February 08 headlines

02/28/08
NY State Consumers Protection Board applauds 'Do Not Call Law' extension
The New York State Consumer Protection Board (CPB) applauds the recent passage of the “Do Not Call Improvement Act of 2007,” assuring that telephone numbers on the national Do Not Call Registry of the Telemarketing Sales Rule since the establishment of the Registry will be extended without expiration, unless requested by the consumer. The new Law will eliminate any possible confusion about whether or not a registered phone number is valid on the list, and will thus further protect consumers. The Act also calls for the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to assure list accuracy by periodically checking registered numbers and removing those that are invalid, disconnected or reassigned.
Go ***

Court Appointed Special Advocates Program Seeks Volunteers
The Mental Health Association of Westchester (MHA) is seeking volunteers for its Court Appointed Special Advocates Program (CASA). The CASA Program advocates on behalf of children in foster-care involved in the Family Courts. CASA volunteers are appointed by Family Court Judges and spend 10 to 15 hours per week advocating for the best interest of abused and neglected children in foster care, with a particular focus on the child's health, education and overall well-being.
If you would like to help children in foster care attain a permanent home, consider becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteer. MHA provides more than 40 hours of initial training and then ongoing support. The next training session will begin Monday, March 17^th from 9:30am-4:00pm and continue for five consecutive weeks. We are presently interviewing candidates. Anyone interested in volunteering as a CASA advocate should call Benita Marks at MHA of Westchester at 914-345-3993, ext. 215. ***

02/28/08
Rev. Richardson receives American Red Cross Westchester Chapter's Laura & Jerome Holland Award
Two Mt. Vernon students awarded scholarships

Story by Joe Parisi
     The American Red Cross Westchester County Chapter held its prestigious Ninth Annual Jerome Holland Power Humanity Dinner at the luxurious Fountainhead in New Rochelle, NY, on Wednesday, February 27.
     Each year, many gather to remember and honor Jerome Holland at the annual Power of Humanity Celebration, but this year the American Red Cross in Westchester elected to honor his wife, Laura, as well, renaming the event the Laura & Jerome H. Holland Power of Humanity Celebration.
     Dr. Holland embodied the values and vision that characterized his lifelong dedication to the ideals and goals of the Red Cross. His unequaled success as an educator, diplomat, athlete and visionary remains an inspiration to those who strive to build upon his achievements. Go ***

02/27/08
County golf courses to open March 19; E-Z Reserve program to begin
   Westchester’s six county-owned golf courses will begin assigning E-Z Reserve tee-times for the 2008 season on Saturday, March 8. Saturday tee times will be sold beginning at 8 a.m. and Sunday tee times will be sold beginning at 12 noon. The courses are scheduled to open for play on Wednesday, March 19, weather and conditions permitting.
     E-Z Reserve tee times enable golfers with a Westchester County Park Pass to block out a regular starting tee time on either Saturdays or Sundays for a period of 25 weeks. (Apr. 12 – Sept. 27 for Saturdays and Apr. 13 – Sept. 28 for Sundays.) There is a fee of $250 per player due when tee times are assigned. Greens fees are paid at check-in each week. Cash, check, Visa, MasterCard or American Express are accepted. E-Z Reserve tee times will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. One tee-time will be allowed per park pass holder.
     Substitute players will be allowed, but golfers will be responsible for providing a substitute.
     E-Z Reserve fees are non-refundable. Cancellations must be made at least two days in advance via the telephone reservation system. If players fail to show up, even on inclement weather days when the course is open, and if the tee-time cannot be resold they will be flagged as a “No Show” and charged the amount of the lost greens fees to be paid at the next round. Failure to pay will result in the loss of E-Z Reserve privileges.***

02/27/08
County to offer introductory session on Medicare “basics” - Session will take place March 18 in Mount Vernon
     A free, introductory session on Medicare “basics” will take place on March 18 at the County Office Building, 9 S. First Ave., Mount Vernon.
     The talk is presented by the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS), and will be held from 10 a.m. to noon in the eighth-floor conference room.
     Speaker Jeanne Pici, a DSPS program administrator, will provide information about Medicare parts A, B, C and D and how to use Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) for even greater savings. EPIC is a New York State-sponsored plan that helps eligible seniors pay prescription drug costs. She will also discuss Medigap insurance, cost-sharing and preventive benefits.
     For more information or to register, call DSPS’ Medicare Information Line at (914) 813-6100. The information line is open year-round to help seniors with Medicare issues. More information is available at www.medicare.gov, the government’s official Medicare site.

02/26/08
U.S. Flag of Honor raised to commemorate Detective Christopher Ridley at Mount Vernon City Hall

A Mount Vernon police officer is shown preparing to make history by raising the United States Flag of Honor in tribute to Detective Christopher Ridley.

