WCP_90326

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

97 YEARS

VOL. XCVII NO. 36

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, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

MEMBER OF NNPA

(Standing) County Legislator Jewel Williams Johnson

Community Impact Alliance Brings Faith Leaders and Nonprofits Together

By Shatika Parker

WHITE PLAINS, NY — September 2, 2026 — Westchester County Legislator Jewel Williams Johnson convened a dynamic Community Impact Alliance gathering Tuesday in conjunction with the Ministers Fellowship Council of White Plains and Vicinity at Calvary Baptist Church, bringing together faith leaders and representatives from a broad cross-section of Westchester nonprofit and community-based organizations for an afternoon centered on listening, resource sharing and collaboration.

With many clergy members already assembled through the Ministers Fellowship Council and the remainder of the room filled with nonprofit representatives, the gathering provided a unique opportunity to connect

two groups that are often responding to the very same community needs— but do not always have an opportunity to work together face-to-face.

Following introductions, faith leaders opened the discussion by sharing what they are hearing directly from congregants and families.

Among the concerns raised were the need for more affordable housing; an economy that allows young people to remain in Westchester after completing college; protections, information and assistance for immigrant families; stronger community outreach, networking and communications; and greater assistance for churches—particularly Black churches—in iden-

TOGETHER, Cont’d. on page 2

Digital Copy: www.westchestercountypress.com

2 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

On the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 in NYC - Thousands Mobilize for the Largest Day of Service in U.S. History NEW YORK CITY -- On Friday, September 11, 2026, to mark the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, 15,000 volunteers from New York City and the tri-state area will join a massive nationwide movement to “Honor Through Action.” As part of the largest annual day of service in U.S. history, organized and led by the nonprofit 9/11 Day, volunteers are expected to pack about 4,000,000 healthy, non-perishable meals for people at risk of hunger over the course of four days aboard the Intrepid Museum in Manhattan, in addition to meal packing events at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and at Citi Field in Queens. All meals packed aboard the Intrepid and at Citi Field will be donated to City Harvest and Food Bank for New York City for distribution to individuals and families in need in New York City. All meals packed at MetLife Stadium will be donated to the Community FoodBank of New Jersey.

9/11 Day’s program for the 25th anniversary is being widely supported across the sports, government, business, education and nonprofit sectors. Many of the nation’s most prominent organizations – now more than 50 in total – have joined

together as founding members of 9/11 Day’s National Commemoration Committee for the 25th Anniversary of 9/11. These include AmeriCorps, National Football League, Major League Baseball, National Hockey League, National Basketball Association, Major League Soccer, Feeding America, America250, Daughters of the American Revolution, Points of Light, New York Cares, National Governors Association, U.S. Conference of Mayors, United Way Worldwide, and other influential organizations.

Many sports teams and league representatives throughout the nation will host or join meal-packing events to commemorate the anniversary, including the New York Giants, New York Jets andNew York Mets. At Citi Field, MLB and the New York Mets will co-host a flagship meal-packing event on September 11 ahead of that evening’s Mets-Yankees Subway Series game at Yankee Stadium.

According to Feeding America, 48 million Americans continue to face food insecurity. Now in its 10th year, the New York City Meal Pack is one of 51 large-scale volunteer service projects

being organized nationwide by the nonprofit 9/11 Day, whose meal packing program is expected to mobilize about 50,000 volunteers packing more than 17 million meals across the country, helping to unify and strengthen communities through shared action.

WHEN: Tuesday, September 8 - Friday, September 11, 2026 (NYC events only)

PM

NYC Meal Pack Event Duration: Tuesday, September 8: 11:00 AM to 7:00

7:00 PM 7:00 PM PM

Wednesday, September 9: 8:00 AM to Thursday, September 10: 8:00 AM to Friday, September 11: 8:00 AM to 7:00

WHERE: Intrepid Museum, Hangar 3 Pier 86, W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 Wednesday, September 9: MetLife Stadium, 1 MetLife Stadium Dr, East Rutherford, NJ 07073

25th ANNIVERSARY, Cont’d. on page 11

Community Impact Alliance Brings Faith Leaders and Nonprofits Together

tifying grants and successfully navigating funding applications.

One of the most striking themes emerged organically: several faith leaders said they were unfamiliar with many of the nonprofit organizations sitting in the room and the services they provide.

“That moment captured exactly why the Community Impact Alliance exists,” said Legislator Williams Johnson. “Our faith institutions are often among the first places people turn when they are struggling, frightened or simply do not know where else to go. Meanwhile, nonprofit organizations throughout Westchester are providing extraordinary services every day. Bringing those two networks together creates an opportunity to shorten the distance between a person who needs help and the organization that may already have the answer.”

The conversation then shifted to nonprofit representatives, who described their missions, programs, available services and ways they could assist individuals, families, congregations and one another.

“What followed was the ultimate networking and collaborative occasion,” Williams Johnson said.

“People were exchanging information, recognizing opportunities to partner and, in some cases, discovering resources that had been right here in our community but were simply not yet connected to the people who needed to know about them.”

