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Vol 111 Number 40 www.RisingMediaGroup.com Friday, September 30, 2016 Yonkers Democrats Name Homelessness in Yonkers Tom Meier New Chairman Takes Center Stage By Dan Murphy The Yonkers Democratic Committee held Astorino-Spano Feud Explodes its convention last week at Castle Royale and selected Tom Meier as the new chairman. Meier, the city’s Department of Public Works commissioner, was selected with more than 80 percent of the support of Democratic Yonkers district and ward leaders after former Chairper- son Symra Brandon withdrew her name from consideration for another term. Meier, who has served as Democratic chairman before and has served as a district and ward leader since he was 18 (he’s 57 now), spoke to Yonkers Rising after his selection. We asked Meier about Journal News Columnist Phil Reisman’s latest article, in which he puts the odds of Mayor Mike Spano running for county executive next year at 80 percent, and about the perception by some that the mayor is the de facto head of the Democratic Party. Yonkers Democratic Chairman Tom Meier “The common practice is that the chief ex- ecutive has the responsibility to lead the party,” changed,” said Meier. said Meier. “The governor is the head of the Meier said the decision to run for chairman state party and the president is the head of the again was his, and his alone. national party. People were saying I was taking “I have been a member of the Democratic over the party for the mayor, but he could do it Party for 38 years; on my 18th birthday I went without me. He is the highest elected official in to a ward meeting,” he said. “To say that I be- The drop-in homeless shelter at 101 N. Broadway. Photo by Donna Davis. the City of Yonkers.” came leader to further the mayor’s agenda is er- Ever since the “strong mayor” form of gov- roneous. I had the support of 80 percent of the By Dan Murphy to stop the shelter’s closure. ernment was enacted in Yonkers in the 1990s, party and I’ve been through hostile takeovers The difficult and complex issue of how The disagreement over how best to ac- the mayor has always been the titular head of before. That didn’t occur this time. As a mili- to house and care for the homeless population commodate the homeless population in West- the party, whether it was Republican Mayors tary guy, it’s a good idea to get new ideas and in the City of Yonkers and throughout West- chester’s largest city has turned into a dispute John Spencer and Phil Amicone or Demo- new leadership in every few years and there are chester County took center stage over the past between Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano and cratic Mayor Mike Spano. “In the old days the rank-and-file Democrats who agreed and said week, as the city attempted to close a drop-in Westchester County Executive Robert Astori- party bosses pretty much ran the city and the ‘I’m with Tom Meier.’ But becoming chairman shelter for numerous housing and building no, with both hurling accusations and attempt- mayor was a ceremonial post, but times have Continued on Page 9 code violations, and the county went to court Continued on Page 6

YoFi Fest 2016: City Sued Over Bigger and Better Mosque Landmarking

Yonkers natives Adrian Nugent and Rachel Heslowitz, founders of YoFi Fest. The home at 2 Grandview Boulevard, the proposed location for a mosque now the subject of a lawsuit. Photo by Bayan Baker. When YoFi Fest founders David Steck and from a richly diverse community to enable dis- By Dan Murphy hood of northeast Yonkers. Patty Schumann launched their indie film festi- course, creativity, good times and even friend- The Yonkers Landmarks Preservation Board, In May, the City Council approved a land- val in Yonkers four years ago, the grand ambi- ship. Mayor Mike Spano and four Republican members marking designation for the home at 2 Grandview tion was pretty heady. This wasn’t going to be Now in its four year, the Yonkers Film Fes- of the Yonkers City Council are among the de- Boulevard, which was purchased by ICCMW for a just about offering the typical film festival work- tival, better known as YoFi Fest, returns Oct. 20 fendants named in a lawsuit filed by the Islamic future mosque. The council, by a 4-3 vote, agreed shops or avant-garde movie viewing – although to 23 to celebrate moving pictures, the people Community Center for Mid Westchester, claiming with the recommendation of the Yonkers Land- there’s that and more. Rather, the hope was to who make them, and the people who watch them. that its Civil Rights were violated during efforts to marks Preservation Board to designate the prop- create a vibrant meeting place that would draw Continued on Page 8 build a mosque in the Colonial Heights neighbor- Continued on Page 7

St. Joseph’s: Mental Health Latimer Endorsed By & Substance Abuse Recovery Local Firefighters Union

A group shot of the staff from Saint Joseph’s Positive Directions program and the opioid treatment program. State Sen. George Latimer receives an endorsement from Yonkers Firefighters Local 628. By Shelagh Dolan abuse treatment. Led by Executive Director and Mental health and substance abuse re- Senior Vice President Bernadette Kingham- State Sen. George Latimer has been en- “I firmly believe state government has a re- covery services are among the nation’s most Bez and Director of Recovery Services Emma dorsed by the Yonkers Firefighter Union Lo- sponsibility to protect New Yorkers and to en- needed, and yet are often the most forgotten or DeMarco, Saint Joseph’s is pushing for more cal 628 as he seeks to continue representing sure our heroic first-responders have the tools ignored due to the stigma of mental health and inclusive recovery services for individuals and the 37th Senate District in Albany. Latimer has and resources they need to keep our communi- addiction. families. been a long-time advocate for increased aid for ties safe,” he said. “I am honored to receive the Saint Joseph’s Medical Center in Yonkers, A Commitment to Treatment and Recovery New York’s first-responders, and those efforts backing of the Yonkers Firefighters Union Lo- however, has a long-standing history of involve- Offering both inpatient and outpatient ser- have earned him the respect and support of lo- cal 628 and I will continue my efforts to ensure ment with mental health issues and substance Continued on Page 8 cal firefighters and their families. Continued on Page 8 PAGE 2 - Yonkers Rising - Friday, September 30, 2016 Riverside & Gorton Are Science Barge Gets Power Victors in H.S. Football Boost from Green Mountain

Senior members of the Saunders High School football team.

By Phil Foley extra point run. Two Yonkers high school football teams were The Yonkers Montessori Eagles lost a heart- victorious last weekend: Riverside beat Yonkers breaker to Croton on Sept. 24 at YMA Field. 53-8, and Gorton easily defeated Palisades Prep Holding a 12-0 lead at half-time YMA lost when 48-8. Croton scored 14 unanswered points in the second When I saw The Journal News on Sun- half. Scoring for YMA were Lou Barge on a 10- day morning I thought we had a third win, but it yard TD pass from Jason Garcia and Carlos (the was not to be; the paper had Yonkers Montessori Fridge) Garcia on a 1-yard plunge to paydirt. Gar- The Yonkers Science Barge. School defeating Croton 14-12, but the score was cia was 14/23 passing for 192 yards with his one printed in reverse and Croton actually won the TD pass. Barge caught five passes for 116 yards Mayor Mike Spano will flip the switch on a sustainable farming for the future, with zero car- game. and one TD reception. new, more efficient-energy system for the Science bon emissions, zero pesticides, and zero runoff,” In other action, Hackley shut out Roosevelt Thanks, Coach Elie Moise, for the game in- Barge, located on Yonkers’ waterfront, Thursday, added Walters. 41-0 on Sept. 23. Then on Sept. 24, Saunders formation. Oct. 6 at 4 p.m. The system, donated by Green Accompanying Spano at the press event will played a hard-fought game with Pelham, but lost For you Roosevelt fans, I did not hear from Mountain Energy Sun Club at a value of $50,000, be representatives from Green Mountain Energy 28-14. their head coach after their loss to Hackley on will modernize the off-grid solar electric system Sun Club and Green Mountain Energy Company, Let me recap some of the action for you, Yon- Sept. 23. aboard the Science Barge. Science Barge staff and volunteers, local elected kers sports fans… This week’s high school football schedule is “This donation from the Sun Club propels officials, and members of Groundwork Hudson In the 53-8 win over Yonkers, the stars of the as follows: the Barge into the next era, totally updating the Valley’s youth Green Team. There will be refresh- game for Riverside were Isiah Frias, who rushed Friday, Sept. 30, Lincoln at Harrison at 7 p.m. energy system that powers our hydroponic farm,” ments and giveaways for attendees. for 93 yards and had two touchdowns; and Calil and Gorton at Pelham at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Oct. said Bob Walters, director of the Science Barge, a The Science Barge educators are also rolling Dixon, who had 136 all-purpose yards and three 1, Hastings at Yonkers Montessori at 3 p.m., Yon- program of Groundwork Hudson Valley. “We will out new climate change curricula this fall, thanks TDs. Thanks to Riverside Head Coach Michael kers at Roosevelt at 3 p.m., and Saunders vs. Pal now have double the solar power and double the to a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmo- Zoda for the game information. Prep at the Gorton High School field at 3 p.m. energy reserves.” S spheric Association. Groundwork was one of only On Sept. 24 the Wolves of Gorton blasted I also have one girls’ soccer game and one The grant includes 12 new LG solar panels six organizations in the country to receive this Palisades Prep 47-8, although Gorton led at half- girls’ volleyball game to report: that produce a total of 3,420 watts and an Iron Edi- grant to provide cutting-edge education in climate time 34-0. Scoring for Gorton were Malik Jones Gorton’s ladies soccer defeated Riverside son 48-volt battery bank that is significantly more change and resiliency to Yonkers school students. with two TDs on eight carries for 81 yards, and 3-2. Ilyana Silfa had two goals to go along with efficient than the outdated system it is replacing, New signs and exhibits will be installed on the Robbie Hamilton, Alfred Koosman, Joel White, Jennifer Rodriguez, tallying her solo goal for the according to Spano. Barge, spreading awareness about climate change Tyrek Greene and Eddy Prtiz – all with one TD. Wolves. Freshman goalie Yeceli Martinez had a “The Sun Club loves working with unique among thousands of visitors each year. Pat Thompson was 5/7 on extra points; Robbie strong game in goal for Gorton. Thanks to Coach nonprofits, and the Science Barge is an excellent Since its founding in 2002, the Green Moun- Hamilton was 3/4 passing for 28 yards and one T; Seligmann for the game information. demonstration of renewable energy and environ- tain Energy Sun Club has donated more than $4 and Rance Hamilton was 2/3 for 43 yards. Yonkers Montessori Academy Volleyball mental education,” said Mark Parsons, president million to nonprofits focusing on renewable ener- Jahkell Dunnican caught three passes for 43 Coach Brian Cozzali reported that YMA defeated of the Green Mountain Energy Sun Club and vice gy, energy efficiency, and resource conservation in yards, Ayo Shokeye had one catch for 11 yards, Solomon Schechter 3-1. The match was played at president and general manager of Green Mountain numerous communities in Texas and in the North- and White had 1one catch for 17 yards. YMA, and stars of the game were: Agnesa Neziri, Energy Company. “We’re proud to support the east. To learn more about the Sun Club, visit www. On defense Eddie Ortiz had one sack and five who had a 100 percent serving rate of 25 for 25, Science Barge by helping the sustainable urban gmsunclub.com. tackles for the Wolves; Jaylen Fields also had one as well as two kills and one dig for the Eagles. farm operate completely off the grid.” In addition to Green Mountain Energy’s Sun sack for Gorton. Anastasia Bryant, one of the team captains, was Thanks to an anonymous donor, the Science Club, the Science Barge is funded by grants from After losing to Pelham on Sept. 24, Saunders a dominant force with seven kills; and Klaudia Barge was recently purchased by Groundwork, the City of Yonkers, ConEdison, Domino Sugar, Coach Paul Ronga reported that senior DJ Le- Camaj helped with her excellent defense, totaling freeing the organization from a long-time lease NOAA, the Environmental Protection Agency stagez had 136 total yards and two TDs and an six digs on the night. obligation. “Now, with the new energy system, and the Hudson River Foundation. The Barge is the Barge is positioned to demonstrate and teach located at 99 Dock St., Yonkers.

