News from Westchester County Parks.

WEEKLY EVENTS IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY PARKS

Feb. 2 - 4, 2019

 

Corrected time noted in red below.

 

 

SATURDAY, FEB. 2

Muscoot Farm, Route 100, Somers – (914) 864-7282

Hike the Trails – 7 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Meet in the reception building for a morning hike to learn about the history of the farm.

-and-

Groundhog Day – 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Meet Clucksatony Henrietta to find out if we will have six more weeks of winter. Games and crafts are also on the agenda.

 

Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary, Playland Park, Rye – (914) 967-8720

Winter Birding -- 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

A brisk walk around the sanctuary to see how our feathered friends are faring this winter.

 

Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Routes 35 and 121 South, Cross River -- (914) 864-7322

Family Maple Syrup Tapping – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Bring your family or a group of friends to learn the ins and outs of maple sugaring. This is a one-on-one event and times must be reserved in advance. Fee is $50 per group and includes tapping experience, a souvenir photo/frame, and a bottle of maple syrup (once the season has ended). Also, 2/9.

 

Lasdon Park, Arboretum and Veterans Memorial, Route 35, Somers – (914) 864-7268

Treasures of Lasdon – 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Learn the history of Lasdon Park, from stories about the families that lived there to how it became a Westchester County Park.

 

 

SATURDAY – SUNDAY, FEB. 2 -3

Croton Point Nature Center, Croton Point Park, Croton-on-Hudson – (914) 862-5297

Project Feeder Watch – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Identify and count birds at the nature center's bird feeders. Beginners encouraged, all welcome! Saturday and Sunday mornings through March. Go to projectfeederwatch.org.

 

Marshlands Conservancy, Boston Post Road, Rye – (914) 835-4466

Submit Artwork for “A Different Point of View” Exhibit – 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Artwork must be framed and wired for hanging, Maximum of 3 per person. No size limit. All ages are welcome to participate.

 

 

SUNDAY, FEB. 3

Hilltop Hanover Farm, 1271 Hanover Street, Yorktown Heights – (914) 962-2368

Spin ’n’ Knit – 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Calling all spinners and knitters, beginning or experienced! Come gather in an informal atmosphere and be part of a monthly spinning and knitting group. No fee or registration required for first time attendees; $5 for each subsequent class.

 

Westchester County Center, 198 N. Central Avenue, White Plains – (914) 995-4050

Westchester Knicks v. Greensboro Swarm – 7 p.m.

Tickets at westchesterknicks.com. Parking fee.

 

 

MONDAY, FEB. 4

Muscoot Farm, Route 100, Somers – (914) 864-7282

Bird Walk – 8 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Bring binoculars for a bird walk with Saw Mill Audubon’s Anne Swaim. Meet in the parking lot.

 

 

More info at parks.westchestergov.com.

News from Westchester County Legislator Minority Leader John Testa.

Legislator Testa Secures Funding for Peekskill Youth Programs.

Westchester County Board of Legislators (BOL) Minority Leader John G. Testa (R) Peekskill, was joined by his colleagues in passing legislation that authorized the County to enter into Inter-municipal agreements (IMA) with three Westchester cities for a total of $376,924 under the county’s “Invest in Kids” program. Under the agreement, the City of Peekskill will receive $69,231 of funding for its “Advancing Leadership Initiatives for Teens Program” (LIFT). The vote took place at the regular meeting of the BOL.  The IMA terms provide for $245,000 to come from Westchester County and the remainder to be contributed by the municipalities.

The Legislation states that the various programs that will be funded throughout Westchester County, “…use positive youth development models to focus on providing opportunities for to actively acquire the skills and abilities needed to grow up to be competent, caring and healthy adult”

Legislator John Testa retired in 2013 after a 33 year career as a Peekskill High School teacher.  As a former teacher, Legislator Testa understands the importance of youth programs that give kids, especially at-risk kids healthy and constructive options for their time after school.  “I was very happy to work with my legislative colleagues to secure these funds for Peekskill.  I am very familiar with the LIFT Program and the excellent work that they do.”  Legislator Testa said.  “When I was a teacher, I saw first-hand how programs like LIFT improved the lives of many of my students.  Summers and the after school hours are particularly dangerous times for kids who are unsupervised or who don’t have a strong family support system at home.  The LIFT Program operates year round which means that kids can build permanent and lasting relationships within our community even when school is not in session. This is an excellent investment in our youth and their future.”

