WCP_40926

The Westchester County Press Post Office Box 152, White Plains, NY 10602

97 YEARS

VOL. XCVII NO. 15

County Press The Westchester

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID WHITE PLANS, NY PERMIT # 5069

“Documenting Our History for the Future.”

ISSN 0043-3373

THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 2026

MEMBER OF NNPA

“Serving as Superintendent has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators, families and community partners.”

Dr. David Mauricio PEEKSKILL, NY -- APRIL 7, 2026 -- The Peekskill City School District announced recently that Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Mauricio has submitted his letter of retirement to the Peekskill Board of Education, concluding a distinguished 32-year career in education. His official last day with the District will be December 31, 2026.

“With great sadness, the Board of Education accepts Dr. Mauricio’s request to retire after more than three decades of service to students and families and eight years leading Peekskill Schools,” said Board of Education President Mrs. Jillian Villon. “While we deeply respect his decision, this is not a retirement we had hoped to see so soon. We are sincerely grateful that he has agreed to extend his retirement timeline and continue his service to our district by helping us to navigate a thoughtful leadership transition through December 2026, demonstrating once again his unwavering commitment to our students, staff and community.”

Since joining the Peekskill community in 2018, Dr. Mauricio has led the District through a period of growth, innovation and transformation focused on improving opportunities and outcomes for students.

Under his leadership and with the support of the Board of Education, the District advanced its strategic vision through the “Peekskill Prom-

DR. DAVID MAURICIO

Superintendent Announces Retirement After More Than Three Decades Serving School Communities ise”, which emphasizes strong academics, student wellness, family engagement and community partnerships as its foundation.

During Dr. Mauricio’s tenure, the District strengthened academic programming, expanded early childhood education, increased access to STEAM learning, enhanced social-emotional supports, broadened arts and athletics programs and added enrichment opportunities for all students. Other initiatives launched under Dr. Mauricio’s guidance include expanded Dual-Language programs, full day Pre-K for all, monthly Saturday Academy events, and the My Brother’s Keeper/My Sister’s Keep-

er programs.

Significant capital improvements were also completed during his time as Superintendent, transforming facilities across the District. These projects included the development of a STEAM Innovation Center and classrooms, new learning and clinical spaces, an athletic complex at Torpy Field, theater upgrades, new cafeterias and kitchens, enhanced technology infrastructure, new outdoor learning areas, playgrounds, and

SUPERINTENDENT, Cont’d. on page 2

Digital Copy: www.westchestercountypress.com

2 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026

Superintendent Announces Retirement After More Than Three Decades Serving School Communities

Superintendent of Peekskill Schools Dr. David Mauricio receives a standing ovation for his work at the district.

the transformation of a former firehouse into a Family Resource Center. Additional capital projects currently underway will add modernized classrooms, a new high school entryway, wellness spaces, solar energy, and sustainable infrastructure improvements

designed to benefit students and the broader community for years to come.

Reflecting on his retirement decision, the Superintendent expressed gratitude to the Board of Education, staff, families, elected officials and community

partners for their collaboration and commitment to student success throughout his time in Peekskill.

“The Peekskill community is defined by its heart, pride and dedication to children,” he shared.

“Serving as Superintendent has been one of the greatest honors of my career, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated educators, families and community partners.

It has been a wonderful place to raise my family and serve the community. My wife and I will focus on caring for our parents in their golden years.”

The Superintendent will continue to serve in his role through the end of 2026 and will work closely with the Board of Education to support a smooth leadership transition.

The Board is expected to begin the process of selecting the District’s next superintendent in the coming months.

After retirement, he plans to remain engaged in community service while dedicating time to his family.

Westchester County Board of Legislators Supports Community-Based Organizations WHITE PLAINS, NY—Westchester County Legislator Erika L. Pierce (D–Bedford, Lewisboro, Mount Kisco, North Salem, Pound Ridge, Somers) presented $21,600 in County funding to Friends of Karen, a North Salem-based nonprofit that assists families with children facing life-threatening illnesses. Pierce delivered a ceremonial “big check” on behalf of the Board of Legislators, affirming the Board’s commitment to uplift the County’s children and families.

Friends of Karen (FOK) serves families with a child undergoing treatment for cancer or another lifethreatening condition. The 501(c) (3) nonprofit provides critical emotional, financial, and advocacy sup-

port to help families, all at no cost.

