Westchester Insider: Westchester County Board of Legislators: MONDAY, JUNE 3 @7 P.M. - REGULAR BOARD MEETING & LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH CELEBRATION.

 

WESTCHESTER COUNTY BOARD OF LEGISLATORS

REGULAR BOARD MEETING & LGBTQ+ PRIDE MONTH CELEBRATION.

Monday, June 3, 2024 at 7 pm

 

Please join the Westchester County Board of Legislators for a regular Board meeting, and to celebrate LGBTQ+ Month. During this special occasion, we will be recognizing two exemplary honorees:

 

·         Christina Picciano, Queer Musician, Activist and Community Organizer in Ossining

 

·         Anthony Nicodemo, Athletic Director Greenburgh/North Castle School District and LGBTQ+ Youth Mentor

 

We will also celebrate the exceptional career of Janet Langsam, which includes a 33-year tenure at the helm of ArtsWestchester.

 

We invite you to celebrate their significant contributions, whether virtually or in person. For more details, please visit www.westchestercountyny.legistar.com

Westchester Insider: Westchester County: 6/3 AT 2 P.M. - COUNTY EXECUTIVE GEORGE LATIMER TO GIVE WESTCHESTER WEEKLY UPDATE

 

Westchester County Executive George Latimer to Give Westchester Weekly Update.

 

Monday, June 3

2 p.m.

Michaelian Office Building

Press Room – 9^th Floor

148 Martine Avenue

White Plains, NY 10601

 

Watch LIVE on Facebook:

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

 

During the Weekly Westchester Briefing:

 

·         New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert to discuss the latest news and developments in New Rochelle.

·         Members of the Post Chester Hispanic Advisory Board to talk about their recent Resource Fair. The Port Chester Hispanic Advisory Board’s purpose is to provide an open channel of communication between and among the Hispanic residents of Port Chester and their governmental and non-governmental service providers, charities, and other organizations and resources. Its goal is to gather input from community stakeholders to inform and advise community leaders of the major priorities and issues facing the Hispanic community in Port Chester.

·         Child Care Council of Westchester Executive Director Kathy Halas will share insights into the significant accomplishments of her organization in advancing child care services and support within Westchester County.

 

Westchester Insider: Westchester County: 6/2 AT 11:30 A.M. - WESTCHESTER COUNTY TO RAISE PROGRESS PRIDE FLAG OVER COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING.

 

WESTCHESTER COUNTY TO RAISE PROGRESS PRIDE FLAG OVER COUNTY OFFICE BUILDING.

 

 

(White Plains, NY) – The Progress Pride Flag will once again be proudly flown over the Michaelian Office Building in White Plains in celebration of LGBTQ+ Pride Month. The Westchester County LGBTQ+ Advisory Board and Westchester County Executive George Latimer invite the community to join them for the 2024 LGBTQ+ Pride Flag Raising Ceremony.

 

 

June 2
11:30 a.m.
Michaelian Office Building

Front Steps
148 Martine Avenue
White Plains, NY 10601

 

The Progress Pride Flag has been a symbol of inclusivity and unity, flown on County property annually since 2019. This tradition reflects Westchester County's commitment to recognizing and celebrating the diversity of its community.

 

Latimer said: “Flying the Progress Pride Flag is a powerful symbol of a unified Westchester. Our County is dedicated to being inclusive of all communities, regardless of race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation. We encourage all residents and allies to join us in this important celebration as we honor and uplift our LGBTQ+ community.”

 

The LOFT Chief Executive Officer Judy Troilo said: “Raising the Pride flag is more than a symbolic gesture; it’s a powerful declaration of visibility and acceptance. It stands as a reminder that love is universal and that every individual deserves to be seen, respected and celebrated. Pride month is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and a beacon of hope for a brighter, more inclusive future."

 

Following the flag-raising ceremony, a pride event will be held on nearby Court Street, offering a space for celebration and community building. The flag raising is part of WorldPride Month in June, a global celebration of LGBTQ+ pride and a continued effort to advance equality and acceptance for all.

