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Denzel Washington School of the Arts graduates 59 students from Class of 2024

AJ Woodson
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Denzel Washington School of the Arts graduates 59 students from Class of 2024

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. (June 21, 2024) —  Students turned their tassels, walked across the stage and officially became graduates of Denzel Washington School of the Arts on Friday, June 21, 2024. 59 students graduated from the Class of 2024. The commencement ceremony was held in the Phylicia Rashad Auditorium at DWSA.

The ceremony began with the “Pledge of Allegiance,” the “Star Spangled Banner” and “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” recited by Class of 2024 graduating seniors Rojae Denton, Simone Smith and Sheridan Hinds. Principal Andrea Thomas then greeted the graduates and families in attendance.

“You came to us with raw talent and a passion for the arts,” said Ms. Thomas. “Over the years, we have seen you grow, not just in your artistic abilities, but also in your understanding of the world around you, your academic prowess and your ability to persevere through adversity. You have learned to use your art to express your thoughts, your feelings, and your perspectives.”

Acting Superintendent Dr. K. Veronica Smith congratulated the graduates and remarked on their tenacity, overcoming everything that came their way. She recalled working on her dissertation, and the students in foster care who showed such resiliency and still graduated; she saw that same quality in the students in this graduating class.

“I hope as you leave here today and move into the next stage of your life that you stay true to yourself and always stand up for what you believe in,” said Dr. Smith. “Remember those moments and people who have helped shape your character as you appreciate all that you have become. Be proud of all that you have conquered to get to this monumental moment in your life.”

Board of Education President Lorna Kirwan congratulated the graduates and thanked parents, teachers and administration on behalf of the Board of Education for working together to guide these students toward graduation.

“The world beyond these walls is full of opportunities and rewarding challenges for all of you,” said President Kirwan. “It is a world that needs your talents, your passion, and your commitment to making a difference. You will be stepping into a world that is rapidly changing. Embrace the changes with open minds and courageous hearts.”

The Mayor of the City of Mount Vernon, Shawyn Patterson-Howard, spoke to the graduates about staying true to their characters as they enter this new and exciting phase of their life.

“You are transitioning from high school to the next phase of your life today,” she said. “I want you to know that it is more than a notion as your life expands. Whether it’s college, military, whether you’re taking a gap year to figure it all out, if you’re going to vocational school; be prepared for the next level.

Graduating senior Nigel Diggs read an original poem to the audience titled “Completion.” The Senior Band and Orchestra then performed “Good  Days” by SZA. Salutatorian Brielle Henderson had a lighthearted message in her speech for her fellow graduates but also gave them meaningful advice throughout.

“Remember that words are magic, remember that your experience is valid, remember that you are loved, remember that you belong,” said Brielle. “Remember that you’re whole, remember that you’re extraordinarily ordinary, remember that you’re ordinarily extraordinary, remember that there’s another perspective, remember to stay focused, remember not to take things too seriously.”

Class President and Valedictorian Chanel Baxter thanked her teachers and classmates in student government for making the senior year so special. She discussed the trials they have faced thus far, and the trials and joys they will face in the future as they go into adulthood. 

“As we plan to go off and start lives of our own, I implore you to plan for the unexpected,” said Chenel. “Plan for 10-page papers in MLA format forgotten about until an hour before their due date. Plan for finding joy and happiness in the shared anxiety and panic that arise with the coming of midterms with the friends you’ll go on to meet beyond the confines of the City of Mount Vernon.”

Billy “Mr. Apollo” Mitchell then took the stage for his keynote speech. Mr. Mitchell is the director of tours, in-house historian and ambassador at The World Famous Apollo Theater in Harlem.

“Let me tell you something, there’s something about us from Mount Vernon, that when we go out there into the world, we are better than everybody,” said Mr. Mitchell. “It’s just the truth. There’s something about us, because we’re only four square miles. I came to see a production that you guys did the other day when Denzel was here. I was so impressed with what I saw. There’s so much talent in Mount Vernon.” 

