05-17-12  19
Yorktown Heights, NY
"Guiding Eyes for the Blind" receives $3 Million grant from PepsiCo Foundation
    Guiding Eyes for the Blind, the world renowned guide dog school, announced today that it received a $3 million commitment from the PepsiCo Foundation, the philanthropic arm of global food and beverage leader PepsiCo. The grant will go toward the renovation and expansion of the Canine Development Center in Patterson, N.Y., which will bear the name of the PepsiCo Foundation.
     In sharing news of the grant, William D. Badger, Guiding Eyes for the Blind Chief Executive Officer and President said, "For years Guiding Eyes has benefitted from PepsiCo's generosity of expertise and volunteer spirit. On behalf of all of us at Guiding Eyes, we are challenged to find words to express our appreciation and excitement for this incredible financial commitment. We know that it signifies PepsiCo Foundation's dedication to Guiding Eyes' mission and work, and our dreams of building a state-of-the-art facility in Patterson.”
     The organization’s existing canine development facility, known throughout the international service dog field for its groundbreaking advances in canine breeding and puppy training, is scheduled to undergo a major transformation in order to support the school's newest initiative, STEP – Successive Training and Enrichment Program. This program focuses on helping puppies learn at earlier ages than ever before, and thus preparing them better for guide dog training. The new facilities will also provide additional teaching space for staff and volunteers to work together and have additional opportunities for orientation and training sessions.
     Guiding Eyes is in the final phase of its One Step Ahead campaign to raise $8 million to fund the Canine Development Center. The PepsiCo Foundation's $3 million pledge leaves approximately $1 million left to be raised, and Guiding Eyes is looking to the public to help it reach the finish line by year-end. 

05-16-12 
White Plains, NY
ArtsWestchester to Inaugurate New Art Gallery & Rehearsal Space at ArtsBash
    ArtsWestchester announces that it is the home to a new art gallery and rehearsal space on its newly-renovated 9th floor.  The gallery officially opens its doors at this Friday’s ArtsBash event, from 6-9, which will also mark the opening of an exciting new sculpture exhibition, Reaching New Heights.  This show displays the work of seven sculptors from Westchester County who repurpose found materials to transform industrial and houseware items into humorous figures and imaginary landscapes.
     Opening to the public on Friday and available for viewing by appointment until its closing reception on June 15, all sculptures are for sale by the artists. The ArtsBash event also boasts a 9th floor Champagne and Spirits Lounge, a wonderful accent to the exceptional sculptures, courtesy of Pernod Ricard.

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05-16-12 
Mt. Vernon, NY

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05-16-12  17
Mt. Vernon, NY
County Clerk Idoni Warns: “Beware of companies charging high fees for a copy of  your Deed”
    Once again, Westchester homeowners are being swamped with mailings from unscrupulous companies offering to provide copies of their deeds for fees as high as $59.00.  New York Record Retrieval is just one of the several companies that send out mailers to homeowners.  “Don’t be persuaded by official-looking mailers,” cautioned Westchester County Clerk Timothy C. Idoni. “Instead, you can be assured your deed is recorded in the County Clerk’s Office and remains valid whether or not you have a certified copy in your possession.”  If you ever need a copy of your deed, obtaining one is fast, easy and, most importantly, affordable from the Westchester County Clerk’s Office.

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05-16-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Farquharson and Gootzeit get reelected to School Board and are joined by Crump and Wynn; School Budget passes

(l to r) Frances Wynn, Brenda Crump, Elias Gootzeit and Delia Farquharson

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05-14-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
First Thursdays at St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site
     Beginning in July 2012, St. Paul’s Church N.H.S. will be open the first Thursday of every month, from 1 to 9 PM, with special programs at 7 PM.  First Thursdays also feature a 6 PM tour of the historic cemetery (conditions permitting), one of the nation’s oldest continuously used burial yards, and historical activities for children.  
     Schedule of special events
Thursday, July 5, 7 PM
A tree grows at St. Paul’s: A talk and walk,  led by Jessica Schuler, Director of Family Forest, New York Botanical Gardens.

Thursday, August 2, 7 PM
The Enigmatic General Charles Lee.  A talk by Professor Phillip Papas of Union County College, who is writing a biography of the controversial Revolutionary War general.    

Thursday, September 6, 7 PM
Jazz Sax. Enjoy a robust performance by Australian-born, New York-based baritone and alto sax impresario Lisa Parrot, accompanied by keyboard.