 

Westchester Insider: Westchester County: JUNE IS RABIES AWARENESS MONTH.

 

JUNE IS RABIES AWARENESS MONTH.

 

(White Plains, NY) –    To kick off Rabies Awareness Month, the Westchester County Health Department is reminding residents to protect themselves, their family and their pets from rabies. Warmer weather means more time spent outdoors and increased chances for close encounters with animals that can carry the deadly virus, and transmit it through a bite or scratch.

 

Health Commissioner Sherlita Amler, MD, said: “The best way to avoid rabies is to steer clear of wild animals and strays, bat proof your home and keep your pets’ rabies vaccinations up to date. Discourage wild animals from visiting your yard by securely covering trash cans and keeping pet food and water indoors. Do not approach or handle animals that you don’t know, even if they appear young, injured or friendly. If you are bitten or scratched by any animal, contact the Health Department as soon as possible to be evaluated for preventive rabies treatment.”

 

Last year the County Health Department tested 327 animals that may have had contact with people or pets. Just 16 were confirmed to be rabid, including eight raccoons, six bats, one bear and a beaver. Nearly 200 people were referred for post-exposure rabies treatment.

 

Amler added: “It isn’t only wild animals that can be a concern. If you, your child or your pet are bitten or scratched by someone else’s pet, get the name and address of the owner so that the biting pet’s rabies vaccine records can be verified. That way, the bite victim may be able to avoid a series of rabies shots if the pet is up to date on its rabies vaccines.”

 

To keep bats out of your home, caulk any openings larger than a quarter-inch by a half-inch. Use window screens and chimney caps and fill electrical and plumbing holes with stainless steel wool or caulk. Ensure all exterior doors close tightly. Should a bat get into your home, capture and contain it and call the Health Department immediately at 914-813-5000 if it was in a room with a sleeping person or there is a chance of exposure so that the bat can be tested for rabies. To learn how to safely capture a bat in your home: https://health.westchestergov.com/rabies/rabies-in-bats.

 

Residents who are concerned about an animal behaving erratically outdoors should contact their local police department or animal control officer. 

 

How can you tell if an animal is rabid?

• Unusual behavior may be the first sign of rabies in an animal.
• 
  
• A rabid animal may become either abnormally aggressive or unusually tame.
• 
  
• Some rabid animals lose their fear of people and become excited and irritable, or appear passive and lethargic.
• 
  
• Staggering and frothing at the mouth are sometimes noted.                                                             

 

What should you do if bitten or scratched by a wild or stray animal?

• 
  
• Wash the bite or scratch with warm, soapy water.
• 
  
• Call your doctor or hospital to find out if additional treatment is needed.
• 
  
• Report the incident to the health department, 24 hours a day, at (914) 813-5000. If calling after business hours, follow the recorded instructions for reporting public health emergencies.

 

What should you do if your pet fights with another animal?

• 
  
• Wear gloves when handling your pet during and after an encounter with another animal.
• 
  
• Call your veterinarian and the animal control officer in your community to report the incident.
• 
  
• If you pet is exposed to a suspect rabid animal, try to keep the animal in sight until the police or a wildlife trapper arrives.
• 
  
• If your pet bites or scratches someone, confine your animal and call the Westchester County Health Department immediately at 813-5000. There are a few simple procedures to follow so that the injured person does not need rabies post-exposure treatment. Be sure to keep your pet’s rabies vaccines current and contact your veterinarian to verify your pet’s rabies vaccine records.

 

More information about rabies and its prevention can be found on the Health Department’s website at www.westchestergov.com/health. Residents can also like us on Facebook at facebook.com/wchealthdept, follow us on Twitter @wchealthdept or call us at (914) 813-5000.

 

 

Westchester Insider: GREENBURGH-GRAHAM UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT AND FORMER SECURITY SYSTEM SPECIALIST ARRESTED ON CORRUPTION CHARGES FOR STEALING SCHOOL FUNDS.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 30, 2024 

GREENBURGH-GRAHAM UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT AND FORMER SECURITY SYSTEM SPECIALIST ARRESTED ON CORRUPTION CHARGES FOR STEALING SCHOOL FUNDS.