On Tuesday, February 26, the Unites States Flag of Honor was raised to half-staff during a special and historic ceremony at Mount Vernon City Hall, commemorating Detective Christopher Ridley’s service as a police officer, which tragically culminated in his death as he intervened in a violent aggravated assault in progress that occurred in White Plains, New York.
The history of the Unites States Flag of Honor began shortly after the tragic September 11, 2001 attacks. The Texas House of Representatives entrusted a United States flag that had flown over the State Capital, to a local Austenite, Chris Heisler. Like many Americans, Heisler felt compelled to take action during a horrific time in the United States history. With Flag in tow, he set out for Ground

Zero. Along the way, Heisler helped organize one of the longest police motorcades in the history of the United States. Go ***

                                                    Jeffrey Williams

     Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. announced that Jeffrey Williams has been appointed to serve as the new Commissioner of the Department of Planning and Community Development. Williams is expected to begin serving in his new capacity on February 25, 2008.
     “I am extremely proud to welcome Jeff Williams as our new Planning Commissioner,” said Mayor Young. “Mr. Williams brings an impressive resume and a passion for public service. His many talents as both a Certified Planner and active community member are a much needed addition to the City of Mount Vernon.”
     Williams will oversee various federal, state and local funded programs designed to improve the physical, social and economic life of the City of Mount Vernon residents. The department initiates specific development projects to address particular economic and housing needs and coordinates long-range planning for the City. Department personnel also act as technical staff to the Mount Vernon Urban Renewal Agency, the Industrial Development Agency and the Planning Board and, as such, reviews all cases appearing before the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Architectural Review Board. The department is also responsible for the administration and operation of the Mount Vernon Parking Bureau and the City's Recycling Education Program.
     “Mount Vernon is poised to make great strides in capitalizing on its physical and cultural resources,” stated Williams. “I look forward to playing a significant role in executing the development vision for the City of Mount Vernon as shaped by the Mayor, the city government and all those who live and work in Mount Vernon.”
     Williams brings over twenty years of professional planning experience. He joins Mayor Young’s new administration having worked for the City of Yonkers and, more recently, for Westchester County as a Principal Planner and their historic preservationist. Williams has worked at all levels of the planning profession and brings experience with a wide array of development and public program projects. He is also affiliated with Access Westchester, Inc., the Yonkers Historical Society and the Westchester County Historical Society. ***

02/24/08
Editorial
Has The Inquirer become a target of political infighting in Mount Vernon?

As the Publisher and Editor of The Mount Vernon Inquirer, I have tried very hard not to make enemies over what I write and publish in the newspaper. I have also tried very hard for over three years to publish a monthly newspaper that highlights all the positive things than transpire in the great City of Mount Vernon on a daily basis.
I have developed long lasting friendships in Mount Vernon that actually inspire me to continue doing what I do in Mount Vernon. My goal is to let the rest of the world know about

the real Mount Vernon - a city comprised of hardworking great people, with an abundance of talent.
Unfortunately, crime has taken center stage in Mount Vernon for a very long time, unjustly giving Mount Vernon a black eye in the media. It has been my job as the publisher of The Inquirer to accentuate Mount Vernon in the press in a positive way, and help reverse the negativity that has plagued Mount Vernon for decades. My research has concluded that crime in Mount Vernon is in proportion with other cities throughout America similar in population, and in some cases lower. Go ***

02/23/08
Talk of ending K-8 pilot project in Mount Vernon Schools creates dilemma for new Superintendent
Currently, there is a pilot K-8 program in place at two Mount Vernon elementary schools, Pennington and Graham. The design of this pilot program anticipated that it might extend to two more schools, Columbus Elementary and Grimes Elementary, in academic year 2008-09. But, there is now great concern throughout the Mount Vernon community that the pilot program may be scrapped.
The Board of Education voted and put the pilot program in place under Superintendent Brenda Smith's watch. Now, the current Superintendent, W.L. "Tony" Sawyer, is facing community backlash, since there is talk about the pilot program coming to an end soon. In addition, the parents of the students participating in the pilot program at Pennington and Graham are poised to resist the idea of their children being transferred to the Davis Middle School. Go

Top Row Left to Right: James Huvane, Steven Gomez, Senator Jeff Klein, Kevin McArdle Bottom Row: Dennis Kilkenny, Thomas Huvane, Shane Carty

