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U.S. House Passes Controversial Bill on Transgender Participation in Women’s Sports

DAMON K JONES
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U.S. House Passes Controversial Bill on Transgender Participation in Women’s Sports

The U.S. House of Representatives has recently approved a significant and polarizing piece of legislation, the “Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.” Passed on January 14, 2025, the bill has sparked intense debate nationwide due to its implications for transgender athletes.

With a vote tally of 218-206, the bill garnered support primarily from Republican lawmakers, while most Democrats opposed it. Two Democrats broke ranks to vote in favor of the legislation, and one voted present. The bill seeks to limit the participation of transgender women and girls in female sports teams at federally funded schools and colleges.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The bill mandates that participation in athletic programs be determined based on the sex assigned at birth, effectively barring transgender women and girls from competing in women’s sports categories. Proponents argue that the legislation aims to ensure fair competition and protect opportunities for cisgender female athletes. They assert that biological differences between males and females can lead to unfair advantages in sports.

The Debate

Supporters of the legislation believe it upholds the integrity of women’s sports, ensuring that athletes compete on a level playing field. Representative Nancy Jones, a key proponent, stated, “This bill is about fairness and preserving the original intent of Title IX, which was to provide equal opportunities for women and girls in sports.”

However, opponents argue that the bill discriminates against transgender individuals, infringing on their rights and dignity. Critics emphasize that inclusive policies can be designed to balance fairness and equality without excluding transgender athletes. Representative Mark Green, a vocal critic of the bill, said, “This is a step backward in the fight for inclusivity and understanding in our society.”

Implications and Future Prospects

If enacted into law, the legislation would have far-reaching consequences for schools and athletic programs nationwide, potentially affecting existing state policies that allow transgender athletes to compete in categories matching their gender identity.

The bill is expected to face strong opposition in the Senate, where Democrats hold a slim majority. Advocacy groups on both sides of the debate are mobilizing, with some planning legal challenges if the bill becomes law. The Biden administration has indicated its intention to veto the bill should it reach the president’s desk, citing its discriminatory nature.

Public Response

The passage of the bill has drawn mixed reactions from the public. Advocacy groups for women’s rights and sports organizations are divided, reflecting the broader societal debate over inclusion versus competitive fairness in athletics. Public demonstrations and social media campaigns have surged as the nation grapples with the broader implications of this legislation.

The “Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act” represents a contentious intersection of sports, gender identity, and federal law. Its progress through Congress highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing inclusivity while maintaining perceived fairness in competitive arenas. As the debate continues, the ultimate fate of the bill will likely have lasting implications for the rights of transgender individuals and the future of women’s sports in the United States.

Trump Announces Creation of External Revenue Service to Shift Tax Burden Overseas

DAMON K JONES
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Trump Announces Creation of External Revenue Service to Shift Tax Burden Overseas

Washington, D.C.—President-elect Donald Trump has unveiled plans to establish a new federal agency, the External Revenue Service (ERS), tasked with collecting tariffs, duties, and other revenues from foreign sources. The announcement, made on the eve of his second inauguration, signals a bold step in his broader effort to realign the United States’ trade policies and reduce the domestic tax burden.

The ERS is designed to function as the international counterpart to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), which handles domestic tax collection. Trump emphasized that this new agency will target foreign entities engaging in trade with the U.S., ensuring they “pay their fair share.”

“For too long, American workers and families have shouldered the cost of foreign trade imbalances,” Trump stated during a press conference. “The External Revenue Service will level the playing field by making foreign beneficiaries of our market contribute to our prosperity.”

Proposed Tariff Increases

Key to the ERS’s revenue generation strategy is a series of proposed tariff hikes. The plan includes a 25% tariff on imports from allies such as Canada and Mexico and up to a 60% tariff on goods from China. These measures aim to reduce trade deficits while creating a significant revenue stream for the federal government.

Challenges in Congress

While the Republican majority in both the House and Senate gives Trump’s proposal a strong legislative foundation, the plan has sparked considerable debate. Democratic lawmakers, led by Senator Ron Wyden, have criticized the initiative as a veiled tax hike on American consumers and small businesses. “The costs of these tariffs will ultimately fall on everyday Americans,” Wyden warned.

