Arab Heritage Seussical The Legislator Jenkins Page 4 Reception Page 3 Musical Page 5

VWESTCHESTERolume 2 • Number 27 TIMES TRIBUNEMarch 8, 2007 BRIEFING Your World Is Our Beat™ • www.WestchesterTimesTribune.Typepad.com 50 cents A&E U.S. Court Halts Election Spitzer Stars in Review of His Pg. 4, 5 in Village of Port Chester First 60 Days in Office WHITE PLAINS, NY -- Michael C. Hispanic citizens of voting age had BUSINESS By Henry J. Stern reached. completed, so that psychiatrists can Pg. 4 Garcia, the United States Attorney increased to about 28%. Despite Another issue that had led to determine whether the sex offender for the Southern District of New these figures, no Hispanic has a multi year dispute between due for release is still a risk. York, announced that a federal ever been elected to Port Chester’s Governor Spitzer presented Governor Pataki and Speaker Of course, he (they are almost COMMUNITY judge in White Plains, N.Y., granted municipal legislature, the six- his first full-dress report on his Sheldon Silver’s State Assembly, all male) is a risk, the question is a government motion last week to member Board of Trustees. Indeed, the civil confinement of mentally how great a risk and how people’s Pgs. 4, 5 stewardship of New York State the enjoin the upcoming March 2007 no Hispanic has ever been elected morning of March 2, 2007. interest in not having their elections for the Village of Port to any public office in Port Chester, Speaking at the New York children raped or murdered Chester, N.Y. despite the fact that Hispanic Hilton to 650 civic and is valued, compared to a FAITH The United States filed a candidates have run for office 6 business leaders brought sex offender’s desire to Complaint on Dec. 15, 2006, times – twice for the Board of together by the Association attain freedom when his Pg. 1 alleging that Port Chester’s at-large Trustees, and four times for the Port for a Better New York, the sentence finally ends, and system of electing its governing Chester Board of Education, which governor presented the civil libertarians’ belief that Board of Trustees diluted the voting manages a school system that is audience with an array of once a man has served his strength of the Village’s Hispanic overwhelmingly Hispanic. achievements which he term, he has paid his debt GOVERNMENT citizens, in violation of Section 2 of Following a two-week hearing, asserted his administration to society and is entitled to Pgs. 3, 4 the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The United States District Judge Stephen had already accomplished. another chance. We look same day, the United States filed a C. Robinson ruled that the United Among them was forward to seeing how the motion to enjoin Port Chester from States was likely to prevail at trial workers’ compensation new system works; any using its at-large election system on its claim that Port Chester’s at- reform, under which outcry will not come until JASON on March 20, 2007, to elect two large system of electing members he said benefits to the first rape/murder by a new trustees. According to papers of the board of trustees dilutes injured employees had released offender, IF it occurs. GOOLJAR filed by the United States, the 2000 the voting strength of Hispanic been increased and payments by ill sex offenders after their prison The governor made a professional Pg. 3 census shows that almost half of citizens, in violation of Section 2 companies reduced. Both labor term expires, was also resolved power-point presentation which Port Chester’s residents, and 22% of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. and business signed off on the this month. Under the agreement was a tour de force. He spoke of Port Chester’s citizens of voting Judge Robinson also set April 16 agreement, but possibly because between the three men in a room, extemporaneously and eloquently, age, were Hispanic. through April 20, 2007 for a trial in of the shortness of time, we were there will be a court proceeding although perhaps too quickly for THE By July 2006, the number of the matter. not told how the result had been before the offender’s prison term is see Spitzer Pg. 2 HEZITORIAL Pg. 2 Richard Gere to Speak About Righting A Wrong LAW “The Hoax” Pg. 1 Following Special Preview Screening of the Film at the Pelham Picture House LIKE on March 12th PELHAM, NY -- In 1972, www.thepicturehouse. KLOCKWORK author Clifford Irving nearly org. Pg. 2 pulled off one of the biggest The Hoax was directed by scams in media history. Lasse Hallstrom of Bedford Actor Richard Gere, who and produced by Leslie plays the notorious Irving Holleran of Larchmont. NEW YORK in the riveting film The This directing/producing Hoax, will be at The Pelham duo have worked together CIVIC Picture House on Monday, on numerous projects March 12 to talk about the including the Oscar- Pg. 1 film after a special preview nominated Chocolat and screening. Cider House Rules as well Based on an autobiographical as the recent Casanova. OP-ED book by Clifford Irving, The Picture House The Hoax follows Irving’s entertains audiences with Pgs. 1, 2, 3 efforts to seek fame and great movies – independent fortune by fabricating a and foreign films, classics, biography of the reclusive shorts, animated films billionaire Howard Hughes. and documentaries from TRANSPORTATION Using forged documents around the world. By Pg. 4 and extensive lies, Irving inviting actors, directors, convinces the publisher producers, screenwriters McGraw-Hill that he has and film critics to discuss a close relationship with their work, The Picture WEIR Hughes and is able to land house brings the back lot a highly profitable book contract. at 7:00 p.m. and will be followed to its front door. A historic register ONLY HUMAN Even after the book is published by a question-and-answer session 1920s theater in Pelham, New York, Pg. 2 and Hughes comes out of seclusion with Gere and moderated by Peter The Picture House will be restored The unveiling conducted to commemorate the cemetery formerly main- to refute the book, McGraw-Hill Travers, senior editor and film and renovated to become a three- tained in Yonkers by the Congregation of Righteousness took place last stands by Irving. It is only after a critic for Rolling Stone Magazine. screen state-of-the art film and week. The cemetery opened in 1899, the last burials occurred in the lengthy investigation that Irving Tickets are $35 and will go on sale education center over the next few 1960’s, and the Congregation disbanded in 1969. Court records indicate confesses to his fabrication. beginning March 6. years. that approximately 94 adults and up to 147 children were buried in the The screening of the film begins To purchase tickets, go to cemetery. May their souls rest eternally. Advertise in the They May Attack, But We Know Better Westchester Rev. Anthony J. Iovine show that Jesus Christ, Son of belong to Jesus. For Christians, every Lenten Times Tribune. God, did not rise from the dead, but But Cameron shouldn’t worry season sees a dramatic increase in Geraldo Rivera should be dancing lived a normal life and had a son. – Geraldo turned his career around the attack on the Church. Questions in the streets today. Why? James Reviews of the program weren’t after the Al Capone’s vault fiasco as to the validity of Jesus Christ e-mail inquiries to: Cameron has finally wrested from kind. TV critic Adam Buckman of (remember when Geraldo promised are raised to as to shake the very the Fox News host the mantle of the New York Post wrote: answers to so many mysteries when foundations of the faith. No [email protected] opening a long-locked away vault I’m no scientist, but after watching Capone’s “vault” was opened, but matter who does the questioning and finding nothing. a bunch of people who are scientists then only offered a few bottles and – Cameron, Dan Brown, and the To Cameron, even though he found sift through the dust and bones of junk and made Geraldo a laughing like – the faith goes on. The Church or call: zip, it hasn’t stopped him making a 2000-year-old family burial stock in the media?). Maybe there continues to grow throughout the 914-378-1433 a fool of himself. His television chamber in Jerusalem, I have to is another story about a sunken ship world, especially on the continent special aired on the Discovery offer this unscientific conclusion: Cameron can spin into an Oscar Ext. 235 Channel last week purporting to There ain’t no way them bones winner? see They May Attack Pg. 5 Purchase College Students Raising YPD Promotions Support for Environment and Charity for the need to update New York’s five-cent bottle return law. Students collected empty beer and soda containers, which carry a five-cent deposit under the current bottle bill. All of the deposits were circulated directly into the Westchester ARC system through the redemption center in Mt. Kisco that employs handicapped and disabled workers. Community members who donated bottles and cans were encouraged to write letters to their state legislators, Adam Bradley and Suzi Oppenheimer, to support the Bigger Better Bottle Bill. PURCHASE, NY -- Student and cans for Westchester ARC, As part of his state budget volunteers from the Purchase an organization that employs and proposal, Governor Eliot Spitzer College chapter of the New York empowers children and adults with has called for updating the bottle Public Interest Research Group developmental disabilities. While bill to include bottled water and Officers respectively promoted: Sergeants Daniel Campanini, Paul Rice, and Sean Mullins to Lieutenant; Police (NYPIRG) took to the streets last generating funds for a good cause, other non-carbonated beverages that Officers Michael Hanley, Ralph Carozza, Lawrence Mesler, and Richard Wilson to Sergeant; and Police