Westchester Insider: Westchester County Parks Beat: FEEL THE EMERALD ISLE SPIRIT AT THE ANNUAL IRISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL ON JULY 13.

 

FEEL THE EMERALD ISLE SPIRIT AT THE ANNUAL IRISH-AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL ON JULY 13.

Revel in this lively tribute to Irish customs, arts and music!

 

[Hartsdale, NY] — The annual Irish-American Heritage Festival returns to Ridge Road Park in Hartsdale on Sunday, July 13, from 12 noon to 6 p.m., offering a joyful celebration of Irish culture through music, dance and family-friendly fun.

Starting off with Mass at 12 noon, the day will feature lively performances by the McLean Avenue Band, the Tommy Flynn Band, the Irish Dance Company and Tom Hinchey on bagpipes. Emcee Sean Ruane will guide the festivities, which also include activities for kids, a variety of vendors, and delicious food and drinks available for purchase.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Westchester is proud to honor the rich traditions and contributions of our Irish-American community. This occasion is a wonderful way to gather with neighbors, enjoy great music and celebrate diversity.”

Commissioner of the Westchester County Department of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Kathy O’Connor said: “We’re thrilled to host it again at beautiful Ridge Road Park and its historically significant 236 acres. This festival brings people of all backgrounds together to experience Irish culture in a way that children and adults will enjoy.”

The event will be held rain or shine. Seating is informal; please bring blankets or folding chairs for seating. No coolers, please. Admission is $5 per adult, and children under 14 are free. Parking is free.

This summer’s other heritage festivals are:

Hispanic, Sunday, July 13, noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

Italian, Sunday, July 20, 12 noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

Arab, Sunday, July 20, 12 noon to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale

India, Sunday, Aug. 3, 12 noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

Jewish, Sunday, Aug. 17, 12 noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

Muslim, Sunday, Aug. 24, 12 noon to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

 Dam Plaza, Valhalla

 

Ridge Road Park is located at 287 Ridge Road, Hartsdale.

 

Kensico Dam Plaza is located at the north end of the Bronx River Parkway, in Valhalla.

 

This event is sponsored by the American Irish Association of Westchester in partnership with the Westchester County Parks Department. For more information, call (914) 231-4500.

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Government Beat: PHOTO/VIDEO: COUNTY EXECUTIVE KEN JENKINS KICKS OFF JULY 4 WEEKEND BY SHARING TIPS TO CELEBRATE SUMMER SAFELY.

 

COUNTY EXECUTIVE KEN JENKINS KICKS OFF JULY 4TH WEEKEND BY SHARING TIPS TO CELEBRATE THE SUMMER SAFELY.

 

Watch the News Conference Here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xsr9NelMNHo

White Plains, NY) – Standing beside Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins joined with members of the Departments of Parks, Recreation and Conservation, Health, Emergency Services and Public Safety to share advice to help residents celebrate the 4th of July and summer season safely.  

 

Jenkins said: “We want you to have fun, but we also want you to be safe. Summer in Westchester County is a time to enjoy the beautiful parks, vibrant communities and exciting events we have to offer. Listen to the professionals when it comes to sun and water safety, also make good choices when it comes to driving and boating. Our goal is for our residents to have a holiday weekend filled with joy, fun and unforgettable moments for all the right reasons.”

Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Conservation Kathy O’Connor said: “We’re excited to welcome residents back to our pools and beaches this summer. Our staff and lifeguards have safety rules set in place to ensure a fun and safe visit for all. Please abide by the rules, be respectful of others and cooperate with lifeguards, our highly trained professionals who there to keep visitors safe in and around the water.”

Commissioner of Health Dr. Sherlita Amler said: “Make sure your whole family drinks plenty of water throughout the day – even more so when it’s hot and humid out – take breaks in the shade and apply and reapply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 every two hours. A drowning can happen within seconds, so adults must always be on the lookout for the safety of their children. Whatever the weather, never leave children or pets in a closed car even briefly because the temperature can become dangerous very quickly.”