Defendants allegedly stole more than $12,000 in school funds earmarked for students in a gift card scheme and purchased luxury handbags, jewelry, and personal expenses over a four-year period.

 

WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. – Westchester County District Attorney Miriam E. Rocah and New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli announced that the former superintendent of schools and a former security system specialist of the Greenburgh-Graham Union Free School District were arrested on corruption charges for allegedly stealing school district funds earmarked for students and spending them on personal and luxury expenses between 2018 and 2022.  

 

DA Rocah said: “This alleged act of public corruption by those responsible for the care of students in need betrayed the trust of the entire school district community. We applaud the Office of the New York State Comptroller for their exhaustive investigation and bringing this case to our Office.”  

 

Comptroller DiNapoli said: “Levy and Kumar were entrusted with money meant to enrich the lives of students with disabilities; instead, they allegedly enriched their own lives by spending the money on lavish gifts for themselves. Thanks to my partnership with District Attorney Rocah they will now be held accountable for their actions.” 

 

The defendants, Oliver Levy, 55, of Stony Point in Rockland County, and Surendra Kumar, 47, of Yonkers, were arrested today by the Westchester County District Attorney’s Office and arraigned on felony charges of Grand Larceny in the Third Degree as a Crime of Public Corruption and Corrupting the Government in the Third Degree in the Town of Greenburgh Justice Court before Judge Erin McGoey. Their next court date is June 26 in Hastings-on-Hudson Village Court.  

 

As alleged in the felony complaint, Levy and Kumar aided, abetted and acted in concert with each other in a scheme where Levy approved Kumar's purchase of 168 gift cards between July 18 and May 2022. Both defendants allegedly used more than $12,000 of the gift cards for personal expenses, including jewelry, luxury handbags, private school fees for relatives, and veterinary services. 

 

The investigation was conducted by the Office of the New York State Comptroller and the Economic Crimes Unit and Public Integrity Unit of the DA’s Office Criminal Investigators Squad.  

 

The case is being prosecuted by Public Integrity and Law Enforcement Integrity Bureau Assistant District Attorney Sheila Horgan of the Trials and Investigations Division.  

 

The charges against the defendants are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.   

 

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Parks: ALBANIAN HERITAGE DAY RETURNS TO KENSICO DAM PLAZA ON JUNE 2.

 

ALBANIAN HERITAGE DAY RETURNS TO KENSICO DAM PLAZA ON JUNE 2.

 

 

(Valhalla, NY) – Albanian Heritage Day will take place on Sunday, June 2, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla.

 

This festival will include Albanian cuisine, beverages, dancing and a variety of sports including soccer. The event will feature live performances by Ermina Bushi, Lleshaj and Valdet Luka, as well as DJ Edi will perform traditional Albanian music from all regions.

 

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “Experiencing Westchester’s many cultures right here at scenic Kensico Dam Plaza encourages awareness and fosters a greater understanding of the varied ways our residents live and think. The heritage festivals enhance empathy and compassion by revealing the common humanity that crosses all boundaries.”

 

Westchester County Parks Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said, “Learning about different cuisines, art and music provides immense personal satisfaction and inspiration. It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy with family and friends.”

 

The festival will be held rain or shine. Seating is informal; bring blankets or folding chairs for seating on the lawn. Admission and parking are free.*

 

The other heritage festivals in the series are:

 

·         African-American, Sunday, June 23, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Hispanic, Sunday, July 7, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Irish-American, Saturday, July 14, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale (Admission: $5 adults; free for ages 14 and under)*

·         Italian, Sunday, July 21, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Arab, Sunday, July 21, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale

·         India, Sunday, Aug. 4, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Jewish, Sunday, Aug. 18, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Muslim Heritage, Sunday, Aug. 25, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

 

 

This event is sponsored by The Mother Teresa Center of Our Lady of Shkodra Parish in Hartsdale and Westchester County Parks.