News from Westchester County Legislator Mary Jane Shimsky.

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Westchester County residents should be advised that the controlled demolition of the old Tappan Zee Bridge has been rescheduled for Tuesday, January 15 at 10 a.m., weather permitting. Demolition and salvage experts will be deconstructing what remains of the east anchor span of the old Tappan Zee Bridge. Severe traffic delays are expected in both directions on I-87, I-287 and surrounding roadways, and drivers are being asked to avoid the area completely or take alternate routes. According to Tappan Zee Constructors (TZC), the Hudson River’s main navigation channel will be closed for three hours beginning at 8:30 a.m. At 10 a.m., the New York State Thruway (I-87/I-287) will close in both directions for approximately 45 minutes between Exit 9 (Tarrytown, Sleepy Hollow, Route 9) in Westchester County and Exit 11 (Nyack, South Nyack, US Route 9W) in Rockland County. TZC is also coordinating with the Metro-North Railroad regarding trains on the Hudson Line, which may be minimally affected. All traffic stops will be lifted once TZC determines the surrounding area is safe to reopen to traffic. TZC will continue to work with local, state and federal agencies on the controlled demolition, and subsequent efforts to remove debris from the Hudson River. All construction activities and schedules are subject to change. Please forward this e-news to family and friends who may be interested in this information. Sincerely,

News from Westchester County Legislator, Virginia Perez, Democrat - 17th District.

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Whether you’re a teen who’s new to the job market, a college student looking for a spring/summer position, or a retiree bringing years of experience to a whole new venture, mark your calendar for 2019’s first Playland Job Fair, Saturday, January 12, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Westchester County Center in White Plains. On-the-spot interviews will be conducted at this event for the first 300 candidates to arrive. Positions to be filled include cashiers, ride operators, lifeguards, park management, EMTs, mechanics, custodial staff, I.T. technicians, human resources interns, marketing interns and a junior graphic designer. 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 plan to complete their application prior to the job fair 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. Eligible applicants who may wish to enroll for direct deposit must bring a voided blank check or a bank-issued direct deposit setup form that includes routing number and account number printed on the document. To apply during the job fair, bring a completed application, a valid photo identification, Social Security card plus contact information for three references. Applications can be obtained by calling (914) 813-7010, or at PlaylandPark.org, where an application can be downloaded or submitted online. Please forward this e-news to family and friends who may be interested in this information. Sincerely, Estimados Amigos y Vecinos, Aunque sea un joven buscando empleo, estudiante universitario buscando una posición en la primavera y el verano o usted es una persona retirada con años de experiencia buscando un nuevo camino, marque su calendario para la primera Feria de Empleos de Playland del 2019, sábado 12 de enero, de 9 a.m. a 2 p.m., en el Centro del Condado de Westchester en White Plains. Entrevistas al instante tomarán lugar durante este evento para los primeros 300 candidatos que lleguen. Las posiciones disponibles son cajeros, operadores de cajeros, operadores de máquinas, salvavidas, técnicos de emergencias médicas (EMT), mecánicos, personal de conserjes, técnicos de tecnología de información y diseñadores gráficos.  El empleo temporal en Playland es desde abril hasta septiembre. Experiencia anterior no es requerida para la mayoría de las posiciones, pero los empleados deben tener una actitud positiva, entusiasmada, buena capacidad de comunicación y la habilidad de trabajar bajo un horario flexible. Los aplicantes deben tener un mínimo de 16 años. Algunas posiciones requieren que los aplicantes tengan un mínimo de 18 años. Los aplicantes menores de 18 que quisieran llenar una aplicación antes de la feria deben de tener el formulario firmado por uno de sus padres o guardianes para ser considerados para una entrevista. Las personas menores de 18 que quisieran llenar una aplicación en persona deben de traer a uno de sus padres o guardianes al evento para firmar el formulario para poder ser entrevistado. Los aplicantes elegibles que quieran recibir depósito directo deben traer un cheque en blanco anulado o un formulario de su banco de depósito directo que incluya el número de banco y el número de cuenta imprimido en el documento. Para aplicar durante la feria de empleo, debe traer una aplicación completada, una foto de identificación, su tarjeta de seguro social y la información de contacto de tres referencias. Puede obtener la aplicación llamando al (914) 813-7010 o visite PlaylandPark.org, donde puede descargar una aplicación o enviarla electrónicamente. Por favor re-envíe este noticiero a sus familiares y amistades que estén interesados en esta información. Sinceramente,