The County’s 2026 funding will help FOK continue offering psychosocial support, case management, and financial assistance to families who have lost income due to their child’s illness.

Since its founding in 1978, FOK has served the families of nearly 19,000 children. In 2025, nearly a third of the families served had an income below poverty level and 52% had an annual income of $50,000 or less. The need for these is families is acute, particularly as the cost of essentials such as food and medicine continues to rise. FOK provides critiLegislator Erika Pierce presents check to Friends of Karen.

LEGISLATORS, Cont’d. on page 11

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, ,2026 • 3

County Youth Bureau and Youth Board Hosted Annual Sheroes Awards–Celebrating Incredible Women WHITE PLAINS, NY -- In honor of Women’s History Month, the Westchester County Youth Bureau and Youth Board proudly hosted it’s annual Sheroes Awards– celebrating incredible women who are making a lasting impact on children, youth, and families across Westchester County.

This year, the Bureau and the Board recognized three outstanding leaders: Sade Gilcrest, YMCA of Yonkers, Kerry Whenlan-Megley, Family Ties of Westchester, and Tiffany S.W. Hamilton, YWCA White Plains and Central Westchester.

Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins shared: “The Sheroes Awards celebrate women whose leadership and dedication strengthen our communities, inspire future generations, and elevate the importance of supporting youth and families.”

Youth Bureau Executive Director Ernest McFadden added: “During Women’s History Month, we honor women who uplift and empower young people. These honorees exemplify the impact of collaboration and service in our community.”

Youth Board Chair Dr. Alexandria Connally reminded us: “Sheroes are more than achievers–they are courageous, resilient trailblazers shaping the future and lifting others as they rise.”

Congratulations again to our 2026 Sheroes Award recipients.

Send your comments to the editor.

4 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026

Letter to the Editor: Greenburgh Mentoring Program Next Speaker Kenny Herzog April 16 at 7 PM open to all Dear Editor: A few months ago I announced plans to mentor young people who are in their 20s and 30s who want to become future leaders of our town. We meet monthly by zoom.

The mentoring program is open to Democrats, Republicans -anyone who wants to learn how to make a positive difference in public service. We don’t discuss local political issues or campaigns- but provide tips on how to become effective advocates and how to get involved in the political processes.

Each month we hear from different speakers. Our most recent speaker was Luke Powell, the Governor’s regional representative, and a former deputy regional director for US Senator Chuck Schumer.

The Westchester

County Press

(ISSN 0043-3373) is published weekly on Thursday in White Plains, New York. Copies: 40¢. Yearly Subscription: $25.00, two years: $45.00. National Advertising representative: National Newspaper Publishers Association. Local and national advertising rates on request.

Paper founded August 1, 1928 to serve the County of Westchester, New York.

Sandra T. Blackwell President, Publisher & Editor Carolyn B. Coleman Vice President Alyce T. Coleman Executive Editor

On April 16th at 7 PM we will hear from Tarrytown Village Trustee Kenny Herzog, an aide to Legislator David Imamura. Kenny has also been involved in the Covid Angels program and a program he started #VaxupWestchester. Kenny also volunteered for the Greenburgh snow angels program. He will talk about his public service activities and activism.

If you would like to join our mentoring program and be invited to attend all future sessions, please e mail me at pfeiner@greenburghny. com. Although the program is designed to encourage young people in their 20s and 30s to get involved – it is open to older residents as well.

Who knows—one of the participants may one day be Governor of NY. A US Senator or future Town Supervisor.

PAUL FEINER Greenburgh Town Supervisor P.S. Stay informed. Sign up for email alerts about the Town of Greenburgh by clicking https:// www.greenburghny.com/list.aspx There is a new “Public Hearings Alert” solely to notify you of all public hearings scheduled by the Greenburgh Town Board, Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals. Enter your email address and click on “Public Hearings Alert” on the list to get the public hearing alerts.

Bruce L. Bozeman, Esq. Legal Counsel Celeste Coleman-Housey, Ed.D. Art Director/Managing Editor Editorial & Advertising Offices P.O. Box 152 White Plains, NY 10602

Telephone:(914) 953-2620 Member: National Newspaper Publishers Association

Send your comments to the editor.