Thursday, October 4, 7 PM
Jazz guitars, a performance of smooth and creative jazz music for guitars, by Bronx-based musician Sheryl Bailey, and company. 

Thursday, November 1, 7 PM
Rest in Peace: The History of Funerals in America.  A talk by Nancy Coffey, professor at the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service

Thursday, December 6, 7 PM
Holiday Opera Program.  Bronx Opera Company performs selections from classic operas and seasonal carols.

     Free admission and parking; light refreshments served

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05-15-12 16
Vieques, PR
 

Jim and Annie Kiselak’s Natural Food Column Direct from the sunny island of Vieques, PR

You are what you eat!

     Most of us walk into a supermarket and grab items off the shelves without ever reading the food labels. Food labels can be so confusing that some of us don't even bother reading them. There are two basic parts to think of when reading a food label; the actual ingredients of the food and the nutritional values of those ingredients.
     Most shoppers are not vegetarians and fail to realize that beef, pork, turkey, chicken, milk and eggs are not grown in a package at the grocery store. Most of them are all loaded up with MSG and colored with toxins to make them look good and stay shiny for weeks on the shelf. Sometimes you even see a picture of a happy cow above the dairy or butcher section at the grocer. The cow is usually driving a milk truck or holding some milk bottles like the good 'ole milk man. Or you see some cute mother hen walking her chicks down a pasture across some pretty green grass, all happy-go-lucky, enjoying their lives out in Mother Nature.
     Shoppers today are actually victims of a reverse psychology style of marketing that keeps your mind off the fact that most animals are jacked up with hormones, living in confined quarters, never seeing the sun, or their parents, and most likely collapsing from sickness onto a cement slab covered in their own feces.
     So it is easy to understand why corporate America has to use antibiotics on the animals, so e-coli and salmonella outbreaks don't cripple the meat and dairy industries. Plus, most animals are fed GMO corn by-products, which are basically sugar and ferment in their insides, causes stomach and intestinal infections. If you are what you eat, then you are a walking infection, immune to antibiotics and heading for GMO bred cancer.
     You need to be a smart shopper and not be distracted and fooled by the packaging, the preservatives and the artificial colorings used by food manufacturers to make toxic foods look appealing. It's all part of a plan so you won't think about the living breathing animals, which have eyes, brains and a mother and father.
     Some of us grew up on a farm and our parents taught us how to slaughter the animals for sale or consumption, and we certainly weren't shooting them up with drugs, abusing them, letting them live in their own feces and allowing them to suffer needlessly.
     So give yourself a chance at living a healthy life by reading labels before you purchase food at the local store.

05-14-12 15
Mt. Vernon, NY
Westchester Legislators honor 2012 Jandon Scholarship Award Recipients

     The Westchester County Board of Legislators (BOL) honored the 2012 Jandon Scholarship award winners at a special ceremony held in the BOL Rotunda.
     The Jandon Scholars Program, administered by the Jandon Foundation and the BOL, annually awards 15 college scholarships to academic achievers.  Based on financial need, academic achievement and service to local communities, each Jandon scholar receives a $10,000 scholarship toward college as well as a laptop computer.  
     “We appreciate the opportunity to assist such remarkable young people in pursuing their college educations,” said Alec Cecil of the Jandon Foundation. “And we thank Chairman Ken Jenkins and the County Board of Legislators for their continuing partnership in this endeavor.”
     What makes the Jandon scholarship unique is that the students do not receive the total amount of the award at once. Instead, they regularly submit their grades and semester schedules before they receive a check before each semester. The scholarship amount increases each year, so students receive the most amount of money their senior year as an incentive to graduate on time.
     Speaking at this year’s ceremony was E’Shondra McClendon, a 2007 Roosevelt High School graduate and Jandon scholarship recipient who received a bachelor’s degree from John Jay College in 2011. McClendon now works at Legal Services of the Hudson Valley and will be heading to law school this September.