Officers week to collect donations of bottles the volunteers also raised awareness see Purchase College Pg. 5 Daniel Medina, Mark Mendelson, and Autumn Traynor to Detective. Image courtesy of John Rubbo PAGE 2 MARCH 8, 2007 WESTCHESTER TIMES TRIBUNE The Hezitorial • Op-Ed Westchester Times Tribune LLC Political Action Committee Operates 55 Main Street Yonkers, NY 10701-2739 Out of Yonkers City Council President’s Office By Hezi Aris impertinent; at issue is why the Can anyone in government condone of government as some would argue YONKERS, NY – A Press Yonkers City Council President’s the use of employees for political to deflect attention from this issue, Tel: 1-914 / 378.1433, Advisory sent by Aaron Smith, office has become a conduit for purpose? Does the conduct of the should this behavior be acceptable ext 235 employed by Yonkers City Council a newly formed political action Yonkers City Council President not in perpetuity by its very arrogance? Fax: 1-914 / 378.0008 President Chuck Lesnick, was committee calling itself Yonkers usurp public input by promoting “The YDA” email “urges any and sent during regular business hours Democrats in Action (YDA). The and proselytizing a specific agenda all Yonkers citizens to come to City from an email address designated Press Advisory exposes the temerity prior to determining the public’s Hall on Thursday at 4 PM to speak Published every Thursday. as demdevelopment@gmail. and arrogance of its operation by position on the issue? Should the to the Mayor about the importance com to divulge a Public Hearing blatantly describing itself as “a Yonkers taxpayer have to foot the of this bill. Residents can also call News Desk scheduled last week in the Mayor’s recently formed group of energetic bill for another inept transgression the Mayor at 1-914 / 377-6300. Advertising Sales Conference Room regarding Living Democrats dedicated to working of ethics by the Office of the For any questions regarding The Subscription Services Wage legislation presently awaiting on and advocating for progressive Yonkers City Council President? Yonkers Democrats in Action or the [email protected] signature by Yonkers Mayor Phil political and social issues and as And should it be proven that Living Wage Law please contact Amicone. At issue is not whether well as organizing community egregious and conflicting behavior Julia at demdevelopment@gmail. the legislation is appropriate or service projects…” is conducted in other departments com or call 914-715-4952.” Co-Publishers Hezi Aris Joseph F. Spiezio, III Spitzer Stars in Review of His First 60 Days in Office Editor-in-Chief From Page 1 of using Medicaid to subsidize impressive charts indicating how in the care of injured soldiers. It with which he had peripheral Hezi Aris graduate medical education, and a substantially lower percentage is much harder to require specific involvement as attorney general, slower ears and minds. He displayed charging the state for excess of New York students graduate results in educating young children He was frustrated because he Columnists: a commanding personality and, bed capacity. He said Medicaid from high school, compared from deprived backgrounds and was denied by the state health when he is temperate, he comes funding should correspond with with the rest of the country. incomplete families. The governor department and the federal Adam in Albany across very well. Whether or not the percentage of Medicaid The statistics on high school promises all day kindergartens and Department of Health and Human Assemblyman they agreed with everything he patients at the hospital. Egad. graduation are even worse for more pre-schools. That should Services the tools and data he said, the audience was universally Adam Bradley He singled out Local 1199 of the the four largest cities in the state: be helpful. But what about the needed to fight fraud directly. He impressed with his grasp of the issues Service Employees International New York, Buffalo, Rochester and substantial drop in scores between has used that knowledge to prepare and his command of the language.. Union (SEIU) and the Greater Syracuse. As a measure of upstate the fourth and eighth grades? an effective program, which he is Computer Gaming Even if the governor is not, as New York Hospital Association malaise, snowy Buffalo has lost The governor wants kids to learn now in a position to try to effectuate. Cam Bock Congressman Rangel asserted as supporters of the status quo to read, write and do math. But at The newspapers tomorrow on January 23, 2006, “the and enemies of progress. He this time, school systems decline morning should give full coverage Digitally Speaking world’s smartest man”, he may flashed their logos on the screen to use techniques which may have to the governor’s speech, and it Jim Thomas well be America’s smartest repeatedly, so they could not say a better chance of reaching these will be interesting to see what governor. (California boasts they were ignored. He showed a goals, because these methods are not parts they highlight. This essay EarthTalk America’s strongest governor, chart which said they had spent politically correct. There was not a is a look at the high points, at least he was his prime.) But Editors of E $65 million on an education fund, word in the speech about pedagogy, from the viewpoint of a policy no one can excel at everything. (one might say propaganda) and phonics, fuzzy math, or the teachers wonk. We also made suggestions The Environmental Magazine Spitzer’s ability and knowledge were the largest lobbyists in the union. There was a lot about money. where he could follow up. contrasts with that of he new state. This will most likely be But money can’t cure everything. Our conclusion is that the governor Education Matters Comptroller, who may have the his prime reform issue in 2007. Ask any dead billionaire. is a highly competent and forceful Dr. Ed U. Cator virtues of Everyman, but also has Spitzer went on to denounce It is, however, only Day 61, and executive, with the potential for his limitations. You would never Governor Pataki’s 2002 deal one cannot expect even a prodigy excellence. He is off to a fast start, Employment dream of another state-wide official with the hospitals and unions to resolve perennial problems and, as we know, gets quite upset if Chris Russell making a presentation like today’s. under which a $3 billion one shot New York Civic in so short a stretch. We hope he loses on something. This may Alan Hevesi was flawed, but he revenue item from the conversion the governor will apply himself be a vice or a virtue. Hopefully, was very smart, and a competent more than half its population in the Epiphany Park of Blue Cross and Blue Shield to to education with the intensity his leadership will emancipate Comptroller. What should the for-profit corporations was used last fifty five years, (580,132 in 1950 with which he has mastered other legislators from the bonds of their Zuri A. Stanback trade-off be? One possibility was to fund wage increases which to 279,745 est. in 2005) a record subjects. We suggest he talk to lobbyists and enable New York to leave it to the voters to make that would be permanent, not one-shot. for formerly major cities surpassed people like Diane Ravitch, Sol State to escape from its miserable The Feiner Report decision. The current governor is Spitzer did not say that, after this only by Detroit, (1,849,568 in Stern, Andrew Wolf and John fiscal and economic condition, Greenburgh Town Supervisor not only able and honest, but he rose agreement, the union endorsed 1950 to 886,671 est. in 2005). McWhorter, among .others. They due in part to its partisanship and Paul Feiner to the budget challenges that Hevesi Governor Pataki for re-election In exchange for additional billions know more than the tenured politics, which have resulted in a mentioned relatively quietly during over Carl McCall, but many in the of dollars, the Governor demands guerillas of Teachers College, who generation of mediocrity, indolence HabitForce the last four years. We are curious room were nonetheless aware of the “accountability” in education. How now dictate policy through their and submission. Matthew Cossolotto to see what the new Comptroller fact.. The union did not endorse any do you measure that? Test scores. expensive surrogates and army of will do when he learns the job. We candidate for governor in 2006, but He doesn’t really want a culture of consultants. To help the mayor hope he stays out of partisan politics. did support the Republican in the testing but he knows it is necessary. retain control of the schools in Mr. Stern is president of New York The Hezitorial The core of the governor’s speech Nassau County special State Senate But what do you do if the test scores 2009, essential to keeping the foxes Civic (www.NYCivic.org) and a Hezi Aris this morning was that New York election last month. She lost. remain low? Fire the teacher or out of the henhouse and destroying blogger on public issues. State had the highest taxes in the The governor was on shakier principal? Require the pupil to whatever progress has been made, In Tune country and, for all the money ground discussing education. He repeat the grade? Increase or reduce the governor will have to involve He was New York City’s Parks John T. Bock we spent, a relatively low success wants to spend even more money the budget? Who really knows? himself substantively, not merely Commissioner for fifteen years ratio in education and health. than the Campaign for Fiscal One can demand accountability bankroll what one could call Educaid. under Mayors Koch and Giuliani. Like Klockwork He accused the city’s hospitals Equity lawsuit requires. He showed in the manufacture of engines, or The governor knows Medicaid, Joe Klock, Sr.