Williams Johnson also provided several policy and resource updates designed to help participating organizations respond to emerging community needs. Those included information about federal SNAP work requirements and the opportu-

TOGETHER, Cont’d. on page 11

HON. JEWEL WILLIAMS JOHNSON Westchester County Legislator (District 8)

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, ,2026 • 3

JENKINS BLASTS TRUMP ADMINISTRATION FOR DENYING DISASTER AID TO NEW YORK

County Executive Says Federal Government Is “Punishing Their Neighbors” as Blizzard Aid Denial Follows Withholding of $87 Million in Counterterrorism Funding WHITE PLAINS, NY -- Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins is joining New York Governor Kathy Hochul in condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to deny New York State’s appeal for a Major Disaster Declaration following the February blizzard that caused more than $168 million in damages and placed a significant financial burden on communities across New York, including here in Westchester County.

The decision comes just one day after Jenkins supported Hochul’s call for the Trump Administration to release $87 million in critical counterterrorism funding being withheld from New York.

Jenkins said: “Here we go – political games again by the Trump Administration. Our first responders, emergency management teams, public works crews and municipal employees did not hesitate when

GOVERNOR

Kathy Hochul this storm hit. They showed up, worked around the clock and did everything necessary to protect our residents and keep our communities safe.

The federal government should show that same commitment to the people it serves.”

WESTCHESTER COUNTY EXECUTIVE

Kenneth W. Jenkins

Westchester County Department of Emergency Services Commissioner Susan Spear said: “Westchester County was significantly impacted by a major blizzard in February. The County and local communities spent millions of dollars in emergency pro-

tective measures, snow removal costs, road and structure repairs, electric service restoration, emergency responses, and much more.

We carefully documented our expenses and exceeded the required Federal eligibility thresholds for FEMA support and reimbursements. That is how the federal law is supposed to work. Our emergency personnel stepped up when called to respond to public safety needs during a major blizzard. But now the federal government has refused to honor their commitment to our communities and our first responders.”

Jenkins said: “It seems that Trump and Congressman Mike Lawler forgot they are New Yorkers because they are punishing their neighbors over political disagreements – it’s disgraceful. New Yorkers deserve representatives who will put the needs of their constituents ahead of party politics.

Governor Kathy Hochul, State Senators, and County Exec Meet with Leading Black Clergy to Hear Concerns

WHITE PLAINS, NY -- Governor Kathy Hochul convened a meeting recently with NYS Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart Cousins, State Senator Shelley Mayer, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and leading Black clergy of Westchester to hear about the issues facing their congregants. Westchester County Director of Interfaith Services Kym McNair join the Governor and NYS Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley in a discussion on issues impacting families and neighborhoods. They also explored opportunities for continued collaboration between local and state government and the faith community.

Together, participants reaffirmed the importance of listening, sharing ideas and working collectively to support residents and strengthen communities.

4 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

The March Is Over.

The Movement Carries On.

PUBLISHER

1986-2009

By Derrick Johnson, Esq. President & CEO, NAACP

Last week, thousands of everyday Americans answered the call at the March on Washington.

This week, Texas leaders have queued up a list of voters to “suspend,” and the U.S. Department of Justice announced plans to send poll monitors to elections across the country.

It’s clear that our voting rights are under attack and we still have work to do.

As ballot access is being stripped away through restrictions on mail-in ballots and redistricting, we showed up to say: not on our watch.

This week, we’re checking our voter registration status, getting registered, and telling our friends and families to do the same.

M. Paul Tells All

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

Making November 3rd The True No Kings Day

By Dr. John E. Warren, Publisher San Diego Voice & Viewpoint Newspaper Chairman of the Board of Directors, NNPA DERRICK JOHNSON, Esq.

Get Ready for November

ing… that the march is only the gathering point for the work, and that we must leave here not celebrating this moment but leave here energized and inspired to turn out the vote in November.”

“Sixty-three years ago, people convened on this Mall. They were fighting for jobs, justice, and dignity.

But we stand here today recogniz-

The March Is Over. The Movement Is Not. What happened on the Mall on August 28 was powerful. But the real

NAACP, Cont’d. on page 11

DR. JOHN E. WARREN

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 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

How to Donate Blood Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

During the last two years, we have seen millions of Americans from all walks of life turn out to participate in the “No Kings Day” protest marches across this nation. The demonstrations have been against the illegal practices and activities of President Trump in violation of the Constitution and all democracy stands for. We have seen the United States Congress surrender its Constitutional authority to President Trump without question. We have seen people murdered by officials who called their actions all in the line of duty; we have seen American citizens arrested and placed in camps and deported in violation of their citizenship, the law and due process.

While the demonstrations in and of themselves made statements of protest, the President and his administration were basically unmoved, in most instances, because there were no forcible actions such moves could take against the White House.

Trump has considered himself King and the United States Supreme Court has basically reinforced that position.

But November 3rd, 2026, the Midterm General Election is a day of reckoning if we just get out and vote. Our individual votes can do the following: • Change the control of the U.S. House of Representatives by replacing those Republican members who rubber stamp the President’s illegal actions instead of providing oversight, checks and balances; • At the local level, we must vote and ensure that candidates who support Donald Trump are not elected to office as they seek to implement his policies at the local level.

• Those persons running for School Board, City Council, Supervisor, Congress, State legislatures, and Governor must not get elected because some of us just refused to vote.