A video congratulations from Denzel Washinton, congratulating the seniors, and a montage of the senior class played. 

Dr. Smith and DWSA administration proclaimed the 59 students as graduates of the Class of 2024 to the Board of Education, and students cheered, received their diplomas and celebrated their achievement. 

An account of an encounter with George and Jamaal

Black Westchester
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An account of an encounter with George and Jamaal

To the editor:

The Democratic Party primary in Westchester County between George Latimer and Jamaal Bowman may not be a race about race, but it is certainly a race about restorative justice. It’s about achieving comparable outcomes for all people, regardless of race, class, status, or privilege, by taking responsibility, caring for those victimized, working to heal harms, and rebuilding communities torn apart by violence and inequity, rather than simply punishing, so that all people can flourish.

I know both George and Jamaal — I’ve campaigned/canvassed for both, and have enjoyed multiple conversations and even shared meals with each of them over the last half dozen years, including having had a private hour-and-a-half breakfast with George in January of 2023.

George and I met that morning to have a conversation — one that we’d been trying to arrange ever since he was first elected — about restorative justice. It was a friendly encounter (I felt let into some secret, as he reflected on his intention of going into public service after his term ended.) And when I gave him some deeply disturbing data — according to the Vera Institute of Justice, over 90% (90.6%, to be precise) of the people convicted in Westchester County, serving time in NY State prisons, were people of color — he seemed like somebody we could count on, an ally in the corridors of power. He promised to appoint an office liaison, to which we could bring the names of three or four impacted people so he could start talking about this troubling legacy in the county of which he was the Chief Executive.

In the last year and a half, to my disappointment and dismay, there has only been a resounding silence.

Most pointedly, precisely a year ago, at the 2023 Memorial Day Parade in Hastings-on-Hudson, I had personal conversations with both George and Jamaal about the urgency of speaking out for restorative justice in Westchester, handing both of them an identical letter asking for their support. George told me he would read the letter that evening and get back to me. Instead, only silence. (He’s not talked to me since; within a few days, his office, even down to the lowest-level staffer, entirely ghosted me; I was even turned away when I went to the County Executive’s White Plains office, being told that I needed an appointment, the proverbial Catch-22 since nobody would even return calls to arrange that.) It was an entirely different story with Jamaal, who issued a statement about how restorative justice was vital for public safety, and the only way we could all flourish.

An unedited version of the original May 29, 2023 letter given to both George and Jamaal can be viewed below Read it, and tell me how it is even imaginable that the Chief Executive of the county in which this troubling legacy persisted would say nothing.

Restorative Justice by BLACK WESTCHESTER MAGAZINE on Scribd

Upon reflection, it started to look — after years of encouragement from George to have these kinds of conversations — that we had been played. It became harder to ignore other silences. George had never spoken publicly on behalf of justice for Kenneth Chamberlain, Sr., the army veteran killed in 2013 by White Plains police who broke into his apartment after his emergency alert system went off by mistake. (Jamaal, for his part, even showed up at some of the annual vigils organized by his remarkable son, Kenneth Chamberlain, Jr.) And we are still waiting — in a process mandated, in response to the murder of George Floyd (four years ago when these words were first penned), by then governor Cuomo that all towns in the state set up Police Reform and Reinvention committees — for the establishment of a county-wide Office of Police Accountability. While George did support setting up Project Alliance, a mental-health response line, on this other similarly vital matter, four years later there still seems to be only an extended game of ping-pong back and forth with the Board of Legislators.

To use George’s own slogan, here the lack of results — the failure to make the substantive changes that would make us all safer, and let us all flourish — is due to the total absence of rhetoric. Instead of leadership, only a deafening silence.

So I ask you, my neighbors and fellow county residents, this: how could we in good conscience choose a man who could simply be silent about such an appalling reality over one who fearlessly speaks out for restorative justice, at possible political risk to himself, because he believes that such justice makes us all safer, and lets us all flourish?