New York Civic Henry J. Stern There’s No Business But Show Business, Folks! By Joe Klock, Sr. person and a persona - although that that’s what I yam” and Jerry Herman that people choose to present to us Mothers Superior, enemies, grouches and drivers with Progress Continues distinction is often a dramatic one. put the same words on the lips of a - i.e., the masks they choose to wear In 1959, at the then-middle-age The generally accepted female impersonator in “La Cage and the roles they choose to play. skills clearly inferior to yours. Mayor Phil Amicone of 35, struggling songstress Dinah definition of “person” is a gender- Aux Folles,” but one was a cartoon What does all this have to do All the world is, indeed, a stage Washington suddenly made the neutral label for a human being, character and the other an actor with thee and me (and all them- - and all of us players. Furthermore, Real Medicine big time with a tune called “What as opposed to beast, vegetable playing a role - thus personas (okay, there other people in our world)? our lives are not as structured as the Dr. Evan Levine A Difference A Day Makes,” matter or something inanimate. personae) rather than real persons. Well, just about everything characters in a carefully scripted describing in lyrics and melody how It is particularly helpful in if we’re going to have social and well-rehearsed drama - or even Reflections on My City sudden love can transform dreary this era of political correctness, intercourse - that is to say Popeye’s adventures in a comic strip. Mayor Ernie Davis life to a sneak peek at heaven. wherein such combining terms communication - of any kind. Our lives are much more like Only humans can experience as chairman, fireman, policeman, We deal with others on the improvisational theater, in which we are simultaneously writers, The Senator’s Message that transportation from and even Fuller Brush Man, basis of how we perceive them earthbound tedium to a surfing are regarded as discriminatory and are perceived in return - not players, directors and audiences. Jeff Klein session in the clouds of euphoria. against the once-weaker sex. necessarily (and sometimes only We can’t, therefore, always be It can take less than a day ‘Chairperson” became fashionable accidentally) on the basis of who “ourselves” and hope to have a Shifting Gears and, perhaps, last not much as a verbal emasculation, but the other and what we/they “really are.” desired impact on the people and Roger Witherspoon longer, but its profound effect designations just never caught on. What we are perceived to be situations in which we find ourselves. can be beyond measure. Aside: I once proposed solving in any situation depends on what Rather, we have to choose from The Spoof If a wordworker such as I were that problem by introducing persona we assume, what image our repertoire of personae the Gail and Rita Farrelly to seek similarity in language, hybrid words like hupersonity, we project, and that varies with one which will best contribute he might be inspired to compose personslaughter and personopause what impression we wish - and to the results we seek at any - and every - given moment. Top Speed a parody entitled “What A to “desexotize” any words with therefore choose - to make on the Difference An ‘A’ Makes,” then an imbedded man or men, but Like Klockwork other person/personae involved. The “person” you “really are” will Louis Albornoz build an entire column around it. none of them found public favor. Furthermore, Popeye not always fill the bill - but what a Regular readers out there will The problem with “person” The Latin root word “persona” notwithstanding, we all vary difference an “a” can make! View From Albany immediately discern that such is is that it is too often confused literally mean an actor’s mask, and that projection depending on Assemblyman precisely what this devious old with “persona” - and what it morphed into English as meaning our interpretation of the other George Latimer bird is about to do, there being a difference that “a” makes. a character in a dramatic or literary person/personae in each scenario. Freelance wordworker Joe Klock, no such thing in his whimsical A person is not necessarily (if ever) work and/or the role that one assumes PLEASE don’t tell me that your Sr. ([email protected]) is a Vox Populi world as too strained a segue. exactly what he or she appears to or displays in public or society, as persona is exactly the same in winter Floridian who summers Vox Populi Dinah’s ditty came to mind be, the latter being his/her persona. distinguished from one’s inner self. the presence of life-threatening in New Hampshire. More of his whilst I was pondering the seldom- Popeye the Sailor Man loudly Therefore, the “persons” we deal situations, grandchildren, the “Klockwork,” is at recognized difference between a proclaimed “I yam what I yam and with every day are really the personas opposite sex, bores, boors, bosses, www.joeklock.com. Weir Only Human Bob Weir

The WesFoodie’s: Pride Goeth Before a Fall Eating in the Burbs By Bob Weir their own aggrandizement. These ethically challenged reprobates are bears a very close resemblance to Jack 8. Kirby Winston Churchill once remarked, are the people who flex their exposed and penalized, others will the first.” The Gipper was merely “Democracy is the worst system political muscles to hand out jobs emerge. using humor to illustrate the ways Worship of government, except for all to friends, accept money or other The genius of our form of in which some officials will “sell” Pastor Anthony Iovine the others.” The British Prime “accommodations” from those who government is that we still have themselves and their positions to Minister was talking about the expect a quid pro quo, use taxpayer freedom of speech and freedom the highest bidder. freedom we have under our form of money to feather their own nests of the press to inform the often Yes, it’s been said many times government; a freedom that keeps and use their authority to squash Weir Only Human unsuspecting public about the that power corrupts, but I believe it Advertising Sales us from being crushed under the anyone who dares to expose them. rascals who feed off of them. will only corrupt those who already Display jackboots of dictators. Yet, he also When they are exposed they will Imagine being the hardworking have a tendency in that direction. Advertising Director was saying that democracy is far fight back with all the money and concerned about exposure. man or woman who pays their taxes, Those who have a strong moral Jeff Lee from perfect. There will always be puissance at their disposal in order to Whether it’s a congressman from obeys the law, struggles to pay code will not be tempted to abandon those who seek power, not because hold on to their cozy little fiefdoms, California who brazenly drove their bills and raise their children the values instilled in them since Production they plan to serve the people better, with all the trappings they’ve built around town in a Rolls Royce with a set of values, only to be childhood. Conversely, those who Production / Art Director but because they want to embellish for themselves; trappings being and built a multi-million dollar disappointed again and again by the worship at the altar of venal self- Frank Shevetone their own lives at the expense of paid for by a public that often feels home before being charged and corrupt behavior of those who are enrichment will often find a place the people. Elective office is, and powerless to intervene. It appears convicted of bribery, or a Louisiana supposed to be working for them. in the corridors of government. We should be, one of the proudest that something strange happens to congressman, caught with $90,000 Imagine further, that you are one of can only wonder how many enter moments in anyone’s life because it some people when they are thrust in alleged bribe money in his freezer, the majority of elected officials who the hallowed halls of elective office means that a majority of voters in into the sucrose-laden world of it’s a constant struggle to protect the works hard for the best interests with all the right intentions, only their city, county, state or country political influence. If their moral people from the predators who use of your constituency, only to be to be lured into a state of denial have decided he or she is worthy of compass is guided only by the risk the power of government to enhance embarrassed again and again by the regarding their larcenous and often the public trust. That trust should be of being caught, they will become their personal fortunes. Like the shameful behavior of colleagues lascivious behavior. The Bard of viewed as more valuable than any very adept at evasion. However, it is multi-headed Hydra monster of who create more distrust and Avon said it best when waxing other emolument one can obtain that very ability to succeed at their Greek mythology, which could cynicism for the profession. Ronald poetic about evil: “For sweetest from government service. nefarious goals that will ultimately grow another head every time one Reagan said, “Politics is supposed things turn sourest by their deeds: Sadly, too often we end up with trip them up because each success was severed, it seems as though it to be the second-oldest profession, Lilies that fester smell far worse people who sought the office for makes them more daring and less doesn’t matter how many of these but I have come to realize that it than weeds.” WESTCHESTER TIMES TRIBUNE MARCH 8, 2007 PAGE 3 Government • Op-Ed Are You Caught in the Redline?

