-09

03-30-09
Westchester Families Donate Time and Merchandise to Less Fortunate Children
Joy and Michael Goldstein, who have dedicated their lives to delivering happiness to parents worldwide interested in adopting, spread happiness recently to children in Aruba when they hand delivered $ 3,000.00 worth of donated books, DVD’s, Frisbees, and a color printer/scanner. During financially difficult times, local families and staff members stepped up and purchased these requested items to help children in greater need. Forever Families Through Adoption, Inc. and the Law Firm of Michael S. Goldstein, located in Rye Brook, New York arranged to visit two orphanages/children’s homes on the Dutch island of Aruba. Full story

03-29-09
First Latino Expo in Mt. Vernon a resounding success

Hank Miller, special assistant to Mayor Clinton I. Young in the area of community relations, is pictured in rear wearing pink shirt with representatives of Hudson Health Plan.

The first ever Latino Expo in Mount Vernon was held on Sunday, March 29, at the Mount Vernon Armory located on North Fifth Avenue, and attracted many Latino and Brazilian residents as well.
The event was designed to establish a communication bridge between the Mount Vernon Latino community and the balance of almost 100 different ethnic groups that call Mount Vernon home. The Expo also focused on educating the Latino community on the many services available to Mount Vernon citizens. Full story

03-27-09
Ruth Hassell-Thompson seeks another term as Senator of the 36th Senatorial District

New York Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson pictured with several of her supporters

New York Senator Ruth Hassell-Thompson, Senator of the 36th Senatorial District, which encompasses the Bronx and Westchester County, held a fundraiser Friday night, March 27, at the newly renovated Pelham/Split Rock Golf Course's new clubhouse.
Her term ends in 2010, but Senator Thompson is already making preparations for a reelection bid, and she had plenty of supporters at the March 27 fundraiser, which included her close friend and former colleague, retired New York Senator Efrain Gonzalez. Full story

03-27-09
TEATOWN LAKE RESERVATION MAY 2009 UPCOMING EVENTS
Teatown Lake Reservation, a nonprofit regional environmental organization with an 834-acre nature preserve in the Towns of Yorktown, Cortlandt and New Castle, offers a variety of indoor and outdoor programs and hikes for adults only, families and children in May. All events are held at Teatown Lake Reservation (1600 Spring Valley Road, Ossining, NY 10562) unless otherwise indicated. To register, individuals should call Teatown at (914) 762-2912, ext. 110, Tuesday–Sunday, 9:00 am–5:00 pm. Events are mostly free to members, but some fees apply, as indicated. For more details, visit www.teatown.org. We can supply photos if desired. Full story

03-26-09
Patient Advocacy Groups Support Legislation to Eliminate Two-Year Medicare Waiting Period
    The Coalition to End the Two-Year Wait for Medicare, over 120 organizations who work to ensure access to health care for people with disabilities, enthusiastically supports the introduction of Ending the Medicare Disability Waiting Period Act of 2009, S.700 and H.R.1708, which would eliminate the unjustifiable two-year delay in coverage for people with severe disabilities who are waiting to become eligible for Medicare coverage.
      “Nearly 40 percent of people with disabilities are without health insurance coverage at some point during their wait for Medicare; 24 percent have no health insurance during this entire period. Many cannot afford to pay COBRA premiums to maintain coverage from their former employer, and private coverage on the individual market is unavailable or too expensive for this high-cost population,” the Coalition wrote to Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) and Representative Gene Green (D-TX).
      “The waiting period forces people with severe disabilities to endure two years during which treatment and care of their condition are put at risk. As a result, people may forego care they cannot afford, complicating their condition and potentially raising the cost of care once Medicare does step in,” said Kimberly Cantor, Manager of Federal Government Relations from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. “This means that costs to Medicare will likely be higher once the end of the waiting period is reached.”

03-26-09
SPECIAL REPORT
A. B. Davis student wins marathon Mt. Vernon district-wide Spelling Bee Championship; trip to Washington awaits him

(l to r) Joe Parisi, Christina Alston, LaBrea Pringle, Superintendent Sawyer and Legan Bayombo

     The beautiful and spacious Longfellow Elementary School auditorium was once again the site of Mount Vernon's annual district-wide Spelling Bee, held Tuesday night, March 24.
     Spelling Bee coordinators in each elementary and middle school worked laboriously and diligently, hosting building-level competitions the week before the actual major event took place on March 24.
     The district-wide Spelling Bee, sponsored by the Mount Vernon Inquirer, is becoming a popular tradition in the Mount Vernon Schools, and the students look forward to competing in their schools, then at the district level, and for one lucky student, the opportunity to travel to Washington, DC to compete in the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Full story

03-26-09
Mayor Young delivers powerful and promising State of the City Address

Mayor Clinton I. Young delivering the 2009 State of the City Address

     Mayor Clinton I. Young delivered his second State of the City Address on Wednesday, March 25th, before an overflowing City Council Chambers in Mount Vernon City Hall.
     During his one-hour speech, the mayor revealed many positive things concerning the future of the City of Mount Vernon.
     "The Park Avenue Bridge, which spans the New Haven Railroad line, is more suited for off road vehicles than it is for passenger cars. Again, the poor condition of this bridge is due to many years of neglect and deferred maintenance. I am glad to announce that we have reached an agreement with the MTA under which they will completely rebuild the bridge at no cost to Mount Vernon taxpayers," said the mayor. Click here to read entire speech.

May 2009 stories

05-30-09
Millwood, NY
Food Bank for Westchester to Host 4th Annual Hunger Heroes Awards Breakfast
Volunteer, Service Provider, Donor, and Corporate Service Awards to be presented

The Food Bank for Westchester, which is celebrating its 20th year of fighting hunger in Westchester, will host the Fourth Annual Hunger Heroes Awards Breakfast on June 9, 2009, from 8:30 until 10:00 am, at Abigail Kirsch at Tappan Hill, Tarrytown. Sponsored by Entergy, the breakfast honors a volunteer, service provider, donor, and corporation who have contributed significantly toward the alleviation of hunger in Westchester.
Tony Aiello, (see picture) reporter for Westchester CBS-TV news, will serve as emcee, and Catherine Marsh, Executive Director, Westchester Community Foundation, will

be the guest speaker.
Our Hunger Heroes breakfast is a wonderful way to thank the members of our community who work tirelessly on the front lines to help feed the hungry in Westchester and to raise awareness about this critical issue in our community. In these difficult economic times, that awareness and support is more critical than ever," said Christina Rohatynskyj, Executive Director of the Food Bank. "They are true heroes." More

05-29-09
Mt. Vernon
SPECIAL REPORT
Mayor Young Touts a Victory for Taxpayers as Judge Renders Decision on “Pro-Bono Counsel”
   On Thursday, May 28, Judge Rory J. Bellantoni rendered his decision on the appointment and subsequent termination of Ravi Batra as “pro-bono counsel” to the Office of the Mayor. The decision declared that all subpoenas issued by Batra are now moot, as Mayor Clinton Young terminated his position immediately upon coming into office January 2, 2008. Batra had attempted to collect attorney’s fees from the City of Mount Vernon in the amount of $250,000, but all such motions were denied by Judge Bellantoni.
     “This is a big win for taxpayers,” said Mayor Young. “Thanks to the fine work of our Law Department and Wilson Elser Moskowitz Edelman & Dicker, you will not shoulder any monetary burden for this politically motivated appointment by a past administration.”
    The City Council, now lead by William Randolph initiated this process by engaging the services of Wilson Elser, et al. as outside counsel.
     “I am pleased with the court’s decision that relieves taxpayers of any future obligation to pay Mr. Batra,” said Council President Randolph. “It shows that the council was right in its decision to start this legal battle.”
     The decision by Judge Bellantoni supported Mayor Young’s decision to fire Batra as a legal act, stating that “the Office of the Mayor…has the power to terminate such appointments.”
     “It was clear from the very beginning that Mr. Batra was hired as a political smokescreen and not as a public servant,” added Mayor Young. “I will fight all attempts by either elected officials or those from outside the city who work to carry out personal agendas and seek monetary gain all to the detriment of the citizens of Mount Vernon. These actions will never be tolerated."

05-29-09
St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site
Colonial Day, at National Historic Site in Westchester County, Saturday, June 13, noon to 4 PM
The sights, sounds and smells of a bygone era are featured in a special Colonial Day program, at St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site, in Mt. Vernon, NY on Saturday, June 13, from noon to 4 PM. The event includes cooking, music, dancing, games, and crafts demonstrations, with hands-on participation for visitors. Talks examine colonial transportation and military developments. Tours explore the 1700s St. Paul’s bell tower and the colonial section of the historic cemetery. And don’t miss a performance on the historic pipe organ by concert-organist-in-residence Dr. Jan Piet Knijff.
Parking and admission are free; refreshments served.

When: Saturday, June 13, 2009, noon to 4 PM

Where: St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site, 897 South Columbus Avenue, Mt. Vernon, NY, 914-667-4116; www.nps.gov/sapa

Directions: Hutchinson River Parkway South to Exit 7, and follow directional signs to the site.

05-29-09
District Attorney Janet DiFiore
Task Force To Examine Wrongful Convictions

     The role of a modern prosecutor has many facets – two of the most important are making certain people are safe in their communities and ensuring the people we serve are receiving fair, impartial and expeditious justice in our courts.
     Our basic mission, to ensure the public’s safety, is fairly straight forward.
     As District Attorney of Westchester County, I have readily accepted my obligation to promote fairness and justice at every level of our system by ensuring that in every case we prosecute, we

not only strive to convict the guilty, but also make certain that no one is wrongfully convicted for a crime that he or she did not commit.
     In spite of all our efforts, our criminal justice system is not infallible.
     After being in office less than a year, my office commissioned a study of the wrongful conviction of Jeffrey Deskovic, a teenager convicted in 1990 for raping and murdering a high school classmate. More

05-29-09
Westchester Gov.
PROJECT WAVE WESTCHESTER TO LAUNCH NEW FACEBOOK PAGE
Residents can access HIV prevention videos and education, learn about upcoming health events and connect with community members
     Looking for a place to get an HIV test? Need to find local HIV/AIDS resources and prevention education? Want to link up with agencies that provide HIV/AIDS medical or support services? Thanks to the creation of a new Project WAVE Westchester Facebook page, residents can easily access the latest news and information from Westchester’s HIV service providers right on Facebook.
     Project WAVE Westchester, a partnership of public and private agencies that works to fight the HIV/AIDS epidemic, will launch its new Facebook page at a community reception to be held on Monday June 1 at 1 p.m. at Hudson River Health Care Inc., Founders Training Room, 1037 Main Street in Peekskill.
    Excluding New York City, Westchester County has the second highest AIDS case rate and the third highest rate of HIV infection among all other counties statewide. Westchester also has the most people living with HIV and AIDS in the state outside of New York City.
     Project WAVE Westchester is a unique partnership of community groups and medical centers that provide HIV services and promote the importance of HIV prevention, counseling, testing and early access to care, especially to communities most affected by HIV/AIDS. This initiative, which began on June 27, 2002 as
an offshoot of the Project WAVE national effort, is a collaborative endeavor of the New York State Department of Health, the Westchester County Department of Health, community groups, neighborhood health centers and hospitals.
     To make it easier for residents to get tested, Project WAVE and its partners bring rapid HIV testing to parks, health fairs, festivals, fitness centers, hair salons, churches, community centers, supermarket parking lots and a variety of other non-traditional settings throughout the county. The new Facebook page will contain information on upcoming events that include HIV testing sites. Residents will also be able to access HIV prevention videos and Project WAVE PSAs featuring celebrities reinforcing the importance of HIV testing.
     To visit Project WAVE Westchester’s Facebook page, go to www.facebook.com and sign up for a free Facebook account. Once you become a Facebook member, you can find Project WAVE Westchester’s page by inserting “Project Wave” into the search function.   Information about HIV & AIDS can also be found on the Health Department’s website at www.westchestergov.com/health.

