March
'08 Headlines
03-28-08
#1
New grants help Westchester residents get free or
low-cost cancer screening
Westchester residents with little or no health insurance
can get lifesaving free or low-cost cancer screening
services through the Westchester County Health
Department’s Healthy Living Partnership, thanks to two
grants.
The Westchester County Health Department announced
today that it was awarded a $337,500 grant from New York
State to support breast, cervical, and colorectal cancer
screening programs through the Healthy Living
Partnership for the next five years.
The County Health Department also was awarded a $75,000
one-year grant from the Susan G. Komen for the Cure
Foundation to support the Healthy Living Partnership,
which improves women’s access to cancer screening and
follow up care. For 25 years, Susan G. Komen for the
Cure Foundation has been a national leader in promoting
and supporting breast cancer screening for women.
“This funding is very important to us,” said Dr. Joshua
Lipsman, Commissioner of Health for Westchester County.
“Early detection of cancer through regular screening is
the most effective way to reduce cancer deaths. A lack
of sufficient health insurance often prevents people
from seeking timely cancer screening, so these free or
low-cost services, provided by the Healthy Living
Partnership and supported by these grants, are truly
saving lives.’’
The Healthy Living Partnership offers cancer screening
for uninsured and underinsured individuals in
Westchester through a provider network. During the 2006
to 2007 grant year, Westchester’s Healthy Living
Partnership conducted close to 5,000 clinical breast
examinations, nearly 2,000 screening mammograms, more
than 400 colorectal cancer screening tests, and nearly
4,000 cervical cancer screenings. Uninsured and
underinsured women, ages 19 to 26 can now also
receive the Human Papilloma Virus vaccine as part of
their annual breast and cervical cancer screening. The
HPV vaccine many help prevent certain types of cervical
cancer.
Eligible patients diagnosed through the program with
breast, cervical, or colon cancer can receive treatment
through the Medicaid Cancer Treatment Program.
For more information, call the Westchester County
Department of Health at (914) 813-5260 or visit
www.westchestergov.com/health
03-27-08
County Legislator Williams supports Invest-In-Kids
Program for Mt. Vernon youth
Westchester County Board of Legislators approved the
Invest-In-Kids Program for Mount Vernon, Peekskill, and
White Plains. The program will be implemented through
intermunicipal agreements with Youth Bureaus of each
municipality. The agreement runs from January 1, 2008
through December 31, 2008.
County Legislator Lyndon Williams (D, Mount Vernon) is
in support of Invest In Kids and the positive impact
that is to have in the City of Mt. Vernon. County
Legislator Lyndon Williams said that “funding for
programs like Invest-In-Kids provides important benefits
for underserved youth such as job-readiness training and
skills, after-school programs and home-work assistance,
appreciation for the arts and culture, and the kind of
positive influences that will help them to overcome
socio-economic challenges.”
Westchester County Invest-in-Kids program was
established in 1993. It was designed to assess and meet
the needs of at-risk young people. The goal of the
program is to address those needs and encourage the
growth of the youths into mature and productive adults.
The program focuses on cultural diversity, educational
enrichment, vocational skills, socialization and
citizenship aimed at supporting positive youth
development.
Since that time, communities with significant numbers
of low-income households have been included in
eligibility for funding. Under the legislation, the
investment in Mount Vernon’s program is $354,000 of
which the county will fund 60 percent while the City of
Mount Vernon will match the remaining 40 percent. The
Mount Vernon Youth Bureau will use the Invest-In-Kids
funding to run three programs. The first program called
Youth Empowerment will receive $134,000. The
second program called Safe Haven, an after school
program, will receive $100,000, and the third program –
Mount Vernon Step UP – will receive $120,000. ***
03-27-08
African-American Men of Westchester, Inc. to sponsor
7th Annual Environmental Conference
The
7th Annual Environmental Conference sponsored by the
African-American Men of Westchester, Inc. (AAMW) will be
held on Friday, April 11, at the Theodore D. Young
Community Center, 32 Manhattan Ave., White Plains, NY
10607 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Registration begins at
5:30 PM. This conference is being held to educate
Westchester residents and young people on environmental
and health issues affecting their communities.
“The theme of this year's conference is “Think
Globally, Act Locally” and our goal is to create a
greater awareness to environmental issues affecting all
residents in the
Westchester community,” states Melvin Burruss of
Peekskill, President of AAMW.
Attendees will also get to see Westchester County's
Veggie Van, and hybrid vehicles.
The Environmental Committee of AAMW exists to promote
awareness of environmental issues facing residents in
Westchester, as well as to educate young people and
residents about how these issues affect their quality of
life. Over 250 residents and youth are estimated to
attend. ***
03-27-08
Westchester/Rockland Guardians Association honors Mount
Vernon Police Commissioner David Chong
(l to r) Ret. Det.Sgt. Cynthia Hood (WPPD), DA Janet
DiFiore, Yonkers Chief Marshall, Norman Downes and
Police Commissioner David E. Chong.
Recently, at the Greentree Country Club in New Rochelle,
the Westchester/Rockland Guardians Association held its
annual installation dinner. A new executive board was
sworn in including a new President, retired Detective
Sergeant Cynthia Hood of the White Plains Police
Department. The Guardians are a fraternal police
organization with a
long history of promoting equality and representation.
Over two hundred people braved the inclement weather and
attended the function, including Mayor Clinton I. Young
Jr. of Mount Vernon and Mayor Joseph DelFino of White
Plains.
This year the honorees included Mount Vernon Police
Commissioner David E. Chong, who was given the Community
Service Award. Commissioner Chong dedicated the award to
all the members of the Mount Vernon Police Department,
most specifically, slain Mount Vernon hero, Detective
Christopher Ridley.
Commissioner Chong stated, "The award for community
service is not an award one receives as an individual -
it is an award due to the hard work and dedication of
everyone in the Mount Vernon Police Department. He went
on to say that Detective Christopher Ridley exemplified
what true community service is all about and dedicated
the award to his memory.
Other awardees this year included District Attorney
Janet DiFiore, who was honored for Achievement. And
Chief City Marshal Norman Downes, as Guardian of the
year. ***
03-26-08
Mayor Clinton I.
Young inspires record crowd with his first State of the
City Address
Mayor Clinton I. Young delivering his very first State
of the City Address
It has been
over twelve years since Mount Vernonites last flocked to
City Hall to attend a State of the City Address
delivered by a new mayor.