By Jason Gooljar Yeah! That’s right, we should scale. Expanding on this process, as 2002 that say some sort of RAC Rent-A- Centers opening in accounts to pay their bills. The be angry! No justice for Scarsdale, you could say that this is just redlining still happens. In 2002, poor communities whose practices working poor also need to be able Imagine if you were denied means no peace! Purchase, united, another, in a long line of factors, as a woman was denied a loan by have been said to prey on the poor to save and invest for their future. a mortgage or could not buy can never be defeated! White-collar to why public schools in these areas Fleet Bank, and M & T Bank for with their “high rent” for household Changing the paradigm should lead insurance because of where you workers and hedge fund investors income purposes. Eventually, she furniture in their “rent-to-own” the working-poor becoming part of lived. Imagine if secret and the of Bedford unite! But what if I was able to get a loan from another scheme – alleged to prey on the poor. a more robust and vibrant middle rationale for it was kept from you; replaced the areas of Scarsdale, financial institution, but it cost her While redlining may not be as class. The goal is to stunt the and you only found out about it Purchase, or Bedford with Harlem, even more in fees because of her aggressive pursued as it once was, it economic gap between poor and rich. when you realized that many people downtown Yonkers, or the South income situation (reverse redlining is practiced too often to this day. It To reach our goal, we need in your neighborhood were going Bronx? Would we all be angry then? or predatory lending). Also in is a practice that communities must financial institutions as exemplified through and dealing with the same Would we even know about it? Well 2002, a study was conducted that excise from their neighborhoods by by Shorebank, based in Chicago. issues. How would this make you here’s a fact for you; this sort of found that few federal housing bringing it to the attention of and Founded in 1973, they are defined feel? Imagine this situation was behavior has been going on in low loans reached people in low income bring to the attention of the media. as a community development being conducted on the residents income working-poor communities and minority areas of Syracuse, NY. Besides redlining, predatory bank. They focus their lending on of Scarsdale, Edgemont, Purchase, for decades and how many people As far as redlining in the insurance lending (reverse redlining), preying urban and rural areas that banks Rye, or Bedford. I’m quite sure are even aware of it today? industry goes, it is basically the on the poor, and even discrimination that maintain redlining guidelines there would be an outrage heard This practice, for those unfamiliar charging of higher rates to people against those earning a low would shun. Shorebank is growing overnight about the county and with the term, is called “redlining.” living in areas they consider to be income, with or without bad credit, and has $1.8 billion in assets. the state. It would probably make What this means in practice is that a The Progressive Liberal a “high risk.” continues today. Is it any wonder that the Nobel all the local newspapers and the bank or lending institution, private Crusader In a similar vein, I disagree This leads me to conclusions and Peace Prize winner Muhannad local television news programs. or public, having drawn a red circle are not up to par. In spite of all this, with my former employer’s perceptions that underline these Yunus, founder of the Bangladesh With anger and disgust, we would around an area on a map where they redlining has been fought through practice of conducting a credit issues that revolve about people headquartered Grameen Bank, scream our sentiment to our local would not invest, has designated a the Fair Housing Act of 1968 and check that required an applicant with low income. . It is a silent bias once worked with Shorebank? representatives demanding that “redline” zone. These areas would the Community Reinvestment to pass certain criteria before lurking in the background. Yet it Clearly, there is something to be all private or public institutions likely be populated with minorities Act of 1977. Just walk into any being permitted to open a checking is the low income working-poor learned here. engaging in such behavior be and low income working-poor branch of a bank and ask to view account (Not redlining but a who would most benefit from low- forced to cease and desist in these people. Throughout the decades their CRA file. At Wachovia, form of financial discrimination interest loans that could help them practices. Outbursts of “how since passed, the practice of the bank I used to work, it was a that diminishes the ability of an start small businesses, renovate Visit Jason Gooljar, at dare the bank not refinance the redlining has resulted in the public file accessible to everyone. individual with bad credit to move run-down homes and communities, http://www.jasongooljar.com mortgage for my million dollar segregation and urban dilapidation Does redlining still happen forward in establishing greater and pursue an education. It is the the progressive liberal on a property?!” would be heard. of many neighborhoods on a grand today? I’ve found articles as late credit worthiness.) There is also the working poor that need checking crusade!online. Spano Fights for Greater Return to Yonkers Schools Calls on State to Fully Fund Yonkers’ Fair Share of VLT Profits YONKERS, NY -- In his tenure At his press conference last week, VLT funds for our children in the Education Chair, I applaud Mike students. I am happy to stand here “Two years ago, I presented as Yonkers’ Assemblyman, Mike held at the Yonkers Raceway, Yonkers Public Schools.” Spano’s efforts to increase the with him today to call for a complete lawmakers with over 200 personal Spano (R, I, C – Yonkers) had long Spano was joined by Yonkers “As the Yonkers City Council funding for our city’s 25,000 restoration of our city’s fair share of letters from Yonkers residents fought for the implementation of Mayor Phil Amicone, Yonkers funding and will continue in support of this proposal and I Video Lottery Terminals (VLTs) School Superintendent to do everything I can to welcome the public to once again at Yonkers Raceway to enhance Bernard Pierorazio, Yonkers move this measure forward, share their thoughts with me now. funding to the Yonkers Public City Council Education Chair said Sandy Annabi”. In fact, because most people who Schools. Last week, he again stood Sandy Annabi, and a number “Already Yonkers’ work can not leave their jobs up for Yonkers by calling upon the of representatives from Raceway is exceeding to meet with me during regular Governor and State Legislature to Yonkers Council of Parent everyone’s expectations – business hours, I am expanding eliminate the arbitrary cap on Video Teachers Associations. and the raceway is not even my office hours to better serve the Lottery Terminal (VLT) profits “Assemblyman Spano’s fully operational yet. When public,” Spano continued. The which may be returned to the City proposal would be another the revenues continue to Assemblyman will be opening his of Yonkers. important step toward ensuring grow, the State will be District Office, located at 35 East “The current system imposes an an appropriate level of state collecting even more,” said Grassy Sprain Road, on a number artificial cap on VLT profits. Rather funding for the Yonkers Spano. “As the raceway of Saturdays this spring, including than the full share being returned Public Schools,” said Yonkers continues to thrive, it March 24, April 14 and April 28. to the city, a significant portion Mayor Phil Amicone. “As a could mean millions of is being sent up to Albany,” said VLT facility host community, more dollars being shifted Spano. “My legislation would stop Yonkers education system away from our children.” The public will be able to meet this unfair practice by eliminating should be fully compensated “That’s why I am with Spano personally between the this cap.” without any sort of artificial renewing my call to the hours of 11 am to 1 pm. To make Current law allows for a 3.5 limit or cap.” Governor and all state an appointment, please call the percent return to communities. Superintendent Bernard lawmakers to remedy the office at (914) 779-8805. However, the 3.5 percent is also P. Pierorazio stated, “I am L to R: Yonkers City Councilmember John Murtagh, YPS Superintendent host community formula so capped at $20 million. Spano’s encouraged by Assemblyman that the Yonkers’ children legislation would increase revenues Michael Spano’s continued Bernard Pierozario, Assemblyman Mike Spano, Yonkers Mayor Phil are not shortchanged, to the city by $1.2 million in the commitment to education and Amicone, and Councilmember Sandy Annabi Spano concluded. initial year by eliminating the cap. attempt to secure additional