05-28-09
Mt. Vernon
Award winning Gospel Choir holds anniversary concert; Founding Director, Carson Stapleton, retiring and new one to be announced
     For 20 years the Mount Vernon GospelKnights have traveled around the country, won awards and warmed the hearts of all those who have heard them sing. On Friday, June 5 the school gospel choir will hold an anniversary and reunion concert at Mount Vernon High School that will bring together alumni from the last 20 years.
     Choir Director and founder Carson Stapleton will also announce his retirement and who will be take his place as choir director. Stapleton will continue to serve as Program Advisor. He has led the choir as a volunteer for the past two decades.
     The evening will feature “What GK Meant to Me” testimonials from present and past members and parents. Songs and members from all four choirs; GEMS [Elementary School], Teen Fellowship [Middle School], MVHS [High School] and Royal GospelKnights [Parent, Teacher and Alumni] will highlight the theme of the evening “We’ve Grown Up!”
     The GospelKnights have won numerous awards and participated in national competitions including the Pathmark Gospel Choir Competitions and McDonald’s GospelFest.
     The concert will be held at Mount Vernon High School, 100 California Road from 6:30PM 10:00PM.
     Admission is $15 in advance/ $20 at the door. Students will be charged $10 with school ID. Children 13 and younger are free.
     For more information contact Mr. Stapleton at gospelknights@yahoo.com or at 914-772-4762.

05-28-09
Mt. Vernon
First Annual Mount Vernon Business Expo: September 30 - October 1
Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. of the City of Mount Vernon and Frank T. Fraley, President of the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce are glad to announce that the first annual Mount Vernon Business Expo will be held on Wednesday, September 30th and Thursday, October 1. "We are excited to be presenting the first annual Mount Vernon Business Expo in conjunction with the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce." said Mayor Young. "Mount Vernon, with our three Metro-North commuter rail stations and easy access to four major highways, is uniquely positioned as the gateway into Westchester County. In holding this event, we will show to the world that Mount Vernon is indeed open for business."

05-28-09
Mt. Vernon
Dial 211 - Get Connected. Get Answers; Service Offered by the Hudson Valley Region of the United Way
2-1-1 is the abbreviated dialing code for free access to health and human services information and referral. 2-1-1 is an easy-to-remember and universally recognizable number that makes a critical connection between individuals and families seeking services or volunteer opportunities and the appropriate community-based organizations and government agencies.

05-28-09
Westchester Gov.
COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO REGULATE GAS PUMPS
New Sanitary Code Amendment Will Lead to Fewer Harmful Emissions from Broken Pumps

     County Executive Andy Spano announced that the Westchester County Department of Health now has the authority to inspect gas pumps to make sure gasoline vapors don’t escape when motorists fuel up.
     The county takes the lead to enforce the vapor recovery rules and regulations from the state Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), under an arrangement sought by Westchester and recently approved by the state.
     “Giving Westchester County the authority to regulate gas station pumps and tanker deliveries means there will be better oversight and more enforcement,’’ said County Executive Andy Spano. “It’s another example of the work the county does behind the scenes to improve our environment. And it won’t cost taxpayers, because our health inspectors routinely visit the county’s gas stations to inspect their underground fuel storage tanks and will just add the pumps to their checklist when they go.’’
     The new amendment to the Westchester County Sanitary Code was approved by the Westchester County Board of Health on November 20, 2008, and became law when the state Department of Health filed it on January 12, 2009. On May 18, 2009, the DEC granted the county authority to enforce vapor recovery regulation.
     The county must enforce the law at the nearly 500 gas stations in Westchester, and at hundreds of pumps owned or operated by government or large businesses.
     “Minimizing gasoline vapor emissions is good for the public and for the environment, ‘’ said Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Joshua Lipsman. “It reduces both air pollution and people’s exposure to carcinogenic compounds such as benzene, and it also conserves gasoline.’’
     To prevent the release of gasoline vapors, any defective gas pumps must be removed from service, locked and sealed until approved replacement parts are installed. If you see a gas pump in Westchester with duct tape on the hose or a visible hole in it, call the County Health Department to report it at 914-813-5000.

05-28-09
Chappaqua
Former Captain of US National Team, Claudio Reyna, and Partners Launch New York Soccer Club in Westchester

Claudio Reyna pictured during his playing days

Claudio Reyna, former captain of the US National Team and of the USA's 2002 and 2006 FIFA World Cup Team and Dr. Javier Perez, an European coach from the Real Madrid Development Center, announce the formation of the New York Soccer Club (NYSC), a nonprofit soccer club, which is dedicated to bringing the highest levels of coaching and leadership training through team-building, as well as a life-long love of soccer to student-athletes in Westchester and its surrounding counties.
The launch of the New York Sports Club was the brainchild of Claudio Reyna and NYSC President Mark Heffernan who recognized the need in Westchester for a Club that would employ the most current coaching techniques and methods, while recognizing and emphasizing the traditional values of hard work, respect and fair play. “Many youth want to play college soccer and travel great distances for good teams and good tournaments,” says Mr. Heffernan, who holds an USSF National B coaching license. “We wanted to provide area youth with a different soccer experience as soccer becomes a bigger sport in the US.” NYSC is one of the few clubs based in the Northeast that follows the philosophy, technical training and player development standards used by Europe’s best youth soccer academies. The Club is thoroughly committed to its core values and will provide student-athletes with one of the most complete, most positive and most competitive soccer experiences in North America. More

05-28-09
Yonkers
"Coming of Age" . . . Enlightening Book Presents Alternative Method of Preparing Children for Bar or Bat Mitzvah
Jewish youth have been taught the traditions and teachings of their Jewish faith and heritage for ages; perhaps it is time to update these antiquated techniques for modern adolescents. In his novel, Coming of Age: Judaic Religious Study for Bar/Bat Mitzvah – Without Hebrew School! (published by AuthorHouse), author Gary D. Chattman offers a new and all-encompassing way to motivate and educate Jewish children for their bar or bat mitzvahs while also encouraging them to remain active in the Jewish faith.
Chattman’s method caters to the identity-formation of young adults and provides an inclusive, rewarding experience for all families and children, including those of mixed-religion families and children with learning disabilities. Chattman writes: "Now, in our hectic world, parents have little-to-no time to celebrate religion; they have rebelled against the religion of their parents and intermarry at high rates. (Did anyone say 48% in the last survey?) Thus, their children are left without any religious identity. Parents are too busy to get involved in their child’s religious education, and thus, send them to “Hebrew Schools” that often are irrelevant and boring. They exist, not for the sake of their child’s learning of identity, and what it means to be Jewish, but to bring money into the synagogue. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing—we need temples, we need synagogues, surely. But we need to fill up their pews with adults who have gained an identity." More

05-27-09
Pleasantville
PMT Productions to Present “Urinetown” June 12- 21
Tony Award Winning Play Satirizes Corporate Greed Social Irresponsibility
PMT Productions (Pleasantville Music Theater), one of Westchester’s oldest and most respected community theater organizations, will present a fully staged production of “Urinetown: The Musical”, from June 12^th through June 21^st at the Richard G. Rosenthal JCC, 600 Bear Ridge Road, Pleasantville, New York. Performances are slated for June 12, 13, 19 & 20^th at 8 pm, June 14^th at 7 pm, and June 21^st at 3 pm. Tickets may be obtained by calling (914) 879-0310.

05-27-09
Mt. Vernon
International Russian classical pianist extraordinaire Katya Grineva awes young students at Pennington Elementary School in Mount Vernon

Katya Grineva (l) pictured with Bruce Purse, Music Director at Pennington School

     On Thursday, May 14, a packed auditorium of students at Holmes Elementary School in Mount Vernon were treated to a special piano performance by Katya Grineva. And on Wednesday, May 27, the entire population of students and staff at Pennington Elementary School got their turn to witness a mesmerizing piano performance by the internationally famous Katya.
     Unlike the performance that took place at Holmes Elementary School earlier in the month, students from all grades attended the performance, including kindergarten.
     "Here at Pennington we embrace the arts in a very big way in all grades. I believe children find a creative side of themselves through the arts. When they attend or perform in these types of activities, they develop a sense of confidence in themselves, along with compassion and humility. Our students attain higher grades as a result of them using their creative ability," said Bruce Purse, Music Director at Pennington School.
     Opening remarks came from the principal, Danielle D. Marrow, who said, "Ms. Grineva has performed throughout the world for presidents and dignitaries and last year played a record tenth solo performance at Carnegie Hall. We are so luck to have her here today." More

05-27-09
Mt. Vernon

05-27-09
White Plains
COUNTY BOARD TO WITHHOLD VOTE ON SOURCE OF INCOME LEGISLATION
     Westchester County Board Chair Bill Ryan announced that the proposed “source of income” legislation, has been sent back to the Committees on Legislation and Government Operations for modification. “Board members are not prepared at this time to vote on this measure,” said Ryan. “More work needs to be done.” The proposed legislation would modify the County’s Fair Housing Law to prohibit housing discrimination based on an individual’s income sources.
     The measure, first introduced by Legislators Ken Jenkins (D, IN, WF-Yonkers) and Lois Bronz (D, WF-Greenburgh) last spring, has been a frequent topic of discussion in both Jenkins’ committee of Government Operations and the Committee on Legislation over the past year. Legislators heard testimony from over 40 residents, including tenant advocates and real estate industry representatives at a public hearing on May 8th.
     As proposed, the law would allow “Source of Income” to become a protected class under Westchester’s Fair Housing Law, and would include any legal, verifiable income derived from social security, or any form of federal, state or local public assistance or housing assistance, including the federal housing subsidy known as “Section 8.” Other provisions of the law include:

A six-month delay in implementing the provisions for source of income for new tenants.
An education requirement to assist the public in understanding Fair Housing regulations

Landlord assistance, which includes a website and “hotline” to assist landlords with Section 8 issues

“At the public hearing, we heard testimony from residents on both sides of this contentious issue,” said Jenkins. “I want to make sure that we can come up with a piece of legislation that truly encompasses all the viewpoints expressed by the Westchester residents and legislators. I’m confident that, through this process of revision and modification, we can agree on legislation that will improve access to quality and affordable housing for all Westchester residents.”

05-26-09
White Plains
WESTCHESTER DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE RELEASES ITS 2008 ANNUAL REPORT

     Westchester County District Attorney Janet DiFiore today has released the 2008 Annual Report of the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office.
     The 46 page report outlines the accomplishments and initiatives of the District Attorney’s office in 2008, along with setting goals for 2009 and looking forward to expanding upon the programs that have been implemented over the last three years.
     “In the three years that I have had the honor of serving as Westchester County District

Attorney, the Office has expanded its focus on aggressively prosecuting crimes to include a broader, proactive focus on enhancing public safety by improving crime fighting intelligence, educating the public on crime prevention, and working on law enforcement issues with community partners. The process has been challenging and rewarding, and this 2008 Annual Report contains our accomplishments thus far”, said District Attorney Janet DiFiore. More

05-26-09
White Plains
'Westchester Serves Expo' taking place June 19
    People of all ages, interests and skills who want to make a difference in their communities. Come to the June 19 Westchester Serves Expo from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Westchester County Center in White
Plains.
     Learn how you can transform your communities - and yourself - through service. Attend workshops on career transitioning, networking and how to use your abilities in technology to help nonprofits.
     No pay, but volunteering can take you places. The event is co-sponsored by the Volunteer Center of United Way and the Westchester Community Foundation.
     For more information, or to sign up, go to: www.westchestergov.com/volunteerism.

05-26-09
Yonkers
Family Services of Westchester to Open an AARP Foundation WorkSearch site at the Cross County Shopping Center
Family Services of Westchester has partnered with The Volunteer Center and Westchester Community College to open an AARP Foundation WorkSearch site at the Cross County Shopping Center in Yonkers. This site offers 24 computer terminals loaded with the AARP WorkSearch job training and skills assessment programs.

The WorkSearch site can help mature adults OVER 40:

· Use online training programs to develop job skills;

· Find job openings in their region;

· Determine if they have the right skills for their job choice;

· Create a plan to help them meet their training and job goals.

NOTE: Job-seekers must register first by calling (914) 964-6767. Full story

05-26-09
White Plains
Want to become a Notary Public? First Step, Take Licensing Exam Scheduled for June 19th
Are you interested in becoming a notary public? “If so,” according to County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni, whose office maintains the records of all notaries public commissioned in Westchester County, “there are several requirements including first passing the state administered licensing exam.” The Notary Public Exam is a walk-in examination given regularly throughout New York State. To take the exam you must present a government issued photo identification card and pay the exam fee of $15.00. The next scheduled exam in Westchester will be administered on Friday, June 19th on the campus of Westchester Community College, 75 Grasslands Road, Classroom Building, room C200 at 8:30 a.m.
Applicants are encouraged to arrive early as seating is limited and fills up quickly.