News from Westchester County District Attorney.

News from the Westcherster County Board of Legislators.

White Plains, NY — Members of the Westchester County Board of Legislators are hailing the decision by County Executive George Latimer to sign a lease that will create a $1.2 billion biotech center on 60 acres of land in Valhalla (known as “the North 60”), spurring economic growth in the county for years.

The 99-year lease with developer Fareri Associates was unanimously approved by the Board of Legislators in April 2017, but was unsigned until Latimer signed the deal on behalf of the County on Thursday, January 10.

The finalization of the lease opens the way for development of the property near Westchester Medical Center as a biotech hub with more than two million square feet of lab and research space and hundreds of thousands of square feet of medical offices, as well as a 100-room hotel and retail space.

Board Chairman Ben Boykin (D – White Plains, Scarsdale, Harrison), said, “This is a remarkable day for Westchester County.  This is one of the largest economic deals in County history, representing a $1.2 billion investment, and will have a positive impact on this County for generations – delivering millions in tax and rent revenue, creating thousands of new jobs, and helping Westchester attract the businesses of the future.”

Boykin added, “I applaud the County Executive for signing the lease and we look forward to continuing to work together to create opportunities for residents and businesses in Westchester. I also applaud former Board Chair Mike Kaplowitz, for his work stewarding the legislature’s comprehensive review of the proposal, and getting it passed in 2017.”

Vice Chair Alfreda Williams (D - Elmsford, Greenburgh, Sleepy Hollow, Tarrytown), said, “I am pleased that this development is finally happening, and I look forward to the day when it is generating jobs for the people of Westchester County. The Board undertook a thorough review of this project to ensure the best deal possible for the taxpayers, residents and businesses of Westchester, and I am gratified that after his own review, County Executive Latimer agreed to finalize a deal that will invest $1.2 billion in Westchester County.”

Majority Leader Catherine Parker (D - Harrison, Larchmont, Mamaroneck, New Rochelle, Rye) said, "I'm thrilled that this deal has been signed.  It's probably the biggest economic deal in Westchester in the last 30 years. Of course I'm excited that we'll have a biotech hub that will attract new businesses.  But I'm also pleased because our young people who go off to college and get science and technology and medical degrees, instead of needing to leave home to find work in cutting edge fields, will be able to find that work right here.”

Majority Whip MaryJane Shimsky (D - Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Edgemont, Hartsdale, Hastings-on-Hudson, Irvington), said, “The North 60 is a vital investment in the County’s economic development, as it will strengthen our booming biotech industry.  I look forward to seeing the vision of Mr. Fareri, with the cooperation of our economic development team, consultants, and local governments, come to fruition.”

Legislator Mike Kaplowitz (D - New Castle, Somers, Yorktown), who was Board Chair when the lease was approved by the legislature, said, “This is a nearly perfect project -- creation of thousands of  jobs, a $1.2 billion investment, hundreds of millions of dollars of economic activity, and a development of a biotech ‘Silicon-Valley’ here in Westchester. I was proud to lead the County Legislature when we analyzed and unanimously approved the 99-year deal and I am excited to see it come to fruition as soon as possible.”