I say this perhaps most explicitly to my Jewish friends who have long been in a profoundly — even the most — supportive alliance with communities of color on behalf of racial justice. I know that many of you wish that Jamaal had said some things differently (as do I, coming from a Christian tradition of total non-violence), but you know that he believes in Israel’s right to exist; he simply called, before others, for the position now espoused by President Biden and Senator Schumer, and other important Jewish voices, including Senator Bernie Sanders, to say nothing of thousands of young Jewish activists. A voice for all humanity, and for our children — always Jamaal’s emphasis — emphatically includes a commitment to Jewish flourishing, alongside that of Blacks, Whites, Hispanics, Asians, Indigenous Americans, all of the diverse communities of our world.

If you — Jewish, Muslim, Christian, or entirely unaffiliated — believe that restorative justice is essential to healing our world (yes, tikkun olam), as I believe most of us do, it’s urgent that we side with real justice by voting for Jamaal Bowman in the June 25th Democratic Primary. And — since our collective well-being depends on re-imaging our world, with justice-driven results — vote for William Wagstaff for Westchester County District Attorney. I’ve sometimes called both Jamaal and William “generational” candidates. But the truth is, they are more than that — I’ve not seen anybody like them in my lifetime. Everybody is better off, everybody is safer, all our children have a better future, in a more just world.

– Steven Siebert

Black Westchester Pre-Primary Show with Congressman Jamaal Bowman and District Attorney Candidate William Wagstaff

AJ Woodson
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Black Westchester Pre-Primary Show with Congressman Jamaal Bowman and District Attorney Candidate William Wagstaff

Check out a special edition of Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show, Get Out The Vote Edition with your hosts Damon K. Jones and AJ Woodson. Our guests our Congressman Jamaal Bowman and Civil Rights Attorney William O. Wagstaff who is running to be elected the First African American District Attorney of Westchester County.

Bowman and Wagstaff just received endorsements from Black Westchester, Blacks In Law Enforcement and the Westchester Corrections Association and we give you one last look at the candidates we think will be best for both offices. Check out the full interviews below

Early voting runs until Sunday, June 23rd you can vote as any voting location, see list of times and locations here and The Democratic Primary Day is Tuesday June 25th, you must vote at your regular voting place on Election Day!

Also see Former prosecutor Adeel Mirza dropped out the DA race and put his support behind William Wagstaff.

To support the show, which provides real talk for the community for free, make a donation via PayPal at www.PayPal.me/BlackWestchesterMag. In the words of Ray Charles, “One of these days, and it [might not be] long, You’re gonna look for [us], and [we’ll] be gone.” Support independent, Black-free media!

Black Law Enforcement Supports Re-election of Congressman Bowman and the Election of Wagstaff for DA

Black Westchester
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Black Law Enforcement Supports Re-election of Congressman Bowman and the Election of Wagstaff for DA

WESTCHESTER, NY – Blacks In Law Enforcement of America (BLEA) and the Westchester Correction Association (WCA) have announced their strong support for the re-election of Congressman Jamaal Bowman and the election of William O. Wagstaff III as Westchester District Attorney.

The two prominent Black Law Enforcement organizations believe Bowman and Wagstaff are the leaders needed to address the underlying causes of crime and bring more fairness to the criminal justice system. In Congress, Bowman has been a vocal advocate for investing in underfunded communities, pushing for better education, expanded mental health services, job training and other vital resources that can help prevent social issues from turning into matters for law enforcement.

BLEA Letterhead Bowman Wagstaff by BLACK WESTCHESTER MAGAZINE on Scribd

Congressman Bowman has strongly advocated investing in our communities to prevent social issues from turning into criminal justice issues. He understands that by providing better education, mental health services, job opportunities, and other vital resources, we can reduce crime and keep our neighborhoods safer.