05-26-09
St. Petersburg, Fla.
Edward Leonard, director of culinary operations at Westchester Country Club in Rye receives award at Cordon D’ Or—Gold Ribbon International Culinary Academy Awards Ceremony

The following American Culinary Federation (ACF) members, and its monthly publication, The National Culinary Review, received International Culinary Academy Awards at the Cordon D’ Or—Gold Ribbon VIP Reception and Awards Presentation, held at the Don CeSar Beach Resort, a Loews Hotel in St. Petersburg, Fla., May 16.
ACF National President John Kinsella, CMC, CCE, WGMC, AAC, senior supervising chef at Midwest Culinary Institute in Cincinnati, was inducted into Cordon D’ Or’s—Gold Ribbon Culinary Hall of Fame. The School of Culinary Arts at Kendall College, Chicago, an ACF-accredited program, was named Cooking School of the Year. Also in the Academy of the Culinary Arts awards category, Frederick Ming, CEC, CCE, AAC, a retired chef from Bermuda, received the award for Cuisine of the Year. Full story

05-26-09
Washington, DC
Over Seventy-Five Patient Advocacy Groups Support Phasing Out the Two-Year Medicare Waiting Period by April 2011
   The Coalition to End the Two-Year Wait for Medicare, a group of organizations that work to ensure access to health care for people with disabilities, praised the Senate Finance Committee for addressing the two-year Medicare waiting period for people with disabilities in its health reform proposal to extend affordable health care coverage to all Americans.
     The Committee put forth four options, and the coalition voiced its strongest support for the option that would phase out the waiting period by April 2011.
     “No one with a disability severe enough to qualify for SSDI should be without health coverage,” says the coalition in its letter addressed to Senators Max Baucus (D-MT) and Charles Grassley (R-IA). “The policy options presented in Expanding Health Care Coverage: Proposals to Provide Affordable Coverage to All Americans represent a recognition by the Committee that the waiting period for coverage is unjustifiable and a commitment to move towards its elimination.” Full story

05-26-09
Mt. Vernon
Operation PROTECT Reaches its Midpoint; Some Notable Accomplishments and Activities
Entering its third week, the City of Mount Vernon's Operation PROTECT is already Operation Protect logo showing positive short-term results. Focusing on the south side section of Mount Vernon bordered by South 5th and South 10th Avenues and West 2nd and West 5th Streets, Operation PROTECT is a comprehensive approach to crime reduction that involves a concentrated community policing effort, an outreach of city services and, most importantly, community involvement. Full story

05-24-09
Mt. Vernon
Mount Vernon celebrates Memorial Day with annual wreath laying ceremony, parade and closing ceremony

   Master of Ceremonies, Will DuBose, pictured at the start of the wreath laying ceremony at City Hall Plaza

    Memorial Day, May 25, is a day of remembrance for those who have died serving our country. And in Mount Vernon, during a beautiful sunny day, a wreath laying ceremony attracted nearly 200 citizens to City Hall Plaza for the annual ceremony that is jointly sponsored by the City of Mount Vernon Veterans Service Agency and the Central Committee for Veteran's Affairs. Afterwards, officials and the public walked a few blocks and participated in the annual Memorial Day parade and Memorial Day Ceremony at Hartley Park.
     Once again, highly decorated Viet Nam veteran, Will DuBose, Director of Veterans Affairs, acted as the Master of Ceremonies during the ceremony.
     The annual wreath laying ceremony requires a lot of planning and preparation, and assisting DuBose in making the event possible every year is Melvin Garrett, past Chairman, Central Committee for Veterans Affairs. Garrett read the Final Roll Call during the ceremony. The Final Roll Call honors all those soldiers from Mount Vernon, and from all branches of the American Armed Forces, that have given their lives in defense of freedom.
Full story

05-24-09
White Plains
BETA ALPHA ALPHA FOUNDATION TO AWARD SCHOLARSHIPS TO 4 STUDENTS ON JUNE 6th

             Monte Suber, President of the Beta Alpha Alpha Foundation, pictured at last year's

    Beta Alpha Alpha Foundation of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. will honor four students for their academic excellence and extracurricular achievements on Saturday, June 6, 2009 at Antonees on Broadway, 115 North Broadway, White Plains, NY at 8:30 AM. Contributions are $30.00 for adults and $25.00 for students.
     Each of the scholarship winners will receive $1,000, which can be applied to tuition, books, housing or other learning materials. In addition, the winner of the Memorial Award, which will be announced at the luncheon, will receive an additional $500. Stipends will also be awarded to past scholarship recipients in the amounts of $500 and $100. Full story

Youth & Addiction

Studies show that some youth are experimenting with drugs or alcohol as early as age 11. Narconon Arrowhead reminds everyone of the importance of getting out youth educated on drugs and alcohol in today's society by offering free addiction counseling, assessments and local referrals. Call to find out what can be done in your area, 800-468-6933 or visit www.stopaddiction.com.

© 2009 All Rights Resesrved. NARCONON and the Narconon logo are registered trademarks and service marks owned by Association for Better Living and Education International and are used with its permission.
***Permission granted to worthy news organizations to reprint in part or in full***

05-24-09
Mt. Vernon
Letter to the Editor
To all concerned citizens of Mount Vernon
It has come to my attention that there are false and vicious rumors being circulated within the Mount Vernon Community about my husband, Hon. William Edwards. I want to assure you, the intelligent and concerned people of this fair city, that my husband has always maintained superb ethical and moral standards in his professional and private life My husband is not a politician and he refuses to engage in politically motivated conduct. My husband loves, respects and values all people of Mount Vernon and this is clear from his past and present conduct. My husband is a native Mount Vernonite who has always and will forever continue to put the people of Mount Vernon FIRST! Anyone who has known my husband can attest to his character on and off the bench.
Recently, my husband was re-assigned full-time as Acting Family Court Judge in White Plains. He had to leave the Drug Court Program that he had come to love here in Mount Vernon. Those Mount Vernon residents who have been involved with the Drug Court Program can tell you about my husband’s homemade macaroni and cheese that he makes for the graduates of the program. I want the community to realize and understand that my husband did not, I repeat did not, abandon the people of Mount Vernon. He was forced to leave the Mount Vernon Court out of concerns for his physical safety and well being. My husband’s safety became an issue after he raised concerns about allegations of impropriety within the courthouse. I cannot say anymore about this issue as the matter is currently being investigated by the appropriate officials. I would just like to challenge the community to evaluate and analyze all that you hear before you come to any conclusions. My husband was first appointed by Mayor Ernest Davis and then elected by the wonderful people of Mount Vernon. I am certain that Mayor Davis will attest to my husband’s superb moral and ethical character. My husband’s character has never been in question nor is it now. However, there are those with their political agendas who may want you to believe otherwise. Citizens of Mount Vernon, the difference between me and those politically motivated people is that I know that you are wise and you can decipher truth from folly, they believe otherwise.

05-24-09
Pelham
Art Matters, the 34th Annual Spring Fundraiser for Pelham Art Center

On Saturday, June 20 Pelham Art Center will auction over $35,000 worth of unique goods and experiences at its 34th annual spring fundraiser at the Pelham Country Club. Art Matters is the Art Center’s major fundraiser, and benefits the art programs serving more than 15,000 people who attend its free gallery and public programs, affordable classes and workshops each year. Tickets are $80 and $120 and can be purchased by phone, mail, online, or at the door.
Auction items include a dinner party-to-go for 12; a cocktail party for 30 in a private home; a cooking party for youth; passes for Chelsea Piers; private tours of the Metropolitan Museum of Art; tickets to a rock concert; a week at a vacation home on the North Carolina coast, and much more. Original artwork by Tracy Miller will be displayed and for sale. She is the winner of the Alexander Rutsch Award, the Art Center’s bi-annual, juried national painting competition. Full story

05-22-09
Bronxville
SCOUT PROJECT A FAMILY AFFAIR FOR OTHER FAMILIES

Scout Brad Davies of Bronxville Troop 5 and the growing pile of donated breakfast foods from Reformed Church members.

When a Boy Scout decides to build his Eagle Scout project to support families in need, you may count on his own family getting involved. That was the case for Bronxville scout Brad Davies, 16, of Troop 5, as he prepared a Breakfast Food Drive with several components in early May. Enlisting his troop buddies and his parents, Dick Davies and Gayle Haller, Brad set up shop outside The Food Emporium in Bronxville soliciting donations of cold or instant cereals, pancake mix, syrup, powdered breakfast drinks and more. Then, expanding the circle of ‘family,’ he enlisted Dawn Ravella, Director of Mission and Outreach at his congregation, The Reformed Church, and the project took off. Full story

05-22-09
Mt. Vernon
21st ANNUAL SPRING HARVEST CANNED FOOD DRIVE

                                              Part of last year's collection

     The Spring Harvest Food Drive to benefit the Sacred Heart Food Pantry is now in its twenty-first year and continues to stay strong. This year the Fleetwood Chiropractic Center will be collecting food from June 1st thru June 6th. During this time many people have a “sun and fun” attitude. But it’s no fun if there is no food on the table. That’s why Drs. Russell and Lucia choose this time of year to sponsor the drive.
     The Spring Harvest has grown from strictly patient donations to a large project involving Lincoln, Pennington, Traphagen, Columbus, and Holmes schools. In addition, the Excelsior Learning Center, Milestone School, Sts. Peter and Paul School, Our Lady of Victory School, Sacred Heart School, Mt. Vernon Public Library Children’s Division, and the Fleetwood Deli-Café will be involved with the food drive this year. Classes from the Davis Middle School will also be working to collect food and raise funds. The National Association of Letter Carriers will also be collecting food this year as part of their national effort. Full story

05-22-09

05-22-09
Mt. Vernon
SATURDAY COMPUTER WORKSHOPS FOR SENIORS AT MOUNT VERNON PUBLIC LIBRARY
     Free one-day computer workshops for seniors are being offered at the Mount Vernon Public Library on selected Saturdays in May and June. The workshops are designed to introduce older residents to computer basics, such as using a mouse and basic email instruction. Workshops take place in the library’s computer lab from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm on May 30, June 13 and June 27.
     The workshops are free; due to space limitations registration is required. Please call the library at (914) 668-1840 extension 219 to register, or stop by the reference desk.
     The Mount Vernon Public Library is located at 28 South First Avenue. The library is handicapped accessible, and is convenient to many Bee-Line bus routes and the Metro-North Mt. Vernon East train station.

05-22-09
News from Senator Klein
Senator Jeff Klein & Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries Announce Legislation to Create Foreclosure Diversion Program

Senator Klein (l) and Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries, at a recent rally with ACORN representatives

Nine months after New York State initiated anti-foreclosure efforts, Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) and Assemblyman Hakeem Jeffries (D-Brooklyn) joined with 20 + distressed homeowners and ACORN to call for sweeping improvements to the program. The two lawmakers revealed a statistical snap shot of the program and announced legislation to improve it and alleviate further foreclosures.
“The downturn in the economy has created new challenges for struggling homeowners who need help now more than ever. Current anti-foreclosure efforts have not been very effective, we need to do more and this legislation will help keep more New Yorkers in their homes during these challenging economic times,” said Klein. Full story

05-22-09
Mt. Vernon
SENIOR LAW DAY SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 10 AT MOUNT VERNON PUBLIC LIBRARY
A series of free legal information workshops for senior adults and their families will be held at the Mount Vernon Public Library on Wednesday, June 10 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. in the Library’s Community Room. Elder-law attorneys will provide information for seniors and their families on the following topics:

1:00 – 2:00 pm Housing Options and Fair Housing Rights
2:00 – 3:00 pm Estate and Medicaid Planning
3:00 – 4:00 pm Powers of Attorney, Health Care Proxies and Living Wills including Medical Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (MOSTL)

Senior Law Day is supported by the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS) Senior Law Day Committee and the Westchester Public/Private Partnership for Aging Services. The workshops are free; registration is requested. Please call the library at (914) 668-1840 extension 219 to register, or stop by the reference desk.
The Mount Vernon Public Library is located at 28 South First Avenue. The library is handicapped accessible, and is convenient to many Bee-Line bus routes and the Metro-North Mt. Vernon East train station.