PUBLISHER

1986-2009

M. Paul Tells All

By M. Paul Redd, Sr. August 11, 1928 - January 9, 2009

Black Press Celebrates Ties to Black Church in Annual Sunday Service

By Alexis Taylor, AFRO Managing Editor THE AFRO — The Black Press has sustained itself, keeping the mission alive even when faced with a variety of weapons formed against it. Early Black media professionals faced intimidation, sabotage and even death for the words and images they printed. The AFRO, for example, was founded August 13,1892 just months after The Free Speech and Headlight, a publication coowned by teacher and activist Ida B. Wells, was burned to the ground on May 27, 1892.

Emerging on March 16, 1827, with the debut of “Freedom’s Journal,” the Black Press was started by the intellect, hard work, and courage of John Russworm and Rev. Samuel Cornish.

Though Russworm was born in Jamaica in 1799 and Cornish was a free man born to free parents in Delaware in 1795, the two began their endeavor with one top goal in mind.

Sign up for our Daily eBlast to get coverage on Black communities from the media company that has been doing it right for over 133 years.

“We wish to plead our own cause,” they proclaimed together, in the first edition of the publication. “Too long have others spoken for us. Too long has the public been deceived by misrepresentations, in things which concern us dearly…”

Shown here is a copy of the first Black newspaper, “Freedom’s Journal.” The four-column offering, created in New York City by John Russwurm and Samuel Cornish, was first published on March 16, 1827. Credit: Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.

The Black Press has sustained it-

self, keeping the mission alive even when faced with a variety of weapons formed against it. Early Black media professionals faced intimidation, sabotage, and even death for the words and images they printed. The AFRO, for example, was founded on August 13, 1892, just months after The Free Speech and Headlight, a publication co-owned by teacher and activist Ida B. Wells, was burned to the ground on May 27, 1892.

In the 1940’s, dozens of Black papers, including The Baltimore AFRO, were surveilled by FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, who desperately wanted to charge members of the Black Press with sedition or anything he could for informing and organizing Black people to make change.

Now, 199 years later, journalists, editors, publishers, photographers, and media professionals at large fight daily on behalf of Black communities for justice and equality, record Black history, entertain the masses, and moderate policy and social discussions focused on change. Today’s Black newspapers are working to keep up with consumer trends and integrate technology as it evolves.

Though many things have changed for the Black Press, some– like government-sanctioned divestment– have remained the same.

“The issues of today really have not changed. They’ve changed in how we report, but we are still dealing with inequities. We’re still dealing with racism. We’re still dealing with a higher proportion of certain diseases impacting our community,” said Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, AFRO News Publisher and CEO. “We’re still dealing not only with the

BLACK PRESS, Cont’d on pages 6 & 7

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, ,2026 • 5

STEAM Academy students learn about the world of law through Mock Trial

Mock Trial team with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Demario Strickland.

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. (April 8, 2026) —Mount Vernon STEAM Academy’s Mock Trial team finished their second year competing across Westchester County strong, placing eighth overall while gaining real-world skills, confidence and a deeper understanding of the justice system.

Mock Trial competitions challenge students to analyze legal cases prepared by the state program and argue them before real judges and legal professionals, offering an authentic courtroom experience that extends beyond the classroom.

Senior DanaMarie Galindo, co-founder, was inspired to start the club so her and her classmates can further discover their passion for law. “I just created the club for people to actually practice their public speaking, to see if they’re actually interested in law,” she said.

The program is advised by English teacher Ashley Wallace, and mentored by Corporation Counsel for the City of Mount Vernon Brian G. Johnson. Mr. Johnson serves as the team’s rep-

resenting attorney, guiding students through case strategies, courtroom procedures and legal reasoning.

Mr. Johnson advises students and provides feedback to them before trials against other schools. Many students practice and prepare at home, while collaborating after school. Mr. Johnson was eager to mentor students, having such positive mentors throughout his career.

“I love people excited about the law and having an experience in the courtroom,” Mr. Johnson said. “This is so fulfilling for me, being able to give back. I had a lot of great mentors, and so giving back is really important for me.”

STEAM Academy’s Mock Trial team excelled during their first preliminary round of the New York State High School Mock Trial Competition held at Westchester County Courthouse. The team opened the competition, presenting the defense side of the case.

Defense attorneys included sophomore Vidhi Goel and seniors

Brian Johnson, Corporation Counsel for the City of Mount Vernon with student.

Zachary Cotto and Madyson Powell, while witnesses, freshman Leia Forman and sophomore Isabel Nava Ferreira, delivered testimony. Senior Tatiana Santiful served as a timekeeper, and sophomore Alana Diggs portrayed the defendant, helping bring the courtroom simulation to life.