The “my vote doesn’t count” excuse must end. This is how we ensure “NO KING”; This is how we stop ICE, Deportations without due process, troops on our streets, and unauthorized military conflicts that put our nation’s security at risk.

If the millions of people who protested “No Kings Days” join those who are already committed to outvoting the Gerrymander Election Districts, over-whelm the President’s efforts to stop the vote or intimidate voters, we can put an end to this would be King before the next two years of his term are up.

We the people, by getting out our vote and the votes of those around us can truly make November 3rd, 2026 No Kings Day and take back our lives; our jobs, healthcare, gas prices, food prices, housing, and guaranteed freedoms of speech and movement. Let’s be ready to vote and we won’t have to get ready. Let’s vote early and undermine the efforts to delay our vote on Election Day.

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, ,2026 • 5

IN MEMORIAM: Longtime Mount Vernon Funeral Director Lee O. Wood, Passes at 84 Mr. Lee O. Wood departed this earthly life peacefully on Thursday, August 20, 2026, in Greensboro, NC. Lee Otis Wood was born on September 5, 1941, in Asheville, NC. He was raised by his grandmother, Carrie Avery Kennedy, whom he referred to affectionately throughout his life until the loving end.

He would tell you that he was just a country boy from the Great Smoky Mountains in Western North Carolina, Black Mountain/Asheville; with a dream, as a young boy, of being a Funeral Director. Lee’s desire to become an ‘Undertaker’ started around the age of 6 when he would have funerals for any bug/animal that died and encourage his siblings, cousins, and friends to assist and support him with the service and burial. Lee began his journey to become a Funeral Director on June 6, 1959, when he graduated from Stephens Lee High School in Asheville and boarded the 4:16 p.m. train headed to New York to fulfill his dreams.

Lee spent 3.5 years in the U.S. Air Force, where he was stationed in Germany as an electrician on high voltage generators. During this time, Lee took advantage of opportunities to travel across Europe as he had dreamed of doing one day. Upon returning to Mount Vernon, NY, he worked at ConEdison, as a high voltage troubleshooter, prior to using his GI Bill (funds) to attend American Academy McAllister Institute for Mortuary Science (AAMI). Lee graduated from AAMI, March 20, 1969, the same day that his beloved son, Todd Terrell was born (a truly happy and memorable

activity and a frequent speaker in schools, churches and other organizations.Lee loved golf. Many frequented his golf room on the second floor of the funeral home to check out his clubs and bags and the many sharp knicker outfits which he had in every color!

Lee was an active member of the National Negro Golf Association (NNGA) for over 25 years.

Left to survive and cherish his memory are his loving wife, Mrs. Phyllis McCarley Wood; son, Todd (Cortney); granddaughter, Phoebe; uncle, Howard Kennedy; brother, Clifford; sisters Lydia and Cynthia; many cousins, other relatives, friends, colleagues and golfers. …And the Beat Goes On!

LEE O. WOOD

day for him).

Lee O. Wood was a Licensed Funeral Director/Owner for over fifty-five years. His commitment and love of the funeral service business and people enabled him to continuously provide warmth and outstanding services to families. Lee did his apprenticeship at The Chapman Funeral Home in Mount Vernon and worked at Benta Funeral Home in Harlem, NY for a short period prior to opening Camelot Funeral Home and then opening Lee O. Wood Fu-

neral Home in Mount Vernon, NY where he serviced the community for nearly 50 years. He supported and encouraged many young people with their pursuits in the field of Mortuary Science. He believed in hard work and education and was known for telling young people to “get some info under their afros so they could go”. As a business owner in Mount Vernon/ Westchester County, Lee participated in the Rotary Club; was a Democratic Party District Leader; active with Pop Warner Sports

A viewing was held on Thursday, August 27, 2026 from 1 until 5 p.m. at McLaurin-Harris Memorial Chapel, 721 East Morehead Street, Reidsville, NC. The livestreaming is available. via https://www.facebook.com/p/ McLaurin-Harris-FuneralHome-100063535782105/ A second viewing was held on Friday, August 28, 2026 from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Harwood Home for Funerals, 208 W. State Street, Black Mountain, NC. The interment followed at 2 p.m. in the Western Carolina State Veterans Cemetery, 962 Old US Hwy 70, Black Mountain, NC. Military Honors was performed by the United States Air Force Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making donations to the Alzheimer’s Association in memory of Lee O. Wood.

6 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle Celebrates

Success of PepsiCo-Funded Health, Environmental Education and Community Programs

NEW ROCHELLE, NY -- Aug. 31, 2026 – The Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle has marked the successful completion of a series of programs funded through a PepsiCo grant initiative that transformed youngsters into cooks, gardeners and biologists, while developing healthy habits, community connections and an appreciation of where food really comes from.

Over three weeks, students in grades 3 to 5 engaged in three hands-on workshops: healthy cooking sessions, garden education at grow! Eat and a butterfly life cycle program.

“Together, these three programs formed a cohesive learning experience,” said Becky Mazzanobile, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle. “The young participants explored how fresh food is grown, learned about the pollinators that make that growth pos-

sible and then prepared and enjoyed nutritious meals using fresh ingredients. We are grateful to PepsiCo for the generous support that made this program possible and helped foster the growth of these students with hands-on experiences they will never forget.”