05-14-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Sample the Wartburg’s compassionate care with the Meadowview Assisted Living Short-Stay Program

    The Wartburg Adult Care Community – recently named by US News & World Report as one of the Best 100 Nursing Homes – continues to lead the way in providing the ever-growing elderly population with innovative independent living options.
     Now available at The Wartburg’s state-of-the art Meadowview Assisted Living Facility is a “Short-Stay Program.” This gives seniors the opportunity to live in an independent environment for a short period of time – for as short as three weeks - without making a long-term commitment.  “This relieves the stress and anxiety often associated with making an important decision such as this,” states Janet Palazzolo, Administrator of Residential Services at The Wartburg. “Now the resident and their family can experience life here at The Wartburg, and then determine if they would want to stay for a longer period of time.”
     A good example of the benefits of this program can be seen through Sister Mary James Coogan’s experience: Sister Mary - a very independent person - spent some time in The Wartburg Rehabilitation Center.  Following that stay she decided to rest further at The Meadowview Assisted Living in the Short-Stay Program. While there, she took advantage of the three meals daily in an elegant dining room, 24/7 concierge service, access to 24/7 nursing service, and a fully equipped exercise center. Sister Mary also remarked on how she was “amazed” at how great the Wartburg’s staff was and loved the fact that they were so “spiritual” there as they serve laypeople and two different orders of sisters.  She also benefitted from the Wartburg’s two full-time drivers who took her three times a week to an outpatient physical therapy center where she continued her treatment while she was at the Wartburg. She enjoyed socializing with the other residents and knows that if she decides to stay permanently, she will always have a home at Meadowview.
     Call today at 914-513-5178 to learn more about this option in assisted living. It’s a great opportunity to try out this wonderful lifestyle.  Rates start as low as $153.00 per day.

05-14-12 14
Mt. Vernon, NY
Wartburg fields a co-ed softball team for the 2012 season!

    Teamwork has been a valued virtue of The Wartburg staff for over 150 years.  So it was only natural that a co-ed softball team has been formed, and is being sponsored by The Wartburg in the White Plains Softball League this season.  This will be the first time in decades that a Wartburg team will be competing in an organized league. 
     According to Wartburg President & CEO David Gentner, “It’s great for Wartburg to be able to field a co-ed softball team. We have a nice mix of people from a variety of programs and disciplines.  This will be great fun, we haven’t lost a game yet.”  (One good reason is that the season hasn’t started yet.)
     All the games will be played at Gillie Field in White Plains, on Mamaroneck & Gedney Way, and begin at either 6:00, 7:15 or 8:30 PM. The regular season runs from this week through August 15th. Some of the other teams in the league include NY Presbyterian, UBS Financial, Westchester Bank and Blue Sky Studios.  For a schedule and more information, contact either of the co-managers:
     Richard Diaz : rdiaz@thewartburg.org (W) 914-513-5168 (Work Cell) 914 960-4946 (Cell) 718 687-3383
     Michelle Garcia: mgarcia@thewartburg.org  (W) 914-513-5121
     Come on down and cheer-on the team!

05-14-12
Mt. Vernon, NY

05-14-12 13
Mt. Vernon, NY
Longfellow Elementary School students plant tree in memory of Heavy D

A group photo with a portrait of Heavy D

     On Earth Day, Friday, April 27th, the Mount Vernon Ambassadors at Longfellow Elementary School planted a tree in memory of Dwight Arrington Myers (Heavy D).  His parents attended the ceremony. 
     The Mount Vernon Ambassadors wanted to show their appreciation by commemorating the life of Heavy D and the legacy he leaves behind.  Students and staff will have a place to reflect, and be reminded to love, respect each other, and be inspired.
     Heavy D was born on May 24, 1967 in Mandeville, Jamaica, the son of Eulahlee Lee, a nurse, and Clifford Vincent Myers, a machine technician. His family moved to Mount Vernon in the early 1970s, where he was raised.

05-14-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Westchester Legislators to Honor 2012 Jandon Scholarship Award Recipients Tonight
    The Westchester County Board of Legislators (BOL) will honor the 2012 Jandon Scholarship award winners at a special ceremony on MONDAY—May 14 to be held in the BOL Rotunda. The program begins at 4 PM.
     The Jandon Scholars Program, administered by the Jandon Foundation and the BOL, annually awards 15 college scholarships to academic achievers.  Based on financial need, academic achievement and service to local communities, each Jandon scholar receives a $10,000 scholarship toward college as well as a laptop computer.
     What makes the Jandon scholarship unique is that the students do not receive the total amount of the award at once. Instead, they regularly submit their grades and semester schedules before they receive a check before each semester. The scholarship amount increases each year, so students receive the most amount of money their senior year as an incentive to graduate on time.
     Speaking at this year’s ceremony will be E’Shondra McClendon, a 2007 Roosevelt High School graduate and Jandon scholarship recipient who received a bachelor’s degree from John Jay College in 2011. McClendon now works at Legal Services of the Hudson Valley and will be heading to law school this September. Also speaking at the ceremony will be Alec Cecil of the Jandon Foundation and BOL Chairman Ken Jenkins (D-Yonkers).   More