“Congressman Bowman understands that by providing critical opportunities and support systems, we can reduce crime and keep our neighborhoods safer without over-policing,” said Damon K. Jones,ntative, BLEA NY represe and WCA President.

Meanwhile, Wagstaff has pledged to bring major reforms to the District Attorney’s office to combat systemic inequities. The groups praised his commitment to exploring alternatives to incarceration, eliminating discriminatory practices, and ensuring all individuals are treated equally under the law regardless of race.

For too long, they say, the justice system has disproportionately impacted communities of color, perpetuating a “school-to-prison pipeline” that sets young people up for failure. As District Attorney, Wagstaff would work to dismantle this unjust cycle.

“William Wagstaff deeply understands how our current system can ruin countless lives before they even begin,” Jones stated. “His leadership and vision are essential to overcoming historical inequities and building safer, healthier communities.”

The organizations highlighted that Bowman and Wagstaff’s values align closely with their own mission. “Their commitment to police reform, criminal justice reform, and supporting police-community relations reflects the changes we have long fought for,” said Jones.

BLEA and WCA are now urging all Westchester residents to back Bowman’s re-election campaign and Wagstaff’s run for District Attorney. By supporting these “dedicated public servants,” they believe Westchester can take important strides towards a more just society for all.

Black Westchester Magazine Announces Inaugural 40 Under 40 Awards in Westchester County

AJ Woodson
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Black Westchester Magazine Announces Inaugural 40 Under 40 Awards in Westchester County

Westchester County, NY – Black Westchester Magazine is thrilled to announce the launch of the first-ever 40 Under 40 Awards, celebrating the young, dynamic leaders making significant contributions to our community. This prestigious recognition aims to highlight the accomplishments of Westchester County’s emerging leaders across various fields, including business, education, healthcare, arts, and community activism.

Nominations are now open and will be accepted until October 31, 2024.

The 40 Under 40 Awards is a platform dedicated to acknowledging the hard work, dedication, and impact of young professionals and leaders under the age of 40. These awards will shine a spotlight on individuals who are not only excelling in their professions but are also committed to making a difference in their communities.

Paul Presendieu, the esteemed Vice President of the United Nations Association of Westchester County, will serve as the Nominations Chairman. His extensive experience in intersectional community leadership and development makes him an ideal fit for this role, ensuring the selection process is both rigorous and fair.

“We are incredibly excited to launch this initiative and recognize the bright young black talent within Westchester County across numerous industries,” said Presendieu. “Our community is full of individuals who are achieving great things and contributing positively to society. This is our opportunity to celebrate their efforts and inspire future leaders to follow in their steps.”

To nominate an outstanding individual for the 40 Under 40 Awards, please fill out the nomination form available at https://tinyurl.com/WestchesterBlack40under40. Nominations will be accepted until October 31st, 2024. We encourage everyone to participate and help us identify those who are driving change and making an impact in Westchester County.

The selected honorees will be featured in a special issue of Black Westchester Magazine during Black History and celebrated at a public program, details of which will be announced later this year. This event promises to be a memorable evening of recognition, networking, and inspiration.

For more information about the 40 Under 40 Awards or to learn more about Black Westchester Magazine, please visit our website or contact our editorial team.

Let’s come together to celebrate and honor the Future Black  Leaders of Westchester County!

Contact: Black Westchester Magazine  Website or Email: 40under40.BlackWestchester@gmail.com  

Follow us on Social Media: Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube

BW 2024 – Pre-Primary Issue Part Two

AJ Woodson
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BW 2024 – Pre-Primary Issue Part Two

Welcome to part two of our 2024 Pre-Primary Coverage where we spend a considerable amount of time covering the 2024 CD-16 Congressional primary.

There has been a lot of misinformation given out during this race and in this issue part two of the Pre Primary Issues, we continue our coverage of the Congressional District 16 primary. In part one we called of out some hypocrisy and some concerns with candidate George Latimer, in part two we cover Congressman Jamaal Bowman.