At the Remington Clubhouse, participants took part in a three-week Healthy Cooking Workshop series led by Chef Georges Aines of the Culinary Institute of New York at Monroe University, which partners with the Club’s culinary program. Each week, the young apprentice chefs prepared a new healthy dish: fresh fruit smoothies, vegetable kebabs and veggie wraps, all made from scratch.

Participants learned kitchen safety, proper hygiene and food preparation, safe knife skills and basic cooking as they completed all the food preparation themselves, then sat down to enjoy the meals they created. Each child received a chef hat and apron to wear during the workshops and to keep afterward as a memento of the experience.

“The children had a wonderful time and learned the satisfaction of creating their own healthy, delicious meals,” said Yolanda Roberson, Director of the Remington Clubhouse. “The strong interest in the program shows just how much demand there is for opportunities like this, and we hope to offer similar programs again.”

Just next door to the Club, the youngsters engaged in garden education workshops at the Lincoln Park Conservancy and its grow! Lincoln Park Community Garden, a 10,000-square-foot urban farm.

Through the conservancy’s grow! Eat program, participants learned about this history as well as the fundamentals of gardening, the anatomy of a seed and what plants need to thrive: healthy soil, sunlight, water and a chemical-free environment. They observed vegetables at different stages of growth, watered crops and learned proper harvesting techniques. Each participant received a gardening toolkit and took home herbs and fresh produce along the way.

In one especially meaningful activity, the young participants harvested vegetables and gave them to neighborhood families visiting the park, connecting lessons on nutrition and sustainable agriculture to a firsthand understanding of food insecurity and community service.

“At grow! Eat, we’re not simply growing food, we’re making sure fresh produce reaches the families who need it,” said Linda Tarrant-Reid, founder and executive director of the Lincoln Park Conservancy. “We wanted these young people to understand that food doesn’t just come from a store, that growing it yourself is possible and empowering, and that they can play an active role in building healthier, more sustainable communities.”

Rounding out the initiative, the Club’s Keystone Teen members led younger participants through a hands-on Butterfly Life Cycle Program, guiding them through a structured curriculum on the phases of a butterfly’s life,

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, ,2026 • 7

Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle Celebrates

Success of PepsiCo-Funded Health, Environmental Education and Community Programs Club of New Rochelle has been an integral part of the community, offering quality, achievement-driven programming encompassing academics, mental wellness, fitness, leadership and civics. Today, it is one of Westchester County’s largest nonprofits and a leader in youth development, serving over 12,100 youths annually at 12 school sites and two clubhouses.

Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle’s impactful before-school, after-school, elective, and summer offerings empower members to excel in school, become good citizens, and lead healthy, productive lives while effectively bridging the gap between school and home. Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle is proud to be affiliated with Boys & Girls Club of America, widely considered as both the leading youth organization and among the top nonprofits in the United States. Learn more at BGCNR.org. pollination, and the vital role butterflies play in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

Participants cared for live caterpillars from arrival through the chrysalis stage, documenting their development. In the final week, the caterpillars completed their transformation into beautiful butterflies, and participants released them into the garden near grow!

Eat. “Learning about butterflies was fun, and I enjoyed myself,” said Trevell R., a sixth-grade youth participant. “The teens presenting were nice and hands-on.”

Together, the three PepsiCofunded programs gave Boys & Girls Club of New Rochelle members a well-rounded educational experience that encouraged curiosity, healthy habits, environmental stewardship and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

For 96 years, Boys & Girls

8 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

Racial Healing Starts with Honest Conversations

Families, educators, and mental health experts say affirming identity helps young people process racism without internalizing harm. trauma.

Providing positive representation and affirming race are strong ways to rebuild and heal after harm is done. When young people see themselves reflected positively in school leadership or the media, it “leads to a stronger sense of pride, belonging, and self-worth,” he says.

Duncan studies how racial trauma affects Black youth and how repeated exposure to racism can become a psychological injury — one that shapes how young people see themselves and the world around them.

As a child, Jacinay ColemanShelton struggled to understand “I’m going to walk through her racial identity, but her curi- these halls, my heels are going to osity often led her to ask outspo- click-clack, and this is who I am,” ken questions when racial issues she told herself. arose.

Shelton’s experience reflects Shelton, of both Black and a growing understanding among Hispanic heritage, found navigat- mental health professionals and ing discussions about race espe- educators: conversations about cially complicated. race aren’t just preparation for bias or discrimination. They can “Having a space to talk to also be a form of racial healing your family first about race is re- — helping young people proally important,” the 22-year-old cess racism without internalizing says. “I was always taught that harm, and affirming their identity being Black is beautiful.” in a society where Black youth encounter racism early and reThe news mainstream media peatedly. just doesn’t cover. Racial justice journalism since 1909.

Family Conversations: The Foundation for Healing That early messaging became a foundation — one that helped Her family, Shelton believes, her affirm who she was before the gave her the confidence to apworld tried to define her. While proach conversations about race interning on Capitol Hill this past with an open mind and heart, and summer, Shelton recalled those she says young people should be words as she walked through the taught to do the same. nation’s halls of power.

“What’s really important is affirming their identity every chance you get,” says Dr. Matthew S. L. Duncan, a fourth-year psychiatry resident at Ocean University Medical Center in New Jersey.