05-14-12 12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Heavy D's mother is MC at "Pre-Mother's Day Luncheon" held at Armory

        Guest speaker, Recreation Commissioner Darren M. Morton, pictured with Eulahlee Myers

     A "Pre-Mother's Day Luncheon" was held at the popular Mount Vernon Armory on Thursday, May 10 and the event was attended by over 200 senior citizens.
     As the seniors began arriving, they were greeted by Eulahlee Myers, Heady D’s mother, who acted as the Mistress of Ceremonies during the well attended luncheon.
     The Armory was filled to near capacity as Myers extended a hearty welcome and a Happy Mother’s Day to all the mother's.  She went on to recognize and thank the sponsors of the luncheon, and then introduced Mayor Ernest D. Davis, who was well received by the seniors.
     Meyers, who lost her famous son, Heavy D last November, proved one thing – she is a strong and courageous women who is determined to move on with her life in spite of her recent tragic personal lost.
     According to seniors at the Armory, it was Myers who organized the luncheon and made sure it was a total success.
     While standing by Mayor Davis’ side as he spoke, Davis embraced her and thanked her for her many contributions to the Mount Vernon community. He then wished her and everybody else in the hall a happy Mother’s Day.  More

05-11-12 11
Mt. Vernon, NY
Hundreds of Amani Charter School supporters attend public hearing
  

(l to r) Cliff Chuang, Director of the NYSED Charter School Office and Vickie Smith, Regional Liaison, for the NYSED Charter School Office.

     Nearly 400 people packed the Friendship Worship Center auditorium in Mount Vernon Thursday night, May 10, in response to a public hearing on the new Amani Public Charter School, conducted by Cliff Chuang, Director of the NYSED Charter School Office and Vickie Smith, Regional Liaison, for the NY State Education Department Charter School Office. The information obtained from the hearing will help the NY State Education Department determine whether or not Amani will stay in business or close its doors.
     During the emotion-packed hearing, 64 people went in front of the two hearing officers, and the majority of the speakers tried to persuade the two officials to allow Amani Public Charter School to remain open.
     The Mount Vernon School District has been adamantly against the opening of the Amani Public Charter School and has taken the NY State Education Department and the Amani Public Charter School to court. They want Amani's charter revoked and have been refusing to pay the per pupil allocation for the Mt. Vernon public school students who are enrolled in Amani.  In the interim, the funds are being paid by NY State Education Department.
     School Board Trustee, Elias Gootzeit, who is an attorney, has been the one drafting and filing the lawsuits against the Amani Public Charter School.  More

05-10-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
WJCS Offering Free Workshops to Women Looking for Jobs
     With funding from the Leir Charitable Foundations, WJCS  Women-Helping-Women, is offering free workshops for women who are seeking jobs.  Registration is required.  Please contact W-H-W Project Director Lenore Rosenbaum at 761-0600, X308 or lrosenbaum@wjcs.com. The following free, non-sectarian workshops will be held from 9:30 – 11:30 AM at WJCS Headquarters, 845 North Broadway, White Plains, NY:

Monday, June 4                     9:30-11:30AM
Ask The Recruiter
Join us at an Open Forum where you will have the opportunity to ask the questions that you always wanted to ask the professional executive recruiter!

Tuesday, June 12                   9:30-11:30AM
How to Tell Your Story to Get the Interviews you Want: Create an Effective Resume and Cover Letter
Your resume and cover letter are among the many tools you will need in your job search kit.  A powerfully written resume and cover letter, coupled with an effective job search

Tuesday, June 19                   9:30-11:30AM
How to Create and Promote Your Personal Brand!
This workshop will explain the concept of personal branding and guide you through the basics of how to begin to design your own “brand” and leverage it for new opportunities. 