     Stepping onto the green on a gray and windy day, Senator Jeff Klein offered warm wishes and nylon jersies to the Gaillic Football Team. Klein suited up and stood with the team before being invited to toss around the ball.
     A combination of soccer and football, the sport employs the use of hands and feet, as well as allowing football style tackles. A bonafide fisherman, Klein instead congratulated the team and watched from the sidelines as the boys, who come from across the Bronx and Westchester, prepared to compete in the British Collegiate Games in Birmingham, England.
     As a sponsor, Klein is of course rooting for the home team. The team practices twice a week at Gaillic Football Park in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. ***

                            A group picture near the end of the party

      Sheryll Brownlee Fox, who worked as acting press secretary under the former mayor of Mount Vernon, Ernest D. Davis, and continued to work in the Department of Recreation under Mayor Clinton I. Young's administration as Public Affairs and Special Events Coordinator, has resigned her position. She is relocating to work as a marketing manager for a plus-size women's clothing line.
      On Thursday, February 21, many of Fox's friends gathered at the Fleetwood home of Serapher Conn-Halevi, head of the Mount Vernon Democratic Party and Mount Vernon City Marshall, for a farewell celebration. In attendance were her closest friends, and included her former boss, Karen Watts, Mount Vernon Department of Recreation Commissioner. Go ***

02/22/08
Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. taps Yolanda Robinson as new Chief of Staff

Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. announced today that Yolanda Robinson has been appointed to serve as the new Chief of Staff for the City of Mount Vernon. Robinson officially began serving in her new capacity on February 4, 2008.
“Yolanda Robinson has a stellar reputation of getting the job done. Her experience in government, public relations and business operations will go a long way in improving the image of the city,” said Mayor Young.
Ms. Robinson will oversee the day to day operations of the city. She has already enhanced constituent services at City Hall, as well as work with city departments to maximize efficiency and constituent response in the City of Mount Vernon.

“Mayor Young and I share a commitment to public service and strengthening communities in the great City of Mount Vernon,” noted Robinson. “Currently, we are enhancing constituent services and community outreach; implementing new policies to improve overall government efficiency; as well as developing a new interactive city web site. I am truly blessed and excited to play a role bringing the Mayor’s vision into fruition.” stated Robinson.
Robinson has more than twenty years of public/community relations and government experience. Robinson served as Deputy Chief of Staff for New York State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins. She has also served as a publicist/community liaison for former Westchester County District Attorney Jeanine Pirro, WLIB/WBLS news anchor and News 12 Anchor/Reporter. Robinson also hosted one of the top rated jazz shows on WJAZ in Stamford, Connecticut. She also established her own public relations consulting firm called OnPoint Public Relations, LLC. ***

02/22/08
Postal Service unveils Black Heritage Stamp in honor of Charles W. Chesnutt in Mount Vernon

    Mount Vernon officials, along with the U.S. Postal Service, dedicated a 41-cent commemorative stamp honoring Charles W. Chesnutt, a renowned educator, lawyer, columnist, lecturer, entrepreneur and author at Mount Vernon City Hall, City Council Chambers on February 21. Chesnutt is the 31st person honored in the popular Black Heritage stamp series.
     Chesnutt was a distinguished writer recognized as a major innovator and singular voice among turn-of-the-century literary realists who probed the color line in American life. Known as a man who “chose” to be black, Chesnutt in his writings explored the challenges faced by people of mixed race.
     Chesnutt was born in Cleveland, June 20, 1858, and grew up in Fayetteville, NC. He died in his hometown in 1932. Scholars describe Chesnutt not as a household name but note that, in recent years, his work has attracted growing interest. Go ***

02/22/08
ArtsBash 2008 scheduled to take place May 16
     A warm spring night, food, fun and fabulous art set the scene at the Westchester Arts Council’s annual ArtsBash party! This arts extravaganza will feature cuisine prepared by leading chefs of Westchester, New York City, Fairfield, and Rockland, along with a special preview of the exhibit Locally Grown and open artist’s studios throughout the weekend.
     ArtsBash 2008 will kick off at 6 pm on Friday, May 16. The festivities take place in the spectacular Grand Banking Room of the Arts Exchange, 31 Mamaroneck Avenue in downtown White Plains, and spill out onto Mamaroneck Avenue .
     Tickets to see and be seen are $100; to order tickets or for more information please call 914-428-4220 x273. ***

02/21/08
Letter to the Editor
Thanks for bringing back The Inquirer
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Parisi:
     I was deeply saddened to witness the demise of the Mt. Vernon
Inquirer because in my view, it was one of the best community
newspapers I have ever read.
     It was in every sense of the word a "community newspaper," and
all its sections and articles truly reflected that. I, like many others,
did not offer tangible support of the Inquirer before, but that will
change this time. I will not take the publication of the Inquirer for
granted again, and I am certain there are others in the community
who feel as I do.
     I am not a resident of Mt. Vernon. I am a resident of Yonkers, and
the pastor of a congregation in the Bronx. However, I have some members,
colleagues and friends who are residents in Mt. Vernon, and I promise you that I will do my part and encourage others to uphold and help sustain this
newspaper through advertising and paid subscriptions.
     Again, many thanks for your commitment to start publishing this
wonderful community newspaper again. ****