Despite these objections, Trump’s team remains optimistic. “The ERS will mark a new chapter in American trade policy,” said an unnamed administration official. “This is about ensuring fairness in our global economic relationships.”

Leadership and Efficiency Efforts

Trump also announced the appointment of high-profile leaders Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to spearhead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), a nongovernmental task force. DOGE will focus on identifying inefficiencies and streamlining federal operations to complement the administration’s goals of reducing government size and scope.

Economic Concerns

Economists have expressed mixed reactions to the plan. While supporters argue that tariffs can bolster domestic industries, critics warn of potential retaliation against U.S. exports and increased costs for consumers. “Tariffs are a double-edged sword,” noted Dr. Laura Chen, a trade policy expert. “They may generate revenue, but the economic ripple effects could be significant.”

What’s Next?

The ERS proposal is set to move through Congress in the coming weeks. If approved, the agency would begin operations on January 20, coinciding with Trump’s inauguration. The administration hopes this initiative will solidify its commitment to “America First” policies while addressing longstanding trade inequities.

Public Reaction

Reactions to the announcement have been polarized. Supporters hail the ERS as a revolutionary approach to trade, while detractors fear it could escalate tensions with key trading partners. As the debate unfolds, one thing remains clear: the creation of the External Revenue Service marks a defining moment in U.S. trade policy.

MV NAACP Writes Open Letter to MVCSD, Board Votes To Close Three School At Special Meeting

AJ Woodson
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MV NAACP Writes Open Letter to MVCSD, Board Votes To Close Three School At Special Meeting

The Mount Vernon NAACP Branch wrote an open letter on Tuesday, January 14th to the Mount Vernon City School District (MVCSD) Board just hours before a special meeting to express their grave concerns regarding the ongoing actions and decisions of the Board of Education, particularly as they pertain to the 2023-2024 school year and the rushed implementation of the K-8 program. “Your actions have undermined the trust and voice of the community you are elected to serve. It is imperative that we address these issues and demand immediate accountability and transparency moving forward.”

The letter which was a call for accountability and community-centered decision-making addressed the lack of community involvement in the K-8 Program, the closing of Cecil H. Parker, The Mount Vernon Honor Academy (formerly Holmes Elementary School), and The Mount Vernon Leadership Academy (formerly Columbus), the mismanagement of bond funds, and the lack of leadership continuity. The letter (see below) ended with a set of recommendations.

MV NAACP – MVCSD Board of Ed Concerns by BLACK WESTCHESTER MAGAZINE on Scribd

Hours later the Mount Vernon City School District Board of Education held a Special Meeting at 6:30 p.m. at the Education Center, 165 North Columbus Ave., Mount Vernon, where they voted 5 (Adriane Saunders, Sabina Kelley, Lorna Kirwan, Wanda White, Helene Njenga) – 4 (Warren Mitchell, Lynne Middleton, Chris McDonough, Donna Marable) to close the schools in question.

One thing I haven’t heard addressed is that Cecil Parker is a voting location that many in the area without cars can walk to, to cast their vote. Closing Parker has unforeseen ramifications like making it harder for some on the South Side to vote which can be seen as a form of voter suppression.

In addition, several members of the public questioned one of the board members being allowed to leave the board meeting and have a private sidebar with the school district’s attorney and if that influenced her vote.

“Mr. Royce Russell, the in-house counsel of the school district, should have exercised better judgment than to leave an open public meeting to confer with a trustee during a vote. It was inappropriate for Trustee Helene Thompson-Njenga to address her private question outside of the open forum,” Brenda L. Crump shared with Black Westchester. “The in-house counsel should have informed her that it was against procedure to do so; and that any questions must be posed during the vote, not privately. Trustee Thompson-Njenga’s Board colleagues, district administration, and the public are unaware of what transpired between her and Mr. Russell. This leaves room for speculation that she may have been offered an inducement in exchange for her vote. Such actions, in my opinion, should invalidate that vote, therefore resulting in the vote not passing which would require one of the nah voters to bring the resolution back.”  

Also, since the Board violated its bylaws by not allowing Public Speaking in the Special Meeting (section 3000 Community Relations, Code 3220 number 9), are these two violations enough for the public to demand a revote on closing the three schools? I could not get an answer from any of the trustees I spoke with on whether these are violations and if there was a process for the public to force a revote.