Following their strong performance in the preliminary rounds, the team continued their impressive run, advancing into the top 16 and ultimately earning a place among the top eight teams in Westchester County.

“I think overall the season went a lot better. You can hear and see the differences in maturity from last year first going into a courtroom,” Zachary said, “The overall court presence was different. We kind of took more control of the courtroom.”

Competing against the region’s most competitive programs, students were recognized for their outstanding achievements during a ceremony at STEAM Academy with Mr. Johnson, Ms. Wallace,

MOCK TRIAL,

Cont’d. on page 11

6 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026

Black Press Celebrates Ties to Black Church in Annual Sunday Service

By Alexis Taylor, AFRO Managing Editor

miseducation of the Negro– but the undereducation, as people seek to pull out books and other things from schools.”

“Those things are important, and it’s important to advocate,” said Draper. “The economic issues are still there. The inequities are everywhere.”

In 2026, Draper said members of the Black Press are tasked with covering local, national, and international news with a Black angle that matters to the Black community.

“Black consumers have some unique interests and unique challenges that you don’t expect the mainstream press to cover–they can’t–that’s why it’s important to have Black-owned press,” said Draper.

Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes said those who take up the fight for the Black Press today can draw strength from those who overcame the challenges of the past.

“They’ve basically laid a road map for us. We just have to stay strong, committed, and dedicated to make sure that we are passing the baton along to others who understand and appreciate the value that we give to our community,” said Barnes. “As long as we don’t forget the mission and we keep reflecting on our ancestors and the work that they did, I think going forward is not as heavy a burden as we feel that it might be today.”

The two publishers came together almost 199 years to the day of the Black Press’ founding for Black Press Sunday, which preceded the Black Press Week celebration held from March 16 to March 20. The service was held in Washington, D.C., on March 15 at Metropolitan AME Church. Each year, the occasion represents the strong tie between the Black Church and the publications that worked hand in hand with faith institutions to inform and uplift the Black community.

“There is a symbiotic relationship between the Black Press and the Black Church because every-

Shown here is a copy of the first Black newspaper, “Freedom’s Journal.” The four-column offering, created in New York City by John Russwurm and Samuel Cornish, was first published on March 16, 1827. Credit: Image courtesy of the Library of Congress.

thing the Black Church has done–for good or for ill– the clusion, beauty, and they have shared what we’ve been at Black Press has reported,” said Rev. William H. Lamar our worst. And all of it has to be recorded.”

IV, Metropolitan AME pastor. “They have shared where “The Black Press also helped to move us ahead powe have been at our best, fighting for justice, equity, in- litically when the radical Black folks were saying, ‘Y’all

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, ,2026 • 7

Black Press Celebrates Ties to Black Church in Annual Sunday Service

By Alexis Taylor, AFRO Managing Editor

Members of the Black Press come together for Black Press Sunday in Washington, D.C. Credit: Courtesy photo.

need to do what’s right, or we’re going to burn this down,’ and the more moderate people were saying, ‘We will play within the confines of the system.’ The Black Press held us together ideologically, politically, and socially. There is no healthy Black Church without a healthy Black Press, because both are called to the vocation of truth-telling.”

This year, the sermon focused on how Biblical Prophet Elijah prepared his successor, Elisha, to step into his shoes. Lamar encouraged Black media professionals to train up the next generation so well that they can proudly step up and carry on the Black Press no matter what comes their way.

Philip Lewis, president of the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ), said he was heartened by the message.

“I know we’re on the right path by making sure that students are doing what they need to do to become the next journalists. I’m excited about it,” said Philip Lewis, president of the Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ). ”WABJ is in a unique position, especially in the nation’s capital, to advocate and support our journalists and continue to grow.”

“The Black Press is just as important today as it was 199 years ago,” he continued. “And even in the most extremely fractured time…I think it’s important that we have our own spaces where we can focus on stories that we care about. It’s important for us to be able to plead our own cause.”

As the Black Press Sunday festivities came to a close, Draper reflected on what her own ancestors would say if they could see the Black Press at 199 years.

“I think our ancestors, first of all, would say, ‘Wow, 199 years. That’s a long time.’ We celebrate the 1827 founding of Freedom’s Journal, and while it didn’t last but a few years or so, the impact was immeasurable,” she said. “I think the ancestors would say, ‘Look what has survived with a few resources.’