05-21-09
Mt. Vernon
Eileen M. Justino picked as Loretta Hottinger's replacement on City Council; Daniel DeBendictus new Deputy City Clerk

Eileen M. Justino being sworn in a City Councilwoman by Judge Helen Blackwood while her husband Michael holds the bible.

Eileen M. Justino is white, assertive, intelligent, likable and very popular throughout the City of Mount Vernon. And to the surprise of some, she was one of four candidates recently nominated by the Mount Vernon Democratic Committee for City Council seats in the coming big election.
On Wednesday, May 20, the Mount Vernon City Council proved that Justino is looked at as a rising star by many within the Mount Vernon political arena. By a unanimous vote, the City Council appointed her to the City Council as Loretta Hottinger's replacement, who left to become the Corporation Council for the City of Mount Vernon. Full story

05-21-09
NY State Gov.
CONSUMER PROTECTION BOARD APPLAUDS SENATE PASSAGE OF CREDIT CARD REFORM
“With the recent action by the United States Senate, New York consumers are closer to true credit card industry reform,” said Mindy A. Bockstein, Chairperson and Executive Director of the New York State Consumer Protection Board. “By passing its own version of provisions, some of which were already passed by the House of Representatives, the Senate has taken the next step in our collective effort to stop abusive credit card business practices by the credit card industry nationwide. With both Houses of Congress on board, I now urge the prompt passage of strong consensus legislation for the President to sign. Relief from unfair credit card practices will provide a light at the end of the tunnel for New Yorkers who continue to struggle with the effects of the national economic crisis. ”
“Together with New York consumers who joined us in urging Congress to act on reform through the Consumer Protection Board’s Campaign for Change program, we have fought for meaningful credit card reform, and are thrilled to see that Washington has heard our call to action,” continued Bockstein. “I applaud the House and the Senate for proposing changes to protect consumers from arbitrary interest rate increases and over-the-limit fee assessments, enhance customer notifications and disclosures, and safeguard minors from unwittingly amassing credit card debt. With the President supporting reform to help safeguard consumers, we are one step closer to ending the heavy-handed reign over credit card customers by an industry that is integral to our personal and business finances.”

05-20-09
White Plains
Entrée to Hope to Raise Funds for Westchester's Neediest
Non-profits and area restaurants partner to increase awareness
The Food Bank for Westchester, Grace Church Community Center and the Literacy Volunteers of Westchester recently kicked-off their partnership to help raise funds and awareness for the County's neediest citizens as well as provide food, shelter and education. The kick-off for Entrée to Hope took place at Sam's of Gedney Way, and the program will run through the end of June.
Entrée to Hope will enable Westchester diners to donate $1 from each entrée they eat at participating restaurants throughout the county in the following municipalities: Armonk, Bedford, Briarcliff Manor, Chappaqua, Katonah, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, Mount Kisco, Mount Vernon, New Rochelle, North Salem, Ossining, Peekskill, Pelham, Pleasantville, Port Chester, Rye, Rye Brook, Scarsdale, Tarrytown, Valhalla, White Plains and Yonkers. For a complete list of participating restaurants, visit www.entreetohope.org. Full story

Mt. Vernon
05-20-09
Letter to the Editor
COMPTROLLER WALKER RESPONDS TO DEMOCRATIC CHAIR
    I find it necessary to respond to the statement made by Chairman Devereaux Cannick on May 18, 2009.in your newspaper.
     The statement is short on facts and long on fiction. As the incumbent Comptroller, I indicated my interest in seeking re-election and sought the party’s endorsement as I did in the past. This was done out of respect for what I thought was a democratic process and to follow protocol. For those of you who attended nomination night, you are fully aware of the charade that took place.
     The statement by Mr.Cannick that I was not willing to commit to supporting other candidates on the ticket is completely untrue. I challenge Mr. Cannick to disclose when this statement was made and to whom it was made. It appears that Mr. Cannick is having second thoughts about the viability of the ticket he hand-picked and is trying to sell to the wary voting public.
     As it relates to the party’s choice for Comptroller, I can categorically state that I am more qualified, more experienced and more knowledgeable than the individual who was hand-picked for the position. I am and have always been an elected official who is not afraid to make the tough decisions that the Comptroller is required to make. In tough economic times, strong independent leadership is needed in the City Comptroller’s Office. I have provided this leadership in the past and will continue to do so in the future
     Maureen Walker, CPA, MBA, BSc Accounting (magna cum laude) - Comptroller, City of Mount Vernon

05-20-09
News from Senator Klein
Senate Passes Klein Legislation to Provide Email Notification for Sex Offenders
On May 19, the NYS Senate voted to pass legislation sponsored by Senator Jeff Klein which would allow concerned parents and residents to receive instant email alerts every time a sex offender moves into a selected zip code (S1362B). The bill passed with 60 votes, with two Senators excused from voting.
"All New Yorkers should have the right to notification when a dangerous predator moves into their neighborhood. Registered sex offenders are kept track of for a reason and the passage of New York Senator Jeff Klein's "e-mail notification bill" in the NY Senate is an example to the rest of the country of how to help keep our citizens safer," said John Walsh, victims' advocate and host of TV's "America's Most Wanted." Full story

05-20-09
Letter to the Editor
Mount Vernon Democratic Party is a Disgrace
     On the night of May 14^th, I witnessed the Mount Vernon City Democratic Comedy Club in action with their selection of candidates for political offices here in Mount Vernon.
     The most telling thing about this comedy special is, at the beginning of the proceedings, a list of recommended candidates were handed out to all who were present at the headquarters and at the end of this ruse all of these candidates were magically selected.
     The second most telling thing in this comic show is that the names of the two most independent voices currently in city government: Maureen Walker, Comptroller and Yuhanna Edwards, City Councilman were not on the recommended list of candidates and they were not selected. The puppet masters and their power brokers instead selected a young man who was recently elected to the City Council compliment a ride on the Obama coat-tail. This poor sacrificial lamb became a substitute for the comptroller candidacy after the candidate who was being groomed to run against Maureen Walker, the infamous John Boykin, was unwittingly taped by Sammy Rivers. Three new council members and William Randolph were selected for the Council seats. Full story

05-19-09
Mt. Vernon
Mt. Vernon's Steve Acunto attends renamed Rocky Marciano Post Office ceremony in Brockton, MA

Former professional boxer and trainer, Steve Acunto, who has lived in the same Mount Vernon house for over 75 years, recently traveled to Brockton, MA to attend the renaming of a post office in that city after the former heavyweight champion of the world, Rocky Marciano, a former resident of Brockton.
In 1969, with Marciano, Acunto founded the American Association for the Improvement of Boxing. He is now President Emeritus and Chairman of the Board of that prestigious organization Full story

05-19-09
Mt. Vernon
Letter to the Editor
Two Mt. Vernon School Board Trustees caught removing campaign flyers and posters
On Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at approximately 4:00am, School Board Candidates -- Mrs. Brenda L. Crump & Mrs. Brenda Silvera-Milligan (running mates) were out in the Fleetwood Neighborhood distributing flyers for the upcoming School Board Trustee Campaign in Mount Vernon.
While distributing these flyers, while on Fleetwood Avenue, Ms. Milligan noted that someone was removing the flyers and posters they had placed on the cars. She immediately notified Mrs. Brenda Crump by cell phone to join her. They then followed the individual to attempt to identify who it was—it was Ms. Carol Ben Reuben, an incumbent for position as School Board Trustee. Full story

05-19-09
County News
COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT AND 16 HOSPITALS TEAM UP TO HELP RESIDENTS GET HEALTHIER
     The Westchester County Health Department and the 16 hospitals in Westchester will announce their new partnership to help residents exercise more and cut their salt consumption to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases at a news conference on Wednesday, May 20 at 11 a.m. at Lawrence Hospital Center in Bronxville.
     Immediately following a welcome and brief remarks by Lawrence Hospital Center CEO Edward Dinan and Health Commissioner Dr. Joshua Lipsman, Lawrence dietitian Jennifer Scully and her team of dietitians will launch into a cooking class for cardiac patients. With audience participation, she’ll demonstrate how to prepare a few simple but delicious dishes that pack a wallop of flavor but contain little or no salt. And don’t forget to sample the heart-healthy fare!
     You will also hear about some of the creative activities that hospitals and the health department have planned to help improve the health of Westchester residents and their families.

05-19-09
Yonkers
SUBURBIA ROLLER DERBY ANNOUNCES SECOND SUMMER BOUT SEASON AT MURRAY’S

Suburbia Roller Derby (SRD) of Westchester NY, today announced its summer bout schedule, featuring four bouts to be played at the E.J. Murray Memorial Skating Center in Yonkers. Suburbia Roller Derby, formed in June 2007, is made up of over forty women from Westchester and southern Connecticut communities, and is now a member of the Women’s Flat Track Roller Derby Association (WFTDA).
The bouts will feature bouts between the league’s two home teams, The Botoxic Avengers and Indian Point Sirens, as well as two bouts between the league’s travel team of all-stars, Suburban Brawl, and travel teams from the Tri-State area. The season schedule is as follows: May 30 (Suburban Brawl vs. Jersey Shore Roller Girls), July 11 (SRD’s Indian Point Sirens vs. The Botoxic Avengers), August 1 (intra-league championship or fun bout) and August 29 (Suburban Brawl vs. Long Island Roller Rebels). Full story

05-19-09
News from Mount Vernon Democratic City Committee
Mount Vernon Democrats Endorse Candidates for the 2009 Elections
The Mount Vernon Democratic City Committee overwhelmingly endorsed its candidates for the 2009 Elections. Party Chairman, Devereaux Cannick, said that the District Leaders turned out in large numbers to endorse the following local candidates who were recommended by the screening committee:

Lyndon Williams for County Legislator
Helen Blackwood for City Court Judge
Marcus Griffith for Comptroller
Jennifer Anne Sampson for City Council
Eileen Justino for City Council
William Randolph for City Council
Debra Stern for City Council

The Committee also endorsed:

County Executive Andrew Spano for re-election,
Janet DiFiore, Westchester County District Attorney,
Timothy Idoni, Westchester County Clerk

Cannick said, “I am proud of our slate of qualified dedicated candidates who are committed to working cooperatively to move the City of Mount Vernon forward in a positive direction for our residents. These are independent-minded individuals of integrity who understand that the City needs leadership who are unified in purpose and who are willing to work together for the common good of Mount Vernon, and not get bogged down in public bickering and contentiousness that portrays our City as constantly divided.” Full story

05-19-00
Mount Vernon
MOUNT VERNON MAN A FINALIST IN DUNKIN’ DONUTS’ “CREATE DUNKIN’S NEXT DONUT CONTEST”
A local man’s imagination and love of donuts could result in national recognition and a sweet reward. Dunkin’ Donuts, America’s all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods, today announced that James Smith of Mount Vernon is one of 12 finalists in Dunkin’ Donuts’ “Create Dunkin’s Next Donut contest.” Mr. Smith will compete for the chance to win a $12,000 grand prize and have his donut sold in participating Dunkin’ Donuts locations throughout the country.
Mr. Smith’s creation, “The King,” is a Bananas Foster-filled donut with peanut butter icing and chopped peanuts. As a finalist, he has won $1,200 and will travel to Dunkin’ Donuts’ headquarters in Canton, Massachusetts for a bake-off before Dunkin’ Donuts’ culinary team and company leaders, along with Paul Mullins, author of Glazed America: A History of the Doughnut, and Diane Werner, food director for Taste of Home, the #1 cooking magazine in the country. The winning donut will be selected based on the vote of the bake-off judging panel, as well as America’s online vote. The grand prize winner / creator of “Create Dunkin’s Next Donut” contest will be unveiled on National Donut Day, June 5, 2009. Full story