Commissioner of Emergency Services Susan Spear said: “Commissioner of Emergency Services Susan Spear: “As we celebrate July 4 and enjoy summer outdoor activities, a few simple tips can keep adults, kids, and family pets safe. We urge you to be mindful of fire safety considerations for barbeques, grills, and campfires. But if you do experience an emergency, call 911 for assistance. And if you haven’t already, please teach your kids when and how to dial 911. Those simple steps save lives.”

Commissioner of Public Safety Terrance Raynor said: “Westchester County Police will conduct increased DWI enforcement on the roadways during the holiday weekend to keep motorists safe. In addition, the Department’s Marine Unit will increase its patrols on the Hudson River and Long Island Sound due to an anticipated increase in recreational boating traffic. Dedicated Park Rangers and Police Officers assigned to County parks and pools, as well as Special Operations officers, will patrol throughout all recreational areas.”

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Parks Beat: BEACH CLOSURES DUE TO RAIN IN NEW ROCHELLE, MAMARONECK AND RYE.

BEACH CLOSURES DUE TO RAIN IN NEW ROCHELLE, MAMARONECK AND RYE.

(White Plains, NY) – The Westchester County Health Department has closed the following beaches preemptively for today due to 0.72 inches of rainfall over the last 24 hours:

NEW ROCHELLE: Hudson Park Beach, Davenport Beach Club, Greentree Country Club, & Surf Club on the Sound

MAMARONECK: Harbor Island Park, Beach Point Club, Orienta Beach Club, & Mamaroneck Beach and Yacht Club

RYE: Coveleigh Club

Beach patrons are advised to avoid the water at these beaches today due to bacterial contamination from road runoff into drainage outfalls near these beaches. The beaches can reopen tomorrow.

The County remains committed to maintaining high standards of environmental health and safety across its recreational facilities.

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Parks Beat: NEW SALSA NIGHTS HEAT UP GLEN ISLAND PARK IN NEW ROCHELLE.

 

NEW SALSA NIGHTS HEAT UP GLEN ISLAND PARK IN NEW ROCHELLE.

Learn new moves, meet new friends and dance under the stars!

[New Rochelle, NY] – Westchester County Parks will bring the rhythms of salsa to Glen Island Park in New Rochelle with two summer dance nights on Thursday, July 10 and Thursday, Aug. 14.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned salsero, all dance levels are welcome! The evening kicks off with a free Salsa lesson from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m., taught by expert instructors from Arthur Murray Dance Studios. Then, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., the dance floor opens up for you to show off your new moves to the sounds of lively Latin beats.

Salsa is known for its vibrant footwork, smooth spins and energetic partner connection. Set to infectious music, it’s the perfect way to get moving, meet new people and celebrate summer on the waterfront.

County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “These events are wonderful ways to bring people together through music and movement. Whether you’re dancing or just enjoying the vibe, it’s a joyful night out in a beautiful park.”

Parks Commissioner Kathy O’Connor added: “There’s nothing like dancing outside at Glen Island on a warm summer evening. We’re thrilled to offer free, inclusive programs that celebrate culture and community.”

Admission is free and open to Westchester County residents only. Parking fees apply.

The events are sponsored by Arthur Murray Dance Studios, with locations in Eastchester, Mount Kisco and White Plains.

Glen Island Park is located on Weyman Avenue in New Rochelle.

 

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Board of Legislators: BOARD OF LEGISLATORS' STATEMENT ON NYSEG'S PROPOSED RATE HIKES.

WESTCHESTER COUNTY BOARD OF LEGISLATORS ON NYSEG’S PROPOSED RATE INCREASES.

 

WHITE PLAINS, NY— The Westchester County Board of Legislators is appalled by the proposed rate hikes NYSEG submitted to the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) last night. If approved, residential energy bills will jump by an average of 23.7% for electricity and 33.5% for gas starting May 1, 2026.

For families already drowning in utility costs, these increases will devastate household budgets and force impossible choices between basic needs like food, medicine, and keeping the lights on. We call on the PSC to reject these punishing increases that will harm all residents — seniors, families, and small businesses alike.

Westchester Insider: News from Westchester County Board of Legislators.