Duncan began his public health career at the Newark Department of Health and Community Wellness and in the Family Medicine Department at Rutgers Medical School. Born and raised in North Jersey to West Indian parents, Duncan learned early the importance of community strength and giving back. Those values now fuel his work, which focuses on making mental health care more accessible, culturally relevant, and stigma-free.

Understanding Racial Trauma Duncan advocates proactive conversations about race to support mental health and healing among children of color. These conversations can interrupt cycles of harm before they harden into

In psychiatry, racial trauma is referred to as race-based traumatic stress and is considered a form of post-traumatic stress disorder, Duncan says.

Race-based traumatic events can become chronic stressors that, over time, lead to anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, and sleep problems.

“This can start affecting things like academic performance and mistrust of institutions, such as people not wanting to go to the hospital or see a mental health professional,” he explains.

Duncan says cultural competency, a core component of medical education, involves understanding patients’ cultural backgrounds and psychosocial stressors.

“At a young age, you notice

RACIAL HEALING, Cont’d. on page 11

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

OPINION: Angie Nixon Will Turn You Into a Democratic Socialist If Donald Trump Hasn’t Already

By Emil Amok Guillermo

The midterm elections are more important than ever as we fight back.

And we all know “affordability” is the No. 1 issue in the U.S. So, how are you doing? A new survey says that, for a single person, being comfortable in California requires an income of $126,797. Or $302,682 for a family of four.

Did those numbers make you uncomfortable?

A single person making just $102,794 could be comfortable in Utah. But wouldn’t you rather just look at the Mormon Temple in Oakland from 580?

The survey defined “comfortable” as spending 50% of income on necessities, 30% on “like-tohaves,” and putting 20% in savings.

Are your percentages way out of whack? Like 100% on necessities?

What if the car breaks down?

What if the kids need x, y, or z?

What if overtime gets cut back?

What if Social Security goes bankrupt?

Are you a democratic socialist yet?

That’s not where Blues go Red and turn communist. It’s about a government that puts people before profits. And cares for all of us. Not just the billionaires.

Angie Nixon In last week’s Florida primary, people around the country saw Florida legislator Angie Nixon win the Democratic U.S. Senate primary with a stunning upset over Alex Vindman.

Vindman was well-funded

Angie Nixon. Courtesy of Angie Nixon’s Facebook page.

($16.3 million to Nixon’s $975,000), and well-connected nationally. But Nixon—an African American with state house cred, union organizing experience, and a fighter who was arrested protesting Gov. Ron DeSantis’ redistricting efforts— proved to be unbeatable. She’s officially aligned with the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).

That means Nixon, 42, believes in universal health care, a/k/a “Medicare for all,” taxing the wealthy, and a minimum wage of $25 an hour.

Think back to that comfort level survey. At 40 hours a week, $25 an hour is just $1,000 a week or $52,000 a year. It’s not even half what that survey said was needed for a single person to be “comfortable” in California.

We’re forced to get 3-4 low-wage jobs.

Nixon and the DSA want to set the floor, so no one sinks into oblivion.

Republicans would simply let us all sink.

DSA tag makes her a clear underdog, maybe even unelectable.

But the Dems are sticking with her. Voters seem to be turning out for someone who will directly and boldly address affordability.

Meanwhile, Trump is turning the Iran War, which has caused the oil price run-up and high inflation, into an economic war on the world. At the same time, he’s declared a tariff war on our good ally, Canada, guaranteed to raise prices on imports to America.

That could make Nixon the one in Florida 2026.

And it would move Dems closer to flipping both houses of Congress, a vote for super normalcy.

Trump is so far down in the polls, he’s resorted to election disruption and voter suppression.

But the antidote in Florida at least is Angie Nixon, a woman worth watching, who’ll turn you into a Democratic Socialist if Donald Trump hasn’t done so already.

About the Author

Nixon now goes up against Republican Sen. Emil Amok Guillermo is a veteran journalist, Ashley Moody in November. Florida’s Republicans commentator, and comic monologist. He does a mioutnumber Dems by 1.5 million voters. And Nixon’s cro-talk show on YouTube.com/@emilamok1

10 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

County Press The Westchester

25th ANNIVERSARY, Cont’d. from page 2

- 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Friday, September 11: Citi Field, 41 Seaver Way, Flushing, NY 11368 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM ON-SITE CONTACT: Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis, 911day@ssmandl.com INTERVIEW OPPORTUNITIES (in advance and day of): *

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, ,2026 • 11

RACIAL HEALING, Cont’d. from page 8

that people do not look like you, and subconsciously you’re already building stereotypes,” he says. “Silence doesn’t protect our kids from racism, but preparation does.”

Preparing Young People With Truth and Context

TOGETHER, Cont’d. from page 2

Similarly, other young adults credit family guidance for preparing them to navigate racial identity and recover from moments of racial nity for qualifying faith and nonprofit organizations to provide documented trauma. community-service placements; proposed changes to federal OMB rules governing federal financial assistance and their potential implications for nonprofit and government grant recipients; and continuing efforts surrounding utility affordability, consumer protections and accountability for ratepayers.

The meeting reinforced a central premise of the Community Impact Alliance: effective community problem-solving requires more than referrals made in isolation. It requires relationships among the institutions residents already trust and the organizations equipped to provide specialized assistance.