9. In the case of a special board meeting with business conducted in public session (as opposed to a special board meeting consisting only of an executive session), public comment shall be permitted; however, all public comment at such a special board meeting must pertain exclusively to one or more items on that meeting’s scheduled agenda.  A speaker wishing to make comments of any other nature may do so at the next regularly scheduled Board meeting.

Trustee Donna Marable proposed delaying the vote and questioned the harm of waiting until the regularly scheduled board meeting the following Tuesday. Trustee Chris McDonough also proposed delaying the vote, Trustee Warren Mitchell also had questions and read the aforementioned except from the bylaws about public speaking at special meetings. Trustee Lynne Middletown also expressed some concerns. All to no avail. The other five trustees voted for the school closings.

Residents left the special board meeting feeling like they had no voice in the decisions of those they elected to run the school district.

The District will submit a petition for the reconfiguration to the New York State Education Department (NYSED) by March 1. If approved by the NYSED, the new model would take effect to start the 2025-2026 school year.

Public Statement by The Westchester Coalition for Police Reform in Response to the Death of Robert Brooks

AJ Woodson
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Public Statement by The Westchester Coalition for Police Reform in Response to the Death of Robert Brooks

We are deeply disturbed by the recent video showing the horrific beating of Robert Brooks by corrections officers, medical staff, and state employees which caused his death. This violent act is not only unacceptable but also inhumane and barbaric. Robert Brooks, a man of small stature, was handcuffed at the time and posed no threat or danger. These individuals—who should be entrusted with the care and safety of others—chose instead to assert their power through violence, and for reasons unknown, they decided to make an example of him. Regardless of their motivations, such actions are indefensible and must never be tolerated.

The unfortunate truth is that such incidents are not isolated. While many instances of abuse, excessive force, and state-sanctioned violence may go unrecorded, they are no less severe. Incarcerated individuals—or anyone who comes into contact with law enforcement—should never endure violence or mistreatment, regardless of the circumstances. Whether someone is convicted, awaiting trial, or accused of a minor infraction, they are entitled to be treated with dignity and respect by those entrusted to uphold the law.

Sadly, complaints of abuse often fail to result in meaningful consequences for those responsible. Rarely are perpetrators held accountable for their actions, despite the widespread outcry and public condemnation. The outrage sparked by the tragic killing of George Floyd led many to hope for systemic change, but the same behavior continues to plague our justice system, only to be swept under the rug once more.

We want to make it clear, unequivocally, that we are watching. We will continue to bring these awful incidents to light and work tirelessly until true accountability is achieved. Constitutional and civil rights are being violated right before our eyes, and we will not remain silent. We will not stop until the victims and survivors of this violence are heard and justice is served.

It is imperative that we prevent further systemic violence and harm, particularly toward those who are most vulnerable. We must ensure that every individual, regardless of their status or circumstance, is treated with respect, dignity, and care. No one is above the law, and the humanity of all must be upheld.

We will not rest until we see real, lasting change, and until the abuses of power that continue to haunt our justice system are eradicated.

NR NAACP Will Be Hosting MLK Day Program & Annual Jubilee Celebration

AJ Woodson
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NR NAACP Will Be Hosting MLK Day Program & Annual Jubilee Celebration

The New Rochelle Branch of the NAACP will be hosting a Community Martin Luther King Day Program at St. Catherine AME Zion Church, 19 Lincoln Avenue New Rochelle, NY on Monday, January 20th, 2025. Both its H.S. Youth Chapter and its Youth Council are coming together to honor Dr. King’s Legacy with a morning of reflection, music, and poetry. A continental breakfast will be served from 8 am-9 am. The program will commence at 9:30. 

On Sunday, January 26th, 2025 The New Rochelle Branch of the NAACP will host its Annual Community Jubilee Celebration at Bethesda Baptist Church, 71 Lincoln Avenue, New Rochelle, NY at 4 pm. The Jubilee Celebration is done in remembrance of the implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation, which ended slavery in the United States on January 1, 1865, except in specified circumstances. The newly elected branch officers and executive committee members will be sworn in by New Rochelle Mayor Yadira Ramos-Herbert during this celebration.

Admission is free to both events and all are invited to attend.