05-18-09
County News
HUDSON RIVER FEST TO ENTERTAIN THE WHOLE FAMILY JUNE 7
Celebrate the Quadricentennial with a day of “questing” and other unique activities
     The once-in-a-lifetime 400^th anniversary of Henry Hudson’s historic voyage deserves special recognition – and that’s exactly what it will get at the Hudson River Fest on Sunday, June 7.
     Families who stop by the Lyndhurst estate in Tarrytown between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. can join in the “Hudson River Quest,” a scavenger hunt that will get everyone scurrying to search for clues, solve riddles and take part in hands-on activities that explore the last four centuries. And once the kids stop walking on stilts, smelling roses in the Rose Garden, measuring an apple tree or making bookmarks from dried corn, they’ll find even more to look forward to.
     Live music, an outdoor market featuring locally grown produce, Hudson Valley wineries and cheese makers, and more than 40 interactive displays and exhibits by environmental groups and arts organizations will headline the event. Check out an exhibit of floatable trash, an observation beehive, a visiting Arctic gray wolf, a collection of clothing from 1909, and old fashioned toys kids can really play with.
     The program, which highlights the natural, cultural and historical significance of the Hudson River, is sponsored by Westchester County government and Lyndhurst, with assistance from the County’s Parks Department and Office for Tourism and the New York State Hudson-Fulton-Champlain Quadricentennial Commission.
     The signature event -- the Hudson River “Quest” -- will help young adventurers learn more about the Hudson River while having fun. With a Quest booklet in hand, they can visit as many of the 11 stops scattered throughout the property as they like. Each page of the booklet represents a clue on the quest by describing fun facts about life and history around the Hudson River along with a poem and hands-on activity to complete. With the help of "Wes Quester" and "Crabby Blue," kids collect stamps and fill up the booklet
     Other activities and entertainment:

Tours of the Lyndhurst Rose Garden in full bloom.
Presentations by well-known historians, scientists, authors and folklorists.
The Westchester County Veggie Van, a retrofitted vehicle that runs on vegetable oil, will be open for tours.
Live animals including an Arctic gray wolf from The Wolf Conservation Center in South Salem and birds of prey from the Greenburgh Nature Center and Teatown Lake Reservation.
Nature walks on the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail led by naturalists and conservationists from Westchester County parks and Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct.
Tours of the Lyndhurst mansion (additional fee).
Preview of the Hudson RiverWalk.

05-17-09
Provided by Senator Jeff Klein

05-16-09
Mother Nature plays cruel trick on "Junior Open" tennis players

Mayor Young and Recreation Commissioner Rasul Salahuddin, pictured with Danielle Carr (r) and Judith Norton, organizers of the tournament.

An effort to make the courts playable did not work

    Young and excited players arrived at the Mount Vernon Tennis Center to participate in the first ever "Junior Open" tennis tournament on Saturday morning, May 16, most accompanied by their parents. After signing in, many started warming up in preparation for a day of competitive tennis.
     According to the organizers of the event, they researched the weather forecast thoroughly and were able to establish that rain was not expected until late in the day, so they moved ahead with the tournament.
     At about 9:30 AM, the sky opened up and it started pouring, forcing everybody indoors, just as the mayor of Mount Vernon, Clinton I Young, arrived to welcome them.
     While the large group waited for the rain to stop, Mayor Young addressed the players and their parents, welcoming them to Mount Vernon, since many of the players were from other nearby communities.
     After the rain stopped, an attempt was made to sweep the rain off the courts, but the clay courts were simply too slippery and they were forced to call off the tournament until June 6.
     Heart broken, the young players packed their tennis belongings and headed home with their heads down.

05-16-09
SPECIAL REPORT
Floyd Myers has resigned as Recreation Commissioner in Mount Vernon

      Although not officially publicized by the City of Mount Vernon, the Inquirer has learned that Floyd Myers (pictured on right), Recreation Commissioner for the City of Mount Vernon, has unexpectedly resigned his position for undisclosed reasons.
      In 2004, Mayor Ernest D. Davis appointed Myers Deputy Commissioner for the Mount Vernon Department of Recreation.
     Although there was a change in the Mount Vernon

City Hall administration in 2008, Floyd continued to serve under the current Mayor, Clinton I. Young, Jr., as Commissioner for the Department of Recreation. Myers' resignation comes as a surprise to many.
Filling in for Myers will be acting commissioner, Rasul Salahuddin, who worked under him as Deputy Commissioner of Recreation.

05-16-09
ONE OF THOUSANDS: A PERSONAL ACCOUNT OF THE DAYS OF 911

Highlights one man’s “LOVE OF COUNTRY” and the self-sacrifice our First Responders make nearly every day for the citizens of, and people in this Country.

     His only concern during 911 was for his family and the men who he felt personally responsible for, which compelled him to continue on this mission. Like so many other First Responders, many who are now left somehow to fend for themselves medically, he would do it all again in spite of the illnesses he now experiences, which is one of the reasons why the Author and Publisher are asking for your support America, in hopes of raising at least One Million Dollars to donate to The Mount Sinai Hospital World Trade Center Treatment Program for First Responders, which unfortunately or fortunately the Author finds himself a client.
    ONE OF THOUSANDS: A PERSONAL ACCOUNT OF THE DAYS OF 911
By Dennis Ciallela; Non-fiction; Paperback; $15.00; ISBN: 978-0-9816838-2-9
Autographed copies available from pwsherrill@sherrillenterprises.com
Available online at www.barnesandnoble.com; www.amazon.com;

05-16-09
Many surprises as Mt. Vernon Democratic Committee nominates slate of candidates

Nominated for City Council seats: (l to r) William R. Randolph, Jennifer A. Sampson, Debra A. Stern and Eileen M. Justino.

     On Thursday night, May 14, a near record crowd of district leaders and candidates packed Mount Vernon Democratic Committee Headquarters to attend a convention that would decide which candidates would be endorsed for the next big election in November.
     The evening was filled with plenty of drama, suspense and controversy, since nine residents were present and were all seeking endorsements for City Council seats. A total of four seats are up for grabs this year.
     Seeking City Council seats were: incumbents Yuhanna Edwards and Council President William Randolph, whose terms are about to expire and are seeking to be reelected. Full story

05-14-09
Internationally famous pianist performs for students at Holmes Elementary school in Mount Vernon

                                 Katya Grineva performing at Holmes Elementary School

     A packed auditorium of students at Holmes Elementary School in Mount Vernon were treated to a special piano performance by Katya Grineva on Thursday, May 14. In attendance for the highly anticipated performance were students in grade 3 - 6.
     When the students started streaming into the auditorium and noticed Katya standing by the school's piano with the principal, Louis T. Cioffi, you could see the excitement on each student's face. Each student was well versed in advance on who Katya Grineva is and what a famous pianist she is. Each class had been supplied with handouts about the performance, which also contained a biography and pictures of Katya. So when they saw her live for the first time, there appeared to be an immediate connection. "I feel like I have known her for a very long time. I know so much about her," said one six-grader.
     Principal Cioffi opened the program by telling the students how fortunate they were to have Katya performing for them. "Kayya performs all over the world and has performed at Carnegie Hall on ten different occasions. She has an extremely busy schedule, but yet she set aside time to be here today to play for you." The students responding by giving Katya a long, warm and rousing applause. Full story

05-14-09
Dark Blessing by Lenore A. Artis is Part Teaching, Part Testimony, but all Triumphant

     Lenore Artis answers the following questions in her powerful book, Dark Blessing: Is spiritual victory for everyone? Can God really get the glory out of any and every situation? Is God really with me in the dark things that I face? Of course, her answer is a resounding "Yes".
     Walk hand in hand with Lenore Artis through the Word of God as she clearly reveals God's plan and purpose through even the darkest of dark times. She teaches and leads us to victory by precept and by example. Artis courageously shares with us her own "dark blessings" as she invites us to reminisce with her through the dark days of her life when it seemed as though God was no where to be found, her prayers were hitting the ceiling only to fall back to the floor and there was not even a minute flicker of light at the end of the dark tunnel through which she was traveling. But through it all, she remained faithful to God knowing that "weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning" (Psalm 30:5). Full story

05-14-09
MAyor young welcomes UN Club students prior to their trip to the united nations

Mayor Young (c) pictured with the group prior to their departure to the U.N.

On Thursday, May 14, Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. hosted a group of 30 United Nations Club students as well as representatives from the United Nations Association-Westchester Chapter at Mount Vernon City Hall before the group headed down to UNICEF, The United Nations, and the German Mission-Consulate.
“The young men and women that we have here in Mount Vernon understand the fact that we live in a global society,” said Mayor Young. “I applaud their efforts to expand the breadth of their knowledge and applaud the efforts of their teachers, the school district, the UN Association of Westchester, and the Verizon Foundation for their guidance and support in making this program a successful one. You young people are leaders today and now have the responsibility to be leaders everyday.” Full story

05-14-09
NYS CONSUMER PROTECTION BOARD APPLAUDS AUSTERITY ACTIONS OF THE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION
“Ratepayers have long borne the burden of discretionary costs and some unnecessary spending by major electric and gas utilities in New York State. The New York State Consumer Protection Board has advocated for relief for weary consumers who can not afford to carry these expenses especially during this economic downturn. Today, the Public Service Commission (PSC) took needed and important steps to help budget-conscious consumers by requiring utilities to submit long-overdue austerity budgeting plans, thus reigning in unnecessary spending, which we hope will ultimately provide some relief for New Yorkers without jeopardizing safety and compromising the quality of their service. The CPB commends the PSC for taking this action today, and looks forward to receiving and reviewing the plans once they have been submitted.”

05-14-09
COUNTY EXECUTIVE TEACHES KIDS ABOUT TICKS IN DR. SEUSS LIKE FASHION
Spano reads children’s book that the county is donating to schools and libraries to local students
     Watch your backs Jay-Z and Kanye because you’ve got some stiff competition. To kick off Lyme Disease Awareness Month, County Executive Andy Spano will throw down some fierce rhymes while reading aloud the children’s book “Lyme in Rhyme” on Tuesday, May 19, at 10 a.m. at the Brookside Elementary School in Ossining.
     Weather permitting, Spano will read the rhyming story to second-graders in the school’s outdoor classroom in the woods, the perfect setting for a lesson in how to have outdoor fun while avoiding ticks.
     Spano, who was infected by and recovered from the tick-borne illness ehrlichiosis several years ago, knows first-hand the importance of prevention.
     To help educate Westchester’s kids about diseases spread by ticks and how to avoid them, the County bought 200 copies of “Lyme in Rhyme” through a state grant and has provided one to each public elementary school and public library in Westchester.
     Following the County Executive’s reading, Christine Falco, an Animal Vector Specialist from the County Health Department, will give a show and tell demonstration of how to dress for the great outdoors and how to do a thorough tick check. The children also will see real ticks that Falco will bring along.
     Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness reported in Westchester County. An average of 428 residents tested positive for the disease during the past six years, from 2003 through 2008. It is spread through the bite of an infected deer tick and is usually identified by an expanding red bull's-eye rash. The rash can appear three to 30 days after the bite and can last for several weeks. Other symptoms can include fever, sore throat, fatigue, sleeping difficulties, joint and muscle pain, swollen glands and dizziness.

05-14-09

HELP SAVE A LIFE!!!

At Narconon Arrowhead we are saving lives, reuniting families, and making stronger communities through effective drug and alcohol rehabilitation. Learn how and why a person becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol and what you can do to help. Visit www.stopaddiction.com or call 1-800-468-6933 to receive free counseling, referrals, and assessments. Stop the cycle of addiction today!

05-14-09
NEW ENROLL NY™ WEB SITE MAKES IT EASIER FOR UNINSURED NEW YORKERS TO FIND FREE AND LOW-COST HEALTH INSURANCE
    A new Web site allows New Yorkers to quickly screen for public health insurance program eligibility and—for the first time—connects users to health plan professionals who can help them complete the application. The Web site, www.EnrollNY.org, is available to residents of the five boroughs of New York City and six Hudson Valley counties (Westchester, Rockland, Orange, Sullivan, Ulster, and Dutchess). Enroll NY’s services are free of charge to the public.
     New York State offers free and low-cost health insurance to all residents who qualify, but until now it has been difficult for New Yorkers to determine if they are eligible for these programs. Using Enroll NY, applicants are asked four simple questions to determine if they might be eligible for one of three state-subsidized insurance programs: Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and Family Health Plus. Once basic information is entered, the data are transmitted to one of several Facilitated Enrollment organizations, which are authorized by New York State to find and enroll New Yorkers who are eligible for public insurance. The Facilitated Enrollment organization calls the applicant within 48 hours to schedule a face-to-face interview, which is required by New York State law, and completes the application.
     The Web site was developed by the Hudson Center for Health Equity & Quality (Hcheq), a not-for-profit organization that develops information technology to streamline health care enrollment and clinical care. The development of the site was funded by a New York State Health Foundation grant awarded to Hcheq in 2008.