Dozens Crowd Mayor’s Public Hearing An Open Letter To Mayor Amicone on Living Wage Mr. Mayor, Legislation to Guarantee Better Wages Awaits Mayor’s Signature YONKERS, NY -- A crowd of County Legislator Ken Jenkins $9.81 per hour. Costco has a higher Four years ago, you knocked on my front door and spoke per- nearly one hundred people crammed remarked, “Mr. Mayor, I know retention rate and higher sales per sonally to me and my wife. You may not remember that brief into a public hearing inside the that you are in support of a living square foot ratio than Sam’s Club Mayor’s Reception Room at City wage. There is no elected official and its employees are happier. meeting, but I remember. It helped me believe that you were Hall yesterday afternoon at four that cannot support a provision Costco should be a model for the o’clock to speak before Mayor Phil that demands a living wage be type of responsible and robust the right person to lead the City Of Yonkers. I believed in you. Amicone and voice their support paid to entities that are recipients corporations we need in Yonkers. Recently, you attended a roll at my command. You spoke to for legislation that would require of subsidies from any level of Big businesses who say they can’t the city and businesses that receive government. If there are problems afford to raise wages by $1.00 an my colleagues and me, and assured us that we had your support, tax breaks to compensate workers with the legislation then it should hour, should look at Costco and the at least $9.00 per hour with health not be vetoed, but corrected with terrific success they’ve had.” that we were doing a good job, and that the anticipated prosper- benefits. Public hearings are the Council.” Councilmember Dennis ity that the City would enjoy was bolstered by the work of the required for the Mayor’s approval “Our residents work hard and try Robertson stated, “It appears that or veto of pending legislation. to get by on wages that barely allow the Mayor has two choices: Side Yonkers Police Department. We believed you. Of those attending, 29 individuals, them to live, let alone raise a family. with the people of Yonkers who are representing labor unions, political A real living wage today will give struggling to survive or join with During your tenure as Mayor, good things have begun to hap- parties, students, religious orders them self-respect, dignity and a the developers who stand to reap pen in the City. There are projects both ongoing and anticipated and others, spoke in favor and better tomorrow,” Majority Leader millions of dollars in profit.” support of the measure. Five others Patricia McDow remarked. “Mr. Mayor, none of us wants the that will bring jobs and revenue that will bring prosperity to the spoke on behalf of developers and Patrick Welsh, Chairman of the same old Yonkers. If it is to become suggested ways the bill could be Westchester-Putnam Working the shining city on the Hudson we City and build its infrastructure. made more acceptable. Families Party said, “All of the must have development in more You, Mr. Mayor, are an engineer, and I am the son of a carpen- On February 13, 2007 the Yonkers union workers in Yonkers deserve than buildings. We must have City Council passed a historic a raise. Police, Fire and Teachers development in people – in all our ter. We both know that no structure can stand unless erected on “Living Wage Law” that would have waited far too long for new citizens,” remarked David Schwartz, have a great impact on the lives contracts and they have good, strong Vice-Chair of the Westchester- a sound foundation. The same is so for society and the City of of working people in Yonkers by union leaders fighting for them. We Putnam Working Families Party. Yonkers. There is a thin line between order and chaos. Society providing a significant increase in stand here today in support of the The Law applies to full and part- their hourly income. By a vote of Living Wage for those Yonkers time employees who work for crumbles if chaos reigns. Society counts on its police to be that 4-3, Democrats led by Majority workers who have no voice and city service contractors, or sub- Leader Patricia McDow and no representation, and who merely contractors, to workers at sites thin line... to create the order and safety that provides the foun- Councilmember Dennis Robertson exist on poverty wages.” subject to a city lease or concession, dation upon which all other aspects rest. Without that order and were joined by Chuck Lesnick In response to concerns by or who work for employers that and Sandy Annabi in supporting developers that this bill might make get significant (over $25,000) safety, all else is moot. the legislation, originally put forth it harder for Yonkers to attract tax abatements or other financial by former Councilmember Symra national retailers to the downtown incentives from the city, as well The police are asked to do more now than ever before to main- Brandon. City Council President Lesnick said, as the tenants of the employers tain that foundation. We need to be able to hire and retain com- If the law is signed by the Mayor, “In contrast to big box stores that receiving such incentives. Currently it would require wages paid to pay their workers poorly, Costco, the NY State Minimum Wage is petent police officers to meet that challenge... even during this certain employees to rise to $9.00 a huge chain supermarket, pays $7.15/hr and the Federal Minimum an hour plus $1.50 per hour in health its employees $10 an hour to start Wage is $5.15/hr; however the city time when the cost of living is on a constant rise. As the City benefits, or $10 an hour without with benefits. An average hourly is exempt from the state minimum builds itself, I want you to know Mr. Mayor, that the members of benefits, and the wage would be wage of Costco employees is $16, wage and some city employees earn indexed to inflation so it would rise compared to Sam’s Club, which as little as $6.00 an hour. the Yonkers Police Police Benevolent Association, and the Yon- as the cost of living goes up. pays its workers an average of kers Police Captains, Lieutenants, and Sergeants Association are maintaining that order and safety... that foundation... so that “First Arab Heritage progress, safety, and security continue. Reception and Ceremony” As contract negotiations approach, I ask you Mr. Mayor to re- Honoring Arab Educators member what you told me in my home as you shook my hand, and Professionals and what you told me and my colleagues at our roll call. I want Council Member Sandy Annabi in- Join the Yonkers City Council at to believe in you again. vites you to join her in the celebra- City Hall, 4th Floor. Reception tion of Arab Culture and Heritage 6:00pm, Council Conference Room on Tuesday, March 27, 2007. Join 406; Ceremony 7:30pm. Respectfully her for Arabic dancing, music, des- serts, coffee and more Police Officer Peter Scully PAGE 4 MARCH 8, 2007 WESTCHESTER TIMES TRIBUNE A&E • Business • Community • Government • Transportation Suozzi to Speak on Larchmont Undergoes Ken Jenkins’ Reforming Government Repaving on I-95 Swearing-in Ceremony at LWV Luncheon LARCHMONT, NY -- The New until 7:00 a.m. and on Friday, March York State Thruway Authority 9, from 9:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. Thomas Suozzi as keynote speaker, announced that partial shoulder Motorists will be advised of sponsored by the Leagues of Women repaving resumed on the closures via Dynamic Message Voters of Larchmont-Mamaroneck, NewEngland Thruway (I-95). Signs (DMS) and Highway New Rochelle, and Rye on Friday, The overall project spans I-95 Advisory Radio (HAR) station 530 March 23, noon to 2 pm, at the from Interchange 17 (Larchmont) A.M. ECCO III Enterprises, Inc. of Davenport Club, 400 Davenport to the NewYork City line and Yonkers, New York was awarded the Ave., New Rochelle. entails partial shoulder repaving, $ 28.2 million contract in August, Mr. Suozzi will speak on “The repairs to the concrete pavement 2006. This project is scheduled for Road to Reform: Fixing Government and repairs to the bridges at completion in November, 2008. One Step at a Time.” He has been Amtrak/Erskine Place,Eastchester The Authority offers a free praised by the New York Daily Creek, Hutchinson River Parkway