John Allen Announces Campaign for Westchester County Clerk

AJ Woodson
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John Allen Announces Campaign for Westchester County Clerk

JOHN ALLEN ANNOUNCES CAMPAIGN TO SUCCEED COUNTY CLERK IDONI

“We must finish the job” declares long-serving Deputy County Clerk

The race for Westchester County Clerk just got a little more crowded when Deputy Westchester County Clerk John Allen, an active Port Chester Democrat announced his candidacy to succeed his mentor Tim Idoni as Westchester County Clerk.

“These are challenging times for government, public service, and our democracy,” said Allen. “For the last 19 years, it has been my honor to serve as Deputy County Clerk here in Westchester and to help Tim Idoni implement a vision for truly collaborative and transparent government – a model for how county government should operate and frankly, a testament to Democratic leadership in Westchester.

“We should continue to build on this legacy of innovation and progress. That is why I am officially announcing my campaign for Westchester County Clerk.”

Allen brings unmatched experience and knowledge to the position. As Deputy County Clerk for Technology Initiatives, Allen helped to lead a transformation in responsiveness, accessibility, accountability, and transparency in how our county government operates as the Clerk’s office worked to eliminate paper and increase electronic transactions that reduce costs while improving speed and quality of services for residents and professionals alike. 

“These are dangerous times for those of us who believe in building trust in government,” said Allen. “We in Westchester have been building a stronger relationship with the residents of the county over the last two decades. I do not undertake this campaign lightly, and I know there are other candidates who will make persuasive political cases for the Democratic nomination – but I urge our Democratic committees and district leaders to consider experience, vision, and accomplishment in the office.”

Per his announcement statement, under Allen’s leadership, the Office of the County Clerk has used new technology to improve efficiency and has spearheaded legal e-filing through the NYSCEF system, which has expanded and improved throughout the State due largely to the early participation and feedback from the Westchester County Clerk. After County Clerk Idoni successfully lobbied the State Legislature to pass an eRecording law, Westchester County was the first county in the state to record a land record that was electronically transmitted, enabling the Westchester County Clerk’s Office to record documents within minutes of being received. Under Allen’s leadership, the office expanded the scanning of legal records. It developed a new portal, Westchester Records Online, to enable residents to access records from anywhere in the world easily.

“As my colleagues in government know, this has saved the County significant funds, allowing for expenditures elsewhere and zero tax increases,” said Allen. “I intend to continue to implement efficiencies through professional management and innovative technology initiatives.”

Allen is a native of the County, and a longtime resident of Port Chester, where he serves as an elected Trustee. For two decades, he has worked to preserve voting rights and ballot access as a leader of the New York Democratic Lawyers Council.

“Our County Clerk’s office is recognized by our peers as the best in New York State,” said Allen. “I am very proud of that record, and we need to make sure that it continues. As we’ve seen elsewhere in County government, this is a real opportunity for an experienced and fully vetted Deputy to step up into the leadership role without any interruption of service or changes in policy.”

Allen has been meeting with Democratic committees and district leaders in anticipation of next month’s Democratic nominating convention. He will appear with other candidates before the Executive Committee at the Democratic Party’s January 15th meeting.

Other candidates for County Clerk include longtime White Plains Mayor Tom Roach, who announced via a statement that he will not run for re-election for Mayor but will be running for Westchester County Clerk on Wednesday, January 8th, and Democratic State Assemblyman Nader Sayegh who formally declared his candidacy for Westchester County Clerk on Friday, December 13, 2024. Crystal Collins officially withdrew from the County Clerk race, on Wednesday, January 8th. Black Westchester has been told Yorktown Town Clerk Diana Quast and North Castle Town Clerk Alison Simon will also be joining the race.

Stay tuned to Black Westchester for more coverage of this race!

The California Fire Crisis: A Failure of Prevention and Budgeting

DAMON K JONES
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The California Fire Crisis: A Failure of Prevention and Budgeting

California’s history with wildfires is well-documented. These destructive events are not recent; they are an inherent aspect of the state’s landscape. Yet, the ongoing wildfire crisis is not an inevitable environmental occurrence but rather a significant failure in prevention and budgeting. Poor planning and misplaced priorities have intensified the risks, transforming what could be manageable events into devastating catastrophes.