Legislator Catherine Borgia (D - Briarcliff Manor, Cortlandt, Croton-on-Hudson, Ossining, Peekskill), who was the Board’s Majority Leader at the time the Board approved the lease, said, “I am excited to see the North 60 development take the next big step after the Board of Legislators’ extensive review of the project in 2017. Biotechnology is a global industry worth more than $300 billion today, and is expected to double in economic value over the coming years.  This project will keep Westchester at the forefront of innovation in the biotech field, while opening new economic opportunities for decades to come.”

Legislator Margaret Cunzio (C - Mount Pleasant, North Castle, Pleasantville), whose district includes the North 60, said, “I am very happy about the signing of the North 60 lease.  I am proud to have played a part in getting to this point.  This project will have a positive impact on the County, the Town of Mt. Pleasant and the two school districts involved -- the Mt. Pleasant Central School District and the Pocantico Hills School District.  This will expand the County’s reputation as a biotech hub and bring thousands of jobs in the biotech field, as well as in areas of construction and labor.  I am looking forward to seeing this project completed and I want to thank all those involved for their perseverance and patience.”

News from Westchester County Executive George Latimer.

VIDEO: COUNTY EXECUTIVE GEORGE LATIMER JOINS WITH CONGRESSWOMAN NITA LOWEY AND TRANSPORTATION SECURITY OFFICERS TO DISCUSS THE IMPACT OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN ON TSA WORKERS.

 

***WATCH VIDEO HERE***

 

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “It’s unfortunate that political games are still being played with TSA workers’ livelihoods – same as they were during our last meeting during the holidays. You can’t defer bills – no matter how many stock letters the federal government gives you to send to creditors.

 

“These folks are here to make sure our air travel is secure, and even when they don’t get paid – they still come to work on our behalf. Congresswoman Lowey and I want them to know that we support them, even if other branches of government do not.”

News from Westchester County Legislator Alfreda Williams.

Dear Friends and Neighbors, Please be advised that the Tappan Zee Bridge is scheduled for controlled demolition on Saturday, January 12, 2019.  Traffic on both sides of the river will be stopped at 8:55 am for about 45 minutes. Train service on the Hudson Line will also be halted for a period of time. River traffic will be stopped at 2:30 am Saturday morning. You may click here for the Project Update on the demolition. You should be aware of this situation and adjust your travel plans accordingly. Please share with your family and friends that may be interested in this information. Sincerely,

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News from Westchester County.

COUNTY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS JOAN MCDONALD JOINS NATIONWIDE STUDY ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAY SYSTEM.

 

(White Plains, NY) – Westchester County Director of Operations, and former New York State Commissioner of Transportation, Joan McDonald is a member of the Transportation Research Board (TRB) policy committee which recently issued a report entitled “Renewing the National Commitment to the Interstate Highway System: A Foundation for the Future.” The TRB is a subsidiary of the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

 

The report, which was mandated by Congress in 2015, contains a 20-year “blueprint for action,” which includes creating an “Interstate Highway System Renewal and Modernization Program” that outlines a path for the federal government to rehabilitate our highly congested and often crumbling infrastructure.

 

Broken into specific areas of study including: “Looming Challenges,” “An Investment Imperative,” and “Additional Recommendations” – the report provides specific action items that lawmakers can follow to help rebuild our once sterling interstate highway system.

 

McDonald said: “I am proud to join with my esteemed colleagues to issue this report on the importance of investing in our nation’s transportation infrastructure. This study not only points out where the current challenges exist, but also how these challenges can be addressed. The impact that climate change and demographic shifts have on our transportation systems are particularly relevant to the New York metropolitan region.”

 

The full report can be read by clicking on this LINK.

 

McDonald concluded: “Our hope is that the ideas outlined can spur real change that has a positive impact on our country’s infrastructure future.”

WESTCHESTER COUNTY TAPS NEW YORK AGENCY “MOWER”

FOR TRAVEL AND TOURISM MARKETING.

 

(White Plains, NY) – Westchester County Tourism & Film, the official destination marketing organization for Westchester County, has named “Mower” its agency for travel and tourism integrated marketing and public relations. The New York-based agency, with offices in New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Albany, as well as Boston, Atlanta, Charlotte and Cincinnati, is one of the largest independent marketing, advertising and public relations agencies in the U.S.