Tuesday, June 26          9:30-11:30AM
How to Look Your Very Best: Project Your Best Self-Image and Update Your “Total Look”
This workshop will focus on how to transform your wardrobe, maximize your self-image and self-confidence as you head for the interview

05-10-12 10
Mt. Vernon, NY
The Wartburg holds groundbreaking ceremony for Adult Day Services Center

05-10-12
White Plains, NY
Family ArtsBash Promises a Free Day of Family Fun That Encourages Children’s Creativity
    On Saturday, May 19, the day following its ArtsBash event, ArtsWestchester invites families and children of all ages to participate in a free day of fun.  Guests will partake in a variety of hands-on activities and artist-led workshops outside and inside of our historic landmark building located at 31 Mamaroneck Avenue in downtown White Plains. Activities include face painting, clown theater, visual arts workshops and cookie decorating.  The event takes place on May 19 from 12-5pm.  For information, visit: www.artsw.org/familyartsbash.
     Among the day’s activities is a fun family activity we’ve entitled “StickerMania.” During this interactive game, children will win prizes by touring the resident artist studios throughout ArtsWestchester’s 9-floor building and collecting and placing stickers in their Family ArtsBash brochure. In the process, they’ll meet the artists and see work in progress as painters, sculptors and fashion designers craft and showcase their masterpieces.
      Families will also be able to explore ArtsWestchester’s engaging Sculpture: On and Off the Wall exhibition, featuring 20 local artists, in the main floor gallery.  The vibrant works of art are varied in size, style and medium.  These colorful sculptures are guaranteed to spark interest in any child. More

05-08-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Editorial
"Mt. Vernon School Board is dysfunctional," say candidates during first debate

                                         Candidates waiting for the forum to commence

     The first Mount Vernon School Board Candidates' Forum was held on Monday, May 7, and should have been attended by more people due to the magnitude of the coming election.
     The event was sponsored by the Social Action Ministry and was held at the Greater Centennial Fellowship Hall. 
     Timothy Costello, Assistant Superintendent for Business, made an impressive slide presentation on the budget that was well understood by everybody in the audience.
     During his presentation he emphasized that the proposed budget will have no impact on the district’s property tax levy and stays within the new property tax levy cap. This means that the district will not need more property taxes for next year’s (2012-13) budget. He did mention that the proposed budget does seek an increase in spending of 1% or $2,077,621. He went on to say the increase is due to increase for charter school enrollments, employee and teacher retirement costs and health insurance increases. More

05-07-12 09
Mt. Vernon, NY
Hundreds attend fundraiser for firefighter’s Leukemia stricken son in Mt. Vernon

           (l to r) Ricky and Denise Montana pictured with their son, Michael, at the fundraiser

     On Sunday, May 6, Maggie Spillane’s and the Bayou teamed up and held a fundraiser for Mount Vernon Fire Department Captain Ricky Montana’s son, Michael. The response was overwhelming and Gramatan Avenue, between Grand Street and Broad Street, resembled a sea of people, as hundreds participated in a fundraising block party for Michael.
     Participants were blessed with a spectacular sunny day, and some even danced on the street to the sounds of a great band that played non-stop music throughout the afternoon.
     The large crowd consisted of Michael’s many friends and family members, along with many Mount Vernonites, all seeking to assist in any way possible to help Michael beat the dreaded disease.
     Michael was accompanied by his parents, Denise and Ricky, who along with Michael were all upbeat throughout the afternoon festivities. More

05-06-12 08
Mt. Vernon, NY
Dental van to provide free dental screenings and oral health education for kids 1-12 years of age
     There will be free dental screenings and oral health education on a dental van for children 1-12 years of age on Saturday, June 2 (11:00 AM - 3:00 PM). The screenings will be held by Trinity Church, located at 335 S. 4th Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY (on back lawn - 3rd Ave entrance). There will also be free gifts with dental screenings while supplies last.

05-05-12 06
Mt. Vernon, NY
New gallery of fine and wearable art opens on Fifth Avenue
    

Mayor Ernest D. Davis pictured soon after cutting the ceremonial ribbon in front of the new gallery known as, Bese Saka.

                   (l to right) Rene Davis and Denise Goring pictured inside their new gallery

    An exciting new gallery known as Bese Saka, opened at 49 Fifth Avenue in Mount Vernon on Friday, May 4. The grand opening ceremony was attended by over 50 people, including Mayor Ernest D. Davis.
    According to the owners of the new gallery, Denis Goring and Rene Davis, also known as Jamillah, the gallery's name, Bese Saka, stands for a sack of cola nuts in Ghana, which represent a symbol of affluence, power, abundance, plenty, togetherness and unity. The cola nut has played an important role in the economic life of Ghana. A widely-used cash crop, it is closely associated with affluence and abundance. This symbol also represents the role of agriculture and trade in bringing people together.
    The new gallery will be offering handmade and unique wearable arts; jewelry; fine arts; dolls; home decor and more.
     "It has always been a dream of mine to get paid for being a stylist," said Rene.
     Her partner, Denis, is a Bronx artist who has a passion for clothing. "Rene and I have evolved together, since she has supported my craft and we took this to another level and decided to open a gallery together," said Denis.
     The gallery hours are: Thursday - Saturday (11 AM to 7 PM), and Sunday (11 AM to 5 PM).