05-13-09
Mt. Vernon City Hall ceremony commemorates Police Officer’s Memorial Day

(l to r) Police Commissioner David Chong and Mayor Clinton I. Young presenting the Exceptional Merit award to Officer Mario Stuart and Officer Gregory Addison.

     On Tuesday, May 12, during a picture perfect sunny day, many gathered at a City Hall Plaza ceremony to commemorate Police Officer’s Memorial Day in Mount Vernon, which takes place during National Police Week The annual event recognizes the dedicated and unselfish service by police officers across America and the City of Mount Vernon, who have served with distinction and demonstrated acts of heroism.
     This year's event attracted a bigger crowd than in previous years, and included a long list of dignitaries, along with many friends and family members of police officers that were honored.
     Acting as the Master of Ceremonies for the very first time was Police Chief Barbara Duncan.
     Highlighting the ceremony during the police awards presentation was the presentation of the Exceptional Merit award to Police Officers Gregory Addison and Mario Stewart. Both officers acted heroically when caught in a gun battle involving two men shooting at each other last May 25. Although under fire, the officers did not return fire due to many innocent bystanders in the area. When the shooter's gun jammed, the officers rushed the perpetrators and made an arrest without firing their weapons.
     Remembered and honored at the ceremony were those police officers lost in-service last year: Det. Christopher Ridley, Police Officer Daniel Vize and jailer and retired Detective, Joseph Antonaccio, and those killed in the line of duty throughout the years. Full report

05-13-09
MVHS Classes 1987 thru 1991 are sponsoring a class reunion
    MVHS Classes 1987 thru 1991 are sponsoring a class reunion family BACK YARD BBQ at MVHS on August 1, 2009.
     This is a HUGE family event where there will be tons of entertainment for the kids as well as entertainment for the adults!
     Join us as we celebrate 20 years + graduating as we reconnect with many of our friends we grew up with!! It starts at 12:00 noon and ends at 6pm!! Tickets are on sale now!! SPECIAL PRICING ENDS JUNE 1ST SO GET TICKETS BEFORE THE SALE IS OVER!! Visit www.mvhsclassreunion2009.com for more detailss.

05-13-09
Westchester County Health Commissioner selected as member of the American Medical Association’s Advisory Committee on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Issues
Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Joshua Lipsman has been selected as a member of the American Medical Association’s Advisory Committee on Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Issues and has been named Chair of the Preventive Medicine and Family Health Committee for the Medical Society of the State of New York.
     Dr. Lipsman will serve on the AMA’s Advisory Committee on GLBT Issues for a two-year term from June 2009 to June 2011 and will chair the Medical Society of the State of New York’s Preventive Medicine and Family Health Committee through the end of 2010.
     “I am delighted and honored to serve on both of these committees,” said Dr. Lipsman.   “I look forward to working with these groups to improve the health of all New Yorkers and to addressing health issues for gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals nationwide. In addition to my personal dedication to both of these causes, I find these appointments doubly rewarding because they illustrate that the field of medicine recognizes the importance and value of local public health expertise.”
     Dr. Lipsman is certified by the American Board of Preventive Medicine in Public Health and General Preventive Medicine. Prior to his appointment by county Executive Andy Spano to be Westchester County Health Commissioner in May, 2000, Dr. Lipsman was Executive Director of the Gay Men’s Health Crisis in Manhattan and prior to that, for seven and a half years he led the Alexandria, Virginia Department of Health. Earlier, he served as medical director and administrator of the city’s system of public health clinics in Houston, Texas, and as a staff physician and community health director on the Pine Ridge Indian reservation in South Dakota.

05-12-09
Helen Blackwood sworn in as Mount Vernon City Court Judge


Helen Blackwood being sworn in by Hon. Francis A. Nicholai, as her dad, former legendary Mount Vernon Mayor, Ronald A. Blackwood, looks on proudly.

     Helen Blackwood was sworn in as a Mount Vernon City Court Judge on Monday, May 11, by the Honorable Francis A. Nicholai, the Administrative Judge, Ninth Judicial District, in Judge Mark A. Gross' courtroom. Standing by her side during the ceremony was her proud dad, former Mount Vernon Mayor, Ronald A. Blackwood, who flew up from Florida for the momentous occasion.
     New judges get sworn in all the time throughout Westchester County and the rest of the country, but this was no ordinary swearing in ceremony of a new judge. This was the swearing in of a very unique, special, gifted, and dedicated woman. A woman who in 2008 was selected as one of only three "New York Super Lawyers" in the area of government practice. In addition, Blackwood is a recipient of the Harlem YMCA Black Achievers Award, and served as First Vice President of the Board of Directors of the Westchester County Medical Center. She also helped establish the Mount Vernon Library Foundation. Currently, she is Vice President of the Westchester Black Bar Association, and is a member of the Mount Vernon Bar Association. Her additional accomplishments are simply too long to list here. Full story

05-11-09
News from Donna Jackson
WESTCHESTER BIKING & WALKING ALLIANCE MEETING TAKES PLACE IN BRONXVILLE LIBRARY
   I am a member of a Mount Vernon community renewal group responsible for advocating and promoting a safe, aesthetically pleasing business community. Within that is also our advocacy effort towards safe, liveable streets within the whole of Mount Vernon. A liveable street prioritizes people and all of their activities - sitting, strolling, resting in a park, shopping downtown and observing city life.
     In December 2008, the City of Mount Vernon sponsored a bicycle giveaway for underprivileged children in Mt. Vernon. I approached City Hall in January '09 about doing another cycle giveaway, but this time having the event focus on the East Coast Greenway’s bicycle trail developments in Mount Vernon along Oak Street (http://www.greenway.org), and educating MV residents about Westchester County’s overall efforts towards cycling and pedestrian trails and healthy lifestyle development in the County.
     A cycling event will be tied into one of this year's Summer Breeze Concerts.
     Also, a county-wide advocacy group, the Westchester Biking and Walking Alliance, has been formed and is supported by County Executive Andy Spano. This group has already made some strides towards making Westchester more bike friendly with the installation of bike racks on Westchester Bee-Line Buses!  The WBWA will be meeting tonight - that's Monday, May 11 - at the Bronxville Library, 201 Pondfield Road, Bronxville. It will be our first meeting and it will be great if you all could make it. The meeting is at 7 pm. We'd love to have a great turnout of walking and cycling advocates from Mount Vernon in attendance. Thanks!
     About the East Coast Greenway: The East Coast Greenway (ECG) is the nation's most ambitious long-distance urban greenway trail project. The Greenway system includes a 3000-mile spine trail stretching between Calais, Maine and Key West, Florida, passing through 15 states and the District of Columbia and linking 25 major eastern seaboard cities. It will be complemented by a series of alternate routes totaling another 1500 miles. Our vision is for a 100% off-road trail that is safe and inviting for people of all abilities and ages to enjoy.
     Dave Wilson (Westchester Cycle Club) and Michael Oliva (ECG) have formed the Westchester Biking and Walking Alliance, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to work on cycling advocacy issues, with representatives from cities, villages and towns in the county.
     WESTCHESTER BIKING & WALKING ALLIANCE
     MONDAY, May 11, 7 pm, Bronxville Library, 201 Pondfield Road, Bronxville, 917-853-7872.   All are welcomed to attend.   Help make WBWA the information and advocacy resource for safer bicycling and walking in Westchester County.    Information: http://westchesterbikewalk.org .   E-mail to: westchesterbikewalk@gmail.com.

05-11-09
Effective May 12, chain restaurants with 15 outlets or more must count calories for you and post them on all menus and menu boards
    Wondering whether to order the salad or a club sandwich? Starting May 12, Westchester County government requires chain restaurant menus to count calories for you and post them on all menus and menu boards. Some results may surprise you -- that sandwich could contain fewer calories than the salad that looks so virtuous.
     Also, effective May 1, all restaurant menus and menu boards must include an allergy notice to encourage restaurant staff to heed customer concerns about ingredients that could cause allergic reactions. The menus must read, “If you have a food allergy, please speak to the owner, manager, chef or your server.”
     Both menu makeovers were rolled out at a news conference today at Cosi in New Rochelle. Enforcement of both measures begins this month by the Westchester County Department of Health. Restaurants that do not comply with either of these measures could face fines as high as $1,000.
     “Food allergies can be very serious and in some cases can result in death,’’ said County Executive Andy Spano. “This new law will help to raise everyone’s awareness – the customers as well as the food servers and preparers. We want to make sure that the public is protected, and that food allergies are taken seriously.’’
     “When people eat at home, they have control over what’s in their food, but more and more people eat out and food allergies are an increasing concern,’’ said Dr. Douglas G. Aspros, president of the Westchester County Board of Health, which adopted the allergy notification as an amendment to the Westchester County Sanitary Code on Nov. 20, 2008. “This notice will serve to remind them and restaurant staff that food allergies are present, they’re real and they’re a danger.’’
     “After two years of work to get this legislation passed, I am thrilled that Westchester residents will now have greater access to information about the meals that they eat outside of the home,’’ said Legislator Judy Myers, D-Mamaroneck, who introduced the calorie count legislation. Full story

05-09-09
PD Foundation presents 3rd Annual Scholarship Dinner
Guest speaker, NFL Baltimore Ravens rookie sensation, Ray Rice

Ray Rice of the Baltimore Ravens

Brian Pritchett

Dana Dogget (r) presenting an awarded to Police Officer David Clarke for receiving The Mt. Vernon Policeman of the Year Award.

     The PD Foundation, formed by Brian Pritchett and Dana Doggett in 1998, is holding its Third Annual Scholarship Dinner on Monday, June 8, at Palmer's Crossing Restaurant in Larchmont, NY. In the two previous events, the dynamic duo of Pritchett and Doggett have attracted overflowing crowds to their popular annual scholarship dinner event.
    The purpose of the popular and rapidly growing foundation is to provide financial assistance/scholarships to Mount Vernon High School seniors who want to pursue careers in education, arts, music and athletics. To qualify for the annual PD Foundation scholarship, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, demonstrate outstanding citizenship, and submit an essay.
     The mission of the PD Foundation is to give away three scholarships at their scholarship dinner every year. Their ultimate goal is to be able to provide full scholarships to all their yearly scholarship recipients. In addition, the PD Foundation is seeking to expand into the community and provide student/parent workshops related to educational issues and concerns.
     This year's guest speaker is Ray Rice, a football standout at New Rochelle High School as a running back. He was signed by Rutgers Scarlet Knights, where he accumulated a total of 4,926 running yards and scored an impressive 49 touchdowns. He is currently a sensational running back with the Baltimore Ravens, after being drafted by them in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft.