Rev. Robert Lews Foley, Sr.
Cosmopolitan Church of the Lord Jesus
39 West 190th Street
Bronx, New York 10468-0144

02/21/08
College Careers welcomes Mount Vernon resident to Board

Mount Vernon resident Karen Williams has been selected to join the Board of Directors of the College Careers Fund of Westchester, a non-profit organization providing educational opportunities to underserved youth. The appointment was announced by Robert Demuth, Board President.
Karen Williams is a wife, mother of two, and Director of Multicultural Admissions at Sara Lawrence College. When she's not recruiting students for the College, Williams plans community service and social events for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Zeta Nu Omega Chapter, and Jack and Jill of America's Westchester Chapters, organizations in which she holds board positions. She received a B.A. degree in African

Studies from SUNY Albany and a M.Ed. degree in Counseling and Development from George Mason University. Williams has also completed doctoral coursework in Education at George Washington University. Williams currently resides in Mt. Vernon with her husband Orson, and her two children, Naja and Isaiah.
     “Ms. Williams’ impressive background will bring new and great perspectives to College Careers,” said Blanche Walker, Executive Director, College Careers Fund of Westchester. “We are pleased to welcome her to the Board.”
     The College Careers College Program serves more than 260, primarily African-American and Hispanic, high school students each year. College Careers’ one-on-one counseling, college admissions preparation, financial assistance, and mentoring programs prepare students to attend colleges and universities throughout the country. Over the past forty years, the organization has made college a reality for more than 2,500 students while providing ongoing support from high school through college matriculation. This year marks College Careers’ 40^th anniversary.
     College Careers is located at 190 East Post Rd., P.O. Box 1530, White Plains, NY 10602. For further information, please call 914.428.3435 or e-mail ccareers@aol.com. ***

02/21/08
The Wartburg Announces the appointment of Sandra Greene as Nurse Manager in the Skilled Nursing Center

     Sandra Greene, RN, a resident of the Bronx, NY, has been named Nurse Manager in the Dementia Special Care Unit of The Wartburg’s Waltemade Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She worked previously as a Charge Nurse at the Jewish Home and Hospital, Bronx, NY.
     Greene earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from Northern Caribbean University in Mandeville, Jamaica, where she is a candidate for a Master of Arts degree in Education Administration.
     The Wartburg Adult Care Community is a not-for-profit Lutheran ministry, serving people of all faiths with a full range of

residential options and health-related services, including skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, assisted and independent living, adult day services, home care, pastoral care and monthly caregiver support groups. The Wartburg is conveniently located off Exit 12 of the Hutchinson River Parkway near Pelham/Mount Vernon border. For more information about The Wartburg Adult Care Community, call (914) 699-0800 or visit www.thewartburg.org ***

    The Wartburg Adult Care Facility focused on matters of the heart across the campus, as they officially observed The American Heart Association's "Go Red For Women's Heart Health" educational initiative on Valentine's day.
     Judy Benke, Director of Church and Parish Health Partnerships, and Roger St. Clair, Director of Food and Nutrition, set up a display table in the staff cafeteria. For the occasion, St. Clair had his staff prepare a special heart-healthy lunch menu, complete with detailed nutritional information. Red blouses, ties, shirts and sweaters were in evidence everywhere, as were the signature little red dress pins that the Heart Association uses to promote the annual event.
     Benke collected donations for the American Heart Association on behalf of The Wartburg, which will be matched dollar-for-dollar by The Wartburg Foundation.
     In the afternoon, students from the Edmund Rice Society of Iona College presented their handmade valentines to all the folks at Club Wartburg Adult Day Program at a Valentine's Day party in the Berkemeier Auditorium. Members of the Rice Society assist fellow students and also get involved in community outreach activities such as the holiday celebration with Wartburg's Adult Day seniors.
     The students came prepared for a party with cupcakes, cookies, and valentines for everyone.  *** Go

02/19/08
Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. eager and poised to lead Mount Vernon to greater heights