On Wednesday night, March 26, nearly 250 people packed
the Council Chambers at Mount Vernon City Hall to hear
Mayor Clinton I. Young deliver his very first State of
the City Address. The ceremony understandably lacked the
fancy electronic gadgetry used by the former mayor, like
a video presentation and the use of a teleprompter, but
nevertheless, Mayor Young hit a home run with his
speech, according to those in attendance.
Go
03-26-08
Westchester
Rehab introduces Alzheimer's & Dementia program
Westchester
Center for Rehabilitation & Nursing is pleased to
announce the grand opening of “Our Place,” a program
designed to achieve memory enrichment and positive
social interactions for their residents living with
Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
By building in memory cues and naturally familiar
settings, Our Place strives to create physical
surroundings that eliminate the sources of frustration
these residents would normally experience, while
supporting independent actions and personal
choice. Meaningful activities promote a rhythm of
belonging, while conversations incorporate the
residents’ definition of reality. Music and art are
incorporated on a daily basis to expand the range of
communication. Most importantly, positive reactions,
reinforcement and redirection calm difficult behaviors.
Individually designed care plans ensure our appropriate
response to residents' changing needs. The staff is
specially trained in therapeutic approaches to personal
interactions, activities, and personal care. In order to
continuously upgrade skills, educational programs are
being planned with staff from neighboring facilities as
well as with the Alzheimer’s Association.
For further information, please phone Kristen Guarnieri
at 914.699.1600, extension 324.***
03-24-08
03-23-08
MOUNT VERNON WATER PROJECT TO
BEGIN MARCH 31ST
The Board of Water Supply is
presently under contract to rehabilitate major
distribution mains in various sections of Mount Vernon.
It is anticipated that construction will start the week
of March 31. 2008.
The locations of these mains are as follows:
1.
East Devonia Avenue from Central Parkway to North
Columbus
Ave AnuAvenue
2.
Parkway East - entire length.
3.
Huntwood Place – entire length.
4.
Vernon Parkway from Central Parkway to Parkway
East.
5.
Rockridge Road - entire length.
6.
Columbia Place - entire length.
7.
Raynor Avenue – entire length.
8.
Forster Parkway - entire length.
9.
Parkway Circle - entire length.
10. Palmer
Avenue - entire length.
11. Carwell
Avenue – entire length.
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The nature of this project, i.e., cleaning and
cement lining of existing old water mains,
necessitates that all customers served by these
mains be put on temporary services. (Bypass
pipes.)
The temporary lines will be laid on top of the
ground in the curb or sidewalk area and will
provide buildings with water while the
rehabilitation is progressing. There may be
some temporary inconveniences for residents in
the affected areas, but they are outweighed by
the overall benefits to the City, especially
with regard to fire protection. |
03-22-08
MVHS
photography students' photos on display at Westchester
Community College
The photography of five MVHS students is currently on
exhibit at The Westchester Community College (Gramatan
Avenue Branch). The exhibit, entitled “A Day at the
Brooklyn Botanic Garden,” began as a field trip
taken in the Spring of 2006 by Mount Vernon High School
students of the ASPIRE (After School Partnership for
Instruction Recreation and Enrichment) after school
program. ASPIRE is a collaboration between the City of
Mount Vernon Youth Bureau and the Mount Vernon City
School District for student enrichment. The exhibit is
curated by MVHS photography instructor Ted Jenkins who
explained: “The field trip was taken to give the
photography students an opportunity to apply the lessons
and theories learned in class. The lessons included were
photographic composition, camera technique, the parts of
the camera and photojournalism. As you walk through the
corridor of WCC and view the images I hope you get a
sense of these fledgling photographer’s accomplishments.
They used their learned skills to capture the vibrant
colors, textures and various scenes of the day to form a
picturesque conglomerate photo essay of their trip to
the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This is a prime example of
what our students can accomplish when given the proper
guidance, resources, and tools they need to be
successful.”
The exhibit was made possible thanks to the Mount
Vernon City School District and City of Mount Vernon
Youth Bureau for their efforts in constructing such a
program that allowed the students the opportunity to
express themselves intellectually, culturally and
through the arts. In addition, WCC must be recognized
for offering their space so that the community at large
has the opportunity to see what talented young adults
there are in the four square miles that comprises the
City of Mount Vernon.
The exhibit showcases excellent work by Glenda Ashe,
Michael Bourne, Dominique Johnson, Michael Rhoden and
Jasmine Veal and will run through May 21, 2008. **
03-21-08
Mount Vernon
Police Foundation's 2nd Annual Awards Gala to be held
April 29
The Westchester Manor
Mount Vernon business owners are encouraged to support
the Police Foundation's 2nd Annual Awards Gala, honoring
the brave men and women of the Mount Vernon Police
Department who provide safety and security to the Mount
Vernon community on a daily basis. The important event
is scheduled to take place Tuesday, April 29, at the
Westchester Manor, located at 140 Saw Mill River Road,
Hastings-on-Hudson.
Cocktail Hour will commence promptly at 6:30 PM,
followed by dinner at 7:30 PM. The cost of a single
ticket is $135.00. If you purchase two tickets the cost
is $250.00. The cost for a table of 10 is $1,150.00.
Your attendance would be appreciated, your donation to
the Gala Journal would be gratefully accepted and you’ll
receive a copy of the Journal as well.
Tax deductible checks may be
made payable to The Mount Vernon Police Foundation. You
may also RSVP by calling Maryanne Martins 914 668 5678,
email
mmartins@canalasphalt.com.
Please click here
www.westchestermanor.com
for directions to the Westchester Manor.
The
Mount Vernon Police Foundation
c/o Canal Asphalt
687 South Columbus Avenue
Mount Vernon, New York 10551
03-20-08
COMMUNITY WIDE
OPEN HOUSE AND MINISTRY FAIR AT
THE DR. C. M. LONG BETHESDA
BAPTIST CHURCH OF NEW ROCHELLE
The
Dr. C. M. Long, Sr. Family Life Center of Bethesda
Baptist Church of New Rochelle will hold an Open House
and Ministry Fair on Saturday, April 5th,
2008. The event kicks off at noon and will last until
4pm.
The event is open to the public and will include guided
tours of the brand new, two story facility. In addition,
a ministry fair will be held in the banquet hall where
members of the community can learn more about the many
activities taking place at Bethesda Baptist Church of
New Rochelle and the many activities sponsored by the
church throughout the community.