05-09-09
Many attend Federal Stimulus Town Hall Forum in Mount Vernon

A panel consisting of state and federal representatives

President Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 has some very important implications for the City of Mount Vernon and its surrounding communities. Realizing that, Mayor Clinton I. Young arranged for State Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith's staff to make a special trip to Mount Vernon for a Town Hall Forum regarding the federal stimulus package.
The important forum was held on Saturday, May 9, from 9am to 12 noon in the auditorium of Mount Vernon High School. The turnout was impressive, with scores of residents, elected officials, city officials and business owners alike in attendance to find out just how the federal stimulus package will affect them.
Full story

05-08-09
Westchester County Board of Legislators
County Board to Review Source of Income Modification
Amendment to Fair Housing Law Would Prohibit Owners from Discriminating Against Renters On The Basis Of Their Source of Income
    The County Board is scheduled to hold a public hearing Monday night on the proposed “Source of Income” Law, which would modify the County’s Fair Housing Law to prohibit housing discrimination based on an individual’s income sources. The measure, first introduced by Legislators Ken Jenkins (D, IN, WF-Yonkers) and Lois Bronz (D, WF-Greenburgh) last spring, is also scheduled for a potential vote at the May 11th meeting.
     “This modification is about removing a subtle form of discrimination,” said Legislator Bronz, an original sponsor of the County’s Human Rights Law.
     “Amending our current law in this way will provide for immediate protection to existing tenants, which is essential in these economic times,” said Legislator Ken Jenkins, Government Operations Chairman.
     The item had been a frequent topic of discussion in both Jenkins’ committee and the Committee on Legislation over the past year. Legislators heard testimony from tenant advocates and real estate industry representatives.
     Bill Burton (D-IN, Ossining ), Chair of the Legislation Committee, voiced his approval. "This legislation is consistent with federal legislation. It will greatly benefit people who are struggling in this difficult economy."
     As proposed, the law would allow “Source of Income” to become a protected class under Westchester’s Fair Housing Law, and would include any legal, verifiable income derived from social security, or any form of federal, state or local public assistance or housing assistance, including the federal housing subsidy known as “Section 8.” Other provisions of the law include: Full story

05-07-09
CALORIES COUNT AND ALLERGIES GET NOTICED
Westchester Menus Get a Makeover
    Starting this month, there will be no more guessing the calorie counts or ingredients of foods sold in Westchester chain restaurants. It’s part of an effort to help people make healthier and safer food choices when they eat out.
     Chain restaurants with at least 15 outlets must post the number of calories in all food and drinks they serve starting on Tuesday, May 12, and to emphasize the seriousness of food allergies, all eating establishments in Westchester must add an allergy notice to their menus and menu boards.
     Westchester County Executive Andy Spano, County Legislator Judy Myers, D-Mamaroneck, Board of Health President Dr. Douglas G.Aspros and Health Commissioner Dr. Joshua Lipsman will roll out the menu makeover on Monday, May 11 at 10 a.m. at Cosi in New Rochelle.
     Cosi regional vice president Bob Speirs will be on hand to explain how this has led to changes in what their customers order and in what they serve. Allergist Dr. Kira Geraci-Ciardullo and several of her patients will talk about food allergies and how this legislation can help them when they eat out.
     The Board of Health adopted the allergy notification as an amendment to the Westchester County Sanitary Code on Nov. 20, 2008. The Board of Legislators on Nov. 10, 2008 passed the calorie labeling legislation for chain food service establishments, which was introduced by Myers.
     Both measures will be enforced by the County Health Department starting this month.
     Cosi is at 77 Quaker Ridge Road, off North Avenue in New Rochelle.

05-07-09
Mount Vernon councilman seeks to unseat Maureen Walker as Comptroller
    Councilman Marcus Griffith hopes his financial experience and support from fellow Democrats will help him unseat the city's longtime comptroller.
     Griffith is seeking the endorsement of the city's Democratic Committee to run against Maureen Walker, who has held the post since 1993 and is seeking re-election.
     "We have to start thinking smarter, faster, better and more progressive," said Griffith, 38. "It's something I don't feel we have in the comptroller's office."
     Griffith said he has the experience needed for the job. As a financial systems manager, he has done accounting and financial planning for major companies.
     He was appointed to the council last year to fill a vacancy and won the seat in November. He has also been a member of the county Planning Board and a Democratic district leader.
     Walker is seen as a watchdog by some Mount Vernon residents as she has taken city officials to task over their spending on cell phones, consultants and other expenses. But some city officials say she doesn't cooperate with them, abuses her power, and isn't forthcoming with information.
     Walker said she has been an independent voice in City Hall and that Griffith was hand-picked by the mayoral administration to run, a charge the councilman denied.
     "He lacks the independence necessary to function as a city comptroller. That is necessary because this office acts as checks and balances," Walker said.
     The city's Democratic Committee will make its endorsements at its convention May 14.
Source:
Hannan Adely, Journal News

05-06-09
Manhattanville College is One of Ten Libraries to Receive Gaming and Literacy Grants
     Ten libraries in 10 states from New York to Alaska have received a $5,000 grant as part of the American Library Association’s ( ALA ) Libraries, Literacy and Gaming initiative, funded by the Verizon Foundation.
     The winners, representing a broad spectrum of libraries – seven public, two school and one academic – will use the funds to develop and implement gaming and literacy programs that provide innovative gaming experiences for youths 10-18 years of age. The 10 libraries were selected out of 390 that applied for the grant and of the 10 that were selected Manhattanville College was the only academic library to receive the grant.
     Manhattanville College’s Library and its MAP program – Manhattanville Advancement Program - will work together and use the grant money to develop an educational gaming program during a pre-freshman summer program, to enrich the academic foundation of MAP students. The ingenuity of the program is quite remarkable, it will be the first of its kind, at the college level, to bring together middle school students and college freshman to help foster academic success through the use of educational gaming tools.
     The Gaming Project will be directed by Katherine Todd, Emerging Technologies Librarian. Ms. Todd will use Scratch and PicoBoards with the MAP students. Scratch, a gaming programming tool, will be used to teach students about design, working with different types of media, and basic programming concepts. The MAP students will be divided into five teams. Each team will develop a specific game: finding a book, using a general database, asking for reference help, navigating the library website, developing a time management plan. After the games have been constructed, the MAP students will, in turn, teach them to the MPALS students at their weekend sessions in February and March, 2010.
     The games will be assessed by Ms. Todd, and by Professor Norman Bashias, Department of Mathematics and Computer Science and a Systemic Knowledge Engineer

05-05-09
Klein Supports Sonia Sotomayor for Supreme Court Nomination

     Senate Deputy Majority Leader, Jeff Klein respectfully urged President Barack Obama to nominate Judge Sonia Sotomayor to fill the vacancy that will be left by Supreme Court Justice David H. Souter when he retires at the end of his term in June.
     Pointing to Judge Sotomayor’s independent mind and record of integrity, as well as her keen and pragmatic interpretation of the law, Klein praised her as an ideal choice:
     “Judge Sotomayor’s extraordinary legal career, judicial temperament and personal leadership style eminently qualify her to sit on our highest court and the people of this country would be well served by her appointment to the Supreme Court”
     Judge Sotomayor’s experience includes her current service on the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals and as a United States trial judge in the Southern District

of New York. A Bronx native of Puerto Rican decent, Sotomayor graduated summa cum laude from Princeton University and earned her J.D. from Yale Law School.

05-05-09
County Clerk says spring brings trades scams in Westchester
With the coming of spring in a tough economic climate, Westchester residents should beware of scams as they contemplate home improvement projects. Westchester County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni wants to educate residents who are planning to hire a plumber or electrician. The Office of the Westchester County Clerk licenses plumbers and electricians throughout the county and investigates complaints from homeowners with problems. Matters can be referred to the Board of Plumbing Examiners or the Electrical Licensing Board which may impose a fine or take other disciplinary action. Full story

05-05-09
New Novel Explores Principles of Wisdom
After growing up in Africa with little opportunity, New Jersey author Francis Konadu’s life has changed with hard work in the accounting profession. He has worked as an auditor for more than 10 years in America , having worked for KPMG, PricewaterhouseCoopers, The McGraw-Hill Companies and Conair Corporation in the past. His new novel releasing this month, “The 12 Stars of Wisdom: Wisdom for All Generations,” infuses his extensive study on wisdom into a fictional story.
     Konadu says he had read the book of Proverbs when he was a teen, but it made sense to him on a deeper level as an adult. After reading the first chapter, he asked himself, “What does wisdom mean to God?” and adopted that approach for the rest of his reading.
     “After reading the whole book of Proverbs, I listed twelve principles of living which I name the twelve stars of wisdom in this book: the fear and recognition of God, morality, knowledge, understanding, faith, discipline, caution, focus, patience, endurance, determination, and humility.”
     In the story, first year wisdom academy students Jonathan West, Lisa, and Christopher, challenge the adequacy and completeness of the system of wisdom taught by the school. Konadu reveals what the school’s system of wisdom is, and how Jonathan and his friends change it.
     “I learned particularly that from God’s perspective, wisdom is not only about intellectual capacity and exercise of judgment; more importantly, wisdom is about habits and behavior.”
     The book is available at any bookstore nationwide or can be ordered through the publisher at www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore or by visiting barnesandnoble.com, amazon.com or target.com. This is also an eLIVE title, meaning each printed copy contains a code redeemable for a free audio version from www.TatePublishing.com
     For more information, please contact Jana Gridley, Marketing Representative, at (888) 361-9473 or send an email to jana@tatepublishing.com.

05-05-09
Rep. Nita Lowey Meets With LaGuardia TSA Employees

Finding the best way to address the myriad of workplace issues now facing Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employees was the topic of an important meeting yesterday between Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-N.Y.) and local TSA Officers (TSOs) at LaGuardia Airport.
Rep. Lowey, a longtime champion of rights for TSOs and a sponsor of a pending House bill to provide collective bargaining rights to TSOs nationwide, met with several members of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) Chapter 311 (NTEU LaGuardia), which represents hundreds of TSOs at one of New York’s largest airports.

The Monday visit was the lawmaker’s second to LaGuardia in recent months to meet with NTEU-represented TSOs. Full story

05-04-09
OPERATION PROTECT launched May 4 in Mount Vernon!
WHERE IS THE OPERATION PROTECT ZONE?
The Operation PROTECT zone is the entire area south of West 2nd Street to West 5th Street between South 5th Avenue and South 10th Avenue. If you reside or work in this area, you will be affected by Operation PROTECT.
WHAT IS OPERATION PROTECT?
Operation PROTECT is a comprehensive approach to reducing crime in Mount Vernon. In addition to enhanced law enforcement, city, county and private services

will be deployed into your neighborhood. Residents and community leaders will be asked to participate in maintaining a cleaner, healthier and safer neighborhood. The overall mission of this operation is to reduce violent crime and strengthen public trust. Full story

05-03-09
WOMAN OF THE YEAR HONORED BY WOMEN’S CLUBS

Mae Carpenter (L) holding her award, which was presented by Program Chairman Camille Odierna of the Larchmont.

     On Thursday, April 23, 2009 the Westchester County Federation of Women’s Clubs welcomed Mae Carpenter as their Woman of the Year. A gala luncheon was held at the Davenport Club, on the water, in Rye, New York.
     Carpenter has held many offices in the County, most recently as Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS). Many honors and awards have been bestowed on Mae Carpenter, including one in 2008 from the American Society on Aging. She was also presented the 2005-2006 Johnson & Johnson/Roslynn Carter Leadership Award, the Racial Justice Award of the YWCA of White Plains and Central Westchester, Share the Light Award from Lighthouse International , and has received recognition from many other groups. For her Cable Series,”Living The Later Years”, which ran for thirteen years, she was presented the National Media Owl Award by the original Ann Landers. In 1981, 1995, and 2005 Carpenter was a delegate to the National White House Conference on Aging. She is a graduate of Howard University, with a Masters of Science from Herbert Lehman College.
     The Westchester County Federation of Women’s Clubs is comprised of twenty-five individual clubs with a membership of over 3,000 women. It was with great pride and enthusiasm that they elected Carpenter as their Woman of The Year.

05-03-09
Passport Laws Change June 1^st . . . Are You Ready?
County Clerk Idoni Urges Those Heading Across the Border and Back To Get Ready

County Clerk Timothy Idoni (top left) with passport staff (L-R) Amani Marji, Dora Ulacco, Mary Ferenci, Majid Samarneh, Tracy Colavito and Ana Ramos.

After a series of delays, the final phase of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative is scheduled to go into effect on June 1, 2009. “We encourage residents planning a trip across the border and back to let our knowledgeable staff help them apply for a passport, including taking their picture,” began Westchester County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni. “Routine passport applications take only a few minutes to complete and our staff is expert at assisting with more complex cases,” continued Idoni.