By Joe Parisi
     The recent Mount Vernon mayoral race will undoubtedly go down in Mount Vernon history as the most controversial and bitterly fought race ever, causing much division amongst the populace. But signs of healing are starting to be seen all across the city, and Mount Vernonites appear to be bridging the partisan divide as well. The badly needed respite has finally taken place, and the dark cloud hovering over Mount Vernon is slowly disappearing.
      On the night he won the Primary, Clinton Young stated, “Together, we have made history. Together, we have redirected our city’s destiny. Together, we will move our city forward, and we must repair our city’s image.” Already there is talk throughout Mount Vernon that Young is working feverishly to keep his campaign promises. Like his predecessor, in the short time he has been mayor, Young's presence is everywhere. He is starting to demonstrate that he too can be a highly visible mayor. In addition, citizens, merchants, and others have begun to positively label Young as "the on time mayor," since he is passionate about his promptness.*** Go

02/15/08
Westchester County’s Office of African-American Affairs brings free housing forum to Mt. Vernon

Kim C. Holland, Program Administrator for the county's Division of Housing

     Many Mount Vernonites attended a very informative free housing forum on Saturday, April 16, sponsored by Westchester County’s Office of African-American Affairs, intended to assist residents having mortgage troubles or thinking about buying a house.
     The forum was held at the St. John, Paul and Clements Episcopal Church, on South 9th Avenue. A panel of experts provided information about what steps people can take to prevent foreclosure and what resources are available to help them get back on their feet. Additionally, a county Planning Department representative spoke about “Lead Safe Westchester,” a program that makes funds available to remove lead-based paint from older homes and apartments.
     The leading Westchester Government spokesperson at the forum was Tracey Mitchell, Director of African-American Affairs. Her department works to identify and resolve issues affecting African-Americans in Westchester. Mitchell was accompanied by Kim C. Holland, Program Administrator for the county's Division of Housing.
     Also in attendance was Geoffrey Anderson, Executive Director of Westchester Residential Opportunities, Inc. (WRO), and Veronica I. Raphael, a foreclosure specialist and financial education instructor with WRO. Go ***

02/15/08
Mayor Clinton I. Young Appoints Terrence Horton Mount Vernon Commissioner of DPW

Terrence Horton speaking at the dedication of one of his many developments in Mount Vernon in 2007.

     Mayor Clinton I. Young, Jr. announced has announced that Terrence Horton has been appointed to serve as the new Commissioner Department of Public Works. Horton is expected to begin serving in his new capacity on February 22, 2008.
     “I’m pleased to bring talented and dedicated individuals, such as Terrence Horton, to Mount Vernon. He is a product of the Mount Vernon public schools and brings excellent management and development credentials to the job. With Terrence Horton on the team, we can look forward to a brighter future in Mount Vernon,” said Mayor Young.
     Mr. Horton will oversee the physical upkeep and maintenance of all properties and roadways belonging to the City of Mount Vernon. The department has the additional responsibility of ensuring that all services relating to the physical condition of the city enhances the quality of life levels set forth by local, state and federal standards.
     “It is an honor to be given the opportunity to serve the great City of Mount Vernon as the new DPW Commissioner,” stated Horton. “My family has always been committed to public service. I am proud to bring my experience and expertise back to my hometown.”
     Mr. Horton has very deep roots in the City of Mount Vernon. He is owner and founder of QFI, Inc., a real estate development and general contracting company based in the City of Mount Vernon. In 1999, he was appointed by the City to lead its federally funded Third Street revitalization initiative. Mr. Horton was also instrumental in developing internship and scholarship opportunities at his alma mater Mount Vernon High School. He is also the recipient of the American Dream “Entrepreneurial” Award. ***

02/14/08
Fox Searchlight Pictures "The Savages" filmed in Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon’s Westchester Center for Rehabilitation & Nursing was the scene for the filming of Fox Searchlight Pictures “The Savages." The interior and exterior facility filming took place at the facility, creating much excitement in the mostly quiet neighborhood.
The "Savages" is an irreverent, hilarious and heartbreaking story revolving around a modern American family during one of modern life’s most bewildering and challenging experiences: when adult siblings find themselves plucked from their everyday, self-centered lives to care for an estranged elderly parent. ***

02/13/08
Klein and Stewart-Cousins instrumental in helping pour an additional $26M into Yonkers Raceway
    Senator Jeff Klein (D-Westchester/Bronx) and Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D-Yonkers) voted recently to pass legislation to pour an additional $26 million into Yonkers Raceway. The funding constitutes the largest portion of a $70 million package of additional revenue for the eight tracks that have video-lottery terminals (VLTs), including Finger Lakes Racing and Gaming in Ontario County, Batavia Downs, and Tioga and Vernon.
     “This is the boon we’ve been waiting for to bring the Raceway into the 21^st century, and make it a regional entertainment destination. The deal will bring increased business into Yonkers and contribute to ongoing efforts to develop the city as the economic anchor of Westchester,” said Senator Jeff Klein, who represents the area around the racetrack.
     Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins added, “This is a big win for Yonkers .This long-term contract will bring more business and revenue into Yonkers resulting in increased and ongoing development and opportunity for the city.”
     Yonkers will also be eligible for up to $2.5 million in annual grants to be used for capital project investments to improve the facilities of the vendor track. Funding can be used for projects including hotels, other lodging facilities, entertainment facilities, retail facilities, dining facilities, event arenas, parking garages and other improvements that enhance facility amenities. In addition, Yonkers, Finger Lakes, Saratoga harness track and Monticello Raceway would also split a $10 million capital fund for facility improvements.
     In addition, the Legislature voted to give the New York Racing Association a 25-year contract to run racing at three thoroughbred tracks: Aqueduct and Belmont in the New York City-area and at Saratoga, north of Albany. ***