 

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “As a nationally recognized integrated marketing firm with a strong travel and tourism practice, Mower stood out among an impressive bank of contenders in the competitive RFP process. We are confident that we’ve made the right choice to steer Westchester County’s travel marketing program, and further enhance our reputation as a premier, easily accessible business and leisure destination in the Hudson Valley.”

 

Chairman and CEO of Mower, Eric Mower said: “We’re honored to be selected as Westchester County Tourism & Film’s first full-service, national travel and tourism agency of record, and excited to partner with the organization to promote the truly exceptional range of appeals Westchester County has to offer visitors.”

 

Director for Westchester County Tourism & Film Natasha Caputo said: “We are thrilled to begin 2019 with this new agency relationship, to help Westchester shine and generate awareness for our hotels and tourism partners.”

 

Tourism has an economic impact of $1.9 billion in Westchester County. It provides more than 24,500 jobs and ranks third in visitor spending in the state, behind New York City and Long Island. In 2017, Westchester tourism generated $227 million in local and state taxes.

 

Mower’s strategic approach has earned the agency top industry accolades ranging from Clio, Cannes and ANA B2 awards to rankings in AdAge, PR Week and the Chief Marketer 200. It is a perennial winner of Hotel Sales & Marketing International’s Adrian Awards for outstanding work in hospitality, travel and tourism-related marketing, and a four-time PR News “Top Places to Work.”

 

About Westchester County Tourism & Film

Westchester County Tourism & Film is the official destination marketing organization of Westchester, N.Y. Its mission is to generate economic benefits for the county by enhancing and promoting its image as a premier Hudson Valley business and leisure destination. Encompassing big cities, small towns, farms, and vast expanses of natural beauty, Westchester is easily accessible by car, its own regional airport and three major rail lines. Accommodation choices range from independent to internationally branded hotels and conference centers.  Learn more at visitwestchesterny.com and connect on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

About Mower
Mower is a digitally-integrated independent marketing, advertising and public relations agency. With 165 professionals in New York, Boston, Atlanta, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Buffalo, Rochester, Albany, and Syracuse, Mower delivers strategic insights, digital solutions, smart creative, and award-winning results to clients. It is a member of two global agency networks — thenetworkone and IPREX — as well as the 4A’s. 

 

About Westchester County   

Westchester County, located in the heart of the historic Hudson Valley, covers 500 square miles and has a population of just under a million.  Originally home to Native Americans, who were members of the Lenape tribe, it is today a rich mix of many cultures and landscapes.  The County is a blend of bustling cities, quaint villages and picturesque towns as well as open spaces and a network of beautiful parks. Westchester is made up of 6 cities, 19 towns and 20 villages.  Westchester County is known for top-notch public schools, and a high quality of life.  The County is also an intellectual capital, boasting a highly educated workforce, competitive colleges and universities, Fortune 500 companies, world changing non-profits, and cutting-edge research centers.  Westchester is led by County Executive George Latimer, who took office in January 2018 as the ninth County Executive. Using inclusion and openness as a foreground, Latimer is fighting to make Westchester a destination for all people to live, work and enjoy. Learn more about Westchester County by visiting www.westchestergov.com

 

 

News from Westchester County.

| CE WELCOME |

	Calendar @ Westchester Parks
	Year 2018 in Review Take a look back on all of the things that have been accomplished in #OurWestchester in 2018.
	MLK Day of Service Join hundreds in your community for Volunteer New York!’s 9th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service.
	H-MRF Expands Hours Westchester’s Household-Material Recovery Facility expands to five days a week for 2019.
	Hopes for 2019 Do you have a New Year’s Resolution? Here’s a snapshot of what we hope to achieve in the New Year.
	First Year as County Executive Westchester County Executive George Latimer highlights the moments that made for a successful first year as the CE.
	Muscoot Farm Readies for Winter Jonathon Benjamin, curator at Muscoot Farm Park in Katonah, talks about how the animals get ready for the winter season.
	Top 5 Arts Picks in Westchester Plan your week in Westchester County at one of the many cultural attractions supported by ArtsWestchester.