The guided tours will begin under the grand chandelier
in the foyer at the main entrance to the new building.
The tour guides will explain the history of the building
and how the building will be accessible to the greater
community.
The tour will end at the grand banquet hall, a 400+
seat facility where the Ministry Fair will be held. The
fair will highlight the various small group ministries
which exist within the Bethesda Baptist Church of New
Rochelle and the programs that will be borne out of the
Family Life Center. Each ministry will have a display
and pamphlets will be available. There will be members
of each ministry who will be on hand to answer any and
all questions.
The Open House and the Ministry Fair are free of charge
and open to all. The address is 71 Lincoln Avenue, New
Rochelle, New York and there is free parking at the
church.
The College of New Rochelle, School of New Resources
will be sponsoring a coffee hour during the event and
light refreshments will be served to those who attend.
Since the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Dr. C. M.
Long, Jr. Family Life Center on February
24, 2008, two special dedication services are being held
each month culminating in July. The next two special
dedication services are scheduled for Sunday, April 13,
2008 at 3:30 p.m. and April 16, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. All
are welcome to attend.
For further information about the Open House and
Ministry Fair and the special dedication services,
please call the church office at (914) 632-6713, Monday
through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
03-20-08
Klein
and Lancman urge state to convert existing technology
into Instant E-mail Alert Registry for sex offenders
Almost
a year to date after New York’s Civil Confinement
legislation was signed into law, Senator Jeff Klein
(D-Bronx/Westchester) and Assemblyman Rory Lancman
(D-Queens) called on the state to finally adopt a
measure proposed by Klein two years ago allowing
concerned parents and neighbors to receive instant email
alerts every time a sex offender moves into their
selected zip code. With the recent unveiling of a new
statewide emergency communication system, NY Alert,
by the Department of Homeland Security, it would now be
even easier for New Yorkers to register for instant
e-mail notifications. Currently, New Yorkers desiring
up-to-date information on registered sex offenders in
their communities must make daily searches of the Sex
Offender Registry maintained by the Division of Criminal
Justice Services.
There are currently 26,000 individuals on New York’s
Sex Offender Registry, which classifies offenders
according to their risk of re-offending: low-risk (Level
1), moderate risk (Level 2) and high-risk (Level 3).
Members of the public can access this database at local
police stations or via a toll-free telephone number.
Level 2 and Level 3 offenders are also listed on an
internet subdirectory at the DCJS website. However, the
information changes constantly as new offenders are
added or existing registrants update their information.
E-mail updates would allow New Yorkers to keep tabs on a
specific geographic area, such as where they live or
where their children attend school, and would save them
the time-consuming chore of making regular visits to the
subdirectory website.
“The numbers are overwhelming. All the more so when you
consider that more and more families with young children
are choosing to stay in New York City and raise their
families. It would be near criminal to deny New Yorkers
the added convenience of better protecting our children
from the kind of unsavory individuals who are, in many
cases, our neighbors” said Senator Klein.
***
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03-20-08
Wartburg employees enjoy a day devoted to
nutritional awareness
Karen R.
Schick speaking with a Wartburg employee
|
(l to r) Lisa Jackson,
Mark Shanske,
Roger St. Clair,
Chef Roger
Weidemann
and Garland Phillips.
Karen R. Schick, a Medical Nutritional
Representative from Abbott Nutrition, spoke with
employees about diabetes control
and shared samples of special food products and
nutritional information at the "National
Nutrition Month" celebration at The Wartburg Adult
Care Community.
National Nutrition Month, March 2008, is an education
and information campaign of the American Dietetic
Association that focuses on the importance of
combining good eating habits with appropriate
physical activity for a healthy lifestyle. ADA also
uses National Nutrition Month to promote its
members as creditable sources for timely and
scientific nutritional information.
The National Nutrition Month event was organized by
Roger St. Clair, Director of Food Service at The
Wartburg, his Food and Nutrition staff, and
by management partner, Morrison Senior Dining
Services. ***
03-18-08
Special Report
Yassine El Yousfi crowned new Mount Vernon City School
District's Spelling Bee Champion
Keeshini Nandlall, last year's champion, presenting
the winner's trophy
to the new champion, Yassine El Yousfi.
Story by
Joe Parisi, photos by james
“jAFa” Fair
On Tuesday, March 18, a record crowd packed
Longfellow Elementary School's beautiful auditorium to
be part of this year's City School District’s Spelling
Bee Championship. Crowned the new Mount Vernon City
School District’s Spelling Bee Champion was Yassine El
Yousfi,
a student at
Longfellow Middle
School.
The runner-up for the contest was
LaBrea Pringle, a
student at Longfellow Middle School,
who will represent Mount Vernon in the event that Yousfi
is unable to travel to Washington, DC to compete. The
third place finisher was
Khaleed Pritchard,
Holmes Elementary School.
Mount Vernon made history in 2007 by enrolling in the
Scripps National Spelling Bee for the very first time.
Mount Vernon was the only municipality in all of
Westchester County to participate in the prestigious
yearly Scripps National Spelling Bee contest held in
Washington, DC.
Go
***
03-18-08
Legislator Williams announces final approval for major
transportation hub in Mount Vernon
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Legislator Lyndon Williams (D-Mount Vernon)
announced that the construction contract for the
redevelopment of Petrillo Plaza, a major
transportation hub in the City of Mount Vernon,
has been approved and the project is now in its
pre-construction phase. The $3 million federally
and county funded development will commence this
spring.
The Board of Acquisition and Contract gave final
approval for construction of Petrillo Plaza on
February 28 and the pre-construction meeting is
scheduled for March 25, 2008. The project design
was approved last year.
“The Petrillo Plaza development is a major landscape
and sidewalk improvement project that will
beautify and uplift the area around Prospect
Avenue and the Metro-North New Haven line
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railroad tracks,” Williams said. “The project
will enable Mount Vernon and other county
residents to enjoy a safer and more convenient
commute to and from work, school, and for
leisure.”
Williams noted that upon joining the Westchester
Legislature in January 2008 as a new legislator,
he immediately scheduled meetings with the
County’s Department of Public Works to move the
project forward.
Petrillo Plaza is a major bus terminal in Mount Vernon.
It is located on Prospect Avenue between Park
and Third Avenues, across from the Food Town
supermarket. The project is scheduled to be
completed in 2009. It will allow rail and bus
travelers as well as pedestrian- shoppers to
traverse through a safer and more attractive
plaza and make use of new bus shelters that are
larger and more comfortable.