02/12/08
Senate Democrats, NYS Banking Department and Financial Institutions Join Forces to Help New York Borrowers Protect Their Homes
Thousands of New York homeowners will be able to have their loans reviewed by bank and mortgage servicing company representatives, during “Operation Protect Your Home.” The series of forums, which begins in the Bronx on February 23, is a joint effort between the New York State Senate Democratic Conference, the New York State Banking Department, and various lending institutions. The events are intended to assist borrowers who may be struggling to make mortgage payments or who are at risk of defaulting on their mortgage. Go

02/12/08
Heineken Signs Two-Year Deal to Serve as Official Beer Sponsor of Apollo Theater

Heineken USA and the Apollo Theater announced today the creation of the Heineken New Legends Concert Series, which will serve as a new cornerstone of the famed theater’s annual performance schedule. The concert series is part of a larger two-year agreement in which the Heineken brand will serve as the official beer sponsor for the Apollo Theater.
The world-famous Apollo Theater serves as more than just a historic landmark. The theater and its rich heritage are a source of pride and a symbol of the brilliance of African-American culture and artistic accomplishment. Playing off the theater’s recognition as the place “Where Stars are Born and Legends are Made” – having played a role in launching the careers of luminaries like Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, James Brown and Billie Holiday – the Heineken New Legends series at the Apollo will

present four of today’s rising R&B acts on one of the largest music stages each year.
The first concert in Heineken New Legends Concert Series is scheduled for Friday, February 22 and will celebrate GRAMMY® Award-winning musicians and hip-hop impresarios, The Roots. The talent and impact of these hip-hop artists represents the very best of today’s music and indicates lasting staying power. Tickets are $41.50 and $31.50 and are available through the Apollo Theater Box Office (212-531-5305) and Ticketmaster (212-307-7171 or www.ticketmaster.com/venue/6).
“The Apollo Theater is legendary. It has played a historic role in showcasing the best in music and contributing to the cultural fabric of New York City.” said Ken Kunze, chief marketing officer for Heineken USA. “Heineken, like the Apollo Theater, is an icon known for its authenticity and originality. We look forward to bringing Heineken and the Apollo Theater together for everyone to enjoy." ***

02/12/08
Jewelers Vigilance Committee Release Jewelry Buying Guide to Protect Consumers

With Valentine’s Day two days away and shoppers scrambling to find just the right gift for their sweetheart, the NYS Consumer Protection Board (CPB) teamed up with the Jewelers Vigilance Committee (JVC) of New York City to release its Jewelry Buying Guide providing tips for consumers.
The National Retail Federation reported in January that U.S. consumers would spend an estimated $17.02 billion on Valentine's Day this year, up from $16.9 billion spent in 2007. In 2006, About.com reported consumers spent an average of more than $100 on Valentine's Day-related goods and services with about 22.4 percent of men and approximately 7.3 percent of women planning to purchase jewelry.

“Big ticket item purchasing for a loved one around Valentine’s Day makes it more important that consumers purchase with their heads and wallets as well as their hearts,” said Mindy A. Bockstein, Chairperson and Executive Director of the CPB. “With so much money at stake, it is important that consumers know what they are buying and from whom they are making the purchase. Consumers who are in a hurry to make last minute jewelry purchases need to know how to get quality for their money. Therefore, the CPB is pleased to join with the JVC to provide consumers with important tips to follow before making a purchase.” Go ***

02/10/08
Editorial
Why are Mount Vernon's neighborhood business districts important?