WESTCHESTER WATCH: LEGISLATIVE HIGHLIGHTS.

Board Advances Affordable Housing, Job Training, Clean Transportation.

WHITE PLAINS, NY— The Westchester County Board of Legislators approved several significant measures on Monday night that will strengthen workforce development programs, create affordable housing for vulnerable youth and low-income families and expand the County’s clean energy infrastructure.

Chairman Vedat Gashi (D- New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) said, “Last night’s actions reflect our dedication to addressing the real challenges facing Westchester families. By creating stable housing for our most vulnerable residents, expanding workforce opportunities, and advancing clean energy solutions, we're laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth that benefits all our communities.”

Creating New Housing Options for Low Income Families and Young Adults Aging Out of Foster Care

The Board approved the purchase of property in Peekskill to create 22 affordable housing units, with 10 specifically designated as supportive housing for young adults aged 18-25 who have aged out of foster care. This $3.4 million investment will support Children’s Village development of the project. Once complete, the property will provide critical housing stability for vulnerable youth transitioning to independence, while serving low-income families earning up to 60% of the area median income for the next 50 years. The remaining 12 units will offer affordable rental options for working families struggling with housing costs in Westchester County.

Legislator Colin D. Smith (D- Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown) said, “Children’s Village, an organization based in Dobbs Ferry that supports children and young adults in foster care and the juvenile system, plans to purchase the long-vacant Workers Comp building at 41 North Division Street in downtown Peekskill. The redevelopment of this building — empty for over a decade — is now underway, with discussions focused on how to best use the ground floor and basement. Westchester County has committed $6.4 million to help buy the building and turn it into affordable housing for two key groups: young adults aged 18–25 transitioning out of foster care, and working families struggling with the county’s rising housing costs. For the lower level, potential ideas include a business incubator, a children’s museum, or a health and wellness center — I fully support any use of the space that contributes to the physical, mental, or emotional well-being of our youth. I look forward to partnering with Children’s Village to bring this important project to life for Peekskill and its residents.”

Extending Job Training Partnership Through 2030

The Board secured residents’ continued access to vital federal job training programs by extending the Westchester-Putnam Local Workforce Development Area partnership through June 2030. The collaboration provides unemployed adults with job training and placement services to develop in-demand skills and secure employment opportunities. The program also offers career counseling and paid internships to out-of-school youth ages 16-24, supporting their successful transition into the workforce. This five-year extension reinforces the county's commitment to empowering residents with the tools and resources needed to build sustainable careers and strengthen our local economy.

Launching Electric Vehicle Charging Program Across 24 Communities

The Board authorized a comprehensive $10 million program that will reimburse municipalities up to 50% of the costs to install EV charging stations at 79 locations across 24 communities including White Plains, Yonkers, New Rochelle, and Peekskill. This initiative will dramatically expand the County’s EV charging capacity, reduce greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, and improve air quality for residents' health and well-being. The program brings clean transportation options closer to home for residents across the County.

 

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Government Beat: 7/2 AT NOON - COUNTY EXECUTIVE KEN JENKINS TO KICK OFF JULY 4 WEEKEND BY SHARING TIPS TO CELEBRATE SUMMER SAFELY.

COUNTY EXECUTIVE KEN JENKINS TO KICK OFF JULY 4TH WEEKEND.

BY SHARING TIPS TO CELEBRATE THE SUMMER SAFELY.

 

 

(White Plains, NY) – Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins will kick off July 4th weekend and the summer season by sharing tips to help residents celebrate safely.

 

***MEDIA ADVISORY***

 

Wednesday, July 2

Noon

Saxon Woods Pool

1800 Mamaroneck Avenue

White Plains, NY 10605

 

Press Conference will be Streamed Live on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/westchestergov/

Jenkins said: “We want you to have fun, but we also want you to be safe. Summer in Westchester County is a time to enjoy the beautiful parks, vibrant communities and exciting events we have to offer. Listen to the professionals when it comes to sun and water safety, also make good choices when it comes to driving and boating. Our goal is for our residents to have a holiday weekend filled with joy, fun and unforgettable moments for all the right reasons."