Westchester County and Mount Vernon officials entered
into an intermunicipal agreement for the
construction of the plaza. The construction work
includes all necessary labor, material and
equipment required for new sidewalk, concrete
bus pads, asphalt resurfacing, new traffic
signals, lighting, site furniture, signage and
landscaping improvements.
As the third busiest transportation hub in the Bee-Line
system - after Yonkers and White Plains -
Petrillo Plaza is of great importance to the
3,600 Bee-Line and 1,500 Metro-North passengers
who walk through everyday. Mount Vernon has one
of the highest numbers of train passengers,
almost one-half of whom walk to the station.
“Public transportation in Mount Vernon will be smoother
and more efficient with these new improvements
at Petrillo Plaza,” Williams said. “Safety will
also improve with sidewalk work and lighting for
early morning and late evening passengers.” *** |
03-18-08
Mt. Vernon City School District’s Annual All-City
Music & Art Festival scheduled for April 8
The Mount Vernon City School District’s Annual All-City
Music & Art Festival to feature “An Evening of
World Class Talent.” The event is scheduled to take
place Tuesday, April 8, at Mount Vernon High School.
The art exhibit will kickoff at 6:00 PM and the musical
performance will commence at 7:00 PM.
The Mount Vernon community is encouraged to
attend the festival and observe talented students from
elementary, middle and high school display their art
work in exhibit and their music and dance performances
on stage. ***
03-18-08
The Wartburg announces three staff appointments at
The Meadowview
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Brenda Moynihan Kirudis Kay Araujo
David
Viertel |
The Wartburg Adult Care Community, a multi-level center
of senior care in Mt. Vernon, New York, announces the
following appointments at the Meadowview assisted living
residence.
Brenda Moynihan of Yonkers, New York, was appointed
Residency Coordinator. Most Recently, she worked as
Director of Community Outreach at the Woodlands, an
assisted living facility in Ardsley, New York. She holds
a Bachelor of Science degree from Manhattan College,
Riverdale, New York.
David Viertel of High Falls, New York, was appointed
Director of Dining Services. Most recently, he worked as
Executive Chef at the Steel House Restaurant in
Kingston, New York. He holds an Associate in
Occupational Studies degree in Culinary Arts from the
Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, New York.
Kirudis Araujo of New Rochelle, New York, was appointed
Dining Room Manager. Most recently, she worked as a
Reservation Sales Agent at the Affinia Hospitality Hotel
in Manhattan, New York. She holds an Executive Business
Certificate in Business Administration from Drake
Business School, Astoria, New York. ***
03-17-08
AC-BAW helps Community Mutual Savings Bank transform
branch into "art museum" during Black History Month
Story &
Photo by james “jAFa” Fair
In the first of a series of collaborations with the
Mount Vernon community, Community Mutual Savings Bank of
Mount Vernon jointly celebrated Black History month 2008
with the Association of Community based Artists of
Westchester (AC-BAW).
AC-BAW Center for the Arts, located in Mount Vernon,
provided murals and paintings from the collection of
Carle Robinson. The drawings symbolized the achievements
of African-Americans in the educational and social
atmospheres.
The lobby of Community Mutual Savings Bank, located at
40 East First Street, was
transformed into an “art museum.” Each week during the
month of February, the drawings were changed into a new
scene. Throughout the month, many depositors and
community residents who visited the bank remarked how
creative and positive the bank looked. Stephen Kipp, the
Branch Manager, received many encouraging comments and
suggestions as to improving the “art museum” for future
exhibits.
Billy Thomas, board member of AC-BAW, and Jim Jubilee,
Community Affairs Consultant for Community Mutual
Savings Bank, coordinated the efforts, along with the
services of james Fair as photographer. Thomas remarked
how important it is for the community and business to
work together. He said, “One of the ways to bring people
together is through joint ventures.” ***
03-17-08
Mount
Vernon students compete in 1st Annual Black History Quiz
Challenge
Story by
Keisha Kendley & james “jAFa” Fair
Once again, Mount Vernon teens presented their community
with another outstanding achievement. On Thursday,
February 28, the Mount Vernon Community That Cares (CTC)
partnered with Mount Vernon’s Department of Recreation
to present the 1st Annual Black History Quiz Challenge
held at the Mount Vernon Armory. The planning committee
included Family Services of Westchester, Mount
Vernon Youth Bureau, Westchester County Department of
Health Teen AWARE, and WestCop/APPS.
The entire event included a Black History challenge
quiz competition, a rap performance, poetry reading, a
praise dance, and speakers. The moderator was Brother
Arthur Muhammad, and the competition was judged by
Camille Banks-Lee, Executive Director of the Youth
Bureau, and Keisha Kendley, Health Educator for Teen
AWARE and Co-chair for CTC.
For the occasion, the room was decorated with famous
faces and bios of people who have been pivotal to
African-American History.
Go
***
03-16-08
Sigma
Gamma Rho Sorority annual Sigma Week events a big
success
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(l) Sorority
members at CUNY Prep and Adrienne Spivey, President of
the Westchester Alumnae Chapter.
On Saturday, March 15, The Westchester Alumnae Chapter
of
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Westchester Alumnae
Chapter kicked off their annual Sigma Week events with a
Youth Symposium held at CUNY Prep Transitional High
School in
the Bronx. Over a four-hour session,
approximately 50 students, faculty and members of the
sorority participated in workshops on Successful
Interviewing; The Importance of College and Financial
Responsibility; A Voter Registration Drive in
conjunction with the NYC Voter Awareness Commission was
also conducted.
Sigma Week is an annual event held by all graduate
chapters of
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority simultaneously on the
second Saturday of March.
The event was made possible thanks to Derrick Griffith,
Principal of CUNY Prep, who allowed the group the use of
the school.
Later in the evening, at the world famous Apollo
Theatre,
Sigma Gamma Rho held its Masquerade
Soiree. Guests were treated to a tour of the Apollo
Theatre by Billy Mitchell and some guests even
participated in their own "Amateur Night at the Apollo"
as they performed live for a captive audience.
After their impromptu performance, guests were escorted
to the Soundstage. Wearing colorful, decorative masks
reminiscent of a bygone era (and the Apollo's own past
as a former burlesque theatre), guests were announced as
they entered the room and the "paparazzi" was on hand to
immortalize them on film!