Edited from an article by Alicia Goehring

Can area malls and discount centers take the place of your neighborhood business districts in the future? The answer is most definitely no. Though malls and discount centers play an important role in our communities, neighborhood business districts are much more than shopping centers. It is critical for everyone involved in a neighborhood business district revitalization to understand the value of that district. Here are some good reasons why
neighborhood business districts are important (not in order of importance):

1. Your neighborhood commercial district is a prominent employment center. Even the smallest neighborhood business district in Mount Vernon employs large amounts of people and is therefore a significant employer in the community—good jobs near where people live. Go ***

02/10/08
Editorial
New "Entrepreneur of the Month" program to be unveiled with the April issue; Robin Myers is our first choice
     The Mount Vernon Inquirer is very much aware of the importance entrepreneurs, better known as merchants, play in Mount Vernon's economy. Mount Vernon as a whole needs to celebrate the entrepreneur and increase its recognition of the entrepreneur throughout the entire city.
     As the Publisher and Editor of The Inquirer, and a Mount Vernon entrepreneur, I have initiated a program that will recognize the many merchants within Mount Vernon that have a strong ongoing record of helping to build the economic base of the Mount Vernon community. Merchants that actually contribute by helping fill empty storefronts, encouraging other businesses to move into the area and augmenting the tax base which is critical to the city.
     We at The Inquirer have put together a program in which a retailer will be selected as "Mount Vernon Entrepreneur of the Month" on a monthly basis. The selected retailer will have his business highlighted in our newspaper as well as our website. There will also be pictures of the owner, staff and facility that will complement the article.
     We encourage Mount Vernon shoppers to send us information concerning a particular retailer you would like to have selected as "Mount Vernon Entrepreneur of the Month" for our consideration. Information can be emailed to me at: ja_parisi@yahoo.com. ***
     The staff of The Inquirer has kicked off the program by selecting Robin Myers as the very first "Mount Vernon Entrepreneur of the Month" for the month of April - based on our longtime working relationship with her. ***

02/09/08
Special program commemorates President's Day & African-American History Month at Saint Paul's

                            Damien Smith as Frederick Douglass

By Joe Parisi
     Located in Mount Vernon, NY, St. Paul's Church, a National Historic Site, hosts several special events during the year for visitors to experience history first hand. To the delight of many, staff members at the church help tell the story of the development of colonial society and the road to the American Revolution. It consists of an 18th century stone church that was used as a Revolutionary War hospital, a cemetery with burial stones dating to 1704 and the remnant of a Village Green that was the scene of the famous Election of 1733 which raised issues of Freedom of Religion and the Press.
     On Saturday, February 9, visitors were treated to a special program commemorating President's Day and African-American History Month, attended by many local and out-of-state visitors. *** Go

02/08/08
The History of Black History

     Americans have recognized black history annually since 1926, first as "Negro History Week" and later as "Black History Month." What you might not know is that black history had barely begun to be studied-or even documented-when the tradition originated. Although blacks have been in America at least as far back as colonial times, it was not until the 20th century that they gained a respectable presence in the history books.
     Blacks Absent from History Books
     We owe the celebration of Black History Month, and more importantly, the study of black history, to Dr. Carter G. Woodson. Born to parents who were former slaves, he spent his childhood working in the Kentucky coal mines and enrolled in

high school at age twenty. He graduated within two years and later went on to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard. *** Go (Photograph: Dr. Carter G. Woodson) ***

02/05/08
Editorial
The Inquirer to be resurrected; an April edition is scheduled to go into circulation at the end of March

    Mount Vernon is fast becoming one of the most dynamic cities in Westchester County. The city, having undergone a major overhaul after the old administration was replaced with a progressive new administration under Mayor Clinton Young - is ready for transformation.
      Our decision to shutdown The Inquirer was a very painful one, but one that had to be made. But, after being dormant for four months, the paper is being resurrected and will soon be providing all the positive news about the great city of Mount Vernon as in the past.
      We intend to continue with out strict policy of keeping negative news out of the paper, since we want the people's newspaper to continue acting as a 'breath of fresh air' for the entire city. Go

02/06/08
ALL ARE WARMLY WELCOME TO HOLY WEEK SERVICES AT THE WARTBURG CHAPEL

     The Rev. Carol E. A. Fryer, Chaplain and Director of Pastoral Care, invites all to worship at The Wartburg Chapel (Lutheran Christian) during Holy Week.
     On March 16, the Passion Sunday service will begin at 10:15 AM and will include the Procession with Palms, the Reading of the Passion of Our Lord According to St. Matthew, and Holy Communion.
     On March 20, the Maundy Thursday service will begin at 2:30 PM with Confession and Absolution, followed by Holy Communion.
     On March 21, Good Friday service will begin with the Stations of the Cross at noon, followed by the Service of Prayer and Devotion at 2:30 PM.
     On Sunday, March 23, we will celebrate the Feast of the Resurrection of Our Lord with a service at 10:15 AM. Everyone is welcome.
     Wartburg Chapel is located on the campus of The Wartburg Adult Care Community at Wartburg Place, off East Lincoln Avenue, near Exit 12 of the Hutchinson River Parkway, on the Pelham - Mount Vernon border.
     For additional information about Holy Week services, please call Pastor Fryer at 914.513.5162 or e-mail cfryer@thewartburg.org
     The Wartburg Adult Care Community has been providing a full range of residential options and health-related services for older area adults and their families for over a century. These include 24-hour skilled nursing care, Alzheimer's and dementia care, assisted and independent living, 7-day adult day health services, home care services, sub-acute rehabilitation, memory care, monthly caregiver support groups and pastoral care.

