Mamaroneck REVIEW THE
March 8, 2024 | Vol. 10, Number 10 | www.mamaroneckreview.com
Latimer kicks off free tax return preparation program for working families and individuals CHAMPIONSHIP DOUBLE HEADER Brianne Foley goes up for a layup against RC Ketcham in the Class AAA title game at the Westchester County Center on March 3. New Rochelle’s boys and girls both vied for Section 1 crowns but ultimately fell short in the finals. For story, see page 16. Photo/Mike Smith
Westchester County Tourism announces new travel guide Westchester County Tourism & Film’s official travel and meeting guide is hot off the press. Brimming with beautiful photos, crisp graphics, and fresh content, the 60-page guide is a treasure trove for both visitors and residents and showcases the County’s extensive offerings. Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “We have a thriving tourism and travel industry in Westchester County that generates $2 billion annually, supports thousands of jobs and provides millions in tax revenue for the local
economy. The destination guide is one of the many tools used to promote the many businesses that benefit from travel, tourism and visitor spending in our County.” Overflowing with Westchester’s iconic sites and venues as well as extensive details on events and activities, the guide makes travel planning easy. This indispensable resource outlines everything from Westchester’s exquisite hotels and conference centers to the must-try dining scene, exceptional arts and cultural attractions, outstanding
entertainment, outdoor adventures and plentiful shopping. The fold-out map enables visitors to quickly plan itineraries that cover multiple points of interest. Director of Tourism & Film Natasha Caputo said: “Whether you’re looking for family fun, cultural activities, conference space, group tour opportunities, team-building programs, a great spot for dining, or a romantic getaway, the Westchester Destination Guide will help you plan an unforgettable experience for business or leisure travel.”
On Tuesday, Westchester County Executive George Latimer and the Westchester-Putnam Workforce Development Board (WPWDB) hosted a kickoff event at SUNY Westchester Community College Yonkers for the County’s annual Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The VITA program helps low- and moderate-income individuals and families eligible for the Federal Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) file their taxes for free. The program also provides help for people with disabilities, senior citizens, and those for whom English is a second language. VITA relies on dedicated volunteers to act as greeters, and assist with translation and call-center operations. Tax preparation is done by IRS-certified volunteers with free electronic filing. The program is operating now through April 15 at nine locations throughout Westchester and the Bronx. Residents can call 211 or 1-800-899-1479 to schedule an appointment at one of nine locations listed below. In 2023, the Westchester VITA program helped 1,759 residents. A total of $2.2 million federal and state refunds were received by Westchester residents. Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “What started as a small program in 1969, to help the IRS increase taxpayer education, has evolved
into a critical resource for lowand moderate-income taxpayers. Today, the VITA program ensures accurate tax returns, equitable access to the tax code, and needed tax refunds for our working families and individuals who most need them. It also serves to boost the local economy; it’s estimated that about 80% of refunds are spent locally, generating sales, wages, and jobs.” The program is delivered through a collaboration of partners who worked diligently to coordinate the day-to-day operations—2-1-1 Hudson Valley/ United Way of Westchester and Putnam; the IRS; Westchester County Government; Westchester Community College, Valhalla and Cross County Campuses; Mercy University, Dobbs Ferry and Bronx Campuses; Ossining High School; Ossining Youth Bureau; Westchester Jewish Community Services; and the Westchester-Putnam Career Center Network. Call 211 or 1-800-899-1479 to make an appointment at one of the nine locations listed. VITA Free Tax Prep Program Runs from February 2 through April 15 Volunteer tax preparer and language translator assistance runs from February 2 through April 15 and is available at the sites below. Call 211 or (800) 899-1479 to make an appointment at one of the Westchester County VITA/EITC Tax Assistance locations.