A good time was had by all! ***
03-16-08
Legendary jazz singer attracts many to Mount Vernon's
Cimarron
Cultural Café
Beverly
Draper entertaining Mount Vermonites
The word in
Mount Vernon is rapidly spreading about the
Cimarron
Cultural Café,
located at 156 South 4th Avenue. On Friday night, March
15, nearly 75 patrons packed the new 4th Avenue club to
attend a featured performance by legendary jazz singer,
Beverly Draper.
Opened in May of 2007 by Maria and Juan Cedano, Mount
Vernonites are rapidly starting to realize that they no
longer have to trek to Manhattan to enjoy the best in
jazz and other entertainment.
The mission of Cimarron Cultural Café is to
promote multi-culturalism through education, cultural
events and art exhibitions. It is a place for community
residents to come together, learn from each other and
enjoy each other’s company while improving
relationships.
Go ***
03-16-08
Gospelsalive.com., Inc. goes live on the Internet
Gospelsalive.com, Inc. happily announces the launch of
their social networking website -
www.gospelsalive.com.
Gospelsalive encourages its members to take a fresh
look at life. "No matter where you come from, you will
be able to connect with like-minded individuals and
communities in a spam-free and stimulating environment,"
stated Erik Conn, founder/president.
Worldwide, social networking sites have taken off in a
big way. Hundreds of millions of people visit social
networking sites every week, and many of them are doing
so on a daily basis. Social networking today is more
than just a fad, it is fast becoming a part of daily
life, like sending or receiving an email or speaking on
your cell phone.
Sounding upbeat about the future,
Conn said, "The great thing about Gospelsalive is its
overall relevance. Whether you're from North America,
Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific, Middle East or
Africa, you will find something to enrich yourself with
at whatever level you seek, whether it be spiritual,
personal, social or professional."
According to Conn, as the site evolves, you can expect
to see God's people from different corners of the globe
rise above cultural barriers and come together in
fulfilling the true ideals of social networking. ***
03-13-08
Mayor
Young conducts first nuptial as mayor
(l to r) MV Police Commissioner David
Chong, groom,
Sunil Sinanan,
bride,
Leslie Soriano, mother of the bride, Mrs.
Soriano and Mayor Young).
Mount
Vernon Mayor Clinton I. Young presided over the wedding
of Sunil Sinanan, son of Ramesh Sinanan, and
Leslie Soriano on March 13, at Mount Vernon City
Hall. Both the bride and groom are graduates of
Monroe College class of 2007.
The wedding was witnessed by many of Sunil's colleagues
from the Mount Vernon Police Department and city staff.
Sunil served as Assistant to Police Commissioner Chong,
who had the honor of signing their marriage certificate
as the official witness.
The couple will be moving to
St. Lucia. ***
03-13-08
Tours
to view 250 year old church bell start April 25 at
National Historic Site in Mount Vernon
Celebrating the 250th anniversary of one of
the oldest church bells in the country, St. Paul’s
Church National Historic Site, in Mt. Vernon, NY will
begin a series of tours of the historic church tower on
Friday, April 25, at 3 PM, it has been
announced. Admission is free.
Cast in 1758 at the same London foundry as
Philadelphia’s famed Liberty Bell, the bronze bell is a
tangible connection with an earlier time, and reflects
the long and important history of the area, according to
St. Paul’s site manager David Osborn. “The first people
to hear it ring, summoning them to church or announcing
a funeral, were colonists living in the realm of the
British Empire,” he said. “The same bell visitors can
hear peal today would have been rung on June the fourth
in the 1760s, in celebration of the birthday of the
King, George the third.”
Visitors ascend 74 steps on a wooden staircase to reach
the apex of the steeple and discover the bell, greeted
by a panoramic view of the northern Bronx and southern
Westchester. Artifacts and stories about the history of
the church enrich the experience, according to Osborn.
Go
***
03-13-08
Spano, Belfiore, DiFiore and Young react to Grand Jury's
decision on Detective Ridley's killing
According to a grand jury responsible for investigating
the killing of Detective Christopher Ridley, the four
Westchester County police officers committed no crime
when they shot and killed Ridley while he was subduing
and pointing a gun at a homeless perpetrator.
Westchester County Executive, Andy Spano, Public Safety
Commissioner Thomas Belfiore, Westchester County
District Attorney, Janet DiFiore and Mayor Clinton I.
Young have all provided statements to the press.
Click
here to read their statements.
03-12-08
Mount Vernon Rotary Club bids farewell to Mount Vernon
Police Chief Joseph Pizzuti
Tony Mignardi (r) presented Chief Pizzuti with a plaque
Mount Vernon Rotarians honored retiring
Mount Vernon Police Chief, Joseph
Pizzuti, at their weekly lunch meeting
held on Wednesday, March 12.
Pizzuti, who has been with the Mount Vernon Police
department for 35 years, is being forced
to retire, since Mayor Clinton I. Young
wishes to assign his own police chief to
the department.
When Mayor Young asked Pizzuti to stay on as a Deputy
Chief, Pizzuti proudly declined the
offer.
A former Navy veteran who served in Viet-Nam, Pizzuti
regrets having to retire, since police
work has been his life.
“It's time to do something else. I won't miss the phone
calls at all hours of the night,”
Pizzuti said.
At the retirement lunch, Pizzuti received a plaque from
the Mount Vernon Rotarians, who will not
quickly forget the many years of
dedicated service he provided to the
great City of Mount Vernon.
The Mount Vernon Rotary Club is a group that brings
together business and professional
leaders to provide humanitarian service,
encourage high ethical standards in all
vocations, and help build goodwill and
peace in the world. Mount Vernon
Rotarians usually meet weekly for lunch,
which is a social event as well as an
opportunity to organize work on their
service goals. ***
03-12-08
National Conference of Artists (NAC) returns to AC-BAW
NCA Collage
NCA Collage
Story &
Photos by james “jAFa” Fair
AC-BAW
Center for the Arts extended an invitation to National
Conference of Artists(NCA)
to host NCA’s 2008 Mixed-media Art Exhibit. NCA and AC-BAW
have a continuing collaborative history beginning in
1979.
NCA was founded March 28-29,1959, at Dean Sage Hall of
Atlanta University during the opening of the Atlanta
University Eighteenth Annual Art Exhibition. Its mission
is to preserve, promote and develop African-American
Culture and the creative forces of the artists that
emanate from the African-American and African World
Experience.
The current exhibit at AC-BAW includes the works of 24
local and area artists and is a collection of canvas and
wood paintings, photography, sculpture, and 3D collages.