The escalating wildfire crisis has resulted in a breakdown of California’s homeowners insurance market. Major insurers such as State Farm and Allstate have ceased issuing new policies in the state, citing uncontrollable risks and skyrocketing costs. Insured damages from wildfires now surpass $20 billion annually, a financial burden that insurers can no longer bear. California’s regulatory framework exacerbates this issue. Proposition 103, intended to protect consumers from excessive insurance rates, restricts insurers from adjusting premiums to reflect the true risks posed by wildfires. Consequently, insurers are exiting the market, compelling homeowners to rely on the California FAIR Plan—a last-resort insurer providing limited coverage at higher costs. This situation has left many residents vulnerable and financially strained.

While California has made considerable investments in firefighting resources, these efforts have predominantly concentrated on suppression rather than prevention. Recent budget cuts to wildfire prevention programs underscore this imbalance. Over $100 million was cut from prevention initiatives, including $5 million designated for CAL FIRE’s vegetation management and fuel reduction teams. Such reductions undermine the state’s ability to address risks at their source, such as clearing dry vegetation and conducting controlled burns. Despite these cuts, California has doubled the number of firefighters and invested in advanced equipment, but these measures primarily respond to immediate crises rather than preventing them. The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief Kristin Crowley has also criticized the city’s leadership for underfunding and understaffing firefighting units, leaving communities ill-prepared to handle the growing threats of wildfires.

The argument that climate change is solely to blame for California’s wildfire crisis overlooks a key point: wildfires have always been a part of California’s ecosystem. The real issue lies in inadequate planning and resource allocation. Expanding urban development into fire-prone areas without proper safeguards has increased risks. Additionally, decades of fire suppression policies have allowed fuel loads to accumulate, creating the perfect conditions for catastrophic fires.

The withdrawal of major insurers from California should serve as a wake-up call. When insurance companies—whose business models depend on accurately assessing risk—deem a market unsustainable, it indicates systemic failure. This crisis underscores the urgent need for better land-use policies and proactive risk management to ensure communities are prepared for future wildfires.

Addressing California’s wildfire crisis requires a shift in priorities. The state must invest in prevention by increasing funding for vegetation management, prescribed burns, and other proactive measures to reduce fuel loads. Smarter planning is essential, including stricter land-use policies to prevent unchecked development in high-risk areas. Modernizing insurance regulations, such as reforming Proposition 103, is necessary to allow insurers to adjust premiums based on actual risks while safeguarding vulnerable homeowners. Local fire services must also be adequately funded and staffed to meet the growing demands of wildfire response.

California’s wildfire crisis is not an unavoidable environmental calamity but a preventable disaster exacerbated by poor planning and budgetary mismanagement. Wildfires are a known and predictable threat in the state, and the failure to adequately prepare for them reflects a broader lack of foresight. To protect its residents and preserve its economy, California must prioritize prevention, adopt smarter land-use policies, and allocate resources effectively. The time for excuses is over; it’s time for action.

Crystal Collins Officially Withdraws From 2025 Westchester County Race

AJ Woodson
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Crystal Collins Officially Withdraws From 2025 Westchester County Race

Westchester County Director of Faith-Based Initiatives and Urban Affairs Crystal Collins officially withdrew her name as a candidate for the 2025 Westchester County Clerk race.

“While seeking the nomination from the Westchester County Democratic Committee for the position of County Clerk, I encountered some unforeseen challenges. After discussing these concerns with my children and family, I decided to withdraw my name from consideration. Now is not the right time,” Collins shared via video (see below) on Wednesday, January 8th.

Collins states she will “remain a dedicated public servant leader and advocate for my community. I plan to continue serving as a bridge builder engaging with the community and uplifting and empowering the residents of Westchester County. This isn’t the end, it’s just the beginning. I am inspired by the people who have supported me throughout the past and who have ignited a fire in me to continue serving my community with dedication, experience, and integrity.”

Macy’s Is Closing 66 Stores Nationwide, Cross County Is Not Among 9 NY Locations

AJ Woodson
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Macy’s Is Closing 66 Stores Nationwide, Cross County Is Not Among 9 NY Locations

Macy’s is closing several dozen stores nationwide as part of a previously announced turnaround plan to save the beleaguered retailer. Last year, Macy’s announced it was closing 150 underperforming stores by 2026, shrinking its footprint to about 350 locations when the plan is finished. The 66 store closings revealed Thursday are included in that multiyear initiative. But, until now, Macy’s had not publicized which stores were set to close. But have no fear Westchester shoppers the Cross County location is not on the chopping block at least not yet.