Excellent Care, Close to Home From the latest in imaging technology and cardiovascular treatment to routine medical care for the whole family, Saint Joseph’s offers the services you need in comfortable, convenient offices in the community:

Saint Joseph’s Cardiovascular Center 930 Yonkers Avenue, Yonkers, New York We offer a full range of cardiovascular imaging services on-site, and patients can see a cardiologist in comfortable exam rooms and physician offices. To make an appointment: (914) 308-7350

Saint Joseph’s Imaging at Riverdale 3050 Corlear Avenue, Bronx, New York The latest in imaging technology is available in an office setting, including MRI, digital mammography, ultrasound and DEXA. To make an appointment: (347) 842-2250

Saint Joseph’s Family Health Center 81 South Broadway, Yonkers, New York Primary care for the whole family is available by appointment or on a walk-in basis. We deliver our services in a patient-centered Care Team approach. To make an appointment: (914) 375-3200

127 South Broadway, Yonkers, NY 10701 (914) 378-7 000 • www.saintjosephs.org Friday, September 30, 2016 - Yonkers Rising - PAGE 3 Two Yonkers Students Dull Debate, and Mr. Health Receive CNR Scholarships Teacher ‘You’re Fired’ By Eric W. Schoen on Facebook and message Please wake me up! Is you, even if you are not it over yet? Facebook friends, to share A dull debate Monday their thoughts. night. And so it happened And who do we em- last Friday: Someone I ploy in Yonkers to teach know from Starbucks mes- our students? Eighth-grad- saged me to tell me that ers find out their teacher the night before, it was has a criminal background. announced that the health The Presidential Debate teacher at School 15 was I would do you, my being removed. According good readers, a disservice to the parent, the children if I didn’t offer my thoughts were being mistreated by on the “debate of the cen- him and were quite upset. tury” Monday night. Those The parent told me that of you who watched foot- Eric W. Schoen some of our bright eighth- ball or Julia Child making beef bourguignon grade students started searching him on vari- instead of the debate are smart people. ous Internet sites and, to quote the parent, As I have said before, the Presidential “They came across this… looks like someone From left are New Rochelle Mayor Noam Bramson; Yankees legend Mariano Rivera with wife, Clara Rivera; scholarship recipients from Yonkers Cheyenne Abreu and Luis Soto; College of Debate Commission who runs these debates didn’t do their job:” New Rochelle President Judith Huntington; and Yonkers Mayor Michael Spano. would better serve the public by having the Attached were two online rap sheets candidates quizzed individually by a modera- (records of an individual’s criminal history). The College of New Rochelle President active in her high school’s student government tor and a group of individuals vested in the They included an arrest warrant, forged in- Judith Huntington, along with New York Yan- and a member of the volleyball team. She is also subject at hand – just as Matt Lauer did on the strument, second-degree grand theft, third- kees legend Mariano Rivera and his wife, Clara a talented singer who performed with several of Intrepid a few weeks ago. degree grand theft, resisting arrest, trafficking Rivera, presented full scholarships to two de- the school’s music groups and sang the nation- What did we learn Monday night? Hill- in counterfeit credit cards, identity theft and serving high school students from Yonkers last al anthem at her graduation ceremony. Abreu ary prepared for the debate as an actor would more! week. also held a part-time job while in high school. rehearse for a Broadway show. Donald did The bottom line is that someone at the Cheyenne Abreu, an honors graduate from However, as the time to commit to a college ap- not. Hillary kept looking down at the podium Board of Education and/or the City of Yon- Lincoln High School in Yonkers, and Luis Soto, proached, she began to send letters requesting a where I am sure she had copious notes. Don- kers (via an Inter-Municipal Agreement) an honor roll graduate from Roosevelt High year’s deferment. ald was focused at moderator Lester Holt in- screwed up big time. School in Yonkers, are this year’s recipients of “I was considering taking a year off from stead of at the camera or the audience. Over the weekend I requested a copy of the Mariano and Clara Rivera Scholarship, be- school to work and save money because I knew I refer to the candidates as Hillary and the form used by the City/Board of Educa- stowed upon students who have achieved aca- college was a big financial burden on my fam- Donald because Donald showed respect for tion with official signatures hiring the health demic excellence while being actively involved ily,” she said. “When I found out about the Rive- Hillary initially referring to her as Secretary teacher. You have the right to know who per- in their communities. This is the first time the ra scholarship, my mother said, ‘This is a bless- Clinton. Hillary could have called Donald Mr. formed the background check on this indi- college has presented two scholarships – to both ing from God. You have to go there.’” Trump but she tried to belittle him by refer- vidual and authorized his hire. Innocent until a female student and a male student – since the Abreu will major in education and psychol- ring to him as Donald. Not even The Donald. proven guilty, but this person or person(s) has school became a completely co-educational in- ogy and is focused on a career as a lobbyist. “I Go figure! a lot of explaining to do. stitution this semester. want to lobby on behalf of hospitals and medical Hillary looked very presidential. Donald The Board of Education Personnel De- The Mariano and Clara Rivera Scholarship, research,” she said. “Their work is something did not. Hillary looked good in her red dress. partment is under the direction of Carlos Mo- which was first created in 2014, is a four-year that touches me deeply.” She stood tall, looked confident, at ease and ran. Congratulations, Mr. Moran, on your se- scholarship that covers tuition, as well as room She also plans to participate in the college’s rehearsed. The candidates knew the subjects lection as an officer of the Democratic Party and board for its recipients. music ensembles. that would be discussed. It’s sort of like high last week. Did Mr. Moran’s IMA staff do the “I am proud to present Cheyenne and Luis Soto is the oldest of four children and the school – if the teacher tells you what is on the background check? Did he sign off on the with the Mariano and Clara Rivera Scholar- first in his family to attend college. Born on a exam, that’s what you study. hire? ship,” said Huntington. “Their academic excel- farm in the south of Mexico, he moved with his Donald needed to smile and not have his It reminds me of when I worked in City lence and service to others are the hallmark of an family to the United States when he was 3 years “Apprentice” look on his face. He should have Hall and new administrators’ fingerprints Ursuline education and personify our mission. old. In order to help with family expenses, he been looking at the cameras and the audience. were taken and compared to a city database We congratulate them both on their remarkable works a part-time job at a gas station. It’s folks out in TV Land that he should be of individuals who committed crimes; not a achievements and look forward to their progress Math has always been an area of academic trying to convince to vote for him. He repeat- nationwide database, just a database of crimes at The College of New Rochelle throughout the strength for Soto, and he plans to major in math- edly addressed Lester Holt, looking for affir- committed in Yonkers. In the musical “Hel- next four years.” ematics. mation. He should have been addressing “we lo, Dolly,” soon to be reprised on Broadway, Rivera added: “I have no doubt these two Soto anticipates exciting new experiences the people.” Dolly Levi says, “Out there, there’s a world will make a difference in whatever they choose at The College of New Rochelle. “I’m looking The country is obsessed with the topic of outside of Yonkers.” to do. My encouraging words to them are to be forward to living on campus and making new immigration, and most people feel strongly You understand where I am going… the best they can be. I believe they will impact friends here,” he said. “I’m very grateful to the one way or the other. Was there any discus- I await the signature page on the form the world in so many ways. My blessings and College and the Riveras for this opportunity.” sion of immigration? Nope! hiring the fired health teacher. I’ll keep you prayers are that they also continue to help the in- For more information about The College of The crisis of money in politics? It’s pay posted – our children deserve better! stitution that is The College of New Rochelle.” New Rochelle, call 914-654-5000 or visit www. for play on the national as well as local lev- Closing thought: Yonkers’ Mayor Mike Abreu, the youngest of five siblings, was cnr.edu. els of government. According to a Bloomberg Spano once said to me that sometimes my poll, 78 percent of those polled are in favor of criticism of his administration is on point. overturning Citizens United, the decision that As this column goes to press, I was informed 28th ANNIVERSARY Columbus Day lets money flow like water to the candidates. that the city is trying to close a homeless shel- Should this have been discussed? Of course. ter run by the Sharing Community at 101 N. Weekend Was it? Nope. Broadway, which city officials claim is unsafe Sat. & Sun., Oct. 8 & 9 They talked about college debt, but not and poorly maintained. RAIN or SHINE about our children’s right to a quality educa- I have known the mayor and his family at GOOLD ORCHARDS No Pets Please! tion. There was no talk of cybercrimes, which for many years. I know the mayor would not Magicians, • Craft Vendors Under Tent • Live Music • Dancing Puppets affect each and every one of us and specifics want to close a shelter for the homeless and • Hayrides • Kid’s Activities • Award Winning Wineries & Dancers how do deal with them. We know the disgust- displace the needy unless it was in pretty bad -Saturday, October 8th: Sunday, October 9th: ing ways Trump has referred to women even shape, or the contractual requirements were The “REVERBERATORS” “HAIR OF THE DOG” if they were just aimed at Rosie O’Donnell. not being met. Rt. 9 & 20 or Rt. 150 South/West, Schodack 518-732-7317 We know Hillary will not reveal the 33,000 Our homeless deserve a helping hand to WATCH FOR SIGNS www.goold.com emails she erased and the contents of her mil- get them back on their feet – and a clean, safe, lion-dollar speeches. secure place to stay as they hopefully transi- It’s time to focus on matters important tion to permanent housing. I have requested a to you and me: crime, safety at home and copy of the contract the Sharing Community abroad, jobs, securing our borders, education, has with the county to see what the financial homelessness, mental illness… Let’s stop the and logistical requirements are. Again, I’ll personal attacks and start talking about sub- keep you posted! stance. Reach Eric Schoen at thistooisyonkers@ Mr. Health Teacher, You’re Fired aol.com and follow him on Twitter @ericyo- One of the great things about working nkers. Catch the Westchester Rising Radio and living in the community you write about Show featuring Dan Murphy and Eric Schoen (and having your picture in the paper every on Thursdays at 10 a.m. on WVOX 1460 on week) is that people are not afraid to walk up the A.M. dial or on the Internet at wvox.com to you on the street or at Starbucks or find you and click on “listen live.”