email service called TRANSalert News for bringing Nassau County and Reynolds underpass. to its customers via email or text “from the brink of bankruptcy to Shoulder repaving will necessitate messaging to inform them of major fiscal health in a matter of three periodic southbound lane closures unscheduled incidents that may years.” from Interchange 17 (Larchmont) affect their travel on the Thruway. Luncheon cost is $45. To make to one mile south of Interchange To sign up for the TRANSalert reservations, checks should be 15 (New Rochelle, Route US service, customers can visit the Recently elected Westchester County Legislator Ken Jenkins representing made out to and mailed to LWV of 1). Closures are scheduled from Authority’s website at www. the 16th District had his public “swearing-in” ceremony and reception at the lobby of the Riverfront Library in downtown Yonkers. Westchester NEW ROCHELLE, NY -- The L/M, PO Box 811, Larchmont, NY Monday, March 5, through nysthruway.gov/tas/ . County Board Chairman Bill Ryan (L) and Majority Whip José Alvarado public is invited to a luncheon 10538, for further inquiry, direct Thursday, March 8, from 10:00 a.m (R) were on hand to lend their support. featuring Nassau County Executive email to [email protected]. until 2:00 p.m. and from 8:00 p.m. Yonkers Close to Agreement with Verizon Calvary Hospital Honors Winner 2007 YONKERS, NY -- Television diligently to complete an agreement local consumers and eventually subscribers in Yonkers will soon that, once complete, will add drive down prices. Meviar Smith Award have another service provider to Yonkers to a growing list of New “Whenever a new choice is choose from as the city is close to York communities that have introduced into the marketplace, inking a new franchise agreement expanded their television markets it inevitably drives down cost,” with Verizon, Mayor Phil Amicone with Verizon franchises. Other explained Amicone. “Of course, the announced, saying that the addition municipalities in Westchester city doesn’t play favorites between of the company’s FiOS TV service with Verizon agreements include service providers; rather we look into the sparse local marketplace Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Eastchester, out for the rate-paying customers. will increase competition and lower Elmsford, Irvington, Greenburgh, If we can improve their choices prices for consumers. Mount Kisco, Port Chester, and while lowering their cost, then it’s “The addition of a new franchise Tarrytown. something we’ll always look to is great news for Yonkers residents The agreement would eventually do.” who will soon have more choices go to the Yonkers City Council for While Verizon’s fiber optic for their subscription television approval and, as with all franchise transmission infrastructure is service,” said Mayor Amicone, who approvals in the State of New York, already in place in some parts began negotiations with Verizon in would be subject to approval by the of Yonkers, the company is still January. “Choice is not something Public Service Commission. some time away from completing that has traditionally been offered City officials believe that Verizon’s its installation throughout the city. to subscribers in the cable and FiOS, which features a variety of However, company officials said satellite industry, which is why channel programming and service that, provided an agreement is in we’re excited about this opportunity options such as high-definition (HD) place, it would be ready to unveil to broaden the market. I’m a strong television and high speed Internet FiOS on a limited basis in Yonkers believer that competition is good access, will provide sufficient by this summer. for consumers.” competition to other cable and City attorneys are working satellite providers in order to attract

At its 20th Annual Meviar Smith Humanitarian Award ceremony held on Wednesday, February 28, Calvary Hospital honored Bronx resident Hugh McLaren. McLaren, First Cook in the hospital’s Nutritional Services Colombian Artist Unites People department, is an 18 year veteran of Calvary. The award was created in 1988 to honor the memory of Meviar Smith, a dedicated employee who worked at Calvary Hospital for 28 years. Each year the award is presented to an employee who exemplifies the characteristics and spirit of Meviar and how their compassion, loyalty and Through Mixed Media Exhibit selflessness embraces her memory. Pictured from left to right: Frank A. Calamari, President and CEO, 2007 Awardee Hugh McLaren, Michael J. Brescia, M.D., Martine Shelly, Director of Nutritional Services, Father SCARSDALE, NY The art families. The Hispanic population “all art” to Cecilia Yaghoubi. Her Chux Okochi, Director of Pastoral Care. of Cecilia Moreno Yaghoubi, in all of Westchester continues to art is also a statement of her passion Colombian by birth, New Yorker increase with Port Chester at nearly for preservation and her aversion to by desire, is a mélange of political 50% Hispanic. waste. and religious symbolism, vibrant Uniting communities is a theme Professionally, Cecilia studied colors, found objects and curios in Ms. Yaghoubi’s life as well as painting at the Art Students League, viewed through a passionate prism her art. She views her work as the National Academy of Fine Arts, of memory and story-telling. conversation- starting” provoking the Silvermine Arts Center and Her “assemblages,” in the ongoing dialogue about culture, Westchester Community College. tradition of Marcel Duchamp and (her Hispanic background and her Cecilia premiered her paintings Robert Rauschenberg are edgy, husband’s Iranian one) religion, at “Origenes Latinos/Latin roots” provocative and unexpected pieces (her Catholic roots and the Jewish gallery in Chelsea, NY in 2005 featuring discarded, yet achingly religion which has influenced her and has exhibited throughout New lovely dolls, rich velvets in churchly since moving to Scarsdale 21 years York and Connecticut including the hues of purple and green and found ago) and community. “I want to Silvermine Art Center, Westchester objects symbolizing everything help eliminate the barriers people Art Workshop, Cork Gallery at from the dangers of drunk driving feel about viewing art - intimidating Lincoln Center, the National to over-medicating children and the galleries, the high cost of purchase Academy of Art Museum, the perils of immigrant life. – my art is truly accessible.” Colombian consulate of N.Y. She The Westchester Arts Council This is because much of Yaghoubi’s is also a member of the Westchester at the Arts Exchange will present work focuses on memories and Arts Council. Ms. Yaghoubi’s work at “Open the things we leave behind. “We Studios” Thursday, March 15 with all share the feeling of looking at a reception from 6:00 – 8:30 pm, something that conjures a fond or at which time she will auction off a sad memory, it’s visceral.” Whether piece of her art to benefit the Holy it’s a doll, an old photo, or even the Rosary Church in Port Chester, cache of letters from a father to a dedicated to assisting immigrants, son dating back to the 1800’s, it is particularly day laborers and their

578 Nepperhan Ave, Yonkers O (Just off Saw Mill Parkway) H Space Available 24/7 Acccess Starting at only $400/mon YUp to 16’ Ceiling Heights (all utilities included) Bright Light, Huge Windows 540 / 578 Nepperhan Ave, Yonkers “Yonker’s SOHO” ARTIST & MUSICIAN LOFTS for RENT NEWLY AVAILABLE: 6,000 SF for Gallery, Dance Studio or Gym Manufacturing & Warehouse space also available HeightsRE.com (212) 317 - 1423 ext 625 WESTCHESTER TIMES TRIBUNE MARCH 8, 2007 PAGE 5 A&E • Community • Faith • Sports Broadway Sings for Jenna’s Dream In Seussical The Musical By Tom Bock Watching her well-executed, and Yorktown Heights Students learn. Directors direct. yes, small movements, made her Musicians make music. Youth has character “tick”. Chelsey Alfredo, exuberance, and Kennedy Catholic as JoJo, skillfully performed as High School has the largest stage in well. She was in constant motion Westchester County. Combine all of on stage, throughout the audience these with Dr. Seuss, add in about and during most of her scenes. fifty behind-the-scenes technicians Director’s note: don’t forget to and you have one of the best high breathe. Between her and Ring’s school productions of the season! presence on stage, you won’t help But hurry, the show ends on March but enjoy what is going on. 10th! throughout the show. They reacted Many other remarkable Creating the visual stage to to what was happening on stage in performers and voices added compliment a performance is a big way, their movements were