05-03-12 05
Mt. Vernon, NY
Gerry Ryan honored as "Man of the Year" at Mt. Vernon Police Foundation Gala

Gerry Ryan (l) was honored as "Man of the Year" during the gala. To the right is August Nigro, President of the Foundation.

     The Mount Vernon Police Foundation's 6th Annual Awards Gala, held on Wednesday, May 2, was a resounding success once again. Like last year's inaugural gala, the event was attended by over 300 guests and was held at the luxurious Westchester Manor, located in Hastings-on-Hudson.
     The gala had an exciting theme, since it was called "Hawaiian Night" and beautiful girls dressed as Hula dancers placed Leis around the necks of the guests as they entered the catering hall.  The ballroom was adorned with Hawaiian decorations, creating an exotic tropical feel to the place.
     In attendance this year, like in previous years, were many high profile dignitaries, which is a true indication that the group is being recognized in a big way for its many positive accomplishments by many.
     The goal of the relatively new nonprofit foundation is to enhance the effectiveness of the Mount Vernon Police Department by providing resources that are not covered in the city budget, which allows police officers to be more effective in doing their job.  More

    The Town of Rye’s African-American Cemetery Committee invites the public to participate in a Memorial Day ceremony being held Saturday, May 26, at 10:00, at 215 North Street, Rye (adjacent to the Greenwood Union Cemetery).
      As brief background, the land for the cemetery was donated to the Town of Rye in 1860 by Underhill and Elizabeth Halstead with the condition that it “…shall forever hereafter kept, held and used for the purpose of a cemetery or burial place for the colored inhabitants of the said Town of Rye, and its vicinity…”
      Records show that burials, especially of war veterans, took place from 1860 to 1964. In 2002 a list was compiled showing that 119 persons were buried at the cemetery: 15 Civil War veterans, 1 Spanish American War veteran, 5 World War I veterans, 1 World War II veteran, and 97 “civilians”
      The importance of this special cemetery in the history of our community and our nation has been recognized. It is listed on the National, New York State and Westchester County Registers of Historic Places.
      If you have any questions or need additional information please contact David Thomas at (914) 886-5710 or at bcbridges@yahoo.com

05-01-12 3
Mt. Vernon, NY
Tony Award winner LaChanze of Mount Vernon performs at FSW's STAR Gala

                                                                       LaChanze

     Nearly 300 guests attended Family Services of Westchester’s recent 2012 STAR Gala at Glen Island Harbour Club in New Rochelle.  Tony Lembeck of Goldens Bridge and his Family received the STAR Award for their work at Camp Viva, a one week sleep-away camp experience for families affected by HIV/AIDS. Tony helped found Camp Viva  18 years ago and has been overseeing the camp’s programming ever since. He received a standing ovation and was saluted by longtime friend shoe maven Steve Madden and devoted volunteer Jon Rosenshine, who spoke with humor and gratitude about Tony’s boundless energy and dedication to Camp Viva. “No such thing as a perpetual motion machine?” joked Rosenshine. “Who here has ever watched Tony on Carnival Day?”
     Swiss Re, a global reinsurer whose U.S. division is headquartered in Armonk, received the Corporate Citizenship Award.  Swiss Re began its involvement with FSW in 2006, when the company sponsored its first Thanksgiving-in-a-Box Food Drive for families in the agency’s Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Each year since then, the company along with individual employees have made financial and food donations toward this worthwhile project. To date the company has provided more than 1,200 boxes of items for a holiday feast along with essential staples to families in need. The company has also participated in many Community Service Days through FSW, building book cases and planting gardens at My Second Home; collecting winter coats for children and sorting them at The Sharing Shelf; and painting closets and providing art supplies at Maple House for seniors to enjoy. More