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PAGE 4 - YoNkERS RiSiNG - FRidAY, SEPtEMbER 30, 2016 Empire City & Yonkers Host Stewart-Cousins Supports ‘Hire a Hero’ Job Fair ‘My Brother’s Keeper’

Empire City Casino is teaming up with the there are many benefi ts in hiring a veteran City of Yonkers Department of Veterans Ser- for employers. Employers may be eligible for vices to host a “Hire a Hero” job fair for area thousands of dollars in several state and/or fed- employers and servicemen and women return- eral tax incentives depending on the hire and ing from overseas looking to re-enter the work- type of position. force. The veterans-only job fair will take place “The ‘Hire a Hero’ veterans’ job fair is go- in the third fl oor Good Time Room at Empire ing to be a special day in Yonkers,” said Mayor State Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins bags groceries at ShopRite on Tuckahoe Road to City Casino on Thursday, Nov. 17 from 1 to 6 Mike Spano. “Veterans of all ages will be af- highlight the fi ght against hunger. p.m. forded the opportunity to meet representatives Empire City Casino will underwrite the from both the public and private sector. We are State Sen. Andrea Stewart-Cousins joined “I am the mother of black sons,” said cost of the job fair for hiring employers to en- grateful to Empire City Casino for partnering the school board, Mayor Mike Spano and more Stewart-Cousins. “I know that young men and courage businesses of all sizes to participate. with us on this venture as we aim to secure as than 200 young men of color from Yonkers boys of color continue to face persistent hard- Men and women who have served in the armed many jobs as possible for veterans looking for Public Schools last week as the school district ships. By embracing this challenge, the City of forces will have the opportunity to network, work. Our military veterans have served our announced its decision to embrace President Yonkers has committed itself to improving the interview and engage with employers from all country well, and this is a wonderful opportu- Barack Obama’s “My Brother’s Keeper” chal- lives of young men of color, and that’s a great sectors of industry. Among the employers al- nity for the Yonkers community to now serve lenge. fi rst step, but we must tackle this challenge as ready signed up include Home Depot, Shop- them.” “My Brother’s Keeper” is a national ini- a community. I am my brother’s keeper – and I Rite Supermarket, Con Ed, Merrill Lunch, New York State has one of the highest tiative that aims to improve life outcomes for hope you’ll be, too.” Liberty Lines, Sears, Metro-North, the Yonkers veteran population rates in the country, with young men of color. The challenge calls upon Stewart-Cousins Combats Hunger Fire Department and the Yonkers Police De- more than 800,000 veterans living within the schools to engage families and communities in Sen. Stewart-Cousins joined other elected partment. state’s borders. That number almost doubles appropriate and respectful ways to ensure that offi cials and a team of ShopRite associates last Employers who have current open posi- when combining the number of veterans living young men of color are given equitable access week for ShopRite’s annual “Help Bag Hun- tions with immediate availability can partici- in New Jersey and Connecticut, many of which to high-quality schools, programs and support ger” event at the 278 Tuckahoe Road store in pate in the job fair by submitting an application are in need of stable work. Veterans from all services. Yonkers. at EmpireCityCasino.com/Veterans. over the tristate area and beyond are encour- The 2016-17 state budget includes a $20 Every year, ShopRite employees join to- “We owe these young men and women a aged to attend and apply for the hundreds of million investment in support of this initiative, gether to raise awareness about the ongoing debt we’ll never be able to repay,” said Timo- positions that will be up for grabs. providing grant opportunities in four catego- national battle against hunger. The event co- thy Rooney, owner and operator of Empire City For more information on the veterans’ job ries: planning and execution of the “My Broth- incides with others of its kind throughout the Casino. “This is our way of saying ‘thank you’ fair and to pre-register, visit EmpireCityCa- er’s Keeper” challenge; a Teacher Opportunity country during Hunger Action Month, a nation- and our way of giving other employers a way to sino.com/Veterans. Veterans must present their Corps, which bolsters the retention of qualifi ed wide initiative conceived to marshal volunteers show their gratitude, as well.” DD214 or military identifi cation, along with a teachers in high-need areas who refl ect the di- in the fi ght to combat hunger. In addition to the discipline, dedication valid government-issued photo ID to partici- versity of the school districts they work in; im- Stewart-Cousins stood at the end of a and tireless work ethic that veterans possess, pate in the job fair. proving family engagement throughout com- check-out aisle and helped customers bag their munities; and developing practices that exhibit groceries, during which time she asked shop- cultural responsiveness to the needs of young pers to donate money to purchase food for local men of color. charities, including food banks, soup kitchens, Yonkers joins many communities through- shelters and other organizations that provide out the state that have formally embraced the support and resources for the hungry. Engel Earns Congressional challenge, including New Rochelle, one of the Twenty percent of Westchester residents fi rst cities in the nation to have accepted it. – or 200,000 people – are hungry or at risk of Yonkers will have the opportunity to apply for becoming seriously hungry, and 74 percent of Leadership Award state grants as offi cials and stakeholders make kids in Yonkers Public Schools receive free or plans to tackle the challenge. reduced lunch, putting many of these kids at Congressman Eliot En- defi ciencies, multiple scle- The goals of “My Brother’s Keeper” in- risk of staying hungry on weekends and holi- gel, the lead House sponsor rosis, rheumatoid arthritis, clude ensuring that kids enter school ready to days and during the summer. of the Medicare Home Infu- gastrointestinal diseases and learn, that all children can read at grade level “No one in this day and age should go hun- sion Site of Care Act, received other conditions. by third grade, that kids graduate from high gry,” said Stewart-Cousins. “I’m proud to be the National Home Infusion Currently, Medicare school prepared to enter college or the work- part of a community that has decided to take a Association’s Congressional only covers infusion treat- force, preparing kids to complete postsecond- real stand against this problem. It’s not an easy Leadership Award last week ments fully in doctors’ of- ary education or training, and reducing vio- one to tackle, but this event has proved success- in recognition of his work to fi ces, skilled nursing facilities lence and providing second chances for kids ful in the past and I’m glad to join in the efforts support patients who rely on and hospitals – even though who have gotten into trouble. today.” infusion therapy. home-based care is often a “I am honored to receive more cost-effective, conve- the National Home Infusion nient and desirable setting for Association’s Congressional patients. The changes includ- Leadership Award,” he said. ed in this legislation would “I have long been committed give patients the ability to re- to closing the Medicare cover- ceive these life-saving thera- DONATE YOUR CAR age gap for home-based infu- Rep. Eliot Engel pies in their homes and avoid sion care. There is no reason forcing them into institutional Wheels For *Free Vehicle/Boat Pickup to force patients battling cancer or serious infec- settings. This in turn avoids unnecessary costs to Wishes Benefiting ANYWHERE tion to leave their homes for treatment when there the Medicare program and, most importantly, to *We Accept All Vehicles ® Running or Not is a safer, more comfortable and more cost-effec- patients’ quality of life. Make-A-Wish *Fully Tax Deductible tive alternative available. “Congressman Engel has been an ardent, Hudson Valley “I am grateful to the National Home Infu- long-time advocate of home infusion therapy,” WheelsForWishes.org sion Association and to Congressman Pat Tiberi said Tyler Wilson, president and CEO of Nation- Call: (914) 468-4999 for their committed partnership,” continued En- al Home Infusion Association. “He has shown * Car Donation Foundation d/b/a Wheels For Wishes. To learn more about our programs gel. “Together, we will continue fi ghting to en- time and again his commitment to supporting the or financial information, visit www.wheelsforwishes.org. sure this coverage gap is eliminated and that pa- Medicare Home Infusion Site of Care Act, and tients are able to get the care they need in the best has spoken publicly about the cost-effectiveness setting possible.” of home infusion, as well as the benefi ts it pro- Patients who have been prescribed infu- vides patients. The association and the home in- sion therapy receive medications via a needle or fusion community are deeply grateful to him for a catheter because oral medications have proven his strong support and commitment. For these ineffective. Infusion therapy is typically used to reasons, we are honored to recognize his leader- treat cancers, congestive heart failure, immune ship with this award.”

Make it your year… ...to own your own home!

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1-800-382-HOME(4663) www.sonyma.org Friday, September 30, 2016 - Yonkers Rising - PAGE 5 On This Day in There’s Still Time to Join Yonkers History The Chili Hilly 5K

Ermanno Amicucci, an official representa- Yonkers native governor and presidential tive of Mussolini, visited Yonkers in 1926. candidate Samuel Tilden.

By Mary Hoar lent him fur trapper-style clothing to wear for President emerita, Yonkers Historical his arrival in New York City. Society Wednesday, Oct. 5 Monday, Oct. 3 Oct. 5, 1924: Residents of the Palmer Oct. 3, 1902: Dr. Albert Benedict began Heights neighborhood reported seeing a meet- visiting his patients in an automobile, the first ing of the Ku Klux Klan in their neighborhood. The North Yonkers Scholarship Foundation vance at www.active.com and pick up your pack- Yonkers doctor to put aside his horse and bug- Police investigation led by Patrolman Mi- will host its fifth annual Chili Hilly 5K run/walk et at Nugent’s Pub, 782 Palisade Ave. on Oct. 13 gy. The 56-year-old doctor lived with his fam- chael Gilmartin found a burning 12-foot cross, Oct. 15, beginning at 10 a.m., to benefit the New between 4 and 8 p.m. (Contact Mike Gallo or ily at 95 N. Broadway, and came to Yonkers wrapped in kerosene-soaked burlap. York Firefighters Burn Center and the Arthur C. Tony Giannelli at [email protected].) to serve his internship at St. John’s Riverside Oct. 5, 1926: One of the more popular Luf Burn Camp for kids. The fee is $25 before race day, and $30 the Hospital in 1871, shortly after it was founded. proposals to name the new plaza east of the Participants will start and finish the 3.1-mile day of. Active military members and those older He wrote this to a friend Oct. 8, 1871: “I came Yonkers Train Station was “Tilden Plaza,” in event at the Palisade Avenue municipal lot just than 70 can participate for free (contact race co- to Yonkers on Tuesday last. I came near going honor of the late Samuel Tilden, former New south of Roberts Avenue. Chili and refreshments ordinators). back to New York City the same evening. I am York State governor, presidential candidate and will be provided at a post-race party at Kinsley Race shirts are guaranteed to all pre-regis- sick of Yonkers.” second owner of the Graystone estate on North Park. trants, prior to Oct. 13. To guarantee your size, The good doctor could not have been all Broadway. Walter Spreckels, chairman of the Race day registration and packet pickup register by Oct. 1. Race day registrants will be that sick of this wonderful city, as he remained Community Service Commission, touted it as starts at 8:30 a.m. at Kinsley Park; register in ad- subject to first-come, first-served basis. here until he passed away Oct. 29, 1940 – 69 an excellent idea, since the development could years later. not be named after a living person. Oct. 3, 1926: The Lincoln Civic Associa- Thursday, Oct. 6 tion asked Corporation Counsel Arthur Hume Oct. 6, 1928: A near riot occurred when to investigate allegations of zoning violations; opposing gangs from Clinton Street and Haw- ‘Try Tennis Free’ at the officers of the association reported that thorne Avenue began fighting over the coming property owners in Lincoln Park were convert- presidential election between Herbert Hoover ing one-family homes into two-family houses. and Al Smith. The Hawthorne Avenue boys, Yonkers Tennis Center Tuesday, Oct. 4 all Smith supporters, held nightly parades; the Yonkers Tennis Center has joined the nation- teaching groups in the U.S.: the Professional Ten- Oct. 4, 1939: Thirty-five-year-old Pete night of the incident, the Hoover crew lay in wide “Try Tennis Free” campaign and is offering a nis Registry and the U.S. Professional Tennis As- Spence arrived at the Yonkers Canoe Club in a wait for them near Herriot Street. As the Smith free tennis day to new players of all ages Saturday, sociation – along with the U.S. Tennis Association. 12-foot birch bark canoe, after paddling 1,500 parade passed, the Clinton Street boys went Oct. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. To take advantage of this “We’re excited that Yonkers Tennis Center is miles from his home in Canada. He had battled into action. free offer, sign up at Yonkerstennis.com. offering a free program to get new and returning the rapids of Canadian Rivers, storms on Lake Fifteen-year-old Gilbert Lawrence, a “Tennis offers tremendous physical, mental players onto the court,” said TIA Executive Direc- Champlain, and paddled more than 24-hours “Smith man,” was slugged over the head with and social benefits for players of all ages and abili- tor Jolyn de Boer. “TIA research shows that 65 without sleep from Poughkeepsie to reach Yon- a milk bottle and shot with an air rifle. Twelve- ties,” said Mark Santucci, director of tennis and percent of people who begin tennis in introductory kers. Once here, he spent a few days. He vis- year-old John Haffer of Clinton Street was tak- operations. “We’re pleased to offer ‘Try Tennis programming will continue playing the sport. By ited City Hall, bringing official greetings from en into custody as the ringleader, but Lawrence Free’ in our community so we can get our fami- participating in ‘Try Tennis Free,’ Americans will Mayor Bartleman of Timmons, Ontario, on let- chose not to press charges against any of the lies, friends and neighbors active, healthy and en- find that tennis is a fun, easy, affordable way to get terhead labeling the town as the “largest gold boys. gaged.” or stay in shape.” camp in Canada.” Friday, Oct. 7 Managed by the Tennis Industry Association, New players to Yonkers Tennis Center of all After leaving Yonkers, Spence paddled Oct. 7, 1906: Yonkers police officers were more than 1,800 tennis facilities and pros through- ages and levels are welcome to attend. For more down the Hudson and Harlem rivers, heading not terribly happy with their new patrol wagon. out the U.S. are offering free introductory tennis information about tennis programs at Yonkers Ten- to his final destination – the New York World’s Although the wagon was “very fine,” it did not sessions. “Try Tennis Free” has the support and nis Center, contact Thane Schweyer, club manager, Fair. Members of the Yonkers Canoe Club have a bell or gong to ring when they needed to partnership of dozens of tennis industry business 914-968-6918x338 or tschweyer@yonkerstennis. thought he looked much too “citified,” so they Continued on Page 7 and organizations, including the two main tennis- com.