You have seen all the campaign lit that invades your mailbox like bombs over Bagdad and the commercials you have been bombarded with, we cut to the noise, political rhetoric and things lobbying groups and AIPAC and some of the MAGA donors would have you believe everyone in the district feels about Bowman. We talked to many people throughout the district who paint a much different picture.

We dedicate two issues to this race because it is so important to our district. Read it all and then make up your own mind, Whoever you decide to vote for, make sure you Get Up, Get Out and Vote, Check with seniors, neighbors and members of your family and encourage them to vote. The other major election in Westchester is the race for District Attorney, while we like both candidates for different reasons, we wholeheartedly feel the best candidate for our community and to address issues we have with the entire criminal justice system is Civil Rights Attorney Williams Wagstaff, We feel its best for our community to have someone with a Civil Rights Attorney lens as the next District Attorney as suppose to the long list of prosecutors we have had all along, We feel the Criminal Justice System and how we are treated would be in better hands with Wagstaff.

As far as CD-16 Congressional race we feel the district will best be served by the re-election of Congressman Bowman. We represent the Black community and feel Bowman deserves to be re-elected and is best to address our concerns and our community.

As always we would like to take this time to thank all the readers, listeners, supporters, sponsors, contributors, and advertisers for their support in our effort to deliver the “News With The Black Point Of View,” since 2014. We are always looking for writers, photographers and interns, email BlackWestchesterMag@gmail.com to inquire.

Send us your feedback, let us know what you think of this issue. Let us know subjects/topics you would like to see us cover in the future and send your letters to the editor to BlackWestchesterMag@gmail.com.

If you missed the May/June 2024 Pre-Primary Issue Part One, click here to check it out!

Celebrating the 67th National Puerto Rican Day Parade: Boricua de Corazón

Larnez Kinsey
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Celebrating the 67th National Puerto Rican Day Parade: Boricua de Corazón

On  Sunday, June 9th, 2024, the streets of New York City were pulsating with excitement as folks geared up for the 67th National Puerto Rican Day Parade. Making my way to Fifth Avenue, the epicenter of the festivities, I could feel the anticipation building inside me. As a true New Yorker, attending this parade wasn’t just a tradition; it was a deeply cherished family affair—a day filled with love, pride, and a profound connection to my roots.

This year’s parade was truly something special, with the theme “Boricua de Corazón” echoing through the city streets. It was more than just a celebration; it was a powerful reminder of the resilience and spirit of the Puerto Rican community.

As the parade kicked off, the energy was electric. Visualize eye-catching floats, each one featuring the iconic Puerto Rican flag, adding a touch of cultural flair to the parade, weaving through the bustling crowd, while the infectious rhythms of bomba, plena, and salsa fill the air. It’s like a vivid tapestry unfolding right before your eyes, a celebration that ignites the senses and stirs the soul. It was a sensory feast, a true celebration of unity and joy.

For me, being a part of the parade felt like a homecoming. Surrounded by loved ones and fellow New YorkRicans, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging—a connection that transcended boundaries and brought us all together.

As the sun began to set and the day faded into evening, I couldn’t help but carry the spirit of the parade with me. It was as if the energy of the day connected me to my ancestors, their presence felt in every beat of the music and every wave of the flag. And as we basked in the beauty of “Boricua de Corazón,” I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for being able to tap into the cultural richness of Puerto Rican heritage right here in NYC.

Among the crowd were numerous political officials who participated in the parade, showcasing their support and commitment to the Puerto Rican community. Leading the charge was Mayor Eric Adams, whose presence underscored the city’s dedication to celebrating diversity and cultural heritage. Joining him were Councilwoman Inez Barron and Councilman Rafael Salamanca Jr., representing the legislative branch and advocating for the interests of their constituents.