The nine locations in New York closing include 422 Fulton St. (Brooklyn), 2027 Emmons Ave. (Brooklyn), 404 East Fordham Rd. (Bronx), 88-01 Queens Blvd. (Queens), 834 Walt Whitman Rd. in Melville Mall (Huntington), 1526 Union Turnpike (New Hyde Park), 400 Sunrise Mall (Massapequa), 397 Greece Ridge Center in Greece Ridge Center (Rochester), and 98 Richmond Hill Rd. (Staten Island).

In a press release, Macy’s CEO Tony Spring said that closing “any store is never easy.” Still, the locations chosen are “underproductive” for its so-called Bold New Chapter strategy, which includes a shift to chasing wealthier shoppers with its higher-end brands including Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury.

“Closing any store is never easy, but as part of our Bold New Chapter strategy, we are closing underproductive Macy’s stores to allow us to focus our resources and prioritize investments in our go-forward stores, where customers are already responding positively to better product offerings and elevated service,” Spring said in the statement.

Macy’s turnaround strategy reflects a shift in retail and US shoppers. As the middle class has shrunk in recent decades, the retail market has split: Lower-end stores focused on cost-savings, such as Walmart, have done particularly well. But so have luxury brands, as shoppers with means have been able to keep up their spending, despite higher prices.

So Macy’s is chasing wealthier shoppers with luxury brands such as Bloomingdale’s and Bluemercury, and it’s pulling back on some of its full-scale department stores that cater primarily to more middle-class customers.

“Building on that success, Macy’s enters 2025 well-positioned to build momentum with a stronger store fleet and remains focused on bringing this enhanced customer experience to more locations nationwide and through its digital channels,” Macy’s stated.

The affected 66 locations are a mix of the flagship department store, its furniture-focused spinoff and Backstage, Macy’s bargain-priced rival to Marshalls and T.J. Maxx. Liquidation sales will begin in the coming days and some stores have already closed.

These are the locations Macy’s plans on closing:

Arizona

6535 E. Southern Ave. in Superstition Springs Center (Mesa)

California

2015 Birch Rd. in Otay Ranch Town Center (Chula Vista)

6000 Sunrise Mall (Citrus Heights)

1400 Redwood Highway (Corte Madera)

750 W 7th St. (Los Angeles)

200 Newpark Mall (Newark)

1555 Camino De La Reina in Mission Valley Home (San Diego)

2838 South El Camino (San Mateo)

300 Westminster Mall (Westminster)

414 K St. (Sacramento)

Colorado

6797 South Vine St. (Centennial)

8298 E. Northfield Blvd. in the Shops at Northfield (Denver)

Florida

820 West Town Parkway (Altamonte)

9339 Glades Rd. (Boca Raton)

801 N. Congress Ave. (Boynton Beach)

4501 N. Federal Highway (Fort Lauderdale)

13640 Pines Blvd. (Pembroke Pines)

3501 S, Tamiami Trail in Westfield Siesta Key (Sarasota)

13251 South Dixie Highway (Miami)

298 Westshore Plaza in West Shore Plaza (Tampa)

Georgia

3360 Ventura Parkway (Duluth)

2100 Pleasant Hill Rd. in Gwinnett Place Mall (Duluth)

3630 Peachtree Parkway in Johns Creek Town Center (Suwanee)

Idaho

200 W. Hanley Ave. in Silver Lake Mall (Coeur d’Alene)

Illinois

104 White Oaks Mall (Springfield)

Louisiana

5733 Johnston St. in Acadiana Mall (Lafayette)

Maryland

600 Baltimore Pike in Harford Mall (Bel Air)

6901 Security Blvd. in Security Square Mall (Baltimore)

Massachusetts

101 Kingston Collection Way (Kingston)

Michigan

4600 Miller Rd. in Genesee Valley Center (Flint)

14200 Lakeside Circle in Lakeside Mall (Sterling Heights)

3400 S. Airport Rd. W. in Grand Traverse Mall (Traverse City)

500 W. 14 Mile Rd. in Oakland Mall (Troy)

Minnesota

14251 Burnhaven Drive (Burnsville)

3001 White Bear Ave. (Maplewood)

Missouri

400 NW Barry Rd. in Metro North Mall (Kansas City)

10 S. County Center Way in South County Center (St. Louis)

New Jersey

495 Prospect Avenue West (West Orange)

New York

422 Fulton St. (Brooklyn)

2027 Emmons Ave. (Brooklyn)

404 East Fordham Rd. (Bronx)

88-01 Queens Blvd. (Queens)