CGroppe Glassworks 2016 Westchester Sports Art Glass • Jewelry • Home Décor Unique one of a kind hand crafted gifts & décor Hall of Fame Inductees Named Westchester resi- The now 81-year- dents are invited to old was an official in the 2016 Westchester more than 600 NASL v H a n d Sports Hall of Fame games from 1968 c r a f t e d ceremony Thursday, until the league’s fi- i n t h e H u d s o n Oct. 20 at the West- nal season in 1984. www.cgroppeglassworks.com V a l l e y chester County Cen- D’Ippolito has trav- ter in White Plains, elled to 29 nations for the induction of to ref international four honorees who games, as well as 15 have gained national World Cup qualifiers Computer Repair, Upgrade, prominence and con- for the 1978, 1982 tributed to sports in and 1986 World Cups. and Troubleshooting Westchester. Over the span of his Cracked Laptop Screen, “This is a great career, he has offici- opportunity to rec- ated more than 2,000 Broken Power Jack ognize the unique professional games. accomplishments of The four induct- Virus Removal, Data Recovery these talented ath- ees were chosen from letes,” said County a pool of 80 nomi- Call James at Executive Robert As- nees. In order to be torino. “They have nominated, each must 646-281-4475 – 718-324-4332 dedicated their lives be a person of good to good sportsman- Gino D’Ippolito character who has ship and teamwork, gained prominence while enriching their communities.” in either professional or amateur sports as a Inductees for this year’s Hall of Fame are: player, coach, manager, official, owner, writer * Originally from Colledimezzo, Italy, or broadcaster. Hall of Fame plaques are on Gino D’Ippolito has been a Yonkers resident permanent display in the Sports Hall of Fame since 1951, and began refereeing in 1963 in gallery at the Westchester County Center in Eastern New York. In the late 1960s, he was White Plains. assigned to the pros, with the old National The event is open to the public and be- Professional Soccer League, a forerunner to gins at 5:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception, fol- the original North American Soccer League. lowed by dinner and the induction ceremony. Since then, he has refereed in virtually every Price is $80 per person and reservations are re- soccer final the USA had to offer, including the quired. The deadline for reservations is Friday, NASL, American Soccer League and Major Oct. 14. For an invitation or more information, Indoor Soccer League. call 914-231-4564.

MONOPRINT INVITATIONAL EXHIBITION A survey of Monoprints by contemporary artists created in the newly renovated graphics workshop. October 15-December 17 Reception, Saturday, October 15, 3-5 PM Gallery Hours: 9 AM-3 PM To join the Exchange Club of Yonkers contact Monday-Saturday woodstockschoolofart.org 845-679-6175 Vice-President David Tubiolo at 646-596-3375 PAGE 6 - Yonkers Rising - Friday, September 30, 2016

The county agreed to review the property Homelessness in for potential code violations, and should they Classifieds Continued from Page 1 exist, fix them by Friday. Toward that end, the ANTIQUES • ART • COLLECTIBLES 14 acres WAS $79,900, NOW $69,900!Beauti- county has taken over the lease of the property, Most cash paid for paintings, antiques, furni- ful lake, 2 hrs NY City! Private gated commu- ing to lay the blame on each other. which will allow it to act immediately to make ture, silver, sculpture, jewelry, books, camer- nity! Terms avail!Call 888-905-8847 Westchester County is responsible, to- repairs, if necessary. as, records, instruments, coins, watches, gold, Land Bargains SCHOHARIE CO., gether with the State of New York, for housing But the back-and-forth between Spano comics, sports cards, etc. Please call Aaron at 95.7 acres, fields/woods $129,000.OTSEGO the homeless population throughout the county and Astorino continues. 914-654-1683. CO., 30.7 acres, views $85,000. RENSSE- and in Yonkers. County government has sev- “The city can’t in good consciousness Delivery Driver Needed-Deliv- LAER CO., RT. 7; 27.6acres fields/woods eral homeless shelters in locations including ignore the housing conditions and the obliga- ery driver wanted for weekly newspapers in $75,000. Owner Financing www.helderbergre- Peekskill, New Rochelle and White Plains, tion to the health and safety of these individu- Yonkers and Westchester County. Experience alty.com (518) 861-6541 and in Yonkers at two locations – a temporary als and our residents,” said Spano. “We will and own auto preferred. To apply send email to LENDER ORDERED FARM SALE! 39 shelter at 1 Hudson St., and a drop-in shelter continue to monitor the conditions at 101 N. [email protected] acres WAS $119,999, NOW $89,900!Catskill at 101 N. Broadway. Both Yonkers shelters are Broadway and be sure to the county lives up to Licensed therapists needed Mtn’s, stunning hilltop setting less than 3 hrs operated by the Sharing Community, a Yon- the court order. - for Early Intervention SLP, OT, PT, SI, SW, NY City!Woods,awesome views, great deer kers non-profit that contracts with the county “I also find it interesting that County Psych Cases in Westchester County for ages hunting! EZ financing. 888-479-3394 and state to operate both shelters and provide Executive Astorino decried Gov. (Andrew) 0-3 with developmental delays Send resume to FARM ESTATE LIQUIDATION! 7 services to the homeless population. Cuomo’s executive order earlier this year that [email protected] hilltop tracts from 6 to 30 acres from$19,900! Yonkers fire and housing officials noted mandated local governments to take home- ADOPT - A happily married childless Gorgeous views, streams, ponds, woods, fields! Sept. 21 that the location at 101 N. Broad- less individuals off the street and into shelters, couple would love to adopt. Wewill provide Quiet countrysetting!Financing avail! 888-701- way, operated by the Sharing Community and stating it’s ‘a lot more complicated than sim- love, laughter, security & bright future. Expens- 7509 NewYorkLandandLakes.com funded by Westchester County, had no occu- ply rounding them up and bringing them into espaid. Kimberly & Steve. 1-888-966-6266 AUCTION REAL PROPERTY TAX pancy permit. Despite not holding a temporary a shelter.’ But that is exactly what Astorino is Donate your car to Wheels FORECLOSURES DUTCHESS COUNTY. residence permit since 2014, the county shel- doing – he’s herding them into tight and unsafe For Wishes, benefiting Make -A -Wish. We Sellingproperties October 12 @ 11AM. The ter continued to warehouse individuals in the places with no regard of the inhumane condi- offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel,Poughkeepsie. facility. Inhumane conditions at that location tions inside. deductible. Call 914 -468 -4999 Today! 800-243-0061 AAR, Inc. & HAR, Inc. Free include structural deficiencies, dead vermin, “The county needs to live up to the legal Privacy Hedges, LIMITED SUP- brochure:www.NYSAUCTIONS.com unsanitary spaces, little to no lighting, fire and moral obligations of serving the region’s PLY, 6ft Arborvitae, Fast Growing, Reg $129 OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best se- hazards caused by faulty and exposed wiring, homeless, not just in Yonkers, but in the entire Now $69, Beautiful, Bushy, Nursery Grown. lection of affordable rentals. Full/partial weeks. overloaded electrical outlets, and combustible county – we all pay taxes toward the services FREE Installation/FREE delivery, Other Trees Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday objects near the boiler and soot residue, imply- the county is supposed to provide. I believe Available! 844-592-3327, www.lowcosttreef- ResortServices. 1-800-638-2102. Online reser- ing possible carbon monoxide build up. they have fallen short of providing those ser- arm.com vations: www.holidayoc.com The investigations came after numerous vices,” concluded Spano who also called on SAWMILLS from only $4397.00 $WANTED$ CASH PAID for Pre- complaints about possible criminal behavior at New York State to investigate how the county -MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own band- 1980 COMIC BOOKS & Star Wars Ac- both Yonkers shelters. provides its services to the region’s homeless. mill -Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready tion Figures. Original Comic Art-Sports As the city attempted to condemn the The county’s frustration with Yonkers ex- to ship! FREE Info/DVD: www.NorwoodSaw- Cards & Autographed Memorabilia-1990’s property and remove the homeless from the tends to its failure to respond to repeated at- mills.com 1 -800 -578 -1363 Ext.300N MagictheGathering Call WILL: 800-242-6130 building, the county intervened and sent down tempts to resolve any issues. Specifically, the CATSKILL MOUNTAIN LAKE LOT [email protected] county police officers, who stopped the city county received no response to a July 26 letter from closing the shelter. This confrontation be- by First Deputy Department of Social Services tween the city and the county continued over Commissioner Philippe Gille, which provided last weekend and ended up in court this week, a comprehensive response to issues raised by where a judge ordered a temporary restraining Yonkers. As late as last Thursday, when Depu- order, barring the city from closing the shelter. ty Mayor Susan Gerry was with Astorino at an Legal Notices But Tuesday, the court ruled that the coun- event, she made no mention of plans to close ty must fix and repair all 30 violations by Sept. the shelters. 