“If they could do it with a few resources, I think they would tell us, ‘Don’t complain about what you don’t have–use what you do. You might not be able to tell every story, but whatever story you tell, tell it well, make sure that it has an impact and that you’re doing something to really uplift and inform the commu- Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, AFRO News Publisher and CEO, shares a moment on Black Press Sunday with Dorothy Gilliam, the first Black reporter at The Washington Post. Crednity.’” it: AFRO Photo / Alexis Taylor.

8 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026

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10 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026

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The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, ,2026 • 11

LEGISLATORS, Cont’d. from page 2

cal emotional, financial, and advocacy support to help families remain stable during extraordinarily difficult circumstances.

Legislator Erika Pierce said, “Friends of Karen provides critical support to families facing the unthinkable. With the benefit of decades of experience, their trained staff assists families as they try to negotiate the medical system, providing mental health supports, camp scholarships, school supplies, and other daily needs, including rent and transportation, for the entire family, often for many years. Their efforts can keep a family from losing their home and allow them the space to celebrate holidays and other family milestones.

We are grateful for them and the work they do and thrilled to partner with them in these efforts.”

Executive Director Stefanie Ortiz-Cidlik said, “We are deeply thankful to Legislator Pierce for recognizing that medical care is only one part of a family’s journey when facing a child’s life-threatening illness. This support means that families can focus entirely on their child’s health rather than the fear of losing their home or falling behind on bills. With a Friends of Karen social worker by their side, they gain a compassionate partner to help carry the weight of an unimaginably difficult time.”

To apply for help from Friends of Karen, the parent or guardian of a child with a life-threatening illness should call Friends of Karen call the Family Support Team at (914) 617-4057. More information can be found at the Friends of Karen website: friendsofkaren.org.

MOCK TRIAL, Cont’d. from page 5

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Demario Strickland, and Assistant Principal Anjanette Brown.

During this, Ms. Wallace praised students for their hard work and dedication throughout the season, emphasizing her delight of seeing students develop a passion for law through the program.

“I was so happy to be their advisor and I’m very, very proud of them,” she said. “This is a wonderful group of students, and I know if I ever get in trouble, I have many lawyers.”

Students showed their appreciation towards Mr. Johnson and all that he has done to help guide them by giving him a plaque and a thank you card to share their gratitude.

With the season coming to an end, students are full STEAM ahead, building momentum for future competitions next year.

CALENDAR, Cont’d. from page 14 In amity, The Steering Committee Sunday, April 26 Race Amity of Northern Westchester and Putnam is very pleased to partner with members of the Yorktown/Somers Interfaith Council to offer this special program “Supporting Our Immigrant Neighbors” on Sunday, April 26th at 2:00 at the First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown, 2880 Crompond Road in Yorktown.

Please RSVP here: tinyurl.com/ yc83eef2. Refreshments will be served Discussion will follow the presentation. We welcome you to come learn with our community!

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Friday, May 1

May 1st - Law Day! The Rule of Law And the American Dream. In the month of May, Courts, Judges, Law clerks, Court officers, Police officers and local practicing attorneys will engage students in grades 9-12 and discuss their role in our legal system. This year the Peekskill City Court, Peekskill Police Department and the NAACP, Peekskill Branch #2170 will be celebrating Law Day at the courthouse located at: 2 Nelson Avenue, Peekskill NY from 12-2 p.m.

12 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026

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The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, ,2026 • 13

Missed your printed copy of The Westchester County Press?

Get a COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL COPY sent to your email

Email us: westchestercountypress@yahoo.com

14 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026

Community Calendar

CALENDAR SUBMISSION: Please use a brief paragraph to describe your event. The paragraph should include event name, date(s), time, location and contact information. Send calendar information via email to westchestercountypress@yahoo.com. Please type “CALENDAR EVENT” in the subject bar.

Thursday, April 9

Westchester County Fair Housing Board Meeting will be held on Thursday, April 9 at 6 p.m., in the Human Rights Commission Conference Room, 112 East Post Road, 3rd Floor, White Plains, NY 10601. Members of the public may view this meeting online at: meetings.westchestercountyny.gov

Thursday, April 9

Westchester County Human Rights Commission Board Meeting on Thursday, April 9 at 6:45pm in the Human Rights Commission Conference Room. 112 East Post Road, 3rd Floor in White Plains, NY 10601 Members of the public may view this meeting online at: meetings.westchestercountyny. gov

Saturday, April 11-

The Laymen’s Auxiliary of the Central Hudson Baptist Association invites you to join in honoring a few “Men of Integrity” from within our Hudson Valley and surrounding communities. The 15th Annual “Men of Integrity Banquet” which celebrates men with a “heart to serve their church and community”, will be held at the Villa Borghese, located at 70 Widmere Place, Wappingers Falls, N. Y. Doors open at 11:30am.