The exhibit can be seen through April 26, 2008. Gallery
hours are Tuesday, 1-3pm, Wednesday, 6-9pm, Thursday
3:30-6pm, and Saturday 1-4pm.
AC-BAW is located at 128 South Fourth Ave, Mount
Vernon, NY, Tel. 914.667.7278.
For more information about NCA and AC-BAW Center for
the Arts visit their respective web sites at
http://ncanewyork.com
and
www.acbaw.org.
***
03-12-08
Mayor Young hosts first “Different Neighborhoods, ONE Mount Vernon”
meeting at City Hall
Mayor Clinton I. Young being praised by a Mount Vernon
citizen
On Tuesday,
March 11, over 200 Mount Vernon residents filled the
City Hall Council Chambers to attend the first ever
'town hall' type meeting known as
“Different Neighborhoods, ONE Mount Vernon.” Most
in attendance, which included
leaders of community organizations, had responded to
personal invitations sent out by Mayor Clinton I. Young
for the important meeting.
Go
***
03-12-08
Ciao
Italia! . . . Klein and Consul General discuss cross
cultural opportunities for Italian-Americans
(l to r) Honorable Francesco Maria Talo and Senator Jeff
Klein
In the interest of increasing access to Italian culture
for both the Italian-American community, and the 34th
Senate District at large, Senator Jeff Klein met with
the Consul General of Italy, the honorable Francesco
Maria Talo. The two leaders discussed ways in which to
increase access to the services and resources provided
by the Italian Consulate.
A long time admirer of Italian
culture, Klein continues to sponsor Italian language
classes for children, as well as the annual Morris Park
Columbus Day Parade, Eastchester Columbus Day Parade,
various Italian-American social clubs, and upcoming
cooking classes at the Generoso Pope Foundation in
Tuckahoe,
Just this year Klein was selected to
receive the 1st Annual "Person of the Year" award by the
102 year old Italian cultural organization, the Esperia
Benevolent Society, which recognized him for his
"relentless work for the good of (our) community and
country."
"It is my great pride to represent a
community with such a well established tradition; one
that pays homage to its roots while making simultaneous
and significant contributions to the world we live in. I
am honored to contribute to that great legacy," said
Senator Klein.
03-11-08
“Washington Takes Command,” is Subject of Special
Talk at National Historic Site, on Saturday, April 12
Distinguished Washington scholar and author Peter
Henriques explores the intriguing story behind
Washington taking command of the American army at the
start of the Revolutionary War -- one of the pivotal
developments in American history -- in a special talk at
St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site, in Mt. Vernon,
NY, on Saturday, April 12, at 2 PM.
A Professor of History at George Mason University, Dr.
Henriques’ books include the highly acclaimed Realistic
Visionary: A Portrait of George Washington, which was
published in 2006.
Free admission and parking. A reception follows the
talk. ***
03-10-08
Nelson
Mandela High School honors top academic 1st & 2nd
marking period students
Nelson
Mandela High School students who were honored
On March 4, Nelson Mandela High School students, family,
friends, school officials and staff attended a memorable
ceremony that recognized the top 10 academic students
for the 1st and 2nd marking period of this year. The
ceremony took place at the school's new home located at
the old Columbus School building on Gramatan Avenue. The
Master of Ceremonies for the event was Ralph Burts,
interim principal.
The event was significant because it honored students
who are trying very hard to overcome past academic and
disciplinary problems they encountered while students at
Mount Vernon High School.
Students who have experienced difficulty at Mount
Vernon High School are given a second chance and a new
start under a different system at Nelson Mandela High
School. The school features smaller class sizes, a
rotating block schedule, a structured high school
setting, clear goals and high expectations, a positive
learning environment, personalized instruction, hands-on
field experiences, high quality student-teacher
interaction, strictly enforced Codes of Discipline, and
a tough attendance policy. The emphasis at Nelson
Mandela is on high academic achievement, excellent
attendance, behavior modification, self-respect,
relationship building, and parental and community
involvement.
***
Go
03-07-08
Mayor Clinton I. Young welcomes Brazilian Ambassador to
Mount Vernon
at City Hall Ceremony
(l
to r) Mayor Young,
Ambassador José Alfredo Graça
Lima and NY State
Senator Ruth Hazel-Thompson.
Mayor
Clinton I. Young, Jr. hosted
Ambassador José Alfredo Graça Lima of Brazil at
Mount Vernon City Hall in the City Council
Chambers on Thursday, March 6.
In attendance for the memorable event were many members
of the Mount Vernon Brazilian community; NY State
Senator Ruth Hazel-Thompson; Mount Vernon Police
Commissioner David Chong, along with several city
officials; members of the press; and members of the
Mount Vernon Police department.
“Over the past twenty years, the City of Mount Vernon
has become a second home for Brazilian immigrants who
seek to live out the new American Dream,” said Mayor
Young. “It is an honor to have Ambassador Graça Lima with us as a
reinforced symbol of unity between the beautiful
country of Brazil and our great city.”
Go
***
03-07-08
The
Wartburg Adult Care Community appoints Margaret Traynor,
MSW, as referral development coordinator
|
 |
|
The
Wartburg Adult Care Community, a multi-level
center of senior care in Mt. Vernon, New York,
announces the promotion of Ms. Margaret Traynor,
MSW, of Yonkers, to Referral Development
Coordinator. Her prior position was Residency
Coordinator at The Wartburg’s Meadowview
assisted living residence.
Ms. Traynor holds a B.S. degree from the State
University of New York at Oneonta and a Masters
degree in Social Work from the Hunter College
School of Social Work in New York City. She is
certified by the Alzheimer’s Association of New
York as a Support |
|
Group Leader and has led support groups for
caregivers of people with Alzheimer’s for over
six years and will continue in this capacity as
she assumes her new responsibilities. *** |
03-07-08
Klein
honored by CUNY Law School; Named Outstanding Public
Service Alum
In
the historic War Room of the Capitol, Senator Jeff
Klein was honored by his alma mater, the City
University of New York Law School, as one of three
outstanding public service alumni. Assemblywoman
Janele Hyer-Spencer and Assemblyman Daniel
O'Donnell, were also recognized. The Senator was
feted for his exemplary 14 year career in the state
legislature. A life long public servant, Senator
Klein attended CUNY Law School while working full
time as the Chief of Staff for Congressman James
Scheuer of Queens. After graduating with honors,
Klein became active in Bronx politics serving on
Community Board 11 as the Chair of Youth Services,
and as both a District Leader and Democratic
Committeeman before being elected to the New York
State Assembly in 1994, and then the Senate in 2004.