30. After the court’s decisions, both Spano and “This was a shameless stunt by the mayor, Astorino declared victory. which has put the homeless and the communi- CORPORATION NOTICE “The city has shined a light on the deplor- ty at risk,” said Astorino. “If left unchallenged, CITY OF YONKERS-NEW YORK able conditions that have existed at 101 N. the result would have been the most vulnerable PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE Broadway that the county believed to be sat- homeless residents of Yonkers sleeping in the isfactory to house the homeless,” said Spano. streets, posing a threat to themselves and the Legal notice is hereby given, pursuant to law, that the Mayor of the City of Yonkers, “Today, the courts agreed that the county must community. That’s unconscionable and unac- New York will hold a Public Hearing on Wednesday, October 5, 2016 at 5:00pm in adhere to its constitutional obligation in secur- ceptable, and the county’s not going to let it the Mayor’s Reception Room, 2nd Floor, 40 South Broadway, Yonkers, New York, to ing the safety and well-being of the region’s happen.” hear all interested parties and citizens regarding adoption of the following: homeless. Many in Yonkers believe the city has “We’ve seen a blatant disregard of the become a dumping grounds for the homeless LOCAL LAW responsibilities of the county and its shelters from across Westchester County, and point to and more importantly, we’ve seen the county the recent closing of a county shelter in Mt. Amending Chapter 16 of the City Code entitled “Business Improvement Dis- Pleasant, Astorino’s home town, as an exam- trict” administration turn its back on the health and well-being of our region’s homeless,” he con- ple. Said hearing may be adjourned from time to time as necessary. Further information, tinued. “We are judged in a society by how we County officials dispute that notion and including access to a copy of said proposed local law, may be obtained at the City treat our most vulnerable citizens and with the point to the fact that while Yonkers makes up Clerk’s Office, City Hall, 40 South Broadway, Yonkers, New York. evidence put in front of the judge today, it be- only about 20 percent of the county’s popula- came obvious to the judge that the county is tion, the city accounts for a much higher share MIKE SPANO deeply mistreating and dismissing those who of the county’s budget for social services. For Mayor have fallen on hard times.” example, Yonkers residents account for 48 per- The drop-in shelter at 101 N. Broadway cent of the county’s Medicaid cases, 44 per- Dated: September 22, 2016 has been in operation since 1997, according to cent of food stamp cases, 36 percent of fam- ily homeless cases and 24 percent of single #1477 09/30/2016 the Sharing Community, where up to 50 home- less persons have been dropping in at the shel- homeless cases; and Yonkers residents make ter every evening – more than the 30-person up roughly half of the 160 drop-ins the county limit. typically shelters overnight. Westchester County, and Astorino, took a Nadine Burns-Lyons, executive direc- different view over the shelter and the court’s tor of the Sharing Community, said “it has SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK – decision. been very difficult to deal with the landlord of COUNTY OF WESTCHESTER “The county was forced to go to court to the 101 N. Broadway property,” but now the INDEX# 53573/2016 ensure that safe overnight accommodations are county has intervened and is responsible to the FILED: 09/13/2016 available for Yonkers’ homeless residents, and court to make sure the repairs are done and the SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE today’s ruling allows us to do that,” said the violations are rectified. Plaintiff designates WESTCHESTER County as the place of trial. Venue is based county executive. “The judge clearly recog- “They (the City of Yonkers) have wanted upon the County in which the mortgaged premises are situated. OCWEN LOAN SER- nized the public’s need to challenge the strong- us to move for a long time and we have been VICING, LLC, Plaintiff, against VICTOR GOMEZ AKA VICTOR M. GOMEZ if living, arm tactics employed by the mayor, which in- willing to work with them to do that, provide and if he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim cluded trying to shut down a shelter by putting that they help us identify a place to move to,” to have an interest in, or generally or specific lien upon the real property described in up a condemnation notice on Friday and then she said. Burns-Lyons added that she believed this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to later conducting late-night raids while resi- the events over the past week “were precipi- be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, dents were asleep, to search for after-the fact tated by a recent event in Getty Square, as if heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, violations.” we own and control homeless people. They are creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all By extending the temporary restraining free adults and American citizens and they all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or un- have rights and they all have problems like the der them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, order sought by the county, Acting State Su- heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, preme Court Justice Anne Minihan is allow- rest of us, drug and mental health problems. creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, ing the homeless shelter at 101 N. Broadway We take them at their word that there is no except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; YOSELIS GOMEZ; PHELPS MEMORIAL to remain open. problem with our Hudson Street shelter.” HOSPITAL CENTER; SINGER HOLDING CORPORATION; MIDLAND FUNDING “As a lifelong advocate for the homeless On the larger issue of homelessness, LLC A/P/O CITIBANK USA, N.A.; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; THE PEOPLE and co-founder of the Sharing Community, I’m Burns-Lyons added: “I do know the city be- OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK and, JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE #1 through # 7, pleased Westchester County has succeeded in lieves the county is dumping the homeless the last seven (7) names being fictitious and unknown to the Plaintiff, the persons or blocking abrupt closure of an essential home- here, which they are not. The other shelters are parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or parties, if any, having or less shelter,” said Karl Bertrand. “With winter full and it’s a growing problem in the county. claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the Com- coming, it would be reckless and inhumane to They don’t have enough room and while the plaint, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY close a shelter until an alternative facility was state and county are responsible, we all need SUMMONED to answer the Amended Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, available. I hope the county, city and non-prof- to work together. We are working with the city to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorney(s) within 20 days after the its work together to ensure that all Yonkers’ and the Building Department to be in compli- service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 homeless are indoors, safe and well cared for.” ance.” days after the service is complete of this Supplemental Summons is not personally Under the judge’s order, 101 N. Broadway “(I) had a great conversation with Mayor delivered to you within the State of New York); the United States of America, may ap- will continue to operate as a shelter with a ca- Mike Spano, who assured me he has the best pear or answer within 60 days of service thereof; and in case of your failure to appear pacity of 30 people, and any inspections of the intentions for those suffering the circumstance or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the property must be made during the hours of 9 of homelessness,” added Councilman Christo- Complaint. The Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant a.m. and 5 p.m. Also, the temporary restrain- pher Johnson, who represents the First District, to an Order of the Supreme Court of the State of New York and filed in the Office of ing order remains in effect until further notice. where both shelters are located. “We discussed the Clerk of the County of Westchester on July 13, 2016. This is an action to foreclose Homeless advocates have gone to the In- inhumane conditions that exist in some of the on a mortgage. ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being facilities that Westchester County is respon- on the Northwesterly side of North Malcolm Street, in the Village and Town of Ossin- ternet to claim that the city attempted to also ing, County of Westchester and State of New York, (Section 89.15, Block 4, Lot 66), shut down the Sharing Community’s other sible for. I communicated to him that sleeping said premises known as 61 N Malcolm St, Ossining, NY 10562. NOTICE YOU ARE shelter in Getty Square at 1 Hudson St. Asto- out in the cold is worse than on steps or in a IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. If you do not respond to this summons and rino sent out a press release that also alludes to kitchen of an overcrowded facility. complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company that action, stating: “The city had been moving “He agreed that in the long term, the city who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, to close the Hudson Street shelter, as well, but will work toward shrinking the population of a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an at- said in court Tuesday that the continued use of homeless people… not just move them some- torney or go to the court where you case is pending for further information on how to that shelter was not an issue.” where else. In the short term, (Spano) said, answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage Spano’s office confirmed that the city had ‘We will work to force Westchester County company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING no intentions to close the Getty Square shelter. to provide acceptable, humane conditions for A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF, OCWEN The Sharing Community confirmed that the the homeless population to rest at night.’ In the LOAN SERVICING, LLC, AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Clarfield, Okon, Salomone, & Pincus, P.L. 425 RXR Plaza, 4th Floor, UNIONDALE, NY 11556 Getty Square shelter, which has both a tempo- Immediate, he assured me his intent is never rary shelter and a drop-in shelter, will reduce to have people sleeping outside in the cold,” #1476 09/23/16 – 10/14/16 the number of drop-ins from 40 to 10 per night. concluded Johnson.