Tickets are $75 for adults, $50 for youth (12 and under). For tickets and information please contact Rev. William Wallker at 914-582-2090 or the Event Chairman, Deacon Jermaine Garrant at (914) 439-1795.

ALL ARE WELCOME

Sunday, April 12,

From 2:00 - 5:00 PM at the Old Dutch Church, 272 Wall St., Kingston. Screening of “Jenin’s Freedom Theatre,” a film about actors who put their safety at risk in order to envision a future beyond Israeli occupation. Includes live interview with General Manager Mustafa Sheta.

Free admission and community reflection/discussion after the film.

perts, and gain practical tools for managing their digital lives. Earn a Certificate of Completion and get a chance to win prizes! Clubs and organizations whose members participate in the forum may be eligible for a small stipend; interested groups can contact Marija Hegel at mhegel@aap.org for more information. Register today to take part in this exciting event: https://us06web.zoom.us/ Saturday, April 18 meeting/register/Mgqi6obwT9ibThe New Rochelle Royal Ladies gSA7Ut6-vw#/registration.

Red Hats are hosting a bus and orchestra seating to the Dance The- Tuesday, April 21 atre of Harlem at NYC City Cen- Westchester County Youth Buter, 7:30PM performance. Join reau will be hosting a Hudson us. Tickets are $150 (use Zelle). Valley MBK Summit for approxiContact Sylvia Reid (914-620- mately 400 high school MBK 5066) or Andra Adamson (914- students from districts across the region. Please join us for the My 267-5841) for details.

Brother’s Keeper Alliance HudSaturday, April 18 son Valley Leadership Summit We are pleased to announce on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 from “Small Steps to an Unshak8:30am to 1:30pm at The Westable You - An Author Talk with chester County Center.

Lourdes Laifer”. Spend the afternoon on April 18th at 1pm with Thursday, April 23 author & certified Life Coach The Greater Hudson Valley (NY) Lourdes Laifer; exploring prac- Chapter of The Links, Incorpotical tools for resilience through rated, in partnership with The Somindfulness, positive psychology, ciety, Incorporated – Renaissance and Stoic Wisdom. Hosted at the Chapter and the Women’s LeaderBarnes & Noble in the Cortlandt ship Institute, will host a screening Town Center, 3089 E Main Street, of the documentary “Satisfied,” Mohegan Lake, NY. Please con- starring Renée Elise Goldsberry tact jules@lourdeslaifercoaching. of Hamilton, on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at New York Covenant com with any questions.

Church, 500 Main Street, New Saturday, April 18 Rochelle. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

The American Academy of Pewith the film beginning at 6:30 diatrics Center of Excellence on p.m., followed by a panel discusSocial Media and Youth Mental sion titled “Dispelling the Myths Health invites teens (ages 14-19) of the Superwoman.” Tickets: to participate in Beyond the Likes Early Bird 2-for-1 ($50) through - Social Media, Mental Health & April 12; General Admission You, a free virtual youth forum on $30. Register on Eventbrite Link: Saturday, April 18, from 12:00 pm https://ghvsatisfiedfilmscreening. to 3:00 pm ET. This interactive eventbrite.com/ event will empower young people to navigate the digital world with Thru Sunday, April 26 confidence, engage in meaningful Protean Core: March 19 - April conversations with peers and ex- 26, 2026 | Reception: March 19, Sponsored by: Middle East Crisis Response mideastcrisis.org and cosponsored by African Roots Community Center, Columbia County for Palestine, JVP Hudson Valley, Mid Hudson Valley DSA, Muslims4Muslims International, New Paltz Quaker Meeting, Peace Education Center, Rally Middletown, Veterans For Peace, and Women In Black - New Paltz. Contact: mecr@mideastcrisis. org or 845 876-7906

6-8 pm On View at Pelham Art Center, Curated by Neptune in June. Open: Mon - Fri (9am 5pm), Sat - Sun (10am - 4pm), 155 5th Avenue, Pelham, NY 10803 Naomi Chambers’ site-specific installations invite healing through play, weaving a ectionately elastic community bonds.