Explore Events

WESTCHESTER COUNTY EXECUTIVE GEORGE LATIMER STATEMENT ON UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE CHAIRS   (White Plains, NY) – “Today’s gaveling in of the 116th United States Congress and the new House Committee Chairs is welcome news to Westchester County and New York State residents. Representative Nita Lowey has been a champion for Westchester County since she was first sent to Washington on our behalf. With her new role as Chairwoman of the House Committee on Appropriations, Representative Lowey will now have the opportunity to further support us here at home while also playing a pivotal role in how our nation spends our tax dollars. I have long admired her leadership and am sure she will continue her great work from this new post.   “It is no secret that our Country faces many challenges on the international scene. With his election as Chair of the House Committee on Foreign Relations, Bronx and Westchester Representative Eliot Engel will be on the front lines working to uphold America’s standing around the globe. Representative Engel has long been a supporter of Westchester County and this new role is well deserved.   “Further, while not representatives of Westchester, New York State residents should be immensely proud to add three additional leadership roles to its Congressional ranks: Rep. Jerry Nadler on the Judiciary Committee, Rep. Nydia Velazquez on the Small Business Committee and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries as Democratic House Caucus Chair. These three members of Congress work hard for their districts, and the State, on a daily basis and will only continue these efforts from their new positions.   “Congratulations to these five distinguished members – I look forward to my continued work with them on behalf of the people of Westchester County.” ***UPDATE*** ***MEETING NOTICES FOR JANUARY 2019***   Meetings will be held as follows:   Westchester County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board   Westchester County Board of Acquisition and Contract, Public BID Opening Wednesday, January 2 at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 9 at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 16 at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 23 at 11 a.m. Wednesday, January 30 at 11 a.m. Michaelian Office Building Conference Room 527, 5th Floor 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Board of Acquisition and Contract Thursday, January 3 at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 10 at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 17 at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 24 at 11 a.m. Thursday, January 31 at 11 a.m. Michaelian Office Building County Executive’s Office, Conference Room A 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Women’s Advisory Board Monday, January 7 at 5:30 p.m. Michaelian Office Building County Executive’s Office, Conference Room A 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Planning Board Tuesday, January 8 at 8 a.m. Michaelian Office Building Conference Room 420, 4th Floor 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Agriculture & Farm Board Tuesday, January 8 at 9 a.m. Muscoot Farm Park Route 100, Somers   Westchester County Electrical Examining Board Tuesday, January 8 at 3 p.m. Michaelian Office Building Conference Room 527, 5th Floor 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Taxi and Limousine Commission Tuesday, January 9 at 9 a.m. Michaelian Office Building Conference Room 304, 3rd Floor 112 East Post Road, White Plains   Westchester County Industrial Development Agency Thursday, January 10 at 8:30 a.m. Michaelian Office Building County Executive’s Office, Conference Room A 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Transportation Board Friday, January 11 at 8:30 a.m. Michaelian Office Building Conference Room 527, 5th Floor 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Human Rights Commission Fair Housing Board Meeting Friday, January 11 at 12 p.m. Conference Room 304, 3rd Floor 112 East Post Rd, White Plains   Westchester County Housing Opportunity Commission Tuesday, January 15 at 6 p.m. Michaelian Office Building 4th Floor Conference Room, Room 420 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County African American Advisory Board Tuesday, January 15 at 6:30 p.m. Michaelian Office Building County Executive’s Office, Conference Room A 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Human Rights Commission Board Meeting Wednesday, January 16 at 6:30 p.m. Conference Room 304, 3rd Floor 112 East Post Rd, White Plains   Westchester County Board of Health Thursday, January 17 at 8:30 a.m. 10 County Center Road, White Plains   Westchester County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Board