“Whether I am working to mitigate the effects of the
subprime lending crisis on New York homeowners,
helping to make prescription drugs more affordable
for seniors, or striving to make the investment
decisions of state pension funds more socially
responsible, I am mindful of my moral obligation to
serve the needs of others and proud to be carrying
on the tradition of public service that was first
instilled in me as a CUNY,” said Klein. ***
03-05-08
County DPW receives award for excellence
The
American Public Works Association recently awarded the
2008 Excellence in Snow and Ice Control Award to
Westchester County’s Department of Public Works, Road
Maintenance Division.
The award is presented yearly to communities nationwide
that have met certain highway deicing criteria and have
provided supporting data based on the following six
categories: materials/handling, equipment, training,
community outreach, and technical and environmental
issues.
Some of the initiatives taken include the installation
of a salt brine-making facility at the DPW Road
Maintenance garage in White Plains, which together with
a new additional storage tank, has increased its
production capability to 1,500 gallons of salt brine in
about 20 minutes.
In addition to the salt brine facility, improvement and
upgrades were made to existing equipment, such as
removable salt brine application system and the latest
computer control system allowing the driver to monitor
the amount of gallons being applied per lane mile.
The APWA’s Excellence in Snow and Ice Control award was
established to promote excellence in the management and
administration of public works snow and ice operations,
to promote the best practices in snow and ice removal
while minimizing environmental impacts. ***
03-05-08
95th Annual Boys & Girls Club Annual Fundraising Gala a
smash hit
Joseph L. Torrisi, Sr. receiving his award (c)
By visiting author, Tawanna Savage
The Boys and Girls Club of
Mount Vernon celebrated their 95th
Anniversary on March 1st in an elaborate ceremony that
showcased the élan of the many talented children served
by the historical institution.
Robbie
Jackson, Board President of the Boys & Girls Club
introduced the Master of Ceremonies for the event, Joe
Solimine, and Michelle Moore of the Boys and Girls Club
intoned a beautifully authentic performance of the
National Anthem
that paved the way
for patrons and participants that turned out in admirable
support for the occasion to enjoy the festivities.
Representation by Mount Vernon and Westchester County
leadership was very well signified by such distinguished
guests as Mayor Clinton I. Young, Honorable Judge J.
Mills, County Executive Andy Spano, County Clerk Ken
Idoni, Assemblyman Gary Pretlow, Pelham Trustee Pete
Pataki, Mount Vernon City Council Members, School Board
Trustees and others.
Go
***
03-05-08
PLAYLAND JOB
FAIR COMING MARCH 8 AT THE COUNTY CENTER
This spring and summer, why
not earn some cash while meeting people and helping them
“have some fun today” by applying for seasonal work at
Playland – Westchester’s great family amusement park in
Rye. You can find out more about working at Playland
during the upcoming Playland Job Fair, Saturday, March
8, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Westchester County Center in
White Plains. Playland’s seasonal employment runs from
April through September.
Although no prior experience is required for most
positions, prospective employees should have a positive
attitude, enthusiasm, good communication skills and the
ability to work a flexible schedule. Applicants must be
a minimum of 16 years of age. Some positions require
applicants to be a minimum of 18 years of age.
Applicants under age 18 who complete an application
prior to the event must have the form signed by a parent
or guardian to be considered for an interview. Those
under 18 who wish to complete their application onsite
at the Job Fair must bring a parent or guardian to the
event to sign the form in order for an interview to take
place.
Positions to be filled include ride operators,
cashiers, custodial, beach and pool, maintenance,
lifeguards, clerical and EMTs.
Typical work schedule is a 4- to 5-day workweek of
approximately 32 to 40 hours. Employees’ schedules will
vary according to the park’s hours of operation, between
6 a.m. and midnight. Accommodations can be made for
part-time schedules.
To
apply during the job fair, bring a completed
application, a valid photo identification and Social
Security card. Applications can be obtained by calling
(914) 813-7010, or via e-mail at
playlandjobs@westchestergov.com.
You can also download and print an application by
logging on to
www.ryeplayland.org.
Westchester County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
03-04-08
Letter to the
Editor
Marketing to Minors 101
I was on my way into one of the several convenience
stores in my neighborhood to purchase a bottle of water
and as I approached the door, I was bombarded with signs
that read “Light & Luscious,” “Pleasure,” “KOOL,” and
“Your Wave Your Style.” I couldn’t help but stare
especially at the “Light and Luscious” as the attractive
and trendy hot pink colors drew me in closer. It was
shortly after I realized I was staring closely at a
cigarette ad. I thought to myself, if I am so drawn into
this ad as a non-smoking adult, how would a non-smoking
teenager react?
From
the literature I have read, in 1998 the Master
Settlement Agreement (M.S.A.) mandated tobacco companies
to refrain from direct and/or indirect youth marketing
via advertising and product promotion. However, since
the M.S.A, a $12 billion dollar marketing make-over has
transformed what was once your local convenience store
into a mural of flashy tobacco ads. Today, children who
go in to satisfy an urge for candy are swallowed up in a
tsunami of brightly colored tobacco product marketing
that deifies the use, and social acceptance of tobacco
use. Reportedly, tobacco companies are well aware that
they cannot stay in business without early youth
initiation which prompted there point purchase
advertising explosion in 2005; spending approximately
182 million dollars on interior and exterior ads.
According to the Point of Purchase Advertising
Institute, three out of four teenagers shop at a
convenience store at least once a week; and a 1999 study
in the U.S. Distribution Journal found that teens
are more likely than adults to be influenced by
promotional efforts in convenience stores. Honestly, I
am daunted by the millions of dollars being spent to
market a product that has been scientifically proven to
deteriorate ones health, especially to children.