05-01-12 2
Mt. Vernon, NY
Mt. Vernon School District Superintendent reports on student achievements
    Interim Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Waveline Bennett-Conroy is proud to announce the following achievements by our high school students.
     Mr. Yassine El Yousfi won the Gates Millennium Scholars scholarship, and will receive a full scholarship to the school of his choice.  He is the first student from the Mt. Vernon City School District who has ever won such an award.
     Ms. Vanessa Crump is the runner-up on competition level 3 in the Empire State Center for the Book, New York Library Association competition.  Her letter was selected out of 3,368 entries.
     Ms. Jasmine Crump is the recipient of the Student Advocacy Special Recognition Award.  This award is to recognize students who pursue their education despite challenging obstacles.  The Award will be presented at a reception hosted by TD Bank in June, 2012.
     Six Thornton High School seniors scored in the top 20% of the nation, participating in the National Financial Challenge nationwide.  Thirty-six of our students competed and almost all scored at or above the national average score of 69%!
     Kudos to all our scholars, we are so very proud of all of you!

05-01-12
New Rochelle, NY
Salesian Lay Missioners Program Director Visits India, Cambodia

Adam Rudin (director of Salesian Lay Missioners) in Deodurga, India, where he visited a Salesian boarding school and site for educational programming aimed at helping provide education and opportunity to at-risk youth. Photo courtesy Salesian Missions.

     Adam Rudin, director of the Salesian Lay Missioners program of Salesian Missions (and resident of New Rochelle), recently returned from India and Cambodia where he toured a potential site for new lay missioners as well as visited Salesian centers where lay missioners are currently stationed. The purpose of the visit was to assess needs and develop future plans. Salesian Missions, headquartered in New Rochelle, is the U.S. development arm of the international Salesians of Don Bosco—specializing in programs and services for at-risk youth in more than 130 countries
     Rudin visited three cities during his trip. In Agartala, India—a potential new site for Salesian Lay Missioners—Rudin toured the Salesian-run Ferrando Rehabilitation Centre. This rehabilitation center is a place for young people with visual, hearing, speech and physical disabilities. Rudin noted that in all his visits he saw how hardworking, studious and positive the children were.
     “The children there are a special group,” says Rudin. “Despite all the challenges they face, they are such happy children and this happiness is really infectious to everyone around.”
     In Deodurga, India, Rudin visited a Salesian boarding school and site for educational programming. He was most impressed with the use of technology in this very remote village—including the use of SMART Boards (educational interactive whiteboards).  More
 

05-01-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Memorial Day Commemoration at St. Paul’s
    Tours, talks, music and a commemorative ceremony are featured in the Memorial Day event, at St. Paul’s Church National Historic Site, in Mt. Vernon, NY, on Monday, May 28. 
     In the 11 AM ceremony, Colonel Reginald Sanders of the 369th Sustainment Brigade honors Corporal Morris Link, a Mt. Vernon resident buried at St. Paul’s who made the supreme sacrifice in World War I, serving with the 369th, the legendary “Harlem Hellfighters.” 
     Walking tours throughout the day recall the lives and stories of soldiers interred in the historic cemetery, with an emphasis on Civil War veterans, helping to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the struggle of 1861-1865. 
     The event also features living history demonstration and a performance, and sing-along, of songs that soldiers would have sung and heard from the Revolutionary War through the 20th century. 
     Special talk at 2 PM by acclaimed author Barnet Schecter about the about the changing nature of military service throughout American history - historic activities for children, with prizes.
     Parking and admission are free – light refreshments served.

05-01-12 1
Stamford, CT
 

Both Sides of Medicine with Dr. Veronica Sun tanning and Sunscreens Veronica Waks, MD, ND (203)331-1490

     The spring is in a full swing and we tend to spend more time outdoor and on the beach. I often asked by my patients about “the best sunscreen”. Here are some of my thoughts.
     The medical community still strongly supports the use of sunscreens, however, there is a growing consensus among progressive researchers that the use of sunscreens does not prevent skin cancer and, as a matter of fact, may promote it.
     The researches at the University of California pointed out that, although sunscreens do protect against sunburn, it gives to people false sense of security, as a result people tend to stay longer in the sun without sunburn, they do not protect against the UVA rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are strongly absorbed by the melanocytes which are involved both in melanin production (sun tanning) and in melanoma formation.  More

04-30-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Budget Message from Board President & Budget Chairperson, Michelle Walker