Assemblyman Victor Pichardo lent his voice to the festivities, amplifying the importance of cultural pride and unity within the state government. And standing alongside them was Kathy Hochul, the Governor of New York, whose role in the executive branch symbolized the state’s unwavering support for Puerto Rican culture and traditions.

United in purpose, these political leaders stood as beacons of strength, symbolizing the values of unity, solidarity, and inclusivity. Their presence wasn’t just symbolic; it was a tangible reminder of the importance of embracing and celebrating Puerto Rican culture right here in the heart of New York City. Their shared commitment resonated deeply with the diverse crowd, creating a sense of connection that you could feel in the air. It was as if the spirit of community and heritage enveloped us all, making the day feel like a profound journey into the very essence of our shared identity. And amidst the vibrant energy of the parade, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was exactly where I needed to be, in sync with the rhythms of the city and the pulse of our cultural heritage.

Why We March: Understanding the Power of Protest for NYC Youth

Larnez Kinsey
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Why We March: Understanding the Power of Protest for NYC Youth

Youth!

With all these protests popping off around the city, do you ever stop and think, “What’s really going on?”

Let’s break it down real quick. When you see people hitting the streets, waving signs, and chanting slogans, it’s not just a random event.  

it’s a movement—a way for us to stand up and speak out about the stuff that matters most to us.

Think about it like this: when we see something messed up going down in our hood—like racism, poverty, or police brutality—protesting is our way of saying, “No, its not going down like that.”

It’s our chance to come together, make some noise, and demand change. It’s about showing the world that we’re not gonna sit back and let injustice slide. We’re gonna step up, speak out, and make our voices heard.

But protesting ain’t just about making noise. It’s about making moves. It’s about putting pressure on the powers that be to make real changes in our community. It’s about showing solidarity with our brothers and sisters who are fighting the same fight.

So next time you see a protest going down, don’t just brush it off. Take a minute to think about what it means. Think about the issues that people are standing up for and ask yourself, “What can I do to make a difference?”

Remember, we’re the future of this city, and it’s up to us to shape it into the place we wanna live. So let’s keep our eyes open, our voices loud, and our fists raised high.

Now, let’s break down the pros and cons of protesting so you know what you’re getting into:

Pros:

  1. Raises Awareness: Protests shine a spotlight on important issues and get people talking about them.
  2. Mobilizes Communities: They bring people together and show unity in the face of injustice.
  3. Influences Change: Protests can lead to policy reforms and positive social change.
  4. Empowers Youth: They give young people a platform to speak out and demand action on issues that affect them.
  5. Shows Solidarity: Standing up for what’s right shows support for marginalized communities and allies.

Cons:

  1. Risk of Violence: Protests can sometimes turn violent, putting participants and bystanders in danger.
  2. Arrests and Legal Issues: There’s always a chance of getting arrested or facing legal consequences for participating in a protest.
  3. Backlash: Some people may oppose the protest or its message, leading to backlash and criticism.
  4. Disruption: Protests can disrupt daily life, causing traffic jams, business closures, and other inconveniences.
  5. Misrepresentation: Media coverage of protests may not always accurately portray the goals or intentions of the participants.

So, there you have it—protesting ain’t all sunshine and rainbows, but it’s a powerful tool for sparking change and making our voices heard. Just remember to stay safe, stay informed, and stay woke, NYC Youth.

And hey, don’t forget the steps of our ancestors that paved the way for our laws and legislations being passed. Connect yourself to serve your community to make it better—don’t just sit here and talk about the issues with no solutions in sight. Let’s rise up and make a difference, one protest at a time.

Instead of idly standing by while outsiders attempt to patch up our community’s issues with temporary fixes that often create more problems than they solve, let’s take proactive steps to address the root causes and enact meaningful change ourselves. It’s time for us to seize control and become the driving force behind the positive transformation we wish to see in our community. Let’s step up and lead the way toward a better future!

If you’re ready to stand up and protest, know what you want to change—and why.