05-01-09
Students and staff at Mt. Vernon's Lincoln Elementary School help kick off Penny Drive Fundraiser to benefit Relay for Life

A group picture of those who attended the kick off ceremony at Lincoln Elementary School

     On Friday, May 1, students and staff members at Lincoln Elementary School in Mount Vernon helped kick off a city-wide school district Penny Drive Fundraiser effort intended to benefit the annual Mount Vernon Relay for Life.
    For the third consecutive year, Mount Vernon has been selected by the American Cancer Society to host "Relay for Life of Mount Vernon."
     Relay For Life, the American Cancer Society's signature yearly event, is a fun-filled overnight experience designed to bring together those who have been touched by cancer. At the event, people from within the community gather to celebrate survivors, remember those lost to cancer, and to fight back against cancer. Relay participants help raise money and awareness to support the American Cancer Society in its lifesaving mission to eliminate cancer as a major health issue.
     Last year, for the first time ever, Mount Vernon residents were among 3.5 million people in 4,800 communities nationwide that hosted the American Cancer Society’s premiere event, Relay for Life.
     In attendance for the kick off event at Lincoln School were the following:

George Albano, Principal
Mary Anderson, a teacher at Lincoln School and cancer survivor
Helen Royster, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and cancer survivor
Mary Harris, co-chair of Relay for Life
Debra Stern, Fundraising Coordinator, President of the PTA Council and community service activist
Toba Duggan and Donna Correale, Lincoln School Coordinators

     During the entire month of May, students throughout the Mount Vernon school district will be donating and inserting their spare change in purple buckets found in each of the schools throughout Mount Vernon. All proceeds will be donated to the "Mount Vernon Relay for Life."
     This year's "Mount Vernon Relay for Life" will take place on Friday, June 12, at Memorial Field and will continue until the next morning.
     For additional information visit: www.relayforlife.org/mtvernonny or email Debra Stern at dstern39@yahoo.com.

05-01-09
12 Pieces from the Neuberger Museum of Art’s African Collection on display at Mt. Vernon Public Library

Library Director, Opal Lindsay (r) pictured with Marie Thenese Brincard, Curator of African collection at The Neuberger Museum.

The Neuberger Museum of Art’s African Art Collection is regarded as one of the premiere collections of African Art in the United States. Thanks to a partnership between ArtsWestchester, the Neuberger Museum of Art | Purchase College and the Mt. Vernon Public Library, twelve pieces from the Neuberger Museum of Art’s collection are currently on view at the library’s new Rotunda Gallery from April 30^th through June 14^th. The exhibition, titled “The Power of the Body,” is free and open to the public. Full story

04-30-09
News from Leg. Lyndon Williams
Swine Flu: Westchester County status report
Dear Friend,
     As of this afternoon (Thursday), there are still no confirmed swine flu cases in Westchester but county officials continue to gear up with the expectation that there will be cases soon. I want to reassure you that the county’s health department is closely monitoring the situation and is well prepared to respond as needed. County government has also been in communication with all sectors of the community – schools, hospitals, emergency responders and local police departments – to offer information, advice and guidance on how to act should the flu outbreak intensify in Westchester.
     Members of the public who need more information may call the state Health Department Hotline at 1-800-808-1987 or visit the county’s Web site at www.westchestergov.com .
     I'd like to pass on some precautionary measures we can all take to prevent the spread of this or any flu.
     Some of these actions are:

Wash your hands often.
When using soap and water, first wet hands with water, apply an amount of product recommended by the manufacturer to hands, and rub hands together vigorously, covering all surfaces of the hands, giving attention to fingernails and surfaces where jewelry is worn. Rinse hands with water and dry thoroughly with a disposable towel. Use towel to turn off faucet.
When using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (60% - 95% alcohol) rub thoroughly over all surfaces of the hands, including nail areas and between the fingers. Rub until product dries.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and clean your hands afterwards with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. If tissueless, cough or sneeze into your elbow or upper arm, not your hands.
Wipe down bedside tables, bathroom surfaces and children’s toys with a household disinfectant.
Keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth to keep germs from entering your body.
Stay home if you are feeling sick. Get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids.
Avoid close contact with sick people. Respiratory droplets passed from one person to another spreads flu.
Avoid sharing objects—such as utensils, cups, bottles and telephones—or disinfect objects before using them.

     Be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms (101.4 fever AND two of the following: cough, sneezing, sore throat, runny nose) symptoms and call your doctor if they develop.
     For more information from Centers for Disease Control (CDC) about swine flu, its symptoms, its transmission, and everyday precautions you can take to avoid getting sick, click here . For detailed guidance on recommended steps to take if you suspect you or a family member is infected, click here .
     Be well.

04-30-09
Mt. Vernon creates roadmap to become a green and sustainable community

(l to r) Planning Commissioner, Jeffrey S. Williams, and Dep. Chief of Staff, Brian Bochow, making a presentation to Mt. Vernon residents at the Mt. Vernon Public Library.

     The City of Mount Vernon is taking bold steps to “go green” by instituting greening initiatives designed to improve the quality of life for its residents, while stressing the importance of sustainability and ultimately saving the taxpayers lots of money.
     The city's green initiative is very costly, but the good news is that the money will be coming from grants. The biggest contribution will be coming from the Federal Government's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Community Block Program, which will hopefully be providing Mount Vernon a total of $625,000 for said initiative.
     The purpose of the federal program is to assist eligible entities like Mount Vernon in implementing strategies to reduce fossil fuel emissions in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and to the maximum extent practicable; maximizes benefits for local and regional communities; reduces the total energy use of the eligible entities in the transportation sector; the building sector; and other appropriate sectors. Additional purposes of the EECBG Program are to spur economic growth and create and/or retain jobs under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Full story

04-27-09
Klein Hosts Bishop Nathan Edwers

                                      Senator Jeff Klein (L) pictured with Bishop Edwers

    Senator Jeff Klein was honored to host the spiritual leader of the Friendship Worship Center in Mt. Vernon to offer the opening invocation for the April 19th session of the NY State Senate.
     Well before he established the "Friendship Worship Center", in 1998 in Mt. Vernon, Bishop Nathan Edwers has been pioneering to improve society since he was just a teenager. From his roots in New Jersey when he first answered his calling to enter religious service, to spearheading the $1.3 million expansion of the Friendship sanctuary which now accommodates 1,200-Bishop Edwers has pursued a true vision of leadership for the 21st century.
     Recognizing that faith comes in all forms, the Bishop developed Friendship Worship Center as a diverse multi-cultural and multi-racial congregation. As a result, Friendship is not about one single denominational affiliation but adopts a holistic approach to ministry with a focus on the total family.
     It is this key insight, that life is about acceptance and working together, which inspires us today,” said Klein.

04-25-09
Mount Vernon Girl Scouts celebrate "Spirit Day" by cleaning and beatifying Wilson Woods Park

This group was responsible for laying down mulch at the park

    On Saturday, April 25, several Girl Scout Troops from within Mount Vernon joined forces and participated in a clean-up project at the Wilson Woods Park as part of the larger National Girl Scouts Spirit Day.
     Spirit Day is a council-wide celebration for Girl Scouts across America, and is intended to be a fun day. Troops are encouraged to engage in community get-togethers and service projects, all in an effort to make folks aware that Girls Scouts are green and growing in communities across the 50 states.
     Paula Barrett, a Troop Leader with Troop 1616 in Mount Vernon arrived at Wilson Woods Park bright and early waiting for members of her Troop to show up for work. "Today is Spirit Day and our goal is to implement a program whereby the girls are involved in the community. With the current focus being going green, I think this is a great way for our Girl Scouts to help beautify and take care of their community here in Mount Vernon," said Barrett. Full story

04-24-09
SPECIAL REPORT
mount Vernon city hall to implement new security procedures
   Mount Vernon Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. and Commissioner of Public Safety David Chong announced today that City Hall would implement new security procedures beginning Monday, April 27, 2009.
     “Following the deadly shootings in Binghamton, New York this month and Missouri City Hall a year ago, we have to take additional steps to protect employees and visitors to City Hall. These measures are not designed to limit access to City Hall in anyway; however, we must take more proactive actions to reduce the risk of such tragedies happening here,” said Mayor Young.
     Under the new procedures, all visitors must enter City Hall through the Stevens Avenue entrance only; which is equipped with a metal detector. All other entrances will be closed to the public, except for emergencies. Visitors must also show a form of identification and sign a visitor log book. These procedures also prohibit contraband or weapons in the building.
     City Public Safety Commissioner David Chong stated, “It is unfortunately a sign of our current times, but Cities across the nation have instituted safety and security measures to better protect the public at large. These security upgrades are overdue and will provide all that visit, work and do business in City Hall a greater level and sense of security.”
     For more information on the new security procedures please call the Office of the Mayor at (914) 665-2360.

04-24-09
Over 30 kids participate in Celebration of "Week of the Young Child" at Mt. Vernon Public Library

Some of the kids gathered by Kevin Robinson while he told them stories

     The Mount Vernon Public Library continues to provide excellent programs for the community, especially the children's section of the library.
     On Thursdays, April 23, the library celebrated National Week of the Young Child with a kickoff celebration called Pajama Story Time in the Children's Room.
     Thanks to wonderful weather, over 30 children participated in the event, which is a nationwide celebration that aims to bring public attention to the needs of young children and their families and to recognize early childhood programs and services meeting those needs. Full story

Senator Jeff Klein Visits City Hall

Mayor Young welcomed State Senator Jeff Klein to Mount Vernon City Hall on

Thursday, May 28th and the Deputy Majority Leader once again delivered to Mount Vernon. Senator Klein awarded grants to four local non-profits who will be able to do even more important work in our community.

"Senator Jeff Klein has been a fully vested partner with Mount Vernon and we are very happy to enjoy a close working relationship with him and his staff." said Mayor Young. "The funding provided today will go a long way towards making our city an even better place to live and work."

Recipients of the much needed funding include: Legal Services of the Hudson Valley (with an office in Mount Vernon); the Council for Unity (youth gang prevention); Friendship Worship Center (for a summer youth program) and the Fleetwood Neighborhood Association.

June 2009 Headlines

06-28-09
NBPA
NBPA Endorses Bill A04038 for more Diversity of Police Departments in Westchester County
    The members of the National Black Police Association and the communities at large commend, Assemblyman J. Gary Pretlow, D-Mount Vernon, Derickson Lawrence, chairman of the Westchester Coalition Against Bigotry for their tireless effort in establishing and securing Bill A04038.
     We are supporters of this Bill and believe this is the first of many steps to securing justice, fairness, and effectiveness in law enforcement and minority communities. The principal concerns of the National Black Police Association center upon law enforcement issues and the effect of those issues upon the total community.
     Though the National Black Police Association was not considered in endorsing this Bill, however, we do want the community and the leaders and respective organizations to know we support this effort, and our hope is, in the future, is to work side by side with these leaders and organizations to establish
better policies and relationships, to better serve our community.
     It is the view of the National Black Police Association that proper representation of black law
enforcement professionals is key when dealing with the issues of:

Departmental promotions and management
Establishment of departmental polices and identifying the affect polices have on communities in Westchester, especially the communities of color
Police brutality, misconduct and excessive force
Effective community policing

The NATIONAL BLACK POLICE ASSOCIATION is a nationwide organization of African American Police Associations. The NBPA has several chartered organizations throughout the United States, and associate members in Canada, Bermuda, and the United Kingdom. The NBPA serves as an advocate for minority police officers and establishes a national network for the training and education of all police officers and others interested in law enforcement.

06-28-09
Mt. Vernon

06-26-09
Apollo Theatre
The Apollo Statement Regarding the Untimely Passing of Michael Jackson

The entire Apollo family is saddened to learn of Michael Jackson’s untimely passing. Michael first performed at the Apollo in 1969 with his brothers when he was only nine years old, winning Amateur Night, and catapulting their career as the Jackson 5. We will always remember Michael in our hearts as a true Apollo legend, known for his professionalism and grace. Our sympathy goes
out to his entire family. He will be deeply missed.

Jonelle Procope, President & CEO, The Apollo Theater Foundation, Inc.

06-25-09
Editorial
Nearly 75 supporters attend fundraiser in New Rochelle home for Mt. Vernon City Council candidate, Roberta Apuzzo

Roberta Apuzzo (l) being introduced by the hostess, Carmen Paolercio

On Thursday, June 25, friends, relatives and supporters from all over the tri-state area attended a fundraiser for longtime Mount resident and Mount Vernon City Council candidate, Roberta Apuzzo. The fundraiser took place at the beautiful New Rochelle home of Carmen Paolercio, founder of Shine A Ray
of Hope Campaign for Darfur.
While enjoying the spectacular view of the Long Island Sound from the home's terrace, I overheard much chatter concerning Roberta's effort to become a Mount Vernon City Councilwoman. "Why does Roberta want to get involved in Mount Vernon politics, it's such a stressful, nasty and thankless job?" said one guest. I overhead another guest say, "She is the perfect candidate. She is a proven leader, great manager and she can be trusted." More