to this show, including Tricia always a struggle. Whether on exaggerated and they complimented Giordano and Veronica Decker to Broadway, in local theater, or a the main actors. I made it point to name two. Coupled with so many school production, it never ceases tell them so before I left the show. others, I found myself sitting on to amaze me when “they” get it Playing a song is something the edge of my seat rapt in pure right. The KCP’s got it right as every musician ultimately will, musical enjoyment and youthful their talented performers matter- can and should be able to do, and amazement. I was never in a high of-factly belied their age and talent do well. Playing a show is much school musical and cannot imagine on opening night. Minimal props, more difficult as there is so much the difficulty of being a student as correctly decorated with just the more to deal with. Performing in well as learning what’s needed to Left to right: Members of Jenna’s DreamChoir - Kevin Gray (Miss Saigon, Phantom Of The Opera, The Lion right touch, made the association a musical might be considered perform in a show such as this. I King); Bob Amral (The Producers, The Lion King,?A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum)?; to Dr. Seuss easily identifiable. the pinnacle achievement for just hope their school work didn’t Alan Campbell (Sunset Blvd., Contact); Cris Groenendaal (Phantom Of The Opera, Sweeney Todd, A Funny Remarkably, the biggest snafu the a musician. Under the musical suffer while they mastered this Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum); Glory Crampton (Fantasticks, Kopit/Yeston Phantom); Traci audience even witnessed was one direction of Charles Gray, the pit, craft. Jai Edwards (Hairspray); Colleen Hawks (Smokey Joe’s Cafe, The Boy From Oz); and Craig Schulman (Les or two failed microphones during which was strategically set in front The students learned well, Miserables, Phantom Of The Opera, Jekyll & Hyde). the show. of stage right, nailed their part of the director directed well, the YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, NY attend summer theatre arts programs All proceeds of the evening Under the direction of Deborah the show. When I spoke with him, musicians made music well and of – “Jenna’s Dream” presents their 6th and scholarships to outstanding high will benefit the Jenna’s Dream Spahr-Puja the stage was a he commented on his “ringers”. course, youth still has exuberance. Annual Benefit Concert, Broadway school seniors who are planning to scholarship program, which constant sea of motion, sound and While I could certainly hear them, Kennedy Catholic High School still Sings for Jenna’s Dream, starring attend college in a performing arts provides opportunities for children expression. Stage performing needs it was the students who amazed me has the largest stage in Westchester Craig Schulman and other stars from program. Jenna’s Dream regularly to attend summer theatre arts to be exaggerated, often described the most. These young musicians County. Now, it also has one of hit Broadway shows at Yorktown contributes to the Make-A-Wish camp and for high school seniors as “bigger than life”, or “over the performed well. The percussion the largest musicals on its stage. Stage on Saturday, March 10 at Foundation, The Caring Circle to continue their education in the top”. I was impressed with the lead section, driven by the talented You may not like greens eggs and 8:00 pm. and the Maria Fareri Children’s performing arts. For details, visit players, but two ensemble players, JFK drummer Joe Spinelli, helped ham, but I guarantee you’ll like, Craig Schulman, star of Les Hospital. www.jennasdream.org. in particular, were “bigger than the orchestra maintain their pace. Seussical the Musical. And, no, I Miserables, Jekyll & Hyde, This popular concert will also Tickets: Adults $50; seniors and life” throughout the show. One Not too loud, not too soft, Gray’s won’t do any rhymes… and Phantom of the Opera, feature Jenna’s DreamChoir, a students $35. Yorktown Stage is was a shorter, dark-haired girl addition to the show was exactly hosts an extraordinary roster of professionally trained youth choir located in the Yorktown Community with the “black-dress” ensemble where it needed to be. Tom Bock has performed in Broadway stars, culminating in an consisting of young adults aged 10 Cultural Center, 1940 Commerce and the other was a blond in the Ellen Ring performed the movies, television, on stage and unforgettable rendition of “Music to 18, created to benefit “Jenna’s Street Yorktown Heights, NY. “yellow top, white pants” ensemble part of The Cat in the Hat. Tall, as a drummer. He is the official of the Night” sung by a trio of Dream.” Steve Calleran from For tickets and information call (apologies for not getting their effervescent, “bigger than life”, with entertainment reviewer for the fabulous Phantoms. Westchester Broadway Theatre (914) 962-0606 or visit www. names). These girls excelled with a capable voice, her performance Westchester Times Tribune and The aim of Jenna’s Dream is to in Elmsford will be the Master of yorktownstage.org. their performances and stood out mushroomed as she went on. YonkersTribune.com. provide funds for at-risk children to Ceremonies for the evening. Westy’s Storage Centers Purchase College Students Raising Support for Host Volunteer Drive for Environment and Charity From Page 1 Leaders. “Purchase College deposit beverage containers end up and cleaner communities.” “New Empire State Games in were left out of the program because students are here today to collect in recycling bins. In contrast, 80% York legislators need to take they were not popular in 1982 when donations that will directly benefit of deposit containers are recycled this opportunity to approve the the original law was passed. The the disabled here in Westchester - 70% through the bottle bill, and Bigger Better Bottle Bill in the Westchester proposed “Bigger Better Bottle County. Going door-to-door in the another 10% through curbside state budget. This updated Bill ELMSFORD, NY -- The prestigious The Empire State Games is a Bill” would also require beverage grassroots spirit is a great way to programs. will improve the environment, Empire State Games, the largest multi-sport event for amateur distributors to transfer unclaimed get the larger community informed “25 years ago no one thought clean up our community and amateur sports competition second athletes ages 13 to 75 that will take bottle deposits to the state to support and involved.” that we would be drinking bring in much needed funds for only to the Olympics, is coming to place on July 25 through 29 this local environmental programs The original bottle bill was passed so much bottled water,” said local environmental programs,” Westchester this summer for the summer, attracting more than 6,000 around the state, including parks, in 1982 and is New York’s most Alicia Stychek, Environmental said Dana Frasz NYPIRG Project first time, and you can be part of athletes and some 15,000 spectators. open space, and curbside recycling. successful recycling and litter Project Leader. “Non-carbonated Coordinator. the action by signing up to become More than 1,000 volunteers are This would generate more than prevention program. However, it beverage containers make up a a volunteer at one of three Westy’s needed to serve in a variety of $180 million a year for the State doesn’t include non-carbonated disproportionate amount of the litter Winning photo from the Purchase Storage Centers in Westchester on capacities from scorekeepers and Environmental Protection Fund beverages, which now make up more in our parks, beaches, and other College Bigger Better Bottle Bill three Saturdays during March. medical assistance, to sport support (EPF). than 25% of the beverage market. public spaces. The Bigger Better photo contest. Image by Katelyn Volunteer information and forms and work in the media center and “This is just a great common sense As a result, most water, sports Bottle Bill would ensure that most Lowery points out that there is will be available, from 9 a.m. to 1 communications. issue for so many people,” said drinks and other non-carbonated of those containers get recycled, a lot of money to be made from p.m., every day, on the following For more information about Daniel Tracy, one of NYPIRG’s beverage containers end up in the instead of trashed. It really is a bottles. dates and locations: the Empire State Games in Hunger and Homelessness Project garbage or litter. Only 20% of non- win-win situation: more recycling • March 10: 395 Saw Mill River Westchester or to download