PBP Radio Episode 397 – Black Fatherhood, Racism, Voter Intimidation & Dem. Primary

AJ Woodson
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PBP Radio Episode 397 – Black Fatherhood, Racism, Voter Intimidation & Dem. Primary

Join Damon and AJ as they discuss the many complaints from different ethnic groups about how George Latimer’s campaign for Congressional District 16 against Jamaal Bowman is one of the most racist and bigoted campaigns Westchester has ever seen. The shocking part is that many Black leaders and pastors are silent about the racial dog whistles coming from his campaign. Our guests this week are Revs. Frank & Margaret Coleman who discussed their experience when then they went to vote on Saturday.

Black Westchester presents the People Before Politics Radio Show every Sunday night 6-8PM, streaming live on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube and archived on BlackWestchester.com. Giving you that Real Talk For The Community since 2014.

As always, you can follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube

Contributions and Donations can be made via PayPal.

Air Quality Health Advisory Issued For NYC Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, & Western NY Regions

AJ Woodson
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Air Quality Health Advisory Issued For NYC Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, & Western NY Regions

County Health Dept Issues Heat Advisory / Some County Beaches & Pools to Open Early

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar and State Department of Health (DOH) Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Tuesday, June 18, 2024, for ozone to include the New York City Metro, Lower Hudson Valley, and Western New York regions. Including a Heat Advisory for Westchester County effective from noon on Tuesday, June 18 until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 19. The heat is also expected to continue through the end of the week. During this period heat index values are expected to reach between 95 and 100 degrees, and the Westchester County Health Department is warning residents that high temperatures post significant health risks.

Residents are urged to take precautions to protect themselves and their families from the effects of the heat. It is important to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activities, and check on vulnerable family members and neighbors.

A Heat Advisory is issued when the combination of heat and humidity is make it feel like it is 95 to 99 degrees for two or more consecutive days, or 100 to 104 degrees for any length of time.

Seniors and those with chronic health problems are at an increased risk. Homes without air conditioning can be much hotter than outdoor temperatures. Use air conditioning to stay cool at home or go to a place that has air conditioning. If you don’t have home air conditioning, continue to seek out cool spaces each day as long as it remains hot.

To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Health Department recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments.

  • Heat stroke is a serious and life-threatening condition that claims many lives nationwide each year. Symptoms include hot red, dry skin, shallow breathing, a rapid, weak pulse and confusion. Call 911 if you suspect heat stroke and immediately cool the overheated person while waiting for emergency help to arrive.
  • Another concern during a heat wave is heat exhaustion. Signs include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness and exhaustion, as well as cool, moist, pale or flushed skin. Anyone suffering from heat exhaustion should move out of the sun and apply cool, wet cloths to their skin.

Those who plan to travel by car should prepare their vehicle before hitting the road. Always travel with a spare battery and avoid leaving radios, phone chargers and other accessories running when the engine is not. Check to make sure your air conditioning is properly functioning and coolant is at the proper level. If you plan to travel in less populated areas, bring water and an umbrella for shade if it becomes necessary to leave the car. Always keep air flowing throughout the vehicle, and try to park in the shade. 

For tips to prevent heat-related illness and places to stay cool, residents can visit the Health Department website at www.westchestergov.com/health. 

Residents who need a place to cool off can check the Cooling Center Finder. When it is too hot at home, senior centers, libraries, community centers and indoor malls offer a respite from the heat. Call before you go to be sure of the hours.

The pollutant of concern is: Ozone

The advisory will be in effect 11 a.m. through 11 p.m. The Tuesday, June 18, Air Quality Health Advisory regions consists of: New York City Metro, which includes New York City and Rockland and Westchester counties, Lower Hudson Valley, which includes Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Sullivan, and Ulster counties, and Western New York, which includes Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming counties.

DEC and DOH issue Air Quality Health Advisories when DEC meteorologists predict levels of pollution, either ozone or fine particulate matter (PM2.5), are expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) value of 100. The AQI was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale, with a higher AQI value indicating a greater health concern. 