Make Rising Media Group a part of your advertising plan. Call today! 914-965-4000 Friday, September 30, 2016 - Yonkers Rising - PAGE 7 Seniors and Health Care Walk For Your Heart Clover Needs a Home Oct. 2 at Kensico Dam

This year’s Heart Walk will be Oct. 2 at Kensico Dam Park.

Cardiovascular disease is the number-one cian detected a heart murmur, which was diag- killer of all Americans. In fact, someone dies nosed by a pediatric cardiologist as Ventricular from CVD every 39 seconds. Heart disease also Septal Defect – a hole separating the two lower kills more women than all forms of cancer com- chambers of the heart, which causes lower oxy- bined, and congenital cardiovascular defects are gen levels to the body. Jake didn’t gain weight Consider adopting Clover today. the most common cause of infant death from and struggled to breathe while nursing. After four birth defects. months, the hole did not close on its own and The American Heart Association invites the Jake had open heart surgery to repair the defect. The Yonkers Animal Shelter has many pets is appropriate when walking around other dogs, public to join the Oct. 2 Heart Walk event at Ken- Jake was released less than 72 hours after available for adoption. however she would do best as the only pet in sico Dam to join the fight against these statistics, having open heart surgery, and his parents call Clover is a pretty and smart young lady. the home. She would love an active person who and help save lives. Registration is open at www. him their miracle baby. She’s 3 ½ years old and at about 38 to 40 pounds, takes long walks or a family with a fenced-in westchesterheartwalk.org. CHD is the most common heart birth defect, she’s got a big personality in a small package. yard for exercise. Children should be 10 and The Heart Walk is the AHA’s biggest annual but it is survivable. The AHA journal “Circula- Clover knows many commands and has been older. event, raising more than $343,500 for programs tion” that estimates about 1 million children and well socialized by a dedicated volunteer. She Clover can be seen seven days a week from and research at last year’s event. Funds raised at 1.4 million adults in the United States were living loves to play ball and can run like the wind. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call the Heart Walk support research, so doctors can with a congenital heart defect in 2010. Clover would make a great agility dog. She 201-981-3215 or 914-377-6730. help prevent and treat heart disease, stroke and The American Heart Association’s fund- pediatric heart disease. CHDs affect nearly 1 per- ing for pediatric cardiac research is second only cent of – or about 40,000 – births per year in the to the federal government. Learn more at www. United States. heart.org. Early detection and advances in science and Dr. D. Douglas Miller will serve as execu- Children’s Foundation treatments of congenital heart defects helps save tive champion the Westchester Heart Walk event. lives, and that is what inspired the Breen family Companies interested in supporting the Heart Announces New Board to join the Heart Walk. Their son, Jake will be Walk with sponsorship or teams should call Jen- honored at the event. nifer Miller at 845-867-5386 or Jennifer.miller@ The St. Elizabeth Seton Children’s Foun- At the Children’s Rehabilitation Center, Jake was born April 14, 2015. His pediatri- heart.org. dation has announced new board appointments the foundation welcomes Lisa Alteri, Dr. Wal- across its Continuum of Care at the Elizabeth lace Jenkins, Marc Rosa, James Sinkoff and Seton Pediatric Center, the John A. Coleman Michael Welling. School and the Children’s Rehabilitation Cen- “We are grateful and excited to have this ter. new and diverse group of individuals share their Osteoporosis Support Group At the Pediatric Center, the foundation unique talents and expertise as leaders across welcomes Rachel Amar, John Caruso, Dwayne our continuum,” said Brian Harrington, senior An Osteoporosis awareness group will at New York-Presbyterian/Lawrence Hospital, Doherty and Vito Verni. Additionally, Michael vice president of institutional advancement. meet Oct. 10 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Burke Rehabil- will discuss osteoporosis in men and women. Hegarty, a member of the Pediatric Center’s “We are confident they will help us enhance itation Hospital, 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Meetings are usually held the first Monday Board of Directors since 2009, was appointed our legacy as we continue our mission-driven Plains (park in first lot and enter building num- of even-numbered months; the last meeting of chairperson. Peter McKeever, former chairper- commitment to provide innovative medical, ber four). the year will be held Dec. 5. For more informa- son, is now board treasurer. educational and rehabilitative services to more Dr. Anatoliy Tsirlin, and endocrinologist tion, call Susan at 914-260-9339. At the Coleman School, the foundation than 5,000 of New York State’s most medically welcomes the Most Rev. Gerald Walsh, Michael complex children and their families.” Daly III, James Dibbini, Esq., Thomas Ferrara For more information, visit www.setonpe- and Dr. Robert Flower. diatric.org. Learn the Basics of Medicare said. “Hundreds of other building owners, and in Introductory workshops on Medicare “ba- Medicare Parts A, B, C and D and explain how City Sued some cases entire neighborhoods, manage to com- sics” are scheduled for Oct. 14, Nov. 16 and Dec. to use Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Cover- Continued from Page 1 ply with historic preservation requirements. So 1 in the County Office Building at 9 S. First Ave., age for even greater savings. EPIC is a New York must they.” Mount Vernon. The sessions are presented free of State-sponsored plan that helps eligible seniors erty, and Spano signed the resolution. The lawsuit alleges the city violated the Reli- charge by the Westchester County Department of pay for prescription drug costs. They will also After the $750,000 purchase, the Colonial gious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act, Senior Programs and Services and will be held discuss Medigap insurance, cost-sharing and pre- Heights Association applied to the Yonkers Land- passed unanimously by Congress in 2000. RLU- from 10 a.m. to noon in the eighth-floor confer- ventive benefits. marks Preservation Board to request that the home IPA prohibits zoning and landmarking laws that: ence room. Early registration is suggested because class- be deemed a historic landmark. treat churches and religious assemblies unequally “The information provided will be particu- es fill up quickly. To sign up, call the DSPS Medi- The law firm of Omar T. Mohammedi, LLC, to nonreligious institutions; discriminate against larly useful in helping seniors navigate through care Information Line at 914-813-6100. on behalf of ICCMW, filed the suit and alleges assemblies based on religion or totally exclude the Medicare system,” said County Executive Seniors are also reminded that enrollment for that the City of Yonkers discriminated against the them; and that unreasonably limit religious assem- Robert Astorino. “I encourage anyone who is Medicare Part D for 2017 will take place this year Muslim community of Colonial Heights when blies, institutions or structures, according to the Medicare eligible or soon-to-be eligible to attend. from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, for plans to take effect Jan. it improperly designated the planned site for the Justice Department. Family members or caregivers are also welcome.” 1. For more information, visit www.medicare.gov mosque as a landmark. The lawsuit said the designation, applied for Case workers will provide information about or call 800-633-4227. The ICCMW and its members, along with by the Colonial Heights Association of Taxpayers, the Council of American Islamic Relations, held was a “pretext to discriminate against plaintiffs a press conference to announce the filing of a civil because of their religion, their religious practices, tion for governor. Incumbent Herbert Lehman complaint and request for injunction against the and against their religious institution.” On This Day defeated him. City of Yonkers. “The landmark designation severely restricts Continued from Page 5 After the election, Bleakley resumed prac- The Landmarks Preservation Board decision the nature and type of renovations (the center) can ticing law in Yonkers and in 1939 he was elect- in April found that the 2 Grandview Boulevard undertake on its property,” the lawsuit reads. “The clear the road. There was no way to warn other ed Westchester County executive. house “was illustrative of growth and development landmark designation denies (the center) the right vehicles it was coming and needed the right of Sunday, Oct. 9 of the city and had unique architectural qualities,” to have a house of worship bearing all relevant Is- way. Oct. 9, 1925: Yonkers resident Rear Ad- a finding the Islamic center disputes, in court pa- lamic characteristics.” Oct. 7, 1936: Forty-one indignant Pelton miral Purnell F. Harrington, U.S. Navy retired, pers in which it seeks to block the city from enforc- Afaf Nasher, executive director of CAIR, Street residents and the School 13 Parent- and the oldest living graduate of the U.S. Naval ing the landmark designation, as well as compen- America’s largest Muslim civil liberties organiza- Teacher Association implored Democratic Academy at Annapolis, discussed his experi- satory damages no less than $25 million. tion, told Yonkers Rising: “Once Yonkers decided Mayor Loehr to end the nuisance of the “com- ences at the academy on a national broadcast News of the lawsuit was picked up by the to landmark the house, we believed that the desig- bination saloon, gambling joint, bowling al- to make the academy’s 90th anniversary. He Chicago Tribune, the Associated Press and NBC nation was a thin disguise to block the mosque. It ley and dance hall of the cheapest order” at graduated from the academy in 1863. News. was determined that it would be extremely diffi- 20 Pelton St., otherwise known as Republican He retired to Yonkers and lived at 20 Dud- The lawsuit alleges that at a meet-and-greet cult to seek landmark approvals for everything that Headquarters. The club had installed a bar on ley Place until his death in 1937. last September, as the landmark application was needs to be done for the house. the premises, an addition the PTA felt was det- Oct. 9, 1926: After learning the “Anti- pending, some attendees voiced concerns that a “There continues to be increased opposition rimental to the welfare of the students as it was Fascisti of Westchester County” had circulated mosque would “change the look of the neighbor- to mosques and the construction or expansion of too close to the entrance of the School 13 An- abusive flyers, Public Safety Commissioner hood,” and that tax revenue would drop because existing mosques, around the country,” continued nex on Pelton. William Cameron ordered a heavy police detail the Islamic center is tax-exempt. That, they argued, Nasher. “This is one example of that opposition. The mayor referred the matter to Public for Italian journalist, author and Italian Parlia- would drive down property values in the neighbor- It’s sad that some Muslim members of the Yonkers Safety Commissioner Denis Morrissey, who ment Deputy Commander Ermanno Amicucci hood, according to the suit. community who have lived there for a long time then asked the Corporation Counsel and the on his trip to Yonkers. Amicucci, an official rep- There were also rumors, the lawsuit alleges, but feel they don’t belong. They never wanted the health and building departments to investigate resentative of Premier Mussolini, was received that the center would demolish the property and landmark designation and tried to oppose it – they the situation. at City Hall, visited his aunt Peter Rubeo of build a mosque with minarets, the towers from reached a capacity where it will do irreparable Saturday, Oct. 8 Linden Street, and was entertained at a banquet which Muslim worshippers are called to prayer. harm and took legal action.” Oct. 8, 1924: Three-hundred students at held at DeRiggi Restaurant on Main Street. Congregation members commented at the After the council’s public hearing in May, the newly opened Gorton High School signed a Nearly 200 Fascist sympathizers greeted City Council public hearing in May, and to Spano, many wondered what the response would be from petition to shorten their lunchtime 30 minutes. Amicucci with the upraised right arm salute that they have to travel miles to reach the nearest the Muslim community in Yonkers and Westches- They instead asked that they be dismissed at 3 and sang Mussolini’s battle cry song. mosque, court papers said. ter. Their decision was delivered in court. p.m. instead of 3:30 p.m. For more information on the Yonkers His- City of Yonkers Spokeswoman Christina The council voted 4-3 to approve the land- Oct. 8, 1936: Justice William Bleakley, torical Society, Sherwood House and upcom- Gilmartin told NBC News in an email that the marking with Council President Liam McLaugh- Republican candidate for governor, addressed ing events, visit www.facebook.com/Yonker- Islamic Community Center for Mid-Westchester lin, Council Majority Leader John Larkin and thousands of people at what was called a sHistoricalSociety or LinkedIn and Twitter @ can open a mosque and the city is ready to help. Councilmembers Mike Breen and Dennis Shep- “homecoming” rally in Larkin Plaza. The Yon- YonkersHistoric. For information on member- “But welcoming this congregation does not mean herd voting “yes,” and Council Minority Leader kers resident had served as a local judge and on ship in YHS, call 914-961-8940 or email yhso- that the independent findings of our Historic Land- Michael Sabatino, Councilwoman Corazon Pineda the New York Supreme Court until his nomina- [email protected]. marks Board can be completely disregarded,” she and Councilman Christopher Johnson voting “no.” PAGE 8 - Yonkers RIsing - Friday, September 30, 2016