POW’R Against Tobacco is currently one of 29 other
Community Partnerships throughout New York State that
has embarked on a Point of Purchase campaign asking
local retailers to reduce, remove, or rearrange their
tobacco signage. Coordinators in Putnam, Orange
Westchester and Rockland counties, have been out in the
community providing education to residents through the
provision of educational materials, group presentations
and mass mailings. With “Big Tobacco’s” marketing
strategies apparent, where do we concerned residents go
from here? To me it is evident; we can all do our part
in our own back yards. Ask your local convenience store
owners to reduce, rearrange, or eliminate their exterior
and interior tobacco advertising. ***
Makeda James
POW’R Against Tobacco
03-03-08
Letter to the Editor
Mount Vernon
student selected to go to Australia as Student
Ambassador
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|
Hello, my name is Nijah Brown and I am thirteen
years old. I live in Mount Vernon, New York, and
I go to Longfellow Middle School. I’m in the
eighth grade and I was born on June 2, 1994. I
have four siblings, one brother and three
sisters. My brother’s name is Warren Brown the
III and my three sister’s names are Tiana,
Skylar, and Liberty. My mother’s name is Jodi
Brown and my father’s name is Warren Brown, Jr.
I am proud to say I’ve been selected to go to Australia
as a Student Ambassador. I was selected based on
my strong academic performance as well as
supportive letters of recommendation from my
teachers.
Out of all the students in Putnam, Rockland and
|
|
Westchester Counties, I, along with forty-three
others, was chosen by People to People, a
student ambassador organization founded by
Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956. This organization
has remained dedicated to the mission of
promoting world peace through increased
understanding between the citizens of the
world. Eisenhower thought the idea of people
from different countries visiting and learning
each other’s cultures was very important. This is how Eisenhower came
up with the name People to People.
Go
*** |
03-03-08
NEWLY
RENOVATED SPORTSMAN CENTER TO EXTEND HOURS OF OPERATION
Beginning Thursday, March 6, the newly renovated
Sportsman Center at Blue Mountain Reservation in
Peekskill will extend its hours of operation to four
days a week. Hours of operation will be Thursdays and
Fridays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4
p.m.; and Sundays, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The
center is also open on all Monday federal holidays, from
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The newly renovated Sportsman is one of the best public
outdoor recreation facilities of its kind in the
tri-state area. Last summer, the facility hosted the
shooting events for New York’s Empire State Games to
rave reviews, and will host events again this year.
The Sportsman Center provides a safe and convenient
site for practice shooting for sports shooting
enthusiasts. It features a multiple-range pistol
facility; a large bore high-power rifle range with
100-yard targets and small bore rifle; an archery range;
and a completely new trap and skeet area with a total of
four combination fields. Range officers who are experts
in their field provide free instruction, and ammunition
is available for purchase on site. Other amenities
include targets, sandbags and bench rests free of
charge; ear protectors are available for purchase or
rental.
Fees for target are $10 per hour for large bore
targets; $8 per hour for small bore and pistol ranges
(New York State pistol permit required); $8 per round
for trap and skeet; and $8 for two hours at the archery
range. All rates are discounted $2 for Westchester
County resident Park Pass holders.
The Sportsman Center is located on Watch Hill Road in
Cortlandt and may be reached by taking Route 9 to Route
9A, Montrose/Buchanan exit. Proceed north approximately
one-quarter mile; make a right onto Watch Hill Road.
Entrance is two miles ahead on the left.
For more information on fees, hours of operation and
directions, call the Blue Mountain Sportsman Center at
(914) 864-5280.
03-03-08
CIMARRON CULTURAL CAFÉ . . . “Where Afro-Latino
Culture Comes Alive”
Juan and Maria Cedano
Story &
Photo by james “jAFa” Fair
Proprietors Maria and Juan Cedano opened Cimarron’s
doors at 156 South 4th Avenue in May 2007.
The name Cimarron was given to slaves who ran away to
the mountains to escape slavery. Today those communities
still exist throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.
They have been able to maintain their culture, music,
religion and their tradition. Examples of Cimarrones are
the Guarifonas in Honduras, the maroons in Jamaica, The
Liboristas in the Dominican Republic, and The Black
Nicaraguans in Blue Fields etc. Cimarron Cultural
Café is the venue where people can come to enjoy and
experience some of those rhythms and traditions in a
relaxed environment.
The mission of Cimarron Cultural Café is to
promote multi-culturalism through education, cultural
events and art exhibitions. To provide a place for
community residents to come together, learn from each
other and enjoy each other’s company while improving
relationships. Go
***
03-02-08
Southern black author attends Terrie Williams' Black
Pain book signing session at Mt. Vernon's Doles
Center
(l
to r) Tawanna Savage and Terrie Williams
Tawanna
Savage is a soft spoken popular black author from
Atlanta, Georgia, author of the best-selling, three-part
novel "Hannibal!" and numerous other books. Savage
recently joined the staff of The Inquirer as an associate
editor, and will also be writing and reporting for
the publication. On Saturday, March 1, while on a
short visit to New York, Savage crossed paths with
Terrie Williams, when she attended Williams' book
signing session of Black Pain with Joe Parisi,
publisher and editor of The Inquirer.
Savage is known as a creative and prolific writer, who
found success as a storyteller of great depth premiering
HANNIBAL! at the 1996 National Black Arts Festival in
Atlanta, Georgia. Attaining Best Selling Author status
word of mouth, she has penned dozens of books. Savage's
popularity as an author stems from her ability to bring
her characters to life via in-depth descriptions that
leap out to enliven the chapters, making you feel as if
you have know them (or someone like them).
"Meeting Terrie Williams was a great personal and
rewarding experience for me, since I am familiar with
Terrie's many accomplishments, especially as an author
and publicist," said Savage. Both authors exchanged
niceties and business cards prior to the actual session
commencing.
***
Go
03-02-08
Mt.
Vernon group acts as lifeline for people of Rwanda
(l to r) Yuhanna Edwards, Domenica Comfort and Rev.
Cleveland A. Irons
Rwanda is still recovering from the 1994 systematic
murder of members of Rwanda's Tutsi minority and the
moderates of its Hutu majority. Foreign aid has been
pouring into the country in an effort to help rebuild
the country from the horrors of 1994. Much progress has
been made and signs of progress can be seen everywhere.
Besides having to overcome many obstacles, HIV/AIDS is
a serious problem in Rwanda, as it is throughout
sub-Saharan Africa. Out of a population of approximately
9.1 million people, approximately 900,000 are estimated
to be HIV positive.
There are many non-profit groups all across the world
seeking to educate and help the populace of Rwanda in
the prevention of aids, and helping in many other areas
of need. One such group is located in Mount
Vernon, known as Mission of Hope, Inc. for Rwanda,
Africa, led by Rev. Cleveland A. Irons, CEO and founder
of the group, and a member of Grace Baptist Church.
Go
***