OZONE

Summer heat can lead to the formation of ground-level ozone, a major component of photochemical smog. Automobile exhaust and out-of-state emission sources are the primary sources of ground-level ozone and the most serious air pollution problems in the northeast. This surface pollutant should not be confused with the protective layer of ozone in the upper atmosphere.

Ozone is not a direct emission, and is produced indirectly when sunlight chemically reacts with nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from automobile exhaust and industrial emissions. High ozone is not as visible as PM2.5 because it is a colorless gas, but will produce hazy skies and reduce visibility in high concentrations.

People, especially those with cardiovascular disease and those who have respiratory disease (such as asthma), young children, those who exercise outdoors, and those involved in vigorous outdoor work should consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity when ozone levels are the highest (generally afternoon to early evening). When outdoor levels of ozone are elevated, going indoors will usually reduce exposure. Individuals experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or coughing should consider consulting their personal physician.

Ozone levels generally decrease at night and can be minimized during daylight hours by curtailment of automobile travel and the use of public transportation where available.

New Yorkers also are urged to take the following energy-saving and pollution-reducing steps:

  • use mass transit or carpool instead of driving, as automobile emissions account for about 60 percent of pollution in our cities;
  • conserve fuel and reduce exhaust emissions by combining necessary motor vehicle trips;
  • turn off all lights and electrical appliances in unoccupied areas;
  • use fans to circulate air. If air conditioning is necessary, set thermostats at 78 degrees;
  • close the blinds and shades to limit heat build-up and to preserve cooled air;
  • limit use of household appliances. If necessary, run the appliances at off-peak (after 7 p.m.) hours. These would include dishwashers, dryers, pool pumps and water heaters;
  • set refrigerators and freezers at more efficient temperatures;
  • purchase and install energy efficient lighting and appliances with the Energy Star label; and
  • reduce or eliminate outdoor burning and attempt to minimize indoor sources of PM 2.5 such as smoking. 

Additional information on ozone and PM 2.5 is available on DEC’s website and on DOH’s website (PM 2.5) / DOH’s website (ozone). A new DEC fact sheet about the Air Quality Index is also available on DEC’s website or by PDF download https://dec.ny.gov/sites/default/files/2024-05/aqiweb.pdf. 

To stay up-to-date with announcements from DEC, sign up to receive Air Quality Alerts through DEC Delivers: DEC’s Premier Email Service. A toll-free Air Quality Hotline (1-800-535-1345) was also established by DEC to keep New Yorkers informed of the latest air quality situation.

Additionally, Westchester County will be opening some of its parks, beaches and pools early due to the heat.

  • Glen Island’s beach in New Rochelle will be open from Wednesday, June 19 through Sunday, June 23 from 11am to 6:30pm
  • Croton Point Park’s beach in Croton will be open from Wednesday, June 19 through Sunday, June 23 from 11am to 6:30pm
  • Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains will be open from Wednesday, June 19 through Sunday, June 23 from 1pm to 6:30pm
  • Sprain Ridge Pool in Yonkers will be open from Wednesday, June 19 through Sunday, June 23 from 1pm to 6:30pm

Proof of Westchester County residency required at Saxon Woods Pool, Sprain Ridge Pool and Glen Island Beach. Admission fees apply; parking fees apply at Croton Point and Glen Island Beaches.

Elevated heat and humidity can also lead to unhealthy levels of ozone, a gas produced by the action of sunlight on organic air contaminants from auto exhaust and other sources.  For air quality updates, go to https://www.airnow.gov. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation forecasts daily ozone conditions at (http://www.dec.ny.gov), or call the New York State Air Quality Hotline at 1-800-535-1345.

The County’s Department of Emergency Services is monitoring the weather forecast, tracking the opening of local Cooling Centers, and is in contact with Con Edison and NYSEG concerning the potential for power outages.

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