Among those represented at the gathering were Calvary Baptist Church of White Plains, Bethel Baptist Church of White Plains, Christ Temple Church of Greenburgh, Mt. Hope AME Zion Church of White Plains, Union Baptist Church of Greenburgh, Westchester Church of White Plains, Urban League of Westchester, White Plains Youth Bureau, Connect to Speak, Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, United Way of Westchester and Putnam, LUCA, Family Ties of Westchester, My Sisters’ Place, Westchester Church, Planned Parenthood, NonProfit Westchester, Pace Women’s Justice Center, Feeding Westchester, First Steps to Heal, YWCA of White Plains, G.O.O.D. for Girls, Inc., Echoes of Africa, NICO Consulting, Inc. and others.

By the end of the gathering, participants delivered a remarkably consistent message: more.

A’markis Johnson, 22, recalls entering high school and realizing that, unlike middle and elementary school, most students weren’t Black.

“I grew up in East Orange, New Jersey, around a lot of people who looked like me,” he shares. “It wasn’t a pressing issue until high school, when I started interacting with people who were other races… and by that point, I already understood my racial identity.”

He credits his mother for engaging him in discussions about race in a way that felt natural rather than intrusive. These conversations enabled him to enter new environments without losing his sense of self.

As an educator, Maera Ochieng-Onyango, 29, says she struggles to balance how much to share with students who are curious about racial identity and how to discuss it in a thoughtful, balanced way.

She is a museum educator and arts education advocate who believes truth-telling with younger generations is “the best defense against future generations of painful patterns.”

More time.

Onyango says preparing students for discussions about race also More face-to-face interaction.

More opportunities to understand one another’s work. means making sure they understand their rights in different settings.

More collaboration.

She has taught young men about their legal rights, as well as students And more opportunities to connect trusted community institutions di- about their education rights and the CROWN Act. rectly with available resources.

Williams Johnson said planning is therefore already underway for the next Community Impact Alliance gathering, which will expand the concept into a nonprofit resource fair featuring timed tabling sessions, giving faith leaders and congregants dedicated opportunities to meet directly with service providers and learn what assistance is available.

The next gathering is also expected to include focused sessions addressing food insecurity, youth programs and funding and grant opportunities, including resources that can help faith institutions and community organizations strengthen their capacity to serve.

“This cannot be a one-time conversation,” Williams Johnson said. “The people around that room made clear that they want more opportunities to learn from one another and work together. Faith leaders bring extraordinary trust and an early understanding of what families are experiencing.

Nonprofits bring expertise, programs and resources. Government can help connect those strengths, advocate and remove barriers. When we bring all three together, we become much more effective for the people we serve.”

Stay tuned for details on the next Community Impact Alliance gathering and nonprofit resource fair.

NAACP, Cont’d. from page 4

work has never been confined to a single day or even a single place. It happens in city halls. In school board meetings. At the polls. And in the communities where we live, work, and raise our families.

We’ll do our part so the next chapter of our American story will be written by we the people.

“Racial trauma is real, but so is Black resilience. We’ve always found ways to not just survive, but also to create and thrive,” Duncan says.

“Encourage these conversations. Be parents, educators, and leaders who normalize conversations about race, start them early, celebrate race, and build spaces where young people feel safe to be themselves.”

Based on reporting by Inner-City Newspaper.

Advertise Your Business Call (914) 953-2620

12 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

THE BOZEMAN LAW FIRM, PLLC Attorneys & Counselors at Law 200 Mamaroneck Avenue, Suite 500 White Plains, New York 10601 (914) 668-4600 • (914) 669-6371

www.bozemanlawfirm.com Serving Metro-New York and Westchester County PRACTICE AREAS REAL ESTATE (Residential and Commercial)

WILLS/TRUSTS/ESTATES (Guardianship and Elderlaw)

FAMILY (Adoption)

RELIGIOUS /NON-PROFIT (Administration & Tax Status)

BUSINESS LAW (Corporations & Partnerships & Limited Liability Corporation) *Bruce L. Bozeman, Esq., * Carla Lewis-Burnett, Esq. John S. Savage, Esq. ~ of counsel, Leticia Arzu, Esq. *Principals of the firm serve as seminar speakers, upon request.

Appointments Preferred.

Missed your printed copy of The Westchester County Press?

Get a COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL COPY sent to your email

Email us: westchestercountypress@yahoo.com

County Press The Westchester

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, ,2026 • 13

CALENDAR, Cont’d from page 15 and Strengthening Community Through Collective Action,” the Day of Action is open to the entire family and community and will offer an engaging day of education, advocacy, resources, recognition, and community connection. Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:45 PM, in the Linda E. Kelly Theatre, New Rochelle High School Clove Road, New Rochelle, New York. Hosted by Sister to Sister International, Inc., under the leadership of Founder and CEO Dr. Cheryl L. Brannan, the Day of Action will bring together children, teens, parents, adults, seniors, educators, health professionals, advocates, elected officials, community organizations, and community leaders from