 

Please be advised that the Bronx River Parkway will be closed for Bicycle Sundays during June from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and during July from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. The parkway will be closed between Scarsdale Road in Yonkers and the Westchester County Center in White Plains. Kensico Dam Plaza can be accessed via Route 22, from the north or south.

 

For more information, visit parks.westchestergov.com or call (914) 864-PARK. Dates and times are subject to change.

 

 

Westchester Insider: Westchester County: For Immediate Release: Photos: Westchester County 9/11 First Responders Memorial Committee Commemorates Conclusion of Recovery Operations at Ground Zero.

 

Westchester County 9/11 First Responders Memorial Committee

Commemorates Conclusion of Recovery Operations at Ground Zero.

 

(White Plains, NY) – Westchester County officials and the Westchester County 9/11 First Responders Memorial Committee gathered to commemorate the conclusion of recovery operations at Ground Zero, by paying their respects at Westchester’s 9/11 First Responders Memorial honoring the men and women who have died from 9/11-related illnesses.

 

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “This marks a solemn observance as we commemorate the end of the rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero. We remember and honor the courageous men and women who rushed toward danger to aid in the rescue and recovery efforts following the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Here in Westchester County, our community feels a profound connection to many of those brave souls, including those who later succumbed to 9/11-related illnesses.”

 

Westchester Deputy County Executive Ken Jenkins said: “Today, and always, we honor the brave men and women who faced danger head-on to assist after the tragic events of September 11, 2001. In Westchester County these heroes have walked amongst us for years and as they sadly lose their health battles we will be there to support them and their families every step of the way.”

 

Westchester County First Responders 9/11 Health-related Illnesses Committee Co-Chairs Matthew McCauley and Georgia M. Asciutto said: “Today marks another somber day of remembrance, when the valiant recovery efforts at the pile of destruction from the World Trade Centers ended 22 years ago. While recovery at the site ended May 30, 2002, it continues on for the individuals and family members who lost loved ones in the beginning, in the months and years that followed, and for those still suffering from 9/11 health-related effects.”

 

Westchester County was among the first governments to unveil a 9/11 memorial dedicated to first responders who lost their lives due to 9/11-related illnesses. The Westchester County 9/11 First Responders Memorial is a promise fulfilled by Latimer to honor those we have lost.

 

Latimer continued: “In recognition of their sacrifice, we gather at the Westchester County 9/11 First Responders Memorial. This memorial stands as a tribute to the resilience and courage of our first responders and ensures that their sacrifices are never forgotten. As we mark the conclusion of the Ground Zero rescue and recovery operations, let us renew our commitment to remembering and supporting all who were affected.”

 

The memorial, located at the Kensico Dam Plaza, features granite stones set on a stone wall, each etched with the names of Westchester first responders lost to 9/11-related illnesses. Designed to complement the stonework of the dam and surround The Rising Memorial, the wall stretches 20 feet and holds up to eight memorial stones. An Eternal Light is centered between the two walls, directly across from The Rising’s entrance. This light will remain on continuously, symbolizing the enduring legacy of those honored by the memorial.

Westchester Insider: Westchester County: WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY INTERFAITH EVENT BRINGS TOGETHER DIFFERENT FAITHS FOR OPEN DIALOGUE.

 

WESTCHESTER COMMUNITY INTERFAITH EVENT BRINGS TOGETHER DIFFERENT FAITHS FOR OPEN DIALOGUE ON RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SPIRITUAL AND PHYSICAL.

Local Leaders of Faith Hosted Discussion on Religion and the Human Body.  

 

(Westchester, NY) – In the spirit of peace and wanting to understand how to better work together to achieve common goals, local religious scholars and leaders representing Christian, Islamic, Jewish and Catholic faiths led a panel discussion called Religion and the Human Body at Wayside Cottage in Scarsdale, NY. The Interfaith Community Event drew a diverse audience of many faiths and ethnicities who were tasked in participating in a series of thought-provoking group discussions about the relationship between the spiritual and the physical.