Mary Concetta Gelardi, 102-years-old, makes a birthday wish as her family and friends look on.

     Mary Concetta Gelardi, a resident of The Wartburg Adult Care Community, was honored with bouquets of white and red roses and cake at a party in January to celebrate her 102nd Birthday. In attendance were newly elected Mount Vernon Mayor, Clinton Young, as well as members of Mary's family, friends, and Wartburg staff.
     After blowing out candles and making a wish, Mary and company danced to live music.
     The Wartburg Adult Care Community is a not-for-profit Lutheran ministry serving people of all faiths with health-related and residential programs for older adults and their families.
     To learn more, please visit www.thewartburg.org. ***

Traphagen Elementary School students, grades 3, 4, 5 and 6, gathered in the school's auditorium on Wednesday, February 6, to hear the school's principal, Joseph Jordano, speak about the upcoming citywide spelling bee. Last year, in the first ever citywide spelling bee organized and conducted under the rules of the Scripps National Spelling Bee, one Traphagen student came close to winning the spelling bee crown won by Keeshini Nandlall, an eight-grader at A. B. Davis Middle School.
Nandlall, the winner of the Mount Vernon Spelling Bee, in the fourth through eighth grade category, advanced and participated in the Scripps National Spelling Bee, which was held in Washington, DC on May 30 and May 31. Go

02/06/08
Westchester County Clerk’s Office “Goes Red for Women” and Raises over $2,200.00 in the Fight Against Heart Disease

Westchester County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni with members of his staff on "Go Red for Women Day."

     The employees of the Westchester County Clerk Timothy Idoni’s office continued their annual commitment to raising awareness about women and heart disease with a successful fundraiser in support of the “Go Red for Women” movement. More than $2,200.00 has been raised thus far from a bake sale, raffle and from sales of “Go Red for Women” ribbons, pins, and bracelets, held on Go Red Day, February 1^stat the County Clerk’s Office in White Plains. The “Go Red for Women” movement is a national campaign of the American Heart Association (AHA) that aims to educate women about the risks of cardiovascular disease and stroke.
     “Nationally, heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women. However, it is a disease that is preventable,” stated Idoni, who lost his own mother, Florence Idoni to heart disease in 2006. “The “Go Red” movement empowers women with the information they need to reduce their heart risks by making lasting lifestyle changes that improve their overall heart health and lead to living longer, stronger, and healthier lives.” County Clerk Idoni was elated by the tremendous outpouring of support from employees who wore red and volunteered to raise funds, as well as the monetary donations received from other county employees and the general public at their bake sale and raffle. “I salute my staff, our county colleagues, and the public for enthusiastically embracing the “Go Red” movement. Their support is further evidence of a commitment to improving not only their own health, but also the health of so many important women in their lives,” said Idoni.
     Proceeds from the bake sale, which featured an assortment of delicious home-baked goods donated by staff, and the raffle will go to the American Heart Association to continue the fight against heart disease in women. To find out more information about the nationwide “Go Red for Women” movement, or to make a donation, contact the local Westchester/Putnam regional office of the American Heart Association at (914) 694-6464 or visit http://www.goredforwomen.org. ***
***

Tawanna Savage joins The Inquirer as Associate Editor; author of best selling novel "Hannibal!"

    Tawana Savage, an accomplished writer and author of the best-selling, three-part novel "Hannibal!" is joining The Inquirer as an associate editor, and will also be writing and reporting for the publication as well.
     Savage began writing "Hannibal!" in August 1992. The book is a "factuation" of Hannibal's life, the great warrior king of Carthage. The book was originally written as one story; however, due to the size of the manuscript (approximately 1400 pages), Savage published as a trilogy – "Hannibal!", "Hannibal: Book II", and "King General Hannibal".
     Savage received overwhelming responses to her trilogy about the general lauded for his ingenious war

strategies, which included a fleet of war elephants he marched over the Alps to fight against the Roman army. Go ***

02/06/08 ALL ARE WARMLY WELCOME TO HOLY WEEK SERVICES AT THE WARTBURG CHAPEL

02/06/08
ALL ARE WARMLY WELCOME TO HOLY WEEK SERVICES AT THE WARTBURG CHAPEL