834 Walt Whitman Rd. in Melville Mall (Huntington)

1526 Union Turnpike (New Hyde Park)

400 Sunrise Mall (Massapequa)

397 Greece Ridge Center in Greece Ridge Center (Rochester)

98 Richmond Hill Rd. (Staten Island)

Ohio

2727 Fairfield Commons Blvd. (Beavertown)

5001 Monroe St. in Franklin Park Mall (Toledo)

Oregon

2055 NE. Allie Ave. at the Streets of Tanasbourne (Hillsboro)

400 High St. NE. (Salem)

Pennsylvania

5580 Goods Lane in Logan Valley Mall (Altoona)

245 Exton Square Mall (Exton)

1300 Market St. (Philadelphia)

59 Wyoming Valley Mall (Wilkes Barre)

Tennessee

4545 Poplar Ave. in Oak Court Mall (Memphis)

Texas

321 State St. in Southlake Town Square (Dallas)

6101 Long Prairie Rd. (Flower Mound)

1751 River Run (Fort Worth)

100 Almeda Mall (Houston)

6209 W. Park Blvd. at the Shops at Willow Bend (Plano)

201 Stacy Rd. (Fairview)

Virginia

170 Southpark Circle (Colonial Heights)

Washington

3500 S. Meridian in South Hill Mall (Puyallup)

15340 NE 24th St. (Redmond)

10315 Silverdale Way NW in Kitsap Mall (Silverdale)

White Plains Common Council Member Justin Brasch Announces Mayoral Campaign

AJ Woodson
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White Plains Common Council Member Justin Brasch Announces Mayoral Campaign

Democratic White Plains Common Council Member Justin Brasch announced his mayoral campaign at a rally with numerous Democratic leaders and supporters Wednesday night. State Senator Shelley Mayer; Assemblymember Chris Burdick; Democratic Majority Leader of the County Legislature Tyrae Woodson Samuels; County Legislators Judah Holstein, Jewel Williams Johnson, and Terry Clements; White Plains Council Members John Martin, Rich Payne, and Victoria Presser; and White Plains Democratic Chair Tim James were in attendance. 

“Since moving to White Plains 22 years ago, I have served on the Budget Committee for Westchester County, the Planning Board for the White Plains, on the Budget Committee for the School Board, as President of the Common Council and Chair of the Youth Bureau. I am excited to announce my Candidacy for Mayor of White Plains as a continuation of this public service,” said Brasch. 

“This is a tremendous responsibility, and if the voters choose to honor me with this position, it is something that I am sincerely looking forward to because I believe that we must carry on Mayor Roach’s legacy and keep our diverse and thriving City moving in the right direction.

“I plan to lead my campaign as I will lead the city – bringing people together, creating an inclusive movement, facing challenges head-on, and uplifting the most vulnerable in our community. 

“I am committed to increasing affordable housing and making our city sustainable to build a better future for our youth.  We need to create more accessible parks and green spaces, and improve our climate resiliency,” said Brasch. 

A resident of White Plains for over 20 years, Justin is a landlord-tenant attorney. He was first elected to the Common Council in 2017 and has served as Council President and Chair of the White Plains Youth Bureau. Justin is a longtime Democratic leader and has been involved with numerous community organizations, including the White Plains Planning Board; White Plains School Board Budget Advisory Committee; Westchester County Legislature’s Citizens Budget Advisory Committee; White Plains Multimodal Transportation Center Stakeholder Task Force; NYC Sierra Club Political Committee; and Mid-Manhattan NAACP. Justin and his wife Juli have three children.

Longtime White Plains Mayor Tom Roach announced that he will not run for re-election but will be running for Westchester County Clerk. Brasch will face off with former Common Councilwoman Nadine Hunt-Robinson in the Democratic Primary in June.

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