throughout Westchester County Saturday, Nov. 7 and surrounding communities. Join us for our biggest celebraThe event is open to the entire tion of the year, the 2026 Benefit family and community. for ArtsWestchester, on Saturday, November 7, featuring a concert Tuesday, October 20 Join Us at Westchester Children’s by Grammy®-nominated, clasAssociation’s 20th Annual Ad- sical-meets-hip-hop duo Black vocacy Breakfast. Registration Violin. It’ll be a full evening with is now open for the 20th Annual fabulous dinner stations, an open Kathryn Wasserman Davis Advo- bar, live and silent auctions, a cacy Breakfast, taking place Tues- world-class music performance day, October 20 at 8:00 a.m. at and a dessert after-party -- all Harrison Meadows Country Club. in the company of people who This milestone event will feature love the arts as much as you do. keynote speaker Dr. DaMia Har- Don’t miss this special evening ris-Madden and bring together to ensure the vibrancy and accesadvocates, community leaders, sibility of the arts in the greater policymakers, and partners from Westchester region. A Benefit for across Westchester to continue ArtsWestchester Featuring a Conbuilding a county where all chil- cert by Black Violin Saturday, Nov. 7, VIP Dinner & Reception dren and families can thrive.

5:00PM | Concert 7:30PM.

County Press The Westchester

LEGAL NOTICE NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY (“LLC”) J & S FAMILY LEGACY LLC DBA LEGACY SOUL KITCHEN Notice of formation of J & S FAMILY LEGACY LLC, DBA LEGACY SOUL KITCHEN. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 5/20/2026. Office Location: Westchester County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: LEGACY SOUL KITCHEN, 455 Tarrytown Road, Suite 1255, White Plains, NY 10607.. PURPOSE: Any lawful purpose.

14 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 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.

Saturday, Sept. 5

WESPAC invites you to a screening of “The Forgotten Occupation”, a documentary that revisits the U.S occupation of Haiti through a letter to the director’s grandfather and unravels the paradox of a man who longed for American rule and a nation scarred by it. “The Forgotten Occupation” blends intimate memory with sweeping history and confronts exile, love, and the uneasy truths at the heart of freedom.

After the screening join us for a panel discussion with the Director Alain Martin, Pastor Amos Joseph from the Church of God of Nyack, and Renold Julien, Executive Director of Konbit Neg Lakay. All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to Konbit Neg Lakay, an organization supporting our local Haitian immigrant communities which have recently come under increased threat with the Supreme Court’s ruling on Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Konbit Neg Lakay is a Haitian nonprofit community organization established in Rockland County in 1987. The price of admission for the event is a suggested donation of $15, but as long as there is space at the event, nobody will be turned away due to lack of funds. The screening will be hosted at The Angel in Nyack.

NowThru September 7

The Great New York State Fair starts Wednesday, August 26, and runs through Labor Day, Monday, September 7. All concerts are included in the price of admission.

Tickets are on sale now at The Fair’s website, https://nysfair. ny.gov. Packed with value, a single admission ticket costs $8 and includes access to all grounds entertainment and The Fair’s awardwinning concert lineup. In addition, a Frequent Fairgoer ticket

option is available for $25. The Fair continues to be one of the most affordable fairs in the nation, with admission remaining free for those aged 65 and older along with children 12 years old and under. Founded in 1841, The Great New York State Fair showcases the best of New York agriculture, provides top-quality entertainment, and is a key piece of the state’s CNY Rising strategy of growing the Central New York economy through tourism. It is the oldest fair in the United States and is consistently recognized as being among the top five state fairs in the nation. The New York State Fairgrounds is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year. Audiences are encouraged to learn more about The Great New York State Fair online, browse photos on Flickr, and follow the fun on Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.

fees apply. Following Labor Day, the park will be open Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12 and 13 from noon to 7 p.m.

Tuesday thru Friday September 8 - 11

To honor the lives lost and forever changed by the events of September 11, 2001, Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and Volunteer New York! will host the 16th annual 9/11 Days of Service across Westchester County from Sept. 8-11.

Thursday & Friday, September 10 & 11

ent. Featured performers include Resistance Revival Chorus, Cole Quest and the City Pickers, AMAUTA, Bria The Artist, and the Peekskill City Singers. Together, they will create an afternoon that is rooted in history, alive with the energy of the present, and designed to invite audiences of all ages to reflect, connect, and sing.

Tickets are available at tinyurl. com/SWSTIX. Admission is $35 regular; $25 seniors 65+; $15 students; $5 kids 12 and under accompanied by an adult.

September 16-20

The wait is over—registration is now open for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF)’s 55th Annual Legislative Conference (ALC)! September 16–20, 2026, Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C. Join us for five days of impactful conversations, thoughtprovoking policy discussions, networking opportunities, and celebrations that bring together leaders, advocates, professionals, students, and changemakers from across the nation. This year’s ALC is especially significant as we commemorate the 50th Anniversary of CBCF—a milestone that honors five decades of cultivating leaders, advancing equity, and creating pathways for future generations. Together, we’ll reflect on our legacy, celebrate our progress, and look ahead to the future of Black leadership and civic engagement. For more information about the Annual Legislative Conference, please email our team. Registration: eventsupport@cbcfinc.org ALC Sponsorship Opportunities: rd@cbcfinc. org

Westchester County will host two commemorative events to honor the memory of those who perished in the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and those who later died from 9/11-related illnesses. The events will feature an Interfaith Prayer Vigil on September 10, and a September 11th MeLabor Day Weekend, morial Service on September 11.