 

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “Interfaith events like this are important because they exemplify the healthy state of mutual respect and understanding is core to what our Westchester community is built around and what makes it so strong – and why it’s so important to support its continued growth. Westchester is committed to fostering open dialogues and mutual understanding between all faiths.”

 

The discussion – which was moderated by Marilyn Walker, Ph. D., a specialist in the history of Islam – had a central focus of exploring the connections between our physical and spiritual worlds – allowing attendees a way to enter into the group dialogue using their real, grounded and concrete physical life experiences as a frame of reference to better discuss their own spirituality.

 

Westchester Director of Policy & Programs for Faith-Based & Urban Communities Crystal Collins said: “It was an honor to be asked to deliver the opening prayer. Truly, it was wonderful to see how engaged the room was discussing the different ways our spirituality intersects with our being human – and because of the openness and respect in the room, it allowed for a better understanding of different perspectives.”

 

To learn more about Westchester’s robust Interfaith Community Organizations and how to get involved or find out about upcoming events, contact Crystal Collins at cyc9@westchestercountyny.gov or 914-995-2926.

 

About Panelists:

·         Amy H. Fisher, an independent researcher, writer and speaker from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

·         Dr. Mahjabeen Hassan, a practicing plastic surgeon and Chairperson of the American Muslim Women’s Association

·         Rabbi Lisa Sacks, a Rabbi and director of Lifelong Learning at Bet Torah

·         Michelle Saracino, Ph. D., a Professor of Religious Studies at Manhattan College, a Catholic University

 

The event was organized by The Westchester Stake of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the American Jewish Committee for Westchester and Fairfield.

 

Westchester Insider: Westchester County Parks: THE 27TH ANNUAL ASIAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 1.

 

THE 27TH ANNUAL ASIAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL SCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, JUNE 1.

 

(Valhalla, NY) – The 27th Annual Asian-American Heritage Festival will take place on Saturday, June 1, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Kensico Dam Plaza in Valhalla. 

 

This cultural festival will showcase Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Indian, Thai and Vietnamese cultures with live songs, dances, musical performances, Asian arts and cultural exhibits, Chinese paper cutting and origami, and ethnic foods. It will also include, children’s entertainment, balloon sculptures, games and face painting. Free medical and dental screenings will be available to attendees.

 

Westchester County Executive George Latimer said, “Westchester takes pride in the shared spirit among its many diverse cultures. Experiencing other backgrounds broadens one’s perspective, fostering a greater understanding of the varied ways our county’s populations live and think.”

 

Westchester County Parks Commissioner Kathy O’Connor said, “Though May is Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, this festival will extend the celebration into June. Folks of all ages can enjoy the activities, dances, music and culinary delights at one of our most beloved parks.”

The festival will be held rain or shine. Seating is informal; bring blankets or folding chairs for seating on the lawn. No coolers will be allowed. Admission and parking are free.*

The other heritage festivals in the series are:

Albanian, Sunday, June 2, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

African-American, Sunday, June 23, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Hispanic, Sunday, July 7, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Irish-American, Saturday, July 14, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale (admission: $5 adults; free for ages 14 and under)*

·         Italian, Sunday, July 21, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Arab, Sunday, July 21, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Ridge Road Park, Hartsdale

·         India, Sunday, Aug. 4, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Ecuadorian, Sunday, Aug. 11, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Croton Point Park, Croton-On-Hudson

·         Jewish, Sunday, Aug. 18 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

·         Muslim Heritage, Sunday, Aug. 25, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., Kensico Dam Plaza, Valhalla

 

Please be advised that the Bronx River Parkway will be closed for Bicycle Sundays in June from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and in July from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. The parkway will be closed between Scarsdale Road in Yonkers and the Westchester County Center in White Plains. Kensico Dam Plaza can be accessed via Route 22, from the north or south.

 

For more information, visit parks.westchestergov.com or call (914) 864-PARK; dates and times are subject to change.

 

This event is sponsored by Westchester County Parks and OCA – Westchester and Hudson Valley Chapter, with support from Arts Westchester.