Road, Elmsford (914) 347-8888 an application, log on to www. • March 17: 65 Marbledale Road, empirestategameswestchester.com Tuckahoe (914) 793-0000 or call the county parks department Classic Residence Gifts Chairs • March 24: 299 Boston Post Road, at (914) 864-7091. Port Chester (914) 935-3333 to Senior Center They May Attack, But We Know Better Synod, after struggling for a few From Page 1 years over the issue of whether of Africa where Christianity is clergy can pray and worship in the fastest-growing religion. No public with those of other faiths – a matter the slings or arrows shot at fight that is not over in the minds the Christian Church, it of many clergymen, a still remains a growing church in Michigan has entity on the world started a controversy stage. when they announced The Church does, they are running a however, face Sunday sermon series difficulties not only on sex, with some from people like topics such as, “The Cameron, but also Greatest Sex You’ll from within its doors. Ever Have,” and “Porn: Church denominations are trying to What’s the Big Deal?” Some within work through an overarching issue the Synod think that this it tawdry of whether they should remain and disgraceful. faithful to their core beliefs or To mention a non-doctrinal area, make those doctrines “flexible,” who can forget the disgraceful John Muzio, Executive Director of Classic Residence by Hyatt in Yonkers, NY and Kathy Moran, allowing the secular world to pedophilia scandal in the Roman Director of the Office of Aging Services in Yonkers, stand beside (from left to right) Mary Merritt dictate beliefs. For example: Catholic Church? The San Diego and Marie Ruggiero.at the Yonkers senior center located at 2 Park Avenue shortly after a gift of • The Episcopal Church in Diocese filed for bankruptcy 150 dining room chairs from Classic Residence were delivered on March 1st. America is facing being thrown because it has been spending so out of the Anglican Union for their much money in settling lawsuit. promotion of homosexual clergy. Yet, through these problems, the If the American Episcopal Church Church still stands. It is still growing. NY Mets Step Up To the Plate in Port Saint Lucie doesn’t heed the warnings of their It is still preaching salvation through international body and they are faith in Jesus Christ. Faith is what tossed out later this year, some within saves and faith is what guides us the Anglican Union want to return as our beliefs are attacked. We to the Roman Catholic Church. cannot forget the blessed message • On the same level, the Evangelical from Saint Matthew’s gospel when, Lutheran Church in America following Saint Peter’s recognition is battling similar issues over that Jesus is indeed the Son of God homosexuality in their clergy and the long-promised Messiah, ranks. An openly gay pastor in Jesus responded, “And I tell you, Georgia was tossed from their you are Peter, and on this rock I will clergy ranks this year. But the build my church, and the gates of committee that gave the pastor the hell shall not prevail against it.” boot urges their national church The church is sustained on faith body to reconsider their current in Christ. The attacks have come stance on rejecting homosexual and will continue to come. But yet clergy. They have a convention this the Church is built on that rock of NY Mets in Pt Saint Lucie, as the pitchers take batting practice. Tom Glavine signing autographs for some fans in Pt Saint Lucie summer and will take up this topic. faith, a rock that is as strong today • During the past couple of years, as it was then when our Lord Jesus the Southern Baptist Convention spoke those words. has turned from allowing Rev. Iovine is pastor at Saint female clergy to now rejecting Matthew’s Lutheran Church in it, raising the question of the New Milford, NJ. You can read role of women in the church. more of his writings at www. • My Lutheran Church-Missouri stmatthewsnj.org/blog WESTCHESTER TIMES TRIBUNE MARCH 8, 2007 PAGE 6

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For your new computer, why settle for the same old Internet service? Especially now that the fiber-optic power of Verizon FiOS Internet is here. It’s America’s Save over top-rated Internet service.* And it’s got the speed you need to get the most from the Net. $299 Go ahead. Stream video. Play games. Or check out your favorite blog. It’s easy a year on our with our supercharged 20/5 Mbps package. And now, when you add unlimited 20/5 Mbps Internet Service calling, you can save over $299 a year.** Plus, Home Voice Mail, Caller ID and Call and Unlimited Calling.** Waiting are included. So why keep your old cable connection? Make the switch to Verizon FiOS today.

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Verizon reminds you to always download legally. *Please see Broadband Reports, www.broadbandreports.com/forum/remark,17591597. **Limited-time promotional offer expires 4/24/07. $299 bundle price savings requires annual commitment and purchase of Verizon FiOS Internet 20/5 Mbps service and Verizon Freedom EssentialsSM service. Discount based on the comparison of the bundle price of $64.99/mo. and list price combination of $49.99/mo. for the FiOS Internet 20/5 Mbps service and $39.99/mo. Freedom Essentials service over 12 months. Prices may vary by location. Customer must be new to Verizon FiOS Internet and/or Freedom Essentials service. $19.99 activation fee will apply to each FiOS Internet order. Beginning month 13, bundle price will increase to sum of standard monthly service prices of Freedom Essentials and FiOS Internet 20 Mbps/5 Mbps service. Verizon FiOS Internet service is provided by Verizon Online and is not available in all areas. Service availability subject to final confirmation by Verizon. Verizon installation required. Free installation includes main computer only (there will be an extra charge for all additional computers). Acceptance of Verizon Online Terms of Service is required. Minimum system requirements apply. Equipment provided will be new or a fully inspected, tested and warranted return unit. Limited to one router provided at no charge per household per FiOS service, FiOS Internet and/or FiOS TV. If service is cancelled between months 2 and 12, $69 early termination fee may apply, and router provided at no charge must be returned or $99.99 ® ® equipment fee applies. Month-to-month packages are available. The 30-day money-back guarantee applies to Verizon Online charges only. CAT5 or higher-grade inside wiring or existing RG59/RG6 coaxial cable is required. Only Web-based features of Verizon Yahoo! for FiOS are Macintosh compatible. Software for MSN® Premium versions of Verizon FiOS is not Macintosh compatible. Connection speeds are between your location and the Verizon central office serving your location. Actual download and upload speeds will vary based on numerous factors, such as the condition of wiring at your location, computer configuration, Internet and network congestion, and the speed of Web site servers you access, among other factors. Speed and uninterrupted use of the service are not guaranteed. Current Verizon Online DSL customers who move to FiOS Internet service will have their Verizon Online DSL permanently disabled after their FiOS conversion. With subscription to Verizon Freedom Essentials, you must retain Verizon as your local provider and Verizon Long Distance as your long distance provider. Verizon Freedom Essentials plan includes domestic direct-dialed calls only. Billing name and address must be the same on all Verizon accounts for charges to be on one bill. Customers must be authorized to make changes to all accounts. Universal Service Fee, taxes and other charges apply. Tariffs apply to some services. Available only to residential customers in selected areas. Service not available in all areas or on all telephone lines and is subject to final confirmation of services by Verizon. Additional terms and conditions apply. Applicable taxes apply. Offer subject to change without notice. Valid through 4/24/07. Power for services provided on the Verizon FiOS network must be supplied by the customer. Customer is responsible for backup battery replacement. Backup battery does not supply power for Internet, VOIP, or video services. In case of power failure, 911 service (except through VOIP) will be available until the backup battery expires. Certain telephones, answering machines and other telephone equipment not meeting industry standards may not work with service provided on the Verizon FiOS network. ©2007 Verizon. All Rights Reserved. DS-N0069-A

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