Sept. 4-7 Friday thru INTERFAITH PRAYER VIGIL Thursday, September 10 | 5 p.m.

Monday SEPTEMBER 11th MEMORIAL Playland Park is ending summer SERVICE Friday, September 11 | with three nights of fireworks dur- 2 p.m. ing Labor Day Weekend on Friday, Saturday and Monday, Septem- Sunday, September 13 ber 4, 5, and 7, with all displays From 3–5 p.m, at the Paramount beginning at 9 p.m. Come early Hudson Valley Theater, Peekon Friday night for a 7 p.m. per- skill, N, The Robeson in Peekskill formance from Broadway Sings, Project presents its third annual featuring today’s biggest pop hits commemoration of the Peekskill from Broadway stars, on the Play- Riots and celebration of Paul land stage. Admission to the park Robeson’s legacy. Hosted and is free, rides wristbands are $15 narrated by Shana L. Redmond, for Westchester County residents, award-winning author of Every$25 for non-Westchester County thing Man: The Form and Funcresidents, and parking is $15 per tion of Paul Robeson, with visuals car. Playland Park will be open by documentary filmmaker and from noon to 10 p.m. from Friday, historian Jon Scott Bennett, the Sept. 4 through Monday, Sept. 7. program brings together music, The beach and pool will also be storytelling, history, youth voices, open from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; and community performers in an Thursday, Sept. 17 last entry is 6 p.m.; weather per- afternoon rooted in history and Westchester County Board of mitting. Parking and admission alive with the energy of the pres- Health Meeting will be held on

CALENDAR, Cont’d from page 14

Thursday, September 17 at 8:30 a.m. in the Westchester County Health Department Office, 11 Martine Avenue, 12th Floor, White Plains, NY 10606. Members of the public may view this meeting online at: meetings.westchestercountyny.gov

Friday, Sept. 18

Artrider Productions is excited to welcome visitors back for Fall Crafts at Lyndhurst, one of the Hudson Valley’s premier fall shopping events, returning September 18–20, 2026. Set against the spectacular autumn landscape of the historic Lyndhurst estate overlooking the Hudson River, this annual event offers an unforgettable weekend of shopping, fine craftsmanship, delicious food, family activities, and the beauty of the season. Visitors can shop from 200 accomplished artists and makers from across the country, featuring an extraordinary selection of original handmade jewelry, ceramics, clothing and accessories, home décor, fine

art, specialty foods, and much more. Show hours are Friday, from 10am-5pm, Saturday, from 10am-6pm, and Sunday, from 10am-5pm. Advanced online ticket purchase available and strongly encouraged. Tickets available at www.artrider.com. Group rates are available and tour buses are welcome. Mansion tours are an additional fee and best reserved in advance via Lyndhurst’s website.

Crafts at Lyndhurst is held at Lyndhurst, located at 635 S. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY. Parking is free and the show is outdoors, rain or shine. While we love our furry friends, no pets, with the exception of service animals, are allowed within the show site. More details are available at www.artrider.com.

Saturday, Sept. 19

September 19th, 2026, Times Square at Noon LOVE OUR MOTHER Concert Calming/Celebration/Party.

Join us, as we honor and strengthen the message for the upcoming September 21st, the UN International Day of Peace at Noon WORLD-

The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, ,2026 • 15

WIDE, 193 Counties in the UN Agreed to participate and 1.6 billion people are aware (McKinsey Co.) of Peace Day...we want 8 billion to join in at noon (Put down the guns, anger and make love not violence) around the world for a MOMENT/MINUTE OF SILENCE FOR PEACE, Ringo Starr will lead the Minute/ Moment:) Peace & Love and may it continue FOREVER Here is a message from the Executive Producer about why we should all get involved and why for 24 years, our nonprofit, Good News Corporation, has: :https://pausetheworldforpeace. org/reverend-paul-sladkus-allfaiths-and-spiritual-producer-ofearth-and-peace-day-concerts-for24-years-shares-why/ Thank you all for caring for our world and those living in it…Our Good News Community hasn’t deviated since our first Good News Broadcast on July 4, 1998, through to the establishment of our International Day of Peace Concerts in 2002. WE CONGRATULATE YOU ALL FOR YOUR DESIRE TO SEE MEDIA AND EVENTS PROMOTE THE GOOD

Wednesday, Sept. 23

thru Sunday, Sept. 27

JazzFest White Plains Sept. 23-27, 2026 | White Plains, NY JazzFest White Plains returns this fall with a bold, artist-driven lineup that reflects the vitality of jazz today.

Across five days, 19 performances will bring legendary artists, contemporary innovators and emerging voices to downtown White Plains. Featuring five GRAMMY Award winners and nominees, the festival offers audiences a rare opportunity to experience the living evolution of jazz—from its foundational masters to the artists defining its future.

Saturday, Sept. 26

Sister to Sister International, Inc. (STSI) will bring together families, young people, community leaders, elected officials, health professionals, advocates, and community partners for its 2026 Day of Action, Education & Recognition, taking place Saturday, September 26, 2026, at New Rochelle High School. “Building Legacy, Inspiring Change,

CALENDAR, Cont’d. on page 13

16 • The WESTCHESTER County Press • Thursday, SEPTEMBER 3, 2026