ment of Social Services – particularly Child St. Joseph’s. Protective Services – and more. At the same Continued from Page 1 time, every Saint Joseph’s location is open to ‘Tender For All’ on anybody looking to walk in and seek help. vices for long- and short-term stints, the hos- The Bigger Picture pital’s recovery programs include street-front Substance abuse of all kinds has increased Exhibit at Purchase College clinics, the Family Health Center, a mobile drastically in recent years, to the point of be- crisis center in Yonkers, The Stein Center for coming a national crisis. From the introduction outpatient psychiatric services, a halfway house of new drugs like K-2 synthetic marijuana, to for women recovering from addiction, and Saint changing user preferences and increased rates Vincent’s Catholic Medical Center where both of theft and other crimes, the problem is com- Kingham-Bez and DeMarco worked before plex and multi-faceted. coming to Saint Joseph’s. For those who can afford them, opioids are Although Saint Vincent’s, a premiere med- replacing cocaine as the drug of choice, while ical center in New York City for over a century, heroin – tied to opioids and oxycodone – is closed six years ago when Saint Joseph’s took it much cheaper and more readily available for over, its Westchester division remains an active those who cannot. Often, Saint Joseph’s sees participant in mental health services and ad- patients dealing with multiple addictions such diction treatments for adults and adolescents at as drugs and alcohol, as one can often push Saint Joseph’s, providing the hospital with 136 people into another; as well as a combination behavioral health beds. of substance abuse and mental health disorders Additionally, DeMarco, who specializes such as heroin addiction and depression. in heroin recovery, manages a program called The State of New York has also recognized Positive Directions, teaching participants the the nation’s substance abuse crisis and provides skills to live alcohol- and drug-free. Begun al- resources through the Office of Alcoholism and most 20 years ago, Positive Directions offers Substance Abuse Services, New York State De- a 12-step model approach to recovery through partment of Health, NYS Department of Mental day and evening treatment hours, social support Health, and other organizations. Gov. Andrew systems, and development of healthy behaviors. Cuomo’s office has been particularly involved, Kingham-Bez and DeMarco’s commit- setting up a heroin and opioid abuse task force ment to mental health and recovery at Saint Jo- comprised of health care providers, parents, re- seph’s includes overseeing a bilingual staff of covering patients, educators and policy makers. Artist Corina Kennedy 20 methadone specialists, more than 60 admis- Coverage of these treatments ranges from From Oct. 6 through 22, Purchase College invisible labor and debt kept out of sight, con- sions professionals, 25 independent care coor- private insurance to Medicare and Medicaid. Center for Community and Culture (PC4) in flating private reflections with public economies. dinators, an addiction MD and 10 associates for Some state aid is available for methadone treat- Yonkers will present “Tender For All,” the first Also on view, from the artist’s personal Positive Directions, as well as 43 beds reserved ment and medication-assisted treatment, as put solo exhibition by artist Corina Kennedy. This propagated collection, is Einstein’s “Begonias.” for mental health patients. forth by the federal Substance Abuse and Men- past October, SUNY-Purchase opened PC4 at 16 Descended from cuttings of the “Begonia Treatment is not limited to the four walls of tal Health Services and Administration. Saint Warburton Ave., in the Yonkers Waterfront Dis- Lucerna” belonging to Albert Einstein during the building, however; the team at Saint Joseph’s Joseph’s makes its treatment affordable for un- trict, to provide arts and educational programs his last years in Princeton, these houseplants are believes in “Cura Personalis,” taking care of the insured patients by using a sliding scale of pay- for students and the public. a small study in personal and institutional gift- entire person. Staff members help participants ment ability. “Tender For All” explores themes of house- ing. The possibility of the plants’ endless and get to their appointments, fill out necessary pa- Recognizing an ever-expanding demand holds, housing, love and debts – both private and democratic dispersal is inherently at odds with perwork, manage multiple chronic diseases at for treatment services and recovery programs, public – through mixed-media installation. Tak- the authenticity and prestige of their original once, coordinate with grandparents and foster Kingham-Bez and DeMarco’s pioneering work ing cues from the stone-carved walls of institu- owner. They will be displayed, tended to, cut and parents, address any social determents influenc- at Saint Joseph’s has enabled 700,000 annual tions, Kennedy hand carves a series of “I.O.U.” dispersed amongst the audience throughout the ing substance abuse, and handle housing needs behavioral health outpatient visits in Westches- notes on foam home insulation panels, mounted duration of the exhibition. (St. Joseph’s oversees 1,000 housing units in ter County and New York City. Their continu- floor to ceiling on the gallery’s walls. Visit www.corinakennedy.com.for more Westchester for behavioral health and another ous efforts and commitment to care have helped The carved phrases, both drafted by the about the artist. 200 in Yonkers for seniors). set the standard for mental health and substance artist and appropriated from colleagues, stu- “Tender For All” also features a series of A common goal of the treatment process is abuse services nationwide and ensure every pa- dents, the news and campaigns, are written in public events at PC4 in Yonkers, including “So- to encourage and assist recovering patients to tient can be treated according to their needs. the debtor’s voice. Instead of distinguished lists cial Change Posters” with Ashley Frato and Co- become stable within the first 90 days, at which To learn more about the addiction treatment of benefactors or quotable prose in marble, the rina Kennedy on Friday, Oct. 7 from 3:30 to 6:30 point they are considered “work ready.” Staff programs and mental health services available texts signify as a field of informal I.O.U. notes, p.m.; “Who Am I? Rewriting the Declaration of will then shift their efforts to begin helping at Saint Joseph’s Medical Center, call 914- scrupulously scrawled into low-grade home in- Me” with Marcus John of SouLBox Entertain- with patients’ educational and vocational goals 378-7000 or visit www.SaintJosephs.org. For sulation foam. Taken as a whole, the texts are ment on Friday, Oct. 7 from 4 to 6 p.m.; and through agencies such as ACCESS-VR, One more information about the nationwide heroin stripped of context, offering vague timelines and “Greenwich Village Book Desecration League” Stop, EOC and The Maxwell Institute. epidemic and how to get help, visit www.oasas. often repeating themselves. with Aaron Krach and Corina Kennedy on Satur- As courts have begun shifting their focus ny.gov/accesshelp, call 1-877-8-HOPENY or In “Tender For All,” Kennedy meditates on day, Oct. 22 at 2 p.m. from jail time to recovery paths, Saint Joseph’s text HOPENY. has received new patients from all areas includ- Shelagh Dolan is a freelance writer who ing probation services, DWI offenses, Depart- can be reached at [email protected]. in Albany. We strongly believe Sen. Latimer is Latimer Endorsed the right person to send to the State Senate to Continued from Page 1 continue working on our behalf.” In our other Rising papers this week, Lat- that our state government provides the support imer is featured discussing his views on cor- that our first-responders need and deserve.” ruption in Albany and term limits. His video Letter to the Editor Union Representative Barry McGoey add- can be viewed online at https://m.youtube. Dear Editor: terrorism. ed: “We are proud to stand with Sen. Latimer com/watch?v=gBLB_lXcK8s&feature=youtu. Reading Judith N. of Yonkers’ piece last week As Malcolm X said, “The chickens are com- because he has consistently stood up for us. be. concerning Colin Kaepernick’s courageous stance ing home to roost,” and as Dr. King said, “Amer- George has a proven track record of prioritiz- Or read it online on at Risingmediagroup. is typical of the “Archie Bunker”-type ignorance ica is going to Hell for all of the violence it has ing public safety and fighting for our interests com. that is putative in this county. Her letter was re- committed on this continent and exported around plete with propaganda that is the exact opposite the world.” of what this country has done around the world, Her take on the Civil War was inane and lu- and her letter continues the myth of “American dicrous because the white men who died fighting YoFi Ludlow Park neighborhood they grew up in: he’s greatness.” the Civil War were conscripted and had no choice. black with Jamaican roots and a 7th Day Adven- The United States of America by no stretch Also the main reason there was an effort to end Continued from Page 1 tist; she’s white and of Jewish heritage. She eats of the imagination is “the greatest country in hu- slavery was because of the heroism of Frederick pork and shellfish; he doesn’t. man history.” Just tell that perverse lie to the mil- Douglass, John Brown, Thaddeus Stevens and YoFi Fest is all about audiences and filmmakers “We embrace diversity,” said Heslowitz, a lions of Africans, African-Americans, indigenous Charles Sumner who were a part of the “radical learning and connecting. This year’s festival literacy coach for the Academy of Public Re- people and Mexicans that have been enslaved, Republicans” who pushed Lincoln into proposing season kicked off in style with a bash at Empire lations, a district middle school in the South raped, killed and colonized by this country. Slav- the 13th Amendment. Martin Delaney, William City Casino’s Red Room to announce the films Bronx. “You get to see so many different people ery, manifest destiny, the war declared on Mexico Lloyd Garrison, Elijah Love Joy and others, along selected for this year’s festival. from differing backgrounds and cultures and re- where in essence Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, with David Walker and the abolitionist movement, Inspiration for a wedding? It wasn’t exactly ligions. That was reinforced in us going to the California and part of Colorado were taken from were looking to end slavery. part of the plan, but by that measure Steck and Yonkers Public Schools system.” Mexico; that history of invasion, rapine and sub- There were many secession organizations Schumann’s effort has been met with resound- Heslowitz and Nugent’s history together jugation is the reason we are dealing with global that came to fruition who were pro-slavery advo- ing success: At a YoFi Fest gathering last year, a starts in grammar school; they rode the school cates who wanted to continue this American evil young interracial couple – both born and raised bus together during middle school, when she north and south. in Yonkers – struck up a conversation with the says he used to tease her relentlessly (he’s not Judith N. needs to read Frederick Douglass’ once-homeless actor and filmmaker Mark Reay fessing up to it). The two drifted in and out of Fourth of July speech where he says in no uncer- from the documentary “Homme Less.” each other’s life, losing touch by senior year in tain terms that American history is criminal, its Last year’s YoFi Fest closed with the award- high school, and only reconnecting serendipi- Christianity a fraud, its Constitution a lie, and that winning film, which chronicles the life of Reay, tously after college: One Thanksgiving, they ran- “America has committed crimes that are more un- a former model and fashion photographer who domly ran into each other at a popular nightclub Proudly serving the City of Yonkers speakable than any other nation on this earth and was homeless at the time. Over two years, in New York City. would disgrace a nation of savages.” Reay’s enigmatic lifestyle unfolds as he takes “Within minutes of seeing each other, he The American military does not protect our photographs of glamorous women by day, and laid one right on me,” said Heslowitz. “I was tak- retreats to a secretive and primitive existence on en aback by how bold he was.” They dated for a Nick Sprayregen, Publisher freedom. The question should be: Who are they a Manhattan rooftop by night. while, broke up, and Nugent left for Nevis, an is- [email protected] protecting us from? The answer is they do not pro- tect us from anybody, they have been an invasive “We went to the after-party and chatted him land in the Caribbean, to attend medical school. force of terror around the world. The propaganda up and bought his photography book,” said Ra- Nugent now works in a medical research Daniel J. Murphy, Editor-in-Chief line that “our military protects our freedom” is a chel Heslowitz, 33. The event prompted her and laboratory at Mount Sinai in Manhattan in the [email protected] perverse rationalization that ensconces the fact then-boyfriend Adrian Nugent, 32, to throw a field of microbiology. After some years, the two that the American military is used to allow Ameri- movie-club party at their home around the holi- reunited on Facebook and ultimately resettled to- Bayan Baker, Assistant to Editor-in-Chief ca to continue to subjugate, colonize, plunder and days last year to engage close friends on the de- gether in Yonkers. [email protected] exploit other countries and their resources. bate about the film and Reay’s controversial life The couple also hired Reay to take their Cuba for 60 years, the overthrow of the Mos- choices. Soon after, on Christmas day, Adrian wedding announcement photos at the Yonkers proposed. waterfront. “Everything is local and that’s a good Paul Gerken, Advertising Sales sedegh regime in Iran in 1953 and the installation The couple married Aug. 21 during a cer- thing because that’s where we’re from; that’s [email protected] of the dictatorship of the Shah from 1953 to 1979, is another example. As well as the overthrow of emony at the Hudson River Museum, followed where my family lives,” said Nugent. “I’m proud the democratically-elected Socialist regime of by a reception at Zuppa Restaurant on Main that it all happened in Yonkers.” Gregory Baldwin, Administrative Asst. Jacob Arbenz in Guatemala in 1954 in order for Street and an after-party at Yonkers Brewing As for Reay, he says he was grateful to have [email protected] the United Fruit Company to continue its rap- Company. the gig and saw the job as a “huge responsibil- ing of Latin America is another. As well as the And the wedding photographer? None other ity.” He said he found photographing the couple overthrow of the democratically-elected Socialist than Mark Reay. “He’s a professional,” said Nu- very natural as they were, in his words, “lovey regime of Salvador Allende in Chile on Sept. 11, gent. “He’s good at what he does.” dovey.” Reay has never had a relationship lasting Member of the New York 1973. Heslowitz said her sister, who had attended enough to say “I love you” – a topic that is raised Press Association Not to speak of what this evil empire called the Sundance Film Festival in Utah, “opened in the film about his life. He added, in fact, it has 914-965-4000 “the United States of America” has done recently, my eyes to film festivals,” and so she began fre- been a “bittersweet” event for him to document Fax 914-965-2892 quenting Brooklyn’s Academy of Music and oth- the Heslowitz and Nugent union. 25 Warburton Ave, Yonkers, such as the invasion of Iraq that has led to the NY 10701 slaughtered of hundreds of thousands of Iraqi ci- er independent theaters in Manhattan for off-beat “It may be the closest I ever get to being www.risingmediagroup.com vilians, the destruction of their schools, mosques and foreign films. She and Nugent have made a married,” said Reay, who is no longer homeless. and the opening of sectarian violence that had tradition of attending the Tribeca Film Festival “Maybe a woman with a nice roof will marry Yonkers Rising - USPS Permit #7164 been dormant for almost 1,400 years. together for the last three years, but it wasn’t un- me.” is published weekly by Rising Media Judith N., your ignorance and concomitant til he heard about “Homme Less” over his car YoFi Fest tickets are now available online Group, LLC 25 Warburton Ave., Yonkers, racism is the reason the United States is hated radio, and an effort to track it down in local the- at Yofifest.com. This year, more than 100 films N.Y. 10701 aters, that they learned about the screening at a will be featured at several locations, including a Periodicals Postage Paid • Yonkers, N.Y. around the world and why indeed Sept. 11 hap- POSTMASTER pened. new film festival right in their own backyard – a DIY event, done in Yonkers, which will feature Send address changes to: Clifford Jackson happy surprise. Yonkers filmmakers at the Alamo Drafthouse on Rising Media Group, LLC, The couple is a microcosm of the diverse Oct. 19. 25 Warburton Ave., Yonkers, N.Y. 10701 Larchmont Friday, September 30, 2016 - Yonkers Rising - PAGE 9 Yonkers Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

Mayor Mike Spano and YPS Superintendent Dr. Edwin Quezada with essay winner Marija Mayor Mike Spano, City Court Judge Tom Quinones, and Councilmembers Corazon Pineda- Domgjoni and family and educators at PEARL School. Isaac, Christopher Johnson and Michael Sabatino with essay contest winner Conor Smith, family and educators at Pulaski school.

Mayor Spano, Councilwoman Pineda-Isaac, essay winner D’Mia Hibbert, Hostos Principal Ms. Mayor Spano, Councilmembers Pineda-Isaac, Sabatino and Johnson, essay winner Jennifer Mejia, family and educators. Niola, the mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Chairperson Carmen Gomez-Goldberg, and family and educators from Saunders High School.