She exalts found objects to bring the everyday stories and experiences of Black culture and motherhood into environments of care.

Through painting, casting, and bedazzling, Chambers’ spaces tell perennial stories of nourishment and resilience. www.neptuneinjune.com | info@neptuneinjune. com IG: @neptuneinjune.ny. info@pelhamartcenter.org

Sunday, April 26

2:15pm to 3:45pm on Sunday, April 26th at the Westchester County Center in White Plains, NY. Connecting Rights of Nature, Leachate and Waste Incineration: Learn, Explore, Join with Three Environmental Groups in Working Towards A Flourishing Hudson River Valley Ecosystem We humans make our homes within ecosystems and depend on water bodies and ecosystems for our own health and survival.

Learn and explore with three organizations WASS (Westchester Alliance for Sustainable Solutions), New York River Watch and ROAR (Religious Organizations Along the River) the environmental issues we face, ways to advocate, and how a rights of nature bill in NYS would allow the ecosystems, of which we are apart, to exist and flourish. Come with curiosity and questions. RSVPs are required to attend: https://forms. gle/AfUsYvyDEK7HhosR6

CALENDAR, Cont’d on page 11

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, ,2026 • 15

Environmental Leaders of Color Launches SAT Prep Pilot Program, Opening New Doors for Local Students

By Dr. Diana K. Williams

SAT Prep Pilot Program to Support College‑Bound Students

upcoming summer session. By reaching students earlier, the organization hopes to build long‑term academic confidence and reduce the stress often associated with college preparation.

Environmental Leaders of Color (ELOC), a Mount Vernon–based nonprofit known for empowering young people through academic and workforce development programs, has taken another meaningful step toward expanding educational opportunity. This spring, the organization launched a pilot SAT prep initiative designed to support students preparing for one of the most influential components of the college admissions process.

Looking Ahead

As the pilot concludes, ELOC remains committed to broadening access to educational opportunities. Whether students choose to pursue college or enter the workforce, the organization continues to invest in programs that help them reach their full potential.

For years, ELOC has worked with high school students across a wide spectrum—those uncertain about pursuing college and those determined to continue their education after graduation. The new SAT prep program builds on that mission by offering targeted academic support to students who want to strengthen their college applications.

The SAT may not be required everywhere, but for many students—especially those applying to selective institutions—strong preparation can open doors.

Through initiatives like this pilot program, ELOC is ensuring that young people and their families have the tools, support, and encouragement they need to take the next step in their academic journeys.

A Strategic Partnership for Student Success

Looking Toward a Bigger Future

Amazon.com

To bring the pilot to life, ELOC partnered with a local SAT prepaParents as Partners ration firm and selected three motivated students to participate. Two One of the defining features of the pilot program is ELOC’s emphasis students came from ELOC’s SEA on parental involvement. The organization has long understood that when (Science, Engineering, and Arts) program, and one from the Ad- families are engaged, students thrive. Throughout the program, parents vanced Computer Program. Over were encouraged to attend informational meetings, help establish study the course of eight weeks, these stu- routines at home, and stay actively involved in their child’s progress. dents received focused instruction This family‑centered approach not only strengthens academic outin math, reading, and writing—the comes but also reinforces the support systems students rely on as they core areas tested on the SAT. navigate the path to college.

Although many colleges have adopted test‑optional policies, ELOC recognizes that standardized test scores still play a significant role at numerous competitive institutions. By offering structured preparation, the organization aims to ensure that students who choose to submit Tscores are equipped to do so confidently.

Promising Early Results The pilot has already produced encouraging outcomes. Some students improved their SAT scores by as much as 300 points—a remarkable gain that underscores both the students’ dedication and the effectiveness of the program’s structure.

Inspired by these results, ELOC is exploring plans to expand the SAT prep offering to include students in grades 9 through 11 during the

Buoyed by the success of the pilot, ELOC is now exploring ways to expand the program this summer to include students in grades 9 through 11. The goal is to reach students earlier, long before the pressure of college applications sets in.

“Preparation shouldn’t start junior year,” an ELOC staff member explained. “It should start when students are still discovering who they are and what they want.”

By offering SAT prep earlier, ELOC hopes to build academic confidence, reduce stress, and give students—especially those from underrepresented communities— a stronger foundation.

16 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, APRIL 9, 2026