Between May 2007 and May 2011, the Mount Vernon Community has defeated the budget three out of four times, which forced the school district to operate under an austerity budget.  In spite of defeated budgets and operating under austerity three out of four years, the tax increase was still approximately $ 40 million dollars within this time frame. This is absolutely outrageous especially in light of the fact that the amount of money we are spending is not reflected on our state assessment scores or the current low graduation rate at Mount Vernon High School.  Mount Vernon is the perfect example of how money does not improve student achievement.      Our extremely low scores on the New York State English and Math Assessments  and our declining graduation rate and escalating drop our rate clearly show that funds are not allocated to high need areas.  Money does not solve problems but the proper and adequate allocation of money solves problems.  That is why for the first time in Mount Vernon’s school budget history, an amendment was included in the budget resolution that states; The Board shall meet to discuss transfer to line items in the budget to fund certain positions and programs for students.  There are several inflated line items within the budget, which is just simply fiscally irresponsible, and I would only vote for the budget with the amendment.  Money needs to be reallocated to fund programs for kids. More

4-30-12
Mt. Vernon, NY
Make a Splash with USA Swimming Foundation & Olympic Medalist Maritza Correia at Mt. Vernon YMCA

The USA Swimming Foundation, in conjunction with the Honorable Mayor Ernest D. Davis of Mount Vernon, NY, the Mount Vernon YMCA, and the Mount Vernon Department of Recreation, will hold “Make a Splash: Mount Vernon,” on Saturday, May 26, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Mount Vernon YMCA. Hosted by Olympic Silver Medalist Maritza Correia, the community-oriented street fair and swimming instruction event will be held during Memorial Day weekend, a time in which many pools around the country will open to the public.      On Saturday, May 26, 2012, world-class swimmer Maritza Correia will be on hand in Mount Vernon to promote the important message of water safety education and accessibility of learn to swim programs with a special spotlight on what programs are available in the greater Mount Vernon area. A member of the 2004 U.S. Olympic Team, Maritza Correia is the first African-American female to make a U.S. Olympic swim team, and the first to earn a medal in swimming at the Olympic games.      “Events like ‘Make a Splash: Mount Vernon’ further the primary

KENNETH DAVIS, MBA Instructor, Kumon Math & Reading Center of Mt. Vernon

     I recently asked a student to show me the text book that he was using at his high school.  He told me that he didn’t have one because the school didn’t allow the students to take home the books.  Instead, they were given practice problems on worksheets.  I thought to myself that this system must be impeding students’ progress because in the text book there are several examples and practice problems.  In addition, there are several students who learn better by reading directly from the text.
     With a little creative use of available technology, this problem could be solved.  Consequently, I’d like to share with readers an article on instructional technology by Jake Glasgow, instructional technology specialist and John Page, software engineer.   More

4-27-12 38
Mt. Vernon, NY
The Macedonia Baptist Church family celebrates the First Pastoral Anniversary of Reverend Darren M. Morton

  Pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church, Reverend Darren M. Morton

     Since his installation as Pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church, Reverend Morton wasted no time making exceptional performance his routine.  His tremendous understanding of people, unselfish willingness to share his expertise, and commitment to our community has put Macedonia on a fast track to success.  The youth programs, the revival of the excellence of our choirs, the successful afterschool program, the determination to make the Macedonia Center a top notch catering facility and the to expose our entire community to the word of God are just some of what he has done and continues to do.
     Asked for his comments, Reverend Morton said: “Being the Pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church has been an unbelievable experience for me, both personally and spiritually.   God is awesome, and He continues to bless the union of Pastor and People.  I am ecstatic and in disbelief that we are celebrating one year already.  This year has been outstanding and I look forward to many more with the precious people of Macedonia.”
     Please join us as we celebrate this great man of God. First Pastoral Anniversary Theme:
“Pastor and People; a Servant according to God’s heart, with a heart for the People” (Jeremiah 3:15 KJV).
     Pre-Anniversary Revival Services at Macedonia Baptist Church will be held on Tuesday, May 15, Rev. DeQuincy Hentz, Pastor, Shiloh Baptist Church New Rochelle, New York, Wednesday, May 16,
Rev. Dr. W. Darin Moore, Pastor Greater Centennial AME Zion Mount Vernon, New York, Thursday, May 17,
Rev. Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Grace Baptist Church, Mount Vernon, New York. All services commence at 7:00 PM nightly. 
     On Saturday, May 19, 12 noon – 4:00PM, the First Pastoral Anniversary Luncheon will be held at The Davenport Club - 400 Davenport Avenue New Rochelle, New York.