Yonkers recently celebrated Hispanic Heri- Maria de Hostos MIcroSociety School, chose outside communities and Latino families. The Hon. Thomas Quinones was born tage month with an art exhibit at the Riverfront her Principal Elda Perez-Mejia to write about: One of the most notable Hispanic individu- in January 1960. His mother and father were Library, and with an essay contest that gave stu- One Hispanic individual that has made a als who has inspired and promoted culture is born in Puerto Rico and met in New York in dents the opportunity to write about one of their difference in the Hispanic Community in the Carmen Gomez Goldberg. the 1950s. He lived in New York City before Hispanic role models. City of Yonkers is our Principal at Maria de Carmen Gomez Goldberg’s current posi- his family moved to the Bronx when he was 6 The four winning essays were all so good Hostos MicroSociety School. Her name is Ms. tion as Chair of the Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory years old. Like me, he went to public school and that we decided to print them all in Yonkers Ris- Mejia. She has been a principal at our school for allows her to serve and impact the Hispanic lived in an apartment building. He liked play- ing. eight years and has worked in Yonkers Schools community. Her position in the Mayor’s depart- ing outside with his friends and younger brother. *** much longer. She is very kind to people in and ment indicates her dedication to the City of Yon- When he was younger he always dreamed of be- Marija Domgjoni, a sixth-grader at outside of the school. She is honest with every- kers and her commitment to finding tasks which ing a police officer or in the military. His mother PEARLS-Hawthorne School, wrote her win- one and helps when there is trouble. will beneficially serve the Latinos in Yonkers. didn’t want him to do either of those things. She ning essay on Yonkers Public Schools Superin- Ms. Mejia comforts people when they are Carmen has impacted the Hispanic community made him stay in school. He worked hard to get tendent Dr. Edwin Quezada: upset or in an emotional state. She also holds by proposing funds, sharing valuable time with into a great college, Cornell University. A Hispanic individual that has made a dif- meetings with parents when needed. For exam- the Puerto Rican community, and empowering After college, he went to law school at the ference in not only the Hispanic community, ple, when someone is bullying another student students to continue on in their education. All City University of New York. He chose this but also right here in the City of Yonkers is Dr. she has a meeting with the parents. of these factors tie into the role model figure she school because he wanted to help people. He Edwin Quezada. Dr. Edwin Quezada has been a Ms. Mejia has many contributions to our has become in the Hispanic community. worked for many years with children and fami- great Superintendent of Schools. Since the first school community. One contribution she has This individual woman has shown that lies as a Family Court Support Magistrate. He day on the job, to know he is still inspiring a made for our school is holding assemblies for challenges within life doesn’t mean an end to always wanted to become a judge because they bunch of people like me. He has had many great safety, such as crossing the street. She also holds your dreams and goals. Her determination and make the decisions. accomplishments like forming bands in a bunch awards assemblies, like student of the month success to continue on her education at a fur- After he got married, he moved into a house of schools like mine. and honor roll. Another contribution she had ther age has personally inspired me to not let in the northwest area of Yonkers called Nepera One of the many things I like about Dr. Ed- made in our school is coming into the classroom the challenges in life back me down. An educa- Park/Grey Oaks. He has lived in Yonkers for win Quezada is he cares about all of the schools, and seeing how students are doing. She watches tion at a higher level is never too late to earn, go over 20 years. On Jan. 1, 2016, his dream came and all of the people in them. Every big event in carefully and takes notes. with determination and motivation to earn those true when Mayor Mike Spano swore him in as Yonkers that I’ve been to, Dr. Edwin Quezada The effects of her contributions are impor- goals of life. Hispanic women throughout his- City Court Judge. It is amazing that he is the has been, too! Whether it’s the Mayor’s Inau- tant, just like her. One effect for the assemblies tory have been misjudged and underestimated City of Yonkers’ first Hispanic judge. guration or a Senior Citizens’ Christmas Party, for students is to teach them safety and respon- due to our background. This challenge the world In his current job as Yonkers City Court he’s there. sibility. Another is to help students behave and oppresses among young women causes a form Judge, he is very responsible for knowing many, Dr. Edwin Quezada is very friendly. He learn more from their actions because that is the of discouragement and a lack of effort. many areas of the law. He has to decide cases is always willing to lend a helping hand to the purpose of a principal. She has made many posi- Within the Hispanic community it is usual- that involved criminal and civil matters up to Mayor. tive contributions in our school. These are a few ly seen that students don’t strive to further their $15,000, landlord-tenant and traffic violations. Dr. Edwin Quezada is making the Yonkers of the reasons why I think Mr. Mejia is one His- education after high school, a quality Carmen He has a hard job because he needs to listen to Public Schools community a better, and friend- panic individual that has made a difference in wants to change among those young Hispanics. lawyers argue their cases and decide what to do lier place every day. He is trying to provide the our community. Carmen’s success and actions show that no mat- right then. He is very glad that his mother told best teachers for us students. He’s also trying to *** ter the obstacle we as students have the capabil- him to stay in school to become a lawyer. She have better field trips in all of the Yonkers Public Jennifer Niola, a senior at Saunders Trades ity of achieving success by crossing over those wanted him to have a better life than she did. As Schools. and Technical High School, wrote about Carmen barriers that are placed among us. “We aim to a Judge, he has lots of work, but a fun job that One more thing I like about Dr. Edwin Gomez Goldberg, chairwoman of the Mayor’s inspire that all children can learn,” said Carmen can help make people’s lives better if they have Quezada is that he is committed to his family Hispanic Advisory Board and communications Gomez Goldberg, resembling her interest in ed- hard ones. and all of the children in the Yonkers Public director at the Charter School of Educational ucation among all students. I asked Judge Quinones what it feels like to Schools. He has great leadership and counseling Excellence: Carmen Gomez-Goldberg is an individual be the first Hispanic Judge for the City of Yon- skills. He is a great Superintendent of Schools The City of Yonkers is a community filled woman who has influenced students, like me, in kers. He is very proud of his accomplishments in and will continue to make big differences in the with many diverse individuals and cultural the Yonkers Community, to keep your head in life and proud to be a Hispanic with family from Hispanic and Yonkers community. values. The fulfillment of such characteristics the game and challenge yourself to the proposals Puerto Rico. He is glad that his family taught As you can tell from my essay, I chose Dr. gives Yonkers a unique touch as a whole. The brought before us in order to seek success. him to speak Spanish and about his culture. He Edwin Quezada because he is someone all of us approach of making Hispanics more involved *** says knowing your family and where you came can look up to. within the community allows for a larger diver- Connor Smith, a second-grader at Casmir from helps us to understand ourselves. It is very *** sity. Hispanics have contributed to the commu- Pulaski School, wrote about City Court Judge nice that the Mayor made someone so smart and D’Mia Hibbert, a fourth-grader at Eugenio nity in many ways that have been beneficial to Tom Quinones: nice a Judge.

Spano’s spokeswoman Christina Gilmar- Yonkers Democrats tin told Reisman: “The mayor hasn’t made a Continued from Page 1 decision yet regarding the county executive race, but as you know, Commissioner Meier is no indication that Mayor Spano is preparing and the mayor have had a long, close relation- for a county executive run. ship, and should the race become a reality for “I understand that the mayor is clearly the mayor, this definitely helps put him in a considering a run for county executive, but he good position.” has not decided and right now we have a Yon- That comment is leaving the door open, kers native running for county executive, Ken but not walking through it. The other side of Jenkins. If the mayor decides to run also, that’s the argument that the mayor and his inner cir- good. Choice is good.” cle are pondering is whether Spano is ready to Would Chairman Meier support Mayor walk away from politics after 20 years in the Spano if he decides to run for county executive? Assembly and as Yonkers mayor, in two and a “Maybe,” answered Meier. “I think he has half years when he is term-limited from running done a good job as mayor, and I have known again. “The Office of Yonkers Mayor burns you him for 30 years. The same for Ken (Jenkins). out,” is a refrain we have heard from again and We are friends and I have known him for 30 again from mayors past. years. There are also other candidates who want As for Jenkins, he is running for county ex- to run for county executive and that is the job ecutive no matter what and will run in a Demo- of the Democratic Party in Yonkers – to inter- cratic Primary next September if he has to. view all candidates and get behind the best one. On the Republican side, does the latest cor- Nothing is a foregone conclusion. ruption indictments against “the other Cuomo “If he decides to run for county executive, brother” Joe Percoco change Astorino’s deci- Mayor Spano will run on his record as mayor sion about running for county executive for a and on his recent re-election win of 80 percent. third term next year, and then a run for governor He doesn’t need Tom Meier to take over the in 2018? party if he chooses to run for county executive,” Read Yonkers Rising next week for more Members of the Hispanic Advisory Board with Mayor Mike Spano at an art exhibit at the concluded Meier. on that. Riverfront Library gallery. PAGE 10 - Yonkers RISING - Friday, September 30, 2016 Yonkers Honors Gold Star Mothers

Elected officials, Gold Star Mothers and veterans at the Gold Star Mothers memorial in anV der Donck Park.

Photos by Donna Davis

Ladies of the Bajart American Legion Post Yonkers. Congressman Eliot Engel with Yonkers Gold Star Mothers.

From left are former Mayor John Spencer, City Court Judge Ed Gaffney and State Sen. George Latimer. Perstine Wesley Remembered For a Life of Service

School 13 student Vaughn Meier, who sang the national anthem at the ceremony, with his dad Tom in front of the Gold Star memorial.

For more than eight decades, Americans gave our country the ultimate sacrifice. Kyra Rest in peace, Pristine Wesley (1934-2016). Send your cards and letters to P.O. Box 1283, have joined together to honor the mothers of Cardwell led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Yonkers, NY 10703. service members who died while serving their Vaughn Meier, a student at School 13, sang country – recognized as Gold Star Mothers. our national anthem. Perstine Wesley, one of Yonkers’ true year, he has spearheaded a number of local Last weekend, Yonkers veterans and elected Congressman Eliot Engel, State Sens. public servants, passed away last week. Ser- programs that help those in need, including officials joined at the Yonkers Gold Star Moth- George Latimer and Andrea Stewart-Cousins, vices will be held Tuesday, Oct. 4 at Com- collecting winter coats and distributing them er’s Memorial to pay tribute to the mothers Assemblymember Shelley Mayer and City munity Baptist Church, 156 N. Broadway, to the community, providing free turkeys to who have lost their children in war. Councilmembers John Larkin, Michael Saba- and viewing is from 10 a.m. to noon. A fu- families during Thanksgiving, managing the The Memorial, dedicated 10 years ago, is tino, Mike Breen, Christopher Johnson, Cora- neral service will follow immediately after “Wesley and Friends Annual 5K Fun Run,” located in Van der Donck Park. zon Pineda-Isaac and Dennis Shepherd also viewing. The Rev. Clarence E. Bolling will and much more. Hope Hollinsworth-Coaxum, president attended. conduct the services, and arrangements are A retirement dinner was given for Wes- of Gold Star Mothers of Yonkers, joined Stewart-Cousins presented a proclama- at Brooks Memorial Home, 275 Warburton ley over the summer. While all of Yonkers is with other Gold Star moms from Yonkers to tion to the Gold Star Mothers, which has pro- Ave.; 914-965-3781. saddened that he was unable to enjoy his re- remember their fallen heroes. Lou Navarro, vided support since 1928. “Losing a child is a Wesley retired earlier this year after 54 tirement, he will always be remembered as a director of veterans’ services for the City of pain no parent should ever have to suffer,” she years in the downtown as proprietor of Har- great example of how to participate and give Yonkers, welcomed all. Navarro, a Vietnam said. “Gold Star Mothers help each other carry ry’s Shoe Repair. He was the first African- back to the community you live and work in. veteran, was joined by former Mayor John the burden of their losses and honor the mem- American business owner in the neighbor- His motto, “If you are going to do busi- Spencer and City Court Judge Ed Gaffney, ories of their children with diligent and com- hood in the 1960s. ness in this community, then it is your obliga- also Vietnam vets. passionate service to their community. Their But Perstine Wesley was also a popular tion to put something back into it by helping Jerry Collins, chaplain of the Bajart sacrifices weigh heavily on our hearts, and the and well-loved community leader who led wherever there is a need,” is how he will be American Legion Post, said the opening and courage they display in the face of such great by example and through his actions. Each remembered. Our prayers go out to his family. closing prayers for the families of those who adversity inspires us all.”