Thursday, January 17 at 4 p.m. PRC Headquarters 450 Saw Mill River Road, Ardsley   Westchester County Soil Water and Conservation District Board Friday, January 18 at 9 a.m. Michaelian Office Building 4th Floor Conference Room, Room 420 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Plumbing Examiners Board Tuesday, January 22 at 3 p.m. Michaelian Office Building Conference Room 527, 5th Floor 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Youth Board Tuesday, January 22 at 6 p.m. Michaelian Office Building County Executive’s Office, Conference Room A 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Airport Advisory Board Wednesday, January 23 at 7 p.m. Westchester County Airport 240 Airport Road, White Plains   Westchester County Solid Waste Commission Wednesday, January 23 at 3 p.m. Michaelian Office Building Conference Room 527, 5th Floor 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Local Development Board Thursday, January 24 at 8:30 a.m. Michaelian Office Building County Executive’s Office, Conference Room A 148 Martine Avenue, White Plains   Westchester County Department of Community Mental Health Board Thursday, January 24 at 10 a.m. Board of Elections Conference Room 2nd Floor 25 Quarropas Street, White Plains   Westchester County Fire Advisory Board Thursday, January 31 at 7:30 p.m. Department of Emergency Services 4 Dana Road, Valhalla WEEKLY EVENTS IN WESTCHESTER COUNTY PARKS Jan. 12 – 13, 2019   SATURDAY, JAN. 12 Croton Point Park, Croton-on-Hudson – (914) 862-5297 Eagles and More – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Join local naturalist Charlie Roberto for a exciting survey of our wintering bald eagles and many other birds. Meet at Croton Harmon Station boat ramp. -and- Audubon Soup Gathering – 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. (Croton Point Nature Center) Saw Mill River Audubon's winter bird watcher and nature lover soup gathering. Open to the public. Bring a soup, bread, beverage or dessert. Info at office@sawmillriveraudubon.org.   Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Routes 35 and 121 South, Cross River -- (914) 864-7322 Experience “Hygge” at Trailside – 12 noon – 2 p.m. Hygge (“hoo-ga”) is derived from a Norwegian word meaning “well-being.” Following tradition, celebrate the simpler things in life with hot cocoa, chili, games for the kids and outdoor activities (weather permitting).   Muscoot Farm, Route 100, Somers – (914) 864-7282 Homemade Snow Globes – 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. Winter got you down? Come to the farm to make your own snow globe. Ages 6 and up! Registration and a fee required at (914) 864-7296.   Cranberry Lake Preserve, Old Orchard Street, North White Plains – (914) 428-1005 Nature Movie – 1 p.m. – 2;30 p.m. Come in from the cold for a nature movie. Popcorn will be served. Title TBA. Registration required by 1/8. Fee $4 per person.   Marshlands Conservancy, Boston Post Road, Rye – (914) 835-4466 Volunteer Work Project: Inspecting Crabapple Island – 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Help prepare the island for the White-tailed deer. Great for any type of service credit hours. Please bring work gloves. Hand tools will be provided.     SATURDAY – SUNDAY, JAN. 12 - 13 Croton Point Nature Center, Croton Point Park, Croton-on-Hudson – (914) 862-5297 Project Feeder Watch – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Identify and count birds at the nature center's bird feeders. Beginners encouraged, all welcome! Saturday and Sunday mornings through March. Go to projectfeederwatch.org.     SUNDAY, JAN. 13 Marshlands Conservancy, Boston Post Road, Rye – (914) 835-4466 Bird Feeder Make ‘n’ Take – 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Families can make bird feeders and take them home. There will be bird feeder observations, followed by a hike afterwards. -and- Great Horned Owl Observation – 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Bring binoculars to seek out the first breeding bird of the New Year.     More info at parks.westchestergov.com. The Livable Communities Caregiver Collaborative will be hosting an important event on Friday, Jan. 11,2019 at the Ambassador Scarsdale in White Plains – 9:30-11:30am. We will be co-sponsoring, along with our partners, the Bronx Regional Interagency Council on Aging (BRICA) and the State Society on Aging (SSA)  a forum and teach-in on the RAISE Family Caregivers Act.    This will be a powerful advocacy event with presentations from Greg Olsen, Acting Executive Director for the New York State Office for the Aging and  David McNally, Associate State Director, AARP.  Materials for advocacy training will be distributed as part of the teach-in.   Please consider attending and sharing this information with others. Caregiving and caregiver policy affects us all!  Please RSVP and encourage others to join us on Friday, Jan. 11, 2019.   Details appear below and in the attached flyer. Thank you!   HOUSEHOLD-MATERIAL RECOVERY FACILITY TO EXPAND TO FIVE DAYS A WEEK IN 2019 Residents can dispose of hard-to-get-rid-of items year-round at the H-MRF in Valhalla   (Valhalla, NY) – Beginning on January 2, Westchester County’s Household Material Recovery Facility (H-MRF), located at 15 Woods Road in Valhalla, will be open five days a week, Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., accepting a wide array of household wastes that are not typically collected curb side. Previously the H-MRF was only available for residents three days a week (Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays). Residents who are interested in dropping off materials should contact the Westchester County Recycling HelpLine at (914) 813-5425 to make an appointment.   In addition to properly labelled household chemicals and other special wastes found in a typical household, residents can bring documents for shredding, and expired or unwanted medications for disposal on the first Tuesday of each month.    Generally, the following items are accepted for safe disposal or recycling at the H-MRF:   ·         Properly labelled household chemicals, such as: o   Household cleaning products o   Most automotive fluids (antifreeze, brake fluid and gasoline, but not motor oil) o   Flammable liquids (kerosene, butane, lighter fluid, turpentine) o   Metal, jewelry and furniture polishes and waxes, wood preservatives o   Fertilizers, pesticides, insecticides, herbicides o   Photographic and swimming pool chemicals   ·         Batteries – only vehicle, rechargeable or button cell ·         Fluorescent light bulbs & CFLs ·         Fire extinguishers ·         BBQ propane tanks (up to 20 pounds) ·         Mercury containing devices (thermometers and thermostats) ·         Electronic waste (TVs, computer monitors and towers) ·         Expired or unwanted medications, both over-the-counter and prescription ·         Personal documents for shredding (limit of four file-size boxes per household) ·         Tires   Items that will not be accepted include paint (both latex and oil), non-rechargeable alkaline and carbon zinc batteries (they can be safely discarded in the trash), motor oil, smoke detectors, cell phones, explosives (flares, fireworks, ammunition), construction debris and hypodermic needles. Also, waste from businesses, schools or other institutions will not be accepted.   Over 8,000 households visit the H-MRF every year to dispose of household wastes.  In 2017, 8,202 households delivered over 765,000 lbs. of household waste to the H-MRF.  Materials that can be recycled, such as E-waste, are removed from the waste stream and processed by recyclers.  Other items are handled and disposed of using the most environmentally safe procedures available.    For more information on what you can bring to the H-MRF, visit http://environment.westchestergov.com/new-h-mrf or call (914) 813-5425.                                                            WESTCHESTER COUNTY POLICE CHARGE SUSPECT IN FATAL HIT-AND-RUN IN BUCHANAN   (Hawthorne, NY)  – Westchester County Police have charged a Buchanan man in connection to a fatal hit-and-run incident that occurred over the weekend in the village of Buchanan.   Eric Werner, 44, of Seward Street, Buchanan, was arrested Sunday and charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death, a felony.  He was taken into custody about 5:30 p.m., booked at county police headquarters and held overnight pending arraignment today. That arraignment is scheduled for 2 p.m. in Buchanan Village Court.   Werner is charged with fleeing in a 2014 Jeep Cherokee that struck and killed Joseph Orichello, 63, of Buchanan on Albany Post Road in the early hours on Saturday morning.   Buchanan Police were notified at 12:48 a.m. that a man was lying in the roadway just north of Bleakley Avenue. The victim was found to be deceased and the apparent victim of a hit-and-run.   Westchester County Police were asked to join the investigation and detectives from the General Investigations Unit responded as well as crime scene detectives from the Forensic Investigation Unit.  Patrol officers from the Accident Investigation team also assisted at the scene.   Detectives developed information about a possible suspect and suspect vehicle. Werner was taken into custody on Sunday at his home. The vehicle involved was recovered elsewhere.   “I would like to commend our detectives and the Buchanan Police Department for their effective work on this case that led to an arrest quickly,” Public Safety